Viking Cruises will be lead sponsor of this summer’s much-anticipated Hampton Court Palace Festival – the latest part of the company’s year-long celebrations to mark two decades of exploring inspiring destinations around the globe.

The Festival is taking place between 7 and 24 June, and will see a stellar line-up of stars, including Van Morrison, Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, James Morrison and Alfie Boe perform at 12 separate concerts.

More than 3,000 guests are expected to attend every concert and enjoy great music in the stunning setting of Hampton Court’s Tudor Courtyard.

The sponsorship of Hampton Court Music Festival follows Viking Cruises’ collaboration with world-famous composer Debbie Wiseman earlier this year. Together, they created a signature composition inspired by the sounds of travel, exploration and adventure, which debuted at Classic FM Live at the Royal Albert Hall in April. The company will also be running further special anniversary events, competitions and cruise offers throughout 2017.

Wendy Atkin-Smith, managing director of Viking Cruises UK, said, “For 20 years, Viking Cruises has been offering guests a truly cultural experience. A big part of that is the mix of international and local music we provide – both onboard and during our excursions. Hampton Court is one of the hottest dates in the summer music calendar. Its eclectic, world-class range of performers and culture-loving audience hit exactly the right note for Viking Cruises. I can’t wait to go myself!”

From its first cruises on the rivers of Russia back in 1997, Viking Cruises has grown to become the world’s leading river cruise line with over 63 elegant vessels sailing routes that stretch from Europe to China and South East Asia. Since 2015, it has also offered luxury ocean cruises and by 2019 will operate six ocean-going ships.