In a move bound to make waves along the fabled Nile, Viking Cruises has announced the ceremonial float-out of its latest river vessel, the Viking Thoth, named after the ancient Egyptian god of wisdom and writing. Slated for delivery in October 2025, the sleek 82-guest ship is the newest gem in Viking’s growing Egyptian crown. It promises to deepen the brand’s presence in one of history’s most evocative regions.
Held at Cairo’s Massara Shipyard, the float-out marks a significant milestone in a ship’s life: its first contact with water. This maritime tradition signals the beginning of the final construction phase, during which the ship is moved to an outfitting dock where her interiors will be completed in Viking’s signature Scandinavian style.
“Egypt is a country of profound historical and cultural significance, which makes it a destination of great interest to our guests,” said Torstein Hagen, Viking’s founder, chairman and CEO. “With two new ships, the Viking Thoth and the Viking Amun, debuting in 2025, we are very proud to continue expanding our elegant fleet and introducing more curious travellers to this phenomenal region.”
Shipbuilders salute Viking Thoth as she greets the Nile—Scandinavian elegance meets Egyptian soul.
Viking Thoth will be the eighth river ship in Viking’s Egypt collection, joining an impressive fleet that includes the Viking Ra and MS Antares. Four more vessels will arrive by 2027, eventually bringing the company’s Egyptian fleet to a dozen ships sailing the storied waters of the Nile.
Scandinavian Sophistication, Egyptian Setting
Modelled after Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships, the Viking Thoth exudes elegance with a modern sensibility. Housing 82 guests in 41 stylish staterooms, the vessel boasts a square bow, understated Nordic décor, and the ever-popular Aquavit Terrace, designed for indoor-outdoor dining and relaxation.
She is a sister ship to the Viking Osiris, Viking Aton, Viking Sobek, Viking Hathor, and Viking Amun—all part of the company’s mission to create a cohesive, familiar guest experience across the fleet.
In keeping with Viking tradition, the Thoth will be fitted with thoughtful luxuries: panoramic views, soothing tones, and minimalist sophistication that complement rather than compete with the grandeur of ancient Egypt.
Pharaohs, Pyramids and Priceless Memories
The Viking Thoth will sail the acclaimed 12-day “Pharaohs & Pyramids” itinerary, a cultural deep-dive that begins in Cairo, home of minarets, mummies and monuments. Guests will spend three nights at a first-class hotel exploring world wonders, including the Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, and the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum.
After a short flight to Luxor, travellers will be greeted by the ship and whisked off on an eight-day round-trip cruise along the Nile. En route, they will visit the majestic Temples of Luxor and Karnak, the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens, and the boy king Tutankhamun’s resting place in the Valley of the Kings.
Viking Thoth stands tall—Scandinavian steel poised for stories on Egypt’s eternal river.
Additional highlights include the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the ornate Dendera Temple complex in Qena, and a side trip to the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel, carved out of rock by Ramses II himself. In Aswan, guests can tour the High Dam—a marvel of modern engineering—before enjoying a heartwarming encounter in a local Nubian village, where a traditional school visit showcases Egypt’s living culture.
Cairo bookends the journey, with a final night offering time for last sips of hibiscus tea and reflections on a trip through time.
A Timely Tribute to Timeless Wonders
For Viking, the expansion of its Egypt fleet represents more than market demand. It’s a considered homage to the past, delivered with precision and polish worthy of a Scandinavian shipyard.
The company has long been lauded for its commitment to destination-focused itineraries, cultural enrichment, and adult-oriented cruising. In a sea of floating theme parks, Viking remains the discerning traveller’s choice—quietly luxurious, thoughtfully curated, and increasingly present where the rivers run thick with history.
The Viking Thoth, named for the god who gave humanity the gift of writing, may well be the vessel through which guests inscribe their stories of discovery, awe and ancient beauty.
For more information or to book a Viking Nile River cruise, visit www.viking.com.
By Soo James
