A Little Garden of Shared Knowledge sponsored by Viking is inspired by a lifetime of travel and showcases the power of shared passions, knowledge, and skills
Viking (NYSE: VIK) today announced a new collaboration with garden designer Katerina Kantalis at the upcoming 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show (19-23 May). As a long-standing supporter of the RHS, this will be the twelfth time Viking has been part of the world renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show – and its fifth consecutive year of sponsoring a balcony garden.
A Little Garden of Shared Knowledge sponsored by Viking has been designed by Katerina Kantalis for an imaginary well-travelled, retired couple with a passion for horticulture and the arts. It serves as both a private sanctuary and a welcoming space, offering an environment where gardening techniques, travel experiences, and traditions can be shared amongst family and friends. The garden combines practical food growing with aesthetic beauty whilst showcasing knowledge from years of travel, particularly with influences from the Mediterranean and Southern Hemisphere, which are key Viking destinations that are also linked to the designer’s heritage. Herbs, vegetables, and flowers co-exist harmoniously in the compact space – for example, dwarf edibles have been chosen for their ability to thrive in compact spaces while still offering impressive yields. A pergola-framed seating area surrounded by layered planting invites quiet reflection within greenery. The use of decorative tiles shows a love of craftmanship along with soft lighting and shelving for a connection between the home and balcony garden.
The garden has been designed with Viking guests in mind: curious travellers, aged 55 and older, who value learning and sharing their experiences with family and friends when they return home. Opportunities for learning are at the heart of the Viking experience – guests can sail on expedition voyages accompanied by research scientists from prestigious institutions including the University of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Research Institute and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Alternatively, guests can sail the Nile accompanied by an expert Egyptologist—and on Viking’s worldwide ocean itineraries, an onboard lecture programme immerses guests in the art, architecture, music, geopolitics and natural world of each destination. These lectures are hosted by a wide range of experts, from authors and archaeologists to former diplomats and news correspondents who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.
The garden reflects two interests that are often seen among Viking guests: horticulture and the arts. Viking supports multiple UK institutions that celebrate the arts for their guests to enjoy closer to home. Cultural partners in the UK include the Royal Academy of Arts, the British Museum, Classic FM, Chalke History Festival, Wimbledon BookFest and Newbury Spring Festival.
Wendy Atkin-Smith, Managing Director of Viking UK, said: “As longtime supporters of the RHS we are delighted to be sponsoring a balcony garden once again at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Balcony gardens demonstrate how a functional and interesting garden can be created in a small outdoor space. The balcony gardens align well with the design of our ships and our Nordic heritage – all of the staterooms on our ocean ships have private verandas so that guests can maximise time spent outdoors enjoying the views as they explore the world.
We offer culturally-immersive experiences across all seven continents. Our shore excursion programme allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture with knowledgeable Viking Guides who share stories and traditions from their region. We are delighted to be supporting Katerina’s debut at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show – she is passionate about sharing her horticultural knowledge and inspirations with others so I hope visitors have the opportunity to meet her and glean some tips and tricks for gardening in a small space.”
Originally from Adelaide in Australia, Katerina forged a successful career in fundraising and science. In 2020 she decided to make a career change and retrained at the British Academy of Garden Design before founding her own garden design studio in South East London. Her move into garden design was a natural progression – her Australian upbringing and Greek heritage helped cultivate a lifelong passion for gardens, nature, and food. In 2024 Katerina was the winner of a RHS Gold Medal and she was awarded Best Get Started Garden and Best Construction at RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival 2024.
Garden designer Katerina Kantalis said: “I am very pleased to be working with Viking and grateful for the support and creative autonomy they have offered. Viking’s ships provide access to the world’s most captivating destinations, and their guests value the cultural connections that come with travel—something that resonates strongly with me. This is what the garden is at its heart: a celebration of travel and knowledge, where traditions can be passed down between generations.
I love the elegant Scandinavian interior design on Viking ships. I was also fascinated by the vast collection of art which is unique to each identical ocean ship, primarily by established Norwegian artists. The garden’s carefully curated details—such as decorative tiles inspired by world travels, a small collection of books on art, plants, and culture, as well as souvenirs from around the world–have been inspired by Viking ships.”
Viking offers a variety of shore excursions on its river, ocean and expedition itineraries that give guests the opportunity to learn from local people’s knowledge and skills whilst learning more about different cultures. For example, guests on the Danube Waltz itinerary can learn the steps of the Viennese waltz from a local dance teacher who will explain the waltz is not just a dance but a symbol of Austrian social life and history, reflecting the country’s love for music, dance and celebration. On the Iconic Western Mediterranean itinerary, guests can visit a local olive oil mill to gain insight into the storied tradition of olive cultivation that has been passed down through the generations. On the Arctic expedition itineraries, guests can join a historical Inuit hike to discover stories and insights about Inuit connection to the land, their traditions and their survival.
To make a booking or for more information about Vikingcall 0800 458 69 00 or go towww.viking.com
Source Viking UK press office
