Images of the Minnesota State Capitol, Como Conservatory and the Landmark Center flash across the promotional clip as a woman's voice with a British accent describes the final stop on Viking's soon-to-debut Mississippi River cruise: a city "known for its great museums, iconic Cathedral and beautiful period architecture."
The international luxury cruise line is already advertising St. Paul and other cities along the river for its slate of new tours scheduled to launch in August 2022.
"This is a big deal for St. Paul," said Terry Mattson, president and CEO of the city's convention and visitors bureau.
Switzerland-based Viking announced in 2020 that it was building a custom 386-guest vessel to sail the Mississippi, the latest river in the company's exotic lineup, which includes the Danube, the Seine and the Nile. The St. Paul City Council on Wednesday approved a contract allowing ships to dock at Lambert's Landing, a riverfront park near downtown that was once among the busiest steamboat ports in the United States.
Viking's longest Mississippi River option — a 15-day cruise between St. Paul and New Orleans — already has sold out for 2022. Tickets for 2023-24 cruises still are available for $11,300 or more. Travelers also can book eight-day cruises from St. Louis to St. Paul with fares starting at $4,400.
In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cruise industry shut down after several viral outbreaks occurred amid the close quarters of its vessels. The Centers for Disease Control last week said large vessels could start simulated voyages in U.S. waters with the goal of resuming operations in midsummer.
But Mattson said he expects built-up wanderlust, plus Viking's loyal following, will win over tourists eager to explore America's heartland.
"There's no question these will sell out," he said.
