We chose this cruise because seeing Egypt was on my husband's "bucket list" and because close friends who have traveled with Viking before invited us. We made our reservations in the depths of the pandemic - a hopeful and optimistic gesture toward the future. We were not disappointed. As Viking newcomers, we knew of Viking's reputation, but experiencing the level of service and excellence surpassed our expectations. From friendly staff to comfortable staterooms, beautiful common areas, and truly fine dining, the cruise provided a relaxed and up-close view of the Nile and its communities. Bustling Cairo and the pyramids were the first stop, followed by the cruise from Luxor to Aswan and back. Every sight along the Nile showed us the varied communities and history of Egypt. The people were friendly; we felt safe and welcome wherever we went. We had an expert guide in Sameh Ibrahim - a seasoned Egyptologist with at great sense of humor to boot.

On board, there were 77 guests cared for by an attentive and cheerful staff. I always judge the quality of service not only by the expertise and thoroughness of a job done, but by evidence that the employees enjoy their work. It's easy to distinguish formal politeness of the obligatory kind from genuine caring, investment, and enjoyment. The staff knew our names by the second day of the cruise. They were helpful without being intrusive. We had a chance to ask some of them about their work and what it was like to work for Viking. We didn't get standard "this is what I'm supposed to say" answers, but enthusiastic descriptions of their careers. I like knowing that I'm traveling with an organization that treats its employees well.

Our stateroom was lovely and spacious. We enjoyed watching the banks of the Nile with antiquities visible from the ship go by each day. The itinerary for shore excursions was good, with the biggest challenge being the "snipers alley" of vendors present at every history sight. Egypt is safe - no pickpocket problem here to speak of - but the vendors are polite, but aggressive sellers. Historic sites were amazing; it would be impossible to do them justice in a short review like this. Suffice it to say, you will get a sense of our human capacity and imagination at every site. Read more