A spectacular fireworks display lit up Greenwich last night (May 5), to celebrate the arrival of a 47,800 ton ship, the largest cruise liner to be christened on the Thames.

Viking Sea can accommodate 930 guests and the boat boasts a luxury spa, a snow grotto complete with artificial snowflakes, a theatre, two swimming pools and an infinity pool.

The Scandinavian ship, which is longer than two football pitches, entered the Thames Estuary in Gravesend and travelled under the Dartford Crossing before squeezing through the Thames Barrier in Woolwich.

It passed sights such as the O2, Canary Wharf, the Shard and the City before mooring in Enderby Wharf ahead of last night’s ceremony.

Chairman of Viking Cruises Torstein Hagen said: “Today is a proud day for our Viking family.

“London is one of my favourite cities, and Greenwich is a significant port for Viking.

“We look forward to bringing more guests here this spring and in future years.”

Viking Sea was the first ship to be christened on the Thames in a decade, since Twiggy named the Seabourn Sojourn in 2006, and the second liner to be launched by Viking Cruises.

Its soon-to-be-built sister ship the Viking Sun finish its first round-the-world trip in the Capital, it was revealed this week.

Setting sail from Miami in December next year, the ship will stop off in 66 destinations on five continents in the 141-day trip.

Holidays will be priced from £30,000 per person.

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