Explore More Autumn 2019

INTERVIEW Sissel

INTERVIEW Sissel KrykjebØ The world-renowned Norwegian opera singer discusses becoming godmother to Viking Jupiter At what age did you start singing? I started in a children’s choir at the age of nine and started to sing professionally at 16; I have always loved singing. What musical genres have influenced and inspired you? The radio was my main inspiration growing up. My brothers listened to Pink Floyd, Queen, Gilbert O’Sullivan, Kate Bush, Genesis, Manfred Mann and so on, while my parents loved Scandinavian pop, country music and Tom Jones. I remember I found a classical album, and I think I was the only one who listened to it! I loved to dance and sing along when I was home alone. Kate Bush’s album Lionheart was the first album I ever bought, it was a big moment for me. And then at the age of 11, I heard Barbra Streisand singing on the radio and I was lost! I thought: if she can sing like that, I can too. I started analysing her technique and she became my first vocal coach, without ever knowing. How does Viking help to promote Scandinavian heritage? What Karine and Torstein Hagen have achieved is just incredible, and as a Norwegian I am so proud when I visit the ships. For us Scandinavians they easily feel like home. The Norwegian and Scandinavian interior, design, culture and food is solid throughout the fleet. And guests are even greeted with people standing dressed in some of our National Costumes. This is looked upon in Norway as most honourable as they are the outfits we wear for special occasions. What has been the most special moment in your career? There have been so many! Singing during the intermission of the Eurovision song contest was in many ways the real start of my career. Then the ceremonies at the 1994 Winter Olympic Games in Lillehammer, Christmas in Vienna, and Moscow with Placido Domingo and José Carreras are also extremely memorable. And of course, it was so special to work with the great composer James Horner on the score for the movie Titanic. What is your all-time favourite song? That is a really tricky question! I have to admit, I don’t have one as it always depends on my mood. How do you feel about becoming godmother of Viking Jupiter? When Karine and Torstein Hagen asked me, I felt so honoured that they trusted me to become a godmother to their dear Viking Jupiter. I have sung at many of the other naming ceremonies and I thought that in itself was an honour, so this is very overwhelming. I feel I am part of the Viking family. What are your favorite memories from sailing on Viking Jupiter? At the shakedown, I was with my friends and my family, and everyone was so happy! To have this opportunity to enjoy the experience together, was the memory of a lifetime! 74 VIKINGCRUISES.CO.UK | SUMMER 2019

2020 RIVER CRUISES Portugal’s River of Gold 10 days, 8 guided tours Departing April to October 2020 From £2,145pp Elegant Elbe 10 days, 7 guided tours Departing March to November 2020 From £2,195pp Rhine Getaway 8 days, 6 guided tours Departing March to December 2020 From £1,595pp Did you know? Viking’s 2020 river cruises are now on sale from £1,395pp With the world’s largest fleet of innovative river ships – including our multiaward-winning Viking Longships – only Viking can promise you more. More comfort, more quality, more style and more choice of cruises across Europe, Russia and Asia. Relax in spacious, contemporary surroundings. Indulge in fabulous, destination inspired food and thoughtfully selected wines. Explore the cultures and customs of the places you visit on expertly led tours. And discover a unique and exciting new view of the world. GREAT VIKING VALUE – SO MUCH INCLUDED P Return scheduled flights from London and a choice of up to 14 regional airports at no extra cost P River-view stateroom P All meals on board including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner P Free Wi-Fi on board (connection speed may vary) P An included excursion in almost every port P Free tea, coffee and snacks any time on board P All port charges, government taxes and overseas transfers P Onboard gratuities Danube Waltz 8 days, 6 guided tours Departing March to November 2020 From £1,395pp Romantic Danube 8 days, 6 guided tours Departing April to December 2020 From £1,595pp Passage to Eastern Europe 11 days, 7 guided tours Departing March to October 2020 From £2,345pp Châteaux, Rivers & Wine 8 days, 7 guided tours Departing March to November 2020 From £1,795pp Lyon & Provence 8 days, 7 guided tours Departing March to November 2020 From £1,495pp Imperial Jewels of China 15 days, 11 guided tours Departing March to November 2020 From £3,495pp Magnificent Mekong 17 days, 16 guided tours Departing August to December 2020 From £3,645pp Waterways of the Tsars 13 days, 10 guided tours Departing May to October 2020 From £2,795pp Kiev, Black Sea & Bucharest 12 days, 11 guided tours Departing May to September 2020 From £2,995pp Call now on 020 8780 7900 or visit vikingcruises.co.uk Prices correct at time of going to print but are subject to availability and change. From prices are per person and based on two people sharing the lowest grade stateroom available, departing on selected dates in 2020. Prices valid until 30 September 2019. Single supplements apply. Please note on selected cruises a visa may be required and is at the passengers own expense. Gratuities included on board ship only. For more information please visit vikingcruises.co.uk/terms-conditions or call us. VC_Explore_More_ads_Aug2019_A4_v4.indd 4 08/08/2019 11:45