Viking Cruises Announces Michael Consoli as Godfather of New Ship Viking Sekhmet
In a significant announcement from the travel industry, Michael Consoli has been honored with the title of godfather for Viking's newest river ship, the Viking Sekhmet. This appointment comes as part of a growing expansion for Viking, which will see seven new river ships added to their fleet, designed to enhance the luxurious cruising experience through stunning global waterways.
Based in Atlanta, Consoli is not just any travel advisor; for over 25 years, he has established himself as an authoritative figure in cruise and river cruise specialties. As the owner of Cruise Planners – Michael Consoli Associates, he has consistently been recognized with accolades of being Viking's top global-producing travel advisor for an impressive decade. This achievement underscores not only the exceptional volume of Viking vacations sold through his agency but also his strong, long-standing relationship with the prestigious cruise line.
The official naming ceremony for the Viking Sekhmet is set to take place on October 15 in Amsterdam, where Consoli will join six other esteemed travel professionals in a celebration that marks a new chapter for Viking's fleet. The Viking Sekhmet, an 82-guest river vessel with a Scandinavian design, is tailored for sailing the iconic Nile River and will offer a unique itinerary unveiling the ancient wonders of Egypt, including visits to key historical sites such as Cairo, Luxor, and the Valley of the Kings.
Reflecting on this honor, Consoli remarked, "River cruising has been such an important part of my career, and Viking has been an incredible partner throughout that journey. Being asked to serve as godfather of Viking Sekhmet is one of the greatest honors of my career." His commitment to enhancing travelers' experiences and sharing the beauty of cultural destinations has helped him build a thriving advisory business, characterized by personalized service and a high degree of client satisfaction.
Consoli's impressive success can be attributed to his client-focused strategy that prioritizes meaningful interactions and repeat business. His agency attracts thousands of travelers annually and is known for delivering personalized consulting for luxury and river cruise experiences.
Since Consoli's partnership with Viking began in 2010, he has played a pivotal role in the rise of river cruising's popularity in the North American market. Beyond his sales achievements, his ability to connect travelers to the unique aspects of Viking's offerings—including ocean and expedition cruises—has been noteworthy.
The new ship, Viking Sekhmet, is set to embark on its journey with a 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary starting in November 2026. This voyage promises to deliver an intimate exploration of the Nile's historical landscape, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich Egyptian culture and heritage that remains influential today.
"Travel has an extraordinary ability to connect us to places and people, and Egypt is one of those destinations that stays with you long after you return home," Consoli explained. This dedication to creating unforgettable experiences showcases Consoli's commitment to the world of travel.
Consoli is also part of a larger network of Cruise Planners, where he stands out not only for his sales achievements but also for his genuine enthusiasm and expertise in the travel sector. Michelle Fee, the Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners, praised Consoli, stating, "Michael's incredible business sense, deep industry knowledge and genuine passion for creating unforgettable experiences for his clients have made him an extraordinary part of the Cruise Planners family. We could not be prouder to see Michael become part of Viking's history."
As the Viking Sekhmet nears its launch, there is palpable excitement about the experiences and adventures it will offer voyagers eager to explore the waterways of Egypt. Indeed, with leaders like Consoli guiding them, travelers can anticipate journeys that enrich and inspire, making their adventures not just vacations, but life-changing experiences.