Finland Ship traffic

All Viking Line ships under the Finnish flag

1 min read

Mar 22, 2024 3:38:07 PM

#NordicNews on ship traffic and Finland

A milestone for Viking Line and the Finnish shipping industry

The Finnish flag now flies proudly at the stern of the Viking Cinderella and marks her official registration in the Finnish ship register. All Viking Line ships are now under Finnish registration and are covered by Finnish collective agreements.

At a ceremony in the port of Stadsgård in Stockholm on March 5, Viking Cinderella was formally transferred to the Finnish ship register, accompanied by the Finnish national anthem. With this change, Viking Line strengthens its position as one of the largest employers in the Finnish maritime sector, directly employing around 2200 people on board and ashore. The move also underlines the company's commitment to supporting national interests, as its entire fleet now proudly sails under the Finnish flag.

Last year, Viking Line has already re-registered the Viking XPRS, which has also contributed to the competitiveness and employment opportunities of the Finnish shipping industry. The importance of maritime transportation to the Finnish economy should not be underestimated, as over 95 percent of international trade is transported by sea. Viking Line's commitment to the Finnish registry helps to strengthen the country's maritime industry and ensure security of supply.

Viking Cinderella's transition to the Finnish flag also means a return to daily service between Helsinki and Stockholm, combined with a significant increase in cargo capacity. The composition of the ship's crew reflects this change, as the majority of Swedes will be replaced by Finnish personnel. In addition, extensive renovations during the ship's time at the Naantali shipyard will ensure improved environmental performance in line with modern sustainability standards.

As the Viking Cinderella prepares for her new route, careful preparations are underway to ensure a seamless transition. With safety training, regulatory reviews and service adjustments, Viking Line remains committed to providing a first-class service while prioritizing Finnish interests.