Viking will double its capacity in Egypt from 2020 with the launch of a new ship.

Inspired by the design of the Viking Longships and built specifically for the Nile, the 82-guest Viking Osiris is currently under construction. It is scheduled to sail in September 2020.

Since 2018 Viking has operated the Viking Ra on the Nile.

The news represents further expansion for the line, which recently christened Viking Sigrun during a ceremony in Basel.

Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said: “Egypt has inspired explorers for generations and it remains a top destination for many of our guests. For more than two decades, we have led the river cruise industry with our fleet development and experiences that bring travellers closer to the cultures of the world.

“We remain committed to Egypt and we look forward to introducing the historic treasures of the region to even more Viking guests.”

Viking has also announced the launch of two pre-cruise extension programmes. The five-day tours apply to the Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary and will provide guests with access to archives and exhibits in London and Oxford.

Guests travelling from April 2020 can also opt for the new five-day King Tut & the UK’s Egyptian Collections extension, which includes an opportunity to visit Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh, a special exhibition at London’s Saatchi Gallery, presented by Viking.

Prices for Viking’s 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids cruise start from £4,995pp. The holiday stars with a three-night stay at a hotel in Cairo and a trip to Luxor to visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, before guests board for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile.