Viking River Cruises Joins USTOA!

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Viking River Cruises Becomes Member of USTOA

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 11
Viking River Cruises, the world's leading river cruise line, announced
today that it is the newest member of the United States Tour Operator
Association (USTOA). A milestone for Viking River Cruises, this
recognition marks a new chapter in the cruise line's growth, both as a
company and brand, placing it among the top names in the travel
industry.

After undergoing the selection process, Viking River Cruises became an
active member of the USTOA, the most respected travel association in
the United States. USTOA candidates for membership are selected upon
their demonstration of the highest standards of professionalism and
service, as well as the utmost integrity.

"This new membership is a giant leap forward for us, and we are
honored by the USTOA's acknowledgement of the quality of our vacation
packages and overall service," said Viking River Cruises President
Jeff Dash. "As we continue our successful growth, we are committed to
providing our passengers with the best travel experience possible by
upholding our high standards as well as those of the USTOA."

The USTOA is based on the founding principle of "Integrity in Tourism"
with its main objectives being to foster the highest level of
professionalism within the tour operator industry as well as protect
consumers and travel agents from financial loss. The first travel
organization to establish a consumer protection fund, USTOA stipulates
that each member company must to set aside $1 million of its own funds
specifically to protect consumers' deposits and payments. As an Active
Member of the USTOA, Viking River Cruises participates in the
association's $1 Million Consumer Protection Plan.

About Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers
quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along
Europe, Russia and China's majestic rivers. This year, the company was
honored as the top river cruise line on Conde Nast Traveler's "Gold
List" and Travel & Leisure's "World's Best" Awards as well as being
named "Best River Cruise" by CruiseReport.com. Since its 1997
inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 25 vessels, and
provides a unique, affordable vacation to experienced travelers with
an interest in geography, culture and history. For additional
information, contact your travel professional.