By Islam El-Sakka
Viking Cruises will launch the Grand Nile Journey, a 19-day itinerary that sails the full length of the Nile between Cairo and Aswan, beginning in 2028.
Itinerary and ship
The voyage starts with four nights in a Cairo hotel before guests board the all-suite Viking Ra for 14 nights on the river; the ship, built specifically for the Nile, accommodates 52 guests in 26 suites.
Full Nile route and sites
Unlike most Nile cruises that fly between Cairo and Luxor or sail only between Cairo and Luxor, this route covers the entire river, allowing visits to lesser-known sites such as the Meidum Pyramid, the Noblemen's Tombs of Beni Hasan, and Tell el-Amarna.
Guided tours and highlights
The itinerary includes 17 guided tours, featuring the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Seti I at Abydos, and the Philae temple complex in Aswan, plus a traditional felucca sail.
Pricing and alternative itinerary
Prices start at £11,995 per person, covering flights, transfers, meals, drinks, wifi, tips, and most excursions; Viking also offers a shorter 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids round-trip from Cairo to Luxor.
Fleet expansion
The company recently named two new ships, Viking Ptah and Viking Sekhmet, bringing its Egyptian fleet to 10 vessels, with four more expected by 2028.
Executive comment
Leah Talactac, president and chief executive of Viking, said the new journey reflects the company's focus on deeper exploration of Egypt's history and culture.
Market context
Riviera Travel is currently the only other mainstream cruise line offering a full Nile sailing, with a 14-night Cairo-to-Aswan cruise from £5,869 per person.
