Summary
On the newly christened Viking Osiris, passengers will find photographs of Egypt in the early 1900s that can’t be seen anywhere else.
Egypt has been a source of curiosity and mystery among historians and archaeologists for hundreds of years. However, the discovery of the tomb of King Tutankhamun in November 1922 captured the imagination of the entire world, creating a global sensation. The designs and images on the nearly 5,000 items found in the tomb inspired Egyptian motifs in clothing, home décor, jewelry, and even hairstyles and music. Nevertheless, a trip to Egypt has been considered a somewhat daunting excursion.
Introduction to Viking Osiris
I’ve often wondered if my own desire to visit Egypt would ever be satisfied, so I was thrilled to receive an invitation to the naming ceremony aboard Viking’s newest Nile River ship, Viking Osiris. Appropriately named for the god Osiris, who ancient Egyptians believed oversaw the flooding of the river, the ship was specifically built to navigate the Nile, featuring state-of-the-art amenities—an ideal way to explore in comfort.
The Naming Ceremony
Making the trip even more exciting was the prospect of being there for the naming ceremony, honoring Viking’s first ceremonial godfather, George Herbert, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon. As Howard Carter’s benefactor and co-explorer, Lord Carnarvon’s great grandfather was instrumental in discovering the tomb of King Tutankhamun.
In a fortunate confluence of events, Viking Osiris first sails during the 100th anniversary year of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb and the 25th anniversary of Viking’s first river sailing in 1997. Additionally, Lord Carnarvon’s family lives in Highclere Castle, the setting for the popular PBS historical drama Downton Abbey, which Viking sponsors. Guests on select Viking cruises can take advantage of “Privileged Access” pre- and post-trip extensions with visits to the estate.
On Monday, Aug. 22, surrounded by government representatives, media, Viking officials, and his wife, the Countess of Carnarvon, Lord Carnarvon praised the new ship and called Viking Osiris “one of the most beautiful river vessels to have ever graced the Nile.” He expressed his good wishes for the ship while breaking a traditional bottle of champagne over the new vessel’s bow.
Design and Amenities
Designed and built specifically to navigate the Nile River, Viking Osiris harmoniously combines elegance with understated design, reflecting modern Scandinavian aesthetics. The ship feels light and open, offering expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. In the ship’s midsection, an atrium, topped by a skylight, opens to every deck, creating a spacious feeling in this beautifully light-flooded common area.
Richard Riveire, the architect behind Viking Osiris and other Viking river and ocean ships, emphasized the importance of simplicity in their designs, stating, “Our architecture is probably less flamboyant than on some ships. We’re Nordic; we’re about warmth, nature, and craft.” This approach ensures guests feel at home as soon as they arrive onboard.
The ship features a library, sun deck, and Aquavit Terrace & Lounge for indoor or outdoor dining. With panoramic views, the Restaurant, lounge, and bar offer an experience that enhances the journey along the Nile.
Original Photographs Aboard
“We’re very fortunate at Highclere to have a great collection of my great grandfather’s photography,” Lord Carnarvon shared, explaining the significance of the display of marvelous black-and-white photographs throughout the ship, which capture daily life in Egypt in the early 1900s. These unique images are not merely replicated; they tell a story of exploration and adventure.
Viking’s Pharaohs and Pyramids Cruise
Viking Osiris will take guests on the 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids cruise that begins and ends in Cairo with flights to and from Luxor. Guided visits to the pyramids, tombs, museums, and temples along the Nile are available, with many excursions included in the trip price. Expert Egyptologists accompany small groups as guides, enhancing the learning experience for all travelers.
Future of Cruising the Nile with Viking
Viking Osiris joins Viking Ra on the Nile, and in response to growing demand, three additional ships are on the way: Viking Aton, with an expected arrival in 2023, alongside Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek anticipated for 2024 and 2025 respectively.
Viking’s Chairman, Torstein Hagen, addressed a media group gathered before the naming ceremony, noting that “Bookings are very strong for next year; 2019 was our best year so far, and currently bookings for 2023 are already ahead of 2019.” This enthusiasm reinforces that Viking is a leader in the cruise travel industry, especially for those seeking immersive experiences in destinations like Egypt.
The journey aboard Viking Osiris promises to be an unforgettable exploration of the Nile’s rich tapestry, making it an appealing option for any traveler eager to experience the majesty of ancient Egyptian heritage.
