Viking, the cruise company known for its culturally immersive journeys, has announced the debut of its latest Nile River vessel, Viking Thoth. The 82-guest ship was recently “floated out” at the Massara shipyard in Cairo—marking the first time it touched water, an important milestone in its construction.
Following this initial launch, the vessel will be transferred to a nearby outfitting facility where work on the interior construction and system integration will continue, aligning with Viking’s standards for luxury and comfort. Thos ceremony marks the ship’s transition into the final stage of construction before delivery.
Set to officially launch in October 2025, Viking Thoth will join Viking’s growing fleet dedicated to exploring Egypt’s storied Nile River. It will be the eighth Viking ship operating on the Nile, expanding the line’s capacity and offering more options for travellers interested in river cruising through one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
The ship will feature 41 staterooms and incorporate the modern Scandinavian design that defines Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships. Highlights include a square bow and the popular indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, designed to offer guests panoramic views and optimal comfort throughout the journey.
Once operational, the ship will set sail on Viking’s signature 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. The journey begins with a three-night stay in Cairo, where guests can explore the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the necropolis of Sakkara. From there, travellers will fly to Luxor to visit the awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
Guests will then embark on an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, which includes visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings. Additional highlights include the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples of Abu Simbel, the Aswan High Dam, and a visit to a Nubian village where guests will experience local culture and tour a traditional elementary school. The journey concludes with a return flight to Cairo for a final night in the city.
“Egypt is a country of profound historical and cultural significance, which makes it a destination of great interest to our guests,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.
The company also plans to introduce four more ships in Egypt by 2027, including the recently unveiled Viking Amun, bringing its total Nile River fleet to 12 vessels.
