Viking is preparing to celebrate one of the most defining moments in its history -- the naming of its 100th ship, a milestone that underscores nearly three decades of steady growth and innovation in global cruising. The achievement comes as the company expands its river fleet with two elegant new vessels designed to bring travellers closer to the heart of Europe and the wonders of Egypt.
A Century of Ships, A Legacy of Exploration
From its beginnings as a modest river cruise operator to becoming one of the most recognized names in modern travel, Viking's evolution mirrors the rising appeal of experiential cruising. The brand's commitment to exploring the world's most iconic waterways has built a loyal following among travellers who value cultural depth, seamless design, and comfort on the move.
The 100th ship milestone coincides with the introduction of two new river vessels -- Viking Honir and Viking Thoth -- each reflecting the company's philosophy of "exploration with elegance." Viking Honir is set to navigate Europe's Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, connecting travellers to a tapestry of medieval towns, grand capitals, and timeless landscapes. Meanwhile, Viking Thoth will sail the Nile, offering an intimate journey through Egypt's ancient past and modern vibrancy.
New Chapters on Two Legendary Rivers
The Viking Honir has been carefully crafted to navigate Europe's interconnected waterways, linking destinations that have shaped art, music, and culture for centuries. Guests aboard the ship will glide past terraced vineyards, Gothic cathedrals, and storied cities such as Amsterdam, Vienna, and Budapest. Each voyage is designed not just as a scenic passage, but as an immersive cultural experience that brings the essence of Europe's river heritage to life.
On the other side of the world, the Viking Thoth joins an expanding fleet on the Nile. The ship, built with locally inspired design elements and modern comforts, will host guests eager to trace the footsteps of pharaohs along one of the world's oldest and most storied rivers. From the temples of Luxor to the timeless beauty of Aswan, the journey will combine ancient discovery with contemporary luxury.
Both ships were formally delivered at major shipbuilding locations -- Basel, Switzerland for Viking Honir and the Massara shipyard in Cairo for Viking Thoth. These ceremonies reflect the company's ongoing collaboration with skilled shipbuilders and its focus on maintaining the highest standards in design, safety, and sustainability.
Ambitious Expansion Ahead
Viking's long-term vision remains one of continuous growth. The company plans to introduce 23 additional river ships by 2028, bringing its river fleet to an impressive 112 vessels. Parallel to this expansion, the ocean division is also on course for steady growth, with 10 new ocean and expedition ships scheduled for delivery by 2031. When complete, the global fleet will include 23 ocean-going ships alongside the river fleet, reinforcing the company's position as a leader in both segments of the cruise market.
Each new vessel, whether designed for rivers or oceans, carries a consistent design philosophy -- streamlined Scandinavian aesthetics, advanced sustainability features, and a guest-centric approach that prioritizes comfort and cultural immersion.
Designing the Perfect Voyage
The Viking Honir represents the latest generation of the company's acclaimed Longship class, purpose-built to navigate Europe's river locks and low bridges with precision. It accommodates 190 passengers and features spacious staterooms, panoramic lounges, and open-air decks that allow for uninterrupted views of Europe's scenic landscapes.
Viking Thoth, with capacity for 82 guests, follows the design of its sister ships operating along the Nile. Its intimate size ensures a more personalized experience, with opportunities for in-depth excursions and curated cultural programs. The ship blends modern engineering with elegant interiors, echoing the company's focus on comfort without excess.
Commitment to Cultural Discovery and Sustainability
Viking's philosophy has always revolved around meaningful travel experiences. Instead of emphasizing entertainment or volume, the company focuses on bringing travellers closer to the essence of the destinations they visit. Each journey is carefully curated to highlight art, history, cuisine, and local traditions, allowing guests to engage with cultures in a genuine way.
Sustainability also forms a cornerstone of Viking's long-term strategy. The company has implemented eco-friendly technologies across its fleet, including energy-efficient propulsion systems, water purification methods, and advanced waste management solutions. These initiatives are designed to minimize the environmental footprint of each voyage while maintaining the highest levels of comfort.
A New Era of Cruising Excellence
The milestone of reaching 100 ships represents more than just numerical success -- it signifies Viking's transformation into a truly global brand that connects continents and cultures through the art of travel. Each vessel in its fleet tells a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication to exploration.
With its sights set on 2031, Viking is poised to continue reshaping the world of cruising. The introduction of Viking Honir and Viking Thoth marks not just another expansion, but a reaffirmation of the company's vision: to make exploration more personal, enriching, and accessible. As these new ships begin their journeys on two of the world's most legendary rivers, they carry forward a legacy built on curiosity, discovery, and the timeless joy of travel.