Viking has named its newest ocean ship, Viking Neptune, during a ceremony in Los Angeles.

As part of the event, the ship’s godmother, Nicole Stott, a retired NASA astronaut, aquanaut and artist, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship.

The 930-guest vessel has since departed on the company’s 138-day 2022/2023 world cruise, which will visit 28 countries and 57 ports, with overnight stays in 11 cities.

In April, the cruise line will also welcome another new ocean ship, Viking Saturn.

Viking Neptune testing hydrogen

Neptune features a small hydrogen fuel system, making it the “cruise industry’s first ship to test the use of hydrogen power for on-board operations”, according to the line.

These tests will determine how hydrogen fuel could be used at a larger scale in future new builds.

Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said: “Today is a proud day for the entire Viking family as we name our newest ocean ship in Los Angeles, the home of Viking’s US office for more than 20 years.

“Viking Neptune is a ship named for both the furthest planet in our solar system and the god of the sea. Our newest godmother, Nicole Stott, as a NASA astronaut and aquanaut, also has connections to space and the sea.

“We are grateful for her many contributions to the scientific community and are proud to have her as part of the Viking family.”

Stott added: “It is an honour and privilege to be the godmother of Neptune.

“As someone who has been blessed to explore space, the ocean, and some of the otherworldly places on our planet, I understand the importance of broadening one’s horizons through travel.

“I am very excited for all those who journey around the world on this elegant vessel.”