Viking Welcomes Viking Hathor: A New Jewel on the Nile

Viking, the world's leading river cruise line, has once again expanded its presence in Egypt with the delivery of its newest Nile River ship, the Viking Hathor. This luxurious vessel, custom-built for navigating the storied waters of the Nile, was officially welcomed in a ceremony held at the Massara shipyard in Cairo on August 21, 2024.

A New Star in Viking’s Egyptian Fleet.

The Viking Hathor is designed to offer an unparalleled cruising experience, combining Viking’s signature Scandinavian elegance with the rich cultural heritage of Egypt. Accommodating up to 82 guests in 41 well-appointed staterooms, the ship mirrors its sister vessels—Viking Osiris and Viking Aton—by featuring the distinctive square bow and the famous indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. These design elements enhance the ship's aesthetic appeal and improve its performance on the river.

The ship’s introduction further solidifies Viking’s commitment to offering unique, culturally immersive experiences in Egypt, a destination that continues to captivate travelers with its ancient wonders and vibrant history.

The Pharaohs and Pyramids Itinerary.

Viking Hathor will embark on the highly sought-after 12-day "Pharaohs and Pyramids" itinerary, a journey that seamlessly blends Egypt's most iconic sites with the comfort and luxury of Viking's river cruise experience. The adventure begins in Cairo, where guests enjoy a three-night stay at a premium hotel. Here, they can explore landmarks such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, and the Grand Egyptian Museum.

After exploring Cairo, travelers will fly to Luxor, the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, where they will visit the magnificent Temples of Luxor and Karnak. The journey then continues aboard the Viking Hathor, as it sails along the Nile, making stops at several significant sites. These include the tombs of Nefertari and Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Queens and the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, and the grand temples of Abu Simbel. Additionally, guests will experience the engineering marvel of the High Dam in Aswan and enjoy an authentic cultural encounter during a visit to a Nubian villages.

Viking’s Growing Egyptian Presence.

With the addition of the Viking Hathor, Viking now operates five ships on the Nile, each offering a unique window into Egypt's illustrious past. This expansion reflects Viking's strategic emphasis on Egypt as a key destination for culturally curious travelers. The company’s commitment to excellence has earned it accolades from Condé Nast Traveler and TIME magazine, further affirming its status as a leader in luxury river cruising.

As Viking continues to grow its fleet and refine its offerings, travelers can expect even more immersive and enriching experiences on the Nile, where the ancient and the modern converge in one of the world's most fascinating destinations.

Viking offers additional pre- and post-cruise extensions for those looking to extend their journey, including trips to Istanbul, Jordan, and even a deep dive into Egyptology with exclusive tours in London and Oxford. These extensions allow travelers to delve further into the history and culture that define the region, making a voyage on the Viking Hathor a truly comprehensive and unforgettable experience.

Viking’s latest addition, the Viking Hathor, enhances the company’s offerings on the Nile and reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences that perfectly combine luxury, culture, and history.