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Torstein Hagen is a Norwegian-American billionaire businessman, best known as the founder and chairman of Viking Cruises. Hagen's career in the cruise industry spans decades, marked by significant achievements and leadership roles. He is a prominent figure in the cruise industry and is known for creating culturally immersive travel experiences. His current estimated net worth is $15.8 billion, a testament to his success in the cruise industry. His source of wealth comes from Cruises.
Torstein Hagen was born in 1943 in Nittedal, Norway. He earned a degree in physics from the Norwegian Institute of Technology in 1963. He later received an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1968, which laid the groundwork for his successful business career.
Hagen's career commenced at McKinsey & Company in Europe, where he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Holland America Line in 1974. By 1976, he became CEO of Bergen Steamship Company, and in 1980, he assumed the role of CEO at Royal Viking Line. Hagen founded Viking River Cruises in 1997, focusing on English-speaking travelers over 55. The company expanded its fleet to over 70 river cruise ships and launched an ocean cruise division in 2015. Viking went public in May 2024.
Hagen's key strategies include focusing on culturally immersive travel experiences, catering to a specific demographic (mature, English-speaking travelers), and maintaining a high-quality product. The company has a fleet of 92 ships.
Information about his philanthropy initiatives could not be found.
Played a pivotal role in the revival of Holland America Line, bringing it back from near bankruptcy.
Served as the CEO, contributing to its profitability.
Led Royal Viking Line.
Founded Viking River Cruises, a significant milestone in his career, initially offering river cruises in Russia.
Expanded into ocean cruises with the launch of the first ocean ship.
Viking Holdings Ltd. went public on the New York Stock Exchange.
