Viking just took delivery of two new river ships on October 14, 2025, expanding options for travelers on key waterways. The Viking Honir will cruise the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers in Europe, while the Viking Thoth sets sail on the Nile in Egypt, with ceremonies held in Basel, Switzerland, and Cairo.
This move boosts Viking’s fleet and meets growing demand for river cruises. Company leaders say it opens more spots for people eager to explore historic routes in comfort.
Inside the Viking Honir
The Viking Honir joins Viking’s lineup of Longships, designed for Europe’s inland waters. It holds 190 guests across 95 staterooms, blending modern tech with classic style.
Built to handle the Rhine, Main, and Danube, the ship boasts a square bow for smooth navigation. Guests enjoy three full decks, an indoor and outdoor terrace for meals, and suites with separate living areas.
For its first year, the Honir focuses on popular trips that highlight Europe’s charm. Think journeys through scenic valleys and festive holiday routes.
Travelers can expect thoughtful touches like asymmetric corridors for better views and energy-efficient features that cut environmental impact.
Exploring the Viking Thoth
On the Nile, the Viking Thoth offers a fresh way to see ancient sites. This ship accommodates 82 guests in 41 staterooms, making it ideal for intimate voyages.
It mirrors the design of sister ships like the Osiris, Aton, Sobek, Hathor, and Amun. All share clean Scandinavian lines and modern amenities tailored for Egypt’s river.
The Thoth sails the Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary, stopping at icons like the pyramids and Luxor temples. Onboard, guests find spacious lounges, sun decks, and dining spots with local flavors.
Viking built this vessel at the Massara shipyard in Cairo, ensuring it meets high standards for safety and comfort on the Nile.
Viking’s Bold Growth Strategy
Viking shows no signs of slowing down. With these deliveries, the company eyes a total of 112 river ships by 2028, adding 23 more in the coming years.
This expansion responds to a surge in river cruise popularity, up 15 percent globally since 2023, according to industry reports. Viking leads with a focus on adult travelers seeking cultural depth.
Recent moves include new ocean ships and partnerships for eco-friendly tech. For instance, Viking tested biofuel on select vessels last year, cutting emissions by 20 percent on trial runs.
The strategy pays off, as Viking topped reader polls in travel awards this month, praised for service and itineraries.
Here’s a quick look at Viking’s recent fleet milestones:
- 2024: Added four river ships across Europe and Asia.
- 2025: Honir and Thoth join, boosting capacity by over 270 guests.
- Future: Plans for ships on the Mekong and Douro rivers by 2027.
What Travelers Can Expect
These ships promise elevated experiences for river cruise fans. On the Honir, routes like the Rhine Getaway cover eight days from Amsterdam to Basel, with stops at castles and vineyards.
The Thoth’s Nile trips include guided tours of tombs and temples, plus onboard lectures from experts. Prices start around $3,000 per person for a week, varying by season.
Both vessels feature all-inclusive perks like meals, Wi-Fi, and excursions. Safety measures include advanced navigation systems and health protocols updated post-pandemic.
Compare the two new ships in this table:
| Feature | Viking Honir | Viking Thoth |
|---|---|---|
| Guest Capacity | 190 | 82 |
| Staterooms | 95 | 41 |
| Primary Rivers | Rhine, Main, Danube | Nile |
| Key Itinerary | Rhine Getaway, Christmas trips | Pharaohs and Pyramids |
| Design Style | Longship with square bow | Modern Nile cruiser |
Impact on the Cruise Industry
River cruising continues to grow, with Europe and Egypt as hot spots. Viking’s additions come amid a boom, where bookings rose 12 percent in 2025 compared to last year.
Competitors like Scenic and Avalon also expand, but Viking stands out with its no-kids policy and enrichment programs. This helps attract repeat customers, who make up 40 percent of bookings.
Looking ahead, these ships could ease overcrowding on popular routes. They also support local economies through tourism in ports like Basel and Cairo.
As river travel rebounds, Viking positions itself for long-term success. Travelers gain more choices for meaningful adventures.
Share your thoughts on these new ships or your favorite river cruise spots in the comments below. If this story sparked your wanderlust, pass it along to fellow travel enthusiasts.
