Viking's MS river cruises on hold

Viking River Cruises’ plans to enter the American cruise market may be on hold. Two Mississippi River communities – Fort Madison, Iowa; and Hannibal, Mo. - received statements from the firm saying talks have broken off. “Viking has terminated current discussions to build vessels in a U.S. shipyard for Mississippi River and U.S. coastal cruising, Vikings’ communiqué to the cities read. “It became apparent the economics did not meet Viking’s goals,” according to the statement. But the company still plans to “continue to work on the Mississippi project.” Viking is based in Switzerland. It first hinted at its U.S. plans in 2013. In early 2015, Viking said it would launch six Mississippi River vessels over three years starting in late 2017 from the Port of New Orleans. A NOLA port spokesman said that it “has been in contact with Viking River Cruises and the company continues to work on creating its first North American homeport in New Orleans. Port NOLA stands ready to welcome Viking as one of our river cruise partners and offer Viking passengers the unique experience of cruising from the Crescent City.” (Source: Work Boat 12/20/17)