river Ship

MS Antares

by Viking River Cruises
Book your cruise
The MS Antares, a Viking River Cruises ship, navigates calm waters near sandy hills and traditional sailing boats.
Viking River Cruises

About this ship

The MS Antares Ship

  • Built in2019
  • Capacity62
  • ByViking River Cruises

Viking MS Antares offers an exceptional way to explore the timeless wonders of Egypt along the Nile River. Purpose-built for intimate cruising, this elegant ship accommodates just 62 guests, ensuring a personalized and uncrowded experience. Combining Scandinavian refinement with regional flair, MS Antares delivers a serene and sophisticated onboard environment designed to complement the grandeur of ancient Egyptian landmarks.

This ship stands apart through its meticulous attention to detail, showcasing a blend of modern comfort and regional inspiration. The interiors feature light-filled public areas, crisp design accents, and locally crafted artwork. Spacious staterooms offer river views, luxurious bedding, climate control, and well-appointed bathrooms. Select cabins include private verandas or French balconies, allowing guests to soak in the ever-changing landscape of the Nile from the comfort of their room.

Onboard, guests can enjoy an elegant main dining room offering a mix of international cuisine and locally inspired Egyptian dishes made from fresh, regional ingredients. Afternoon tea, curated cocktails, and nightly entertainment add to the refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The sun deck, complete with loungers and a shaded area, offers panoramic views of the Nile’s storied banks.

Cultural enrichment is woven into the voyage, with expert Egyptologists accompanying each journey. These specialists guide shore excursions to legendary sites like the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and the Aswan High Dam, providing invaluable context and insights into Egypt’s rich history. Onboard lectures and curated talks enhance the experience, helping guests delve deeper into the art, religion, and legacy of ancient Egypt.

Viking MS Antares also excels in personalized service, with a warm and attentive staff committed to guest comfort. The ship’s small size allows for seamless logistics at each port and fosters a sense of community among travelers. With thoughtful design, immersive programming, and a relaxed onboard vibe, MS Antares is perfectly suited for travelers seeking a culturally rich and luxurious Nile cruise.

Suites

Discover suites on this ship

Explorer Suite (ES)

829 sq. feet

-
  • Stateroom size: 829 sq ft
  • River-view suite with spacious, separate sitting room & French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) with views from port and starboard sides
  • Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
  • Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
  • 220 volt outlets
  • Private bathroom with jet shower, jetted bathtub & hair dryer
  • Premium Freyja® toiletries
  • Plush robes & slippers
  • Telephone, safe, refrigerator
  • Individual climate control
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Welcome bottle of sparkling wine; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate
  • Luxury wool blanket
  • Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections
  • Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
  • Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
  • Private arrival/departure transfer in destination
  • Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers
  • Complimentary Viking Air Plus (US & CA only)

Veranda Suite (AA)

592 sq. feet

-
  • Stateroom size: 592 sq ft (includes private veranda)
  • River-view suite with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) off spacious, separate sitting room & full-size veranda in sleeping quarters
  • Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
  • Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
  • 220 volt outlets
  • Private bathroom with jet shower, jetted bathtub & hair dryer
  • Premium Freyja® toiletries
  • Plush robes & slippers
  • Telephone, safe, refrigerator
  • Individual climate control
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
  • Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Deluxe French Balcony (A)

430 sq. feet

-
  • Stateroom size: 430 sq ft
  • River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)
  • Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
  • Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
  • 220 volt outlets
  • Private bathroom with jet shower, jetted bathtub & hair dryer
  • Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
  • Telephone, safe, refrigerator
  • Individual climate control
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
  • Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Deluxe French Balcony (B)

430 sq. feet

-
  • Stateroom size: 430 sq ft
  • River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)
  • Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
  • Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
  • 220 volt outlets
  • Private bathroom with jet shower, jetted bathtub & hair dryer
  • Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
  • Telephone, safe, refrigerator
  • Individual climate control
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
  • Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Deluxe French Balcony (C)

430 sq. feet

-
  • Stateroom size: 430 sq ft
  • River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)
  • Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
  • Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
  • 220 volt outlets
  • Private bathroom with jet shower, jetted bathtub & hair dryer
  • Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
  • Telephone, safe, refrigerator
  • Individual climate control
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
  • Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

French Balcony (D)

290 sq. feet

-
  • Stateroom size: 290 sq ft
  • River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)
  • Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
  • Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
  • 220 volt outlets
  • Private bathroom with jet shower, jetted bathtub & hair dryer
  • Premium Freyja® toiletries
  • Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
  • Telephone, safe, refrigerator
  • Individual climate control
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
  • Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Itineraries on this ship

Why Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises logo

Viking River Cruises is the world’s leading river cruise line, known for its elegant ships, destination-focused itineraries, and immersive cultural experiences. Designed for curious, sophisticated travelers, Viking’s award-winning journeys along Europe’s legendary rivers—as well as the Nile, Mekong, and Mississippi—deliver an unmatched blend of comfort, enrichment, and exploration. With a modern fleet of purpose-built longships and a focus on thoughtful luxury, Viking sets the standard for river cruising.

The Viking River Experience: Purposeful Design, Meaningful Travel

Viking’s river ships are crafted for comfort and discovery, offering a refined yet relaxed onboard atmosphere. With fewer than 200 guests per ship, travelers enjoy an intimate setting with spacious public areas, all-outside staterooms, and attentive service throughout the journey.

  • All-outside staterooms, many with full verandas or French balconies
  • Destination-inspired cuisine and wine pairings in both casual and elegant dining venues
  • Included daily shore excursions with knowledgeable local guides
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty coffees, and onboard cultural enrichment
  • Adults-only environment (guests must be 18+)
  • Thoughtfully curated programs including lectures, tastings, concerts, and hands-on experiences

Designed for discovery, Viking’s river cruises invite guests to slow down and connect more deeply with the regions they visit.

Iconic Itineraries Across Europe and Beyond

Whether sailing through the heart of Europe or exploring far-flung corners of the world, Viking’s itineraries are carefully crafted to offer a balance of must-see landmarks and lesser-known treasures. Extended time in port, insightful excursions, and curated cultural access are hallmarks of every voyage.

Signature Voyages Include:

  • Grand European Tour – Cruise the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers between Amsterdam and Budapest, visiting historic cities, castles, and vineyards along the way.
  • Danube Waltz – Discover the Old World charm of Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia through a mix of grand capitals and storybook towns.
  • Rhine Getaway – Explore Cologne, Strasbourg, and the castles of the Middle Rhine on a scenic voyage through four countries.
  • Paris & the Heart of Normandy – Journey through the French countryside from Paris to the beaches of Normandy, with insight into history, art, and cuisine.
  • Pharaohs & Pyramids – Sail the Nile aboard a Viking-owned vessel and explore the ancient wonders of Egypt in depth.
  • Magnificent Mekong – Immerse yourself in the culture of Vietnam and Cambodia on an enriching Southeast Asian voyage.

Every itinerary reflects Viking’s passion for history, culture, and authenticity—offering guests an educational and enriching way to see the world.

A Curated Selection by Small Ship Travel

At Small Ship Travel, we proudly include Viking River Cruises in our curated collection for their exceptional standards in design, service, and cultural engagement. Viking’s dedication to immersive travel experiences aligns with our mission to provide journeys that go beyond the ordinary.

Our team of river cruise experts works closely with Viking to help you select the right itinerary, stateroom, and enhancements—ensuring your trip is perfectly tailored to your interests. Whether you're a first-time river cruiser or a returning guest seeking something new, we provide the insight and support to make your voyage seamless and memorable.

Book with Confidence

Booking with Small Ship Travel gives you access to exclusive savings, pre- and post-cruise planning, and expert advice to elevate your Viking River Cruise. From start to finish, we handle the details—so you can enjoy the discovery, comfort, and cultural richness Viking is known for.

Other vessels by this cruise line

Discover other vessels by this cruise line

consultation

Need information to make a decision?

Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.