By
Laura Hyde |
Viking has taken delivery of its newest river cruise ship, Viking Sekhmet, at Massara shipyard in Cairo, Egypt.
The ship accommodates 82 guests in 41 staterooms and has been specifically built to navigate the Nile River. It features “elegant” Scandinavian design, including a square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace.
Viking Sekhmet will sail Viking’s 12-day ‘Pharaohs & Pyramids’ itinerary, as well as a new 12-day ‘Total Eclipse on the Nile’ itinerary in 2027. Both itineraries include a pre-cruise three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, before guests fly to Luxor to board the ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River. Highlights of the itineraries include a visit to the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the High Dam in Aswan and a visit to a Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional primary school. The journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the city.
“The Nile has connected people with the history and culture of Egypt for thousands of years, and it continues to be a destination that inspires curious travellers,” said Leah Talactac, president and chief executive officer of Viking. “With the arrival of the elegant Viking Sekhmet, we are pleased to offer even more opportunities for curious travellers to explore Egypt in Viking comfort.”