Viking Launches Thoth, the New Nile River Ship
Viking Cruises has reached another major milestone in its ambitious expansion project in Egypt with the recent float-out of the Viking Thoth, the newest addition to its prestigious river fleet.
With a traditional ceremony held at the Massara shipyard in Cairo, the new ship officially touched water for the first time, marking a crucial phase in its construction. Final delivery is scheduled for October 2025, when the Viking Thoth will begin operating along the Nile on the celebrated Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
Viking Thoth
The float-out event is not only a symbolic moment in the shipbuilding process but also a clear signal of Viking’s continued commitment to investing in one of the world’s most historically rich and fascinating destinations. This sentiment was emphasized by Torstein Hagen, founder and CEO of Viking, who stated that “Egypt is a country of extraordinary historical and cultural importance, making it a destination of great interest for our guests.” Hagen also noted that with two new ships launching in 2025, Viking is excited to further expand its elegant and modern fleet, offering more travelers the opportunity to explore such a phenomenal region.
With a capacity of 82 guests across 41 staterooms, the Viking Thoth represents a perfect fusion of Nordic elegance and Egyptian tradition. The ship’s design, inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean vessels, reflects the signature Scandinavian aesthetic—clean lines, open spaces, and natural light. Among its standout features are the distinctive square bow and the celebrated Aquavit Terrace, a versatile space offering panoramic views and the option to dine indoors or al fresco. Viking Thoth is a sister ship to the Viking Osiris, Viking Aton, Viking Sobek, Viking Hathor, and Viking Amun—all designed to provide comfort and intimacy in the picturesque setting of the Nile.
The expansion of the Nile fleet doesn’t stop here. In addition to the Thoth, Viking plans to introduce four more ships over the next two years, bringing the total number of operational vessels in Egypt to twelve by 2027. This strategy underscores the company’s strong belief in Egypt’s tourism potential and its commitment to offering a refined and culturally rich alternative for international travelers.
Viking Thoth
At the heart of the Viking Thoth experience is the Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, a 12-day journey designed to immerse guests in the most iconic sites of ancient Egypt. The voyage begins in Cairo with a three-night stay in a first-class hotel and guided tours of landmarks such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Saqqara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, and the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they explore the majestic temples of Karnak and Luxor before boarding the Viking river ship for an eight-day round-trip cruise along the Nile. During this leg of the journey, Viking Thoth provides privileged access to some of Egypt’s most extraordinary sites: the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens, the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the Abu Simbel temples, and the Aswan High Dam. The experience is enriched further by a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can immerse themselves in the local culture, including a tour of a traditional elementary school. The journey concludes with a return flight to Cairo and a final overnight stay in Egypt’s capital.
Viking’s offering in Egypt stands out not only for the depth of its excursions but also for its attention to onboard detail. The ship’s common areas and staterooms are furnished with high-quality materials, calming tones, and smartly designed spaces that maximize comfort and exclusivity. The service is aligned with Viking’s renowned standards, with well-trained staff and cultural itineraries crafted down to the smallest detail. The Viking Thoth thus represents a unique opportunity to discover ancient Egypt with fresh eyes—through a river-based perspective that allows for a more intimate and unconventional travel experience than traditional land-based tours.
Viking Thoth
The launch of the Viking Thoth marks not only a new chapter for Viking but also a significant step forward for cultural tourism in Egypt. The combination of modern comfort, historically rooted itineraries, and top-tier service results in a river cruise offering that stands out in today’s market.
With the Viking Thoth and more vessels on the way, the Nile is poised to welcome a new generation of curious travelers, ready to be captivated by the wonders of ancient Egypt while sailing the waters that once bore the legacy of one of history’s most remarkable civilizations.
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