Viking has taken delivery of its newest Nile River ship, Viking Ptah, expanding its Egypt capacity as the cruise line continues to invest in river cruising in the destination.
The new vessel was officially handed over at the Massara shipyard in Cairo and will carry 82 guests in 41 staterooms.
Viking Ptah joins Egypt river cruise fleet
Purpose-built for sailing the Nile, Viking Ptah will operate Viking’s 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
The ship shares the Scandinavian design of Viking’s existing sister vessels in Egypt, including the line’s distinctive square bow and indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace.
“Egypt continues to inspire curious travellers from around the world, and with the addition of the Viking Ptah, we are pleased to offer even more guests the opportunity to explore this extraordinary destination in the comfort of a Viking vessel,” Viking President and CEO Leah Talactac said.
Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary targets Egypt demand
The addition gives Australian travel advisors further capacity to sell Viking’s Nile program, with Viking Ptah dedicated to the company’s Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
The 12-day program is designed around Egypt’s history and cultural attractions, combining the Nile journey with the small-ship format of Viking’s purpose-built Egyptian fleet.
The ship’s arrival also strengthens Viking’s position in a destination attracting further investment from international river cruise operators.
Viking plans further fleet growth
Viking Ptah forms part of a broader fleet expansion program across the company’s river, ocean and expedition operations.
Based on its committed orderbook, Viking expects to take delivery of another 20 river ships by 2028, taking its river fleet to 114 vessels. It also plans to add nine ocean ships and two expedition ships by 2031, when its combined ocean and expedition fleet is expected to reach 26 vessels.
For advisors selling Egypt, Viking Ptah adds another dedicated Nile vessel to the market and provides additional capacity on one of the company’s established Egypt itineraries.
