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The 15 Best Nile Cruises in Egypt: Luxury Sailing from Luxor to Aswan

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If you’re planning a trip to visit Egypt , of course, you’ll have to visit the Nile River! It’s the longest river in the world, spanning 11 different countries, and is incredibly important to Egyptians for both sustenance and transportation. And the best way to see the Nile is from aboard a luxury cruise sailing between the ancient cities of Luxor and Aswan.

But finding the best cruise to fit your travel plans can be difficult. They travel on specific weekly schedules and have a set itinerary – usually 3, 4, or 7 nights. Information and reviews on Booking.com are limited and since most cruises are fairly pricey, it’s important to understand what you’ll be getting for your money.

So we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 Nile River cruises to make planning your vacation in Egypt a breeze. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Best Luxury Nile Cruises in Egypt

1. alexander the great nile cruise.

The Alexander the Great Cruise is a gorgeous cruise ship offering a 4-night Nile River cruise that departs every Monday from Luxor, and a 3-night Nile cruise that departs every Friday from Aswan. This Nile cruise even offers a free airport shuttle service!

Everyone on staff is incredibly helpful and attentive. If you’d like to pamper yourself during your Nile cruise you can take advantage of the spa services, including a hot spring bath and various massage treatments. And meals are fabulous, with both traditional and international cuisine options. And you’ll love the various evening entertainment that is fun for the whole family!

This luxury Nile cruise ship has an outdoor pool surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs for spending warm days relaxing in the sun. Rooms are spacious, clean, and well-appointed with a tv, premium bedding, a private bathroom, and a mini-bar. It’s definitely worth upgrading to a room with a balcony so you can enjoy the views from the privacy of your own room.

Guests especially love the guided tours along the banks of the Nile River. They will take you to the sites and explain the history in a way that is interesting and easy to digest.

Check Prices on Hotels.com

2. Sonesta Star Goddess Cruises

The Sonesta Star Goddess Cruise is an ultra-luxurious cruise sailing the Nile River between Luxor and Aswan for 4 or 7 nights leaving each Monday. The ship features plenty of activities for guests onboard, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and a spa with a hot tub and sauna. And with 24-hour room service, you’ll have every amenity available during your cruise.

Bedroom suites are large and comfortable with nice bedding, satellite televisions, bathtubs, and large windows to keep them bright and airy. You can enjoy a glass of wine at sunset on your private balcony overlooking the banks of the Nile.

You’ll love to indulge in a massage, body wrap, or a pedicure during your cruise. There’s nothing quite like relaxing in a spa while gazing out over the Nile!

Take advantage of the onboard shopping to pick up a few Egyptian gifts for your friends back home. The ship has a main dining area, a sun deck, and a lounge with a dance floor for the evening entertainment. They can also arrange your daily tours of the various sites along the Nile.

3. M/S Esplanade Cruise

The M/S Esplanade Cruise is a chic, lavish ship offering 4 or 7-night Nile River cruises each Monday from Luxor, and 3 or 7-night Nile cruises from Aswan each Friday.

The most impressive feature of this Nile River cruise in Egypt is the beautiful outdoor pool which is surrounded by comfortable loungers and day beds. It looks so pristine and inviting and is the perfect place to cool off after a long, hot morning exploring the Egyptian ruins.

The spacious rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen television set, coffee and tea-making facilities, a desk, a hairdryer, and many amenities you may need during your cruise. Your stay on this luxurious cruise ship also includes 2 bars, a sauna, and a rooftop terrace.

All of the public seating areas are decorated with a creative flair and are a great place to hang out and meet new friends from all over the world!

4. Mövenpick Royal Lily Cruise

The Mövenpick Royal Lily Cruise offers either a 4-night Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, or you can choose to make the trip a 7-day round trip affair! Of course the more nights you can spend on this luxury Nile River cruise line, the better!

The deluxe cabins are about 22 square meters and have two twin beds, large windows and bright, cheery decor. Of course, your room will also be appointed with air conditioning, a flat-screen television set, a minibar, and other amenities you’ll need during your stay. A telephone enabled with international calling is also available in your room.

You’ll appreciate the beautiful outdoor swimming pool, the spacious sun deck, the fitness center, and the sauna and spa facilities. The food is divine and you’ll be treated like royalty by the lovely staff at the Mövenpick. They’ll make your Nile cruise unforgettable!

Check Prices on Booking.com

5. Sonesta Moon Goddess

The Sonesta Moon Goddess Cruise sets sail each Saturday for 3 or 7 nights from Luxor to Aswan. This modern, luxury cruise ship will be your home away from home as you sail down the Nile River, enjoying the sites and sounds from the comfort of your private room.

The cruise ship is outfitted with a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, a large sun terrace, a fitness center, a relaxing spa, and a bar serving up refreshing cocktails. Enjoy a massage, a facial, or a body scrub while you sip champagne and cruise down the Nile.

The food is delicious and super fresh. The helpful staff can help you in arranging a transfer to and from the airport, as well as any local excursions.

Rooms are simple and classic with comfortable beds, large private bathrooms, plenty of amenities, and private patios. Free toiletries, a tv, a minibar, a private bathroom, and turndown service are just a few of the amenities that you can enjoy. You’ll want to wake up early to catch the sunrise from the comfort of your own room!

6. Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise

The 5-star Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise offers 4-night and 6-night cruises down the Nile between Aswan and Luxor. The friendly staff at the ship tour desk can assist in booking your airport transfer, any daily excursions, and anything else you may need during your stay onboard.

During your Nile cruise, you can take advantage of the fitness center, the terrace with beautiful views of the banks of the Nile, and the lovely spa services which include Thai massage, facials, and body scrubs.

The large rooms have modern decor and come outfitted with a television set, a minibar (stocked with some free items!), coffee-making facilities, a bidet, bathrobes, and a desk. The beds are so comfortable that you won’t want to get up in the morning!

Be sure to book your stay on the Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise well in advance because this one books up fast!

7. MS Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

The MS Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise departs from Luxor every Monday for four nights and from Aswan each Friday for three nights. The staff is exceptional and provides you with a 24-hour help desk and room service. 

The cruise also offers multiple packages to make your cruise experience exceptional. The cruise offers Sightseeing, Happiness, Felucca Breakfast, and Honeymoon/Anniversary packages.

The Sightseeing Package includes transfers to sights, such as the High Dam, Karnak Temple, Valley of Kings, Philae Temple, Abu Simbel, and the Luxor Temple in an air-conditioned bus and includes the entrance fee.  

The cruise provides different spacious room types, including standard twin rooms and deluxe king suites. The rooms are nicely furnished and clean, and each morning, you’ll be able to enjoy the yummy breakfast buffet. The cruise is also outfitted with a fitness center, sauna, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant that you can enjoy during your cruise time.

8. Nile Goddess Cruise

The Nile Goddess Cruise offers 4 or 7-night Nile cruises beginning every Monday between Luxor and Aswan. This beautiful ship has classic decor with dark wooden furniture and traditional touches throughout. You’ll forget that you’re on a ship cruising down the Nile River and not in a 5-star resort!

The Nile Goddess features a rooftop pool with plenty of room for lounging in the sun. Also a fitness center, a peaceful spa with a sauna, and even a nightclub. The lounge is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail at the end of the day, and you’ll love the delicious dishes served for onboard breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The air-conditioned rooms have simple but comfortable decor, a minibar, and a satellite television set. Upgrade to a suite to enjoy a separate seating area and a private balcony.

9. Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise

The Oberoi Zahra offers luxury 5 or 7-day Nile cruises departing from either Luxor or Aswan. You’ll want to check the sailing calendar on their website for specific dates of embarkation. The service that you’ll receive onboard is absolutely impeccable from the moment that you’re greeted until the time that you leave. Take advantage of the free airport shuttle!

The daily excursions are both fun and informational. And you’ll appreciate that they try to time your arrival to avoid the crowds.

The ship has a large and refreshing outdoor pool and a spa where you can indulge in a relaxing spa. You’ll love the evening entertainment after enjoying a delectable meal in the onboard restaurant. Rooms are well-appointed with a minibar, an electric kettle, a large bathroom, and bathrobes. If you want to really treat yourself, opt for a suite with a private deck and hot tub!

10. Nile Carnival Cruise

The Nile Carnival Cruise departs from Luxor every Thursday and from Aswan every Monday. The staff is super friendly and accommodating, and the rooms are clean and spacious, with nice views of the river. 

The Nile Carnival Cruise features a restaurant and a bar, packed lunches, snack bar, and it offers both a continental and buffet breakfast. The rooms are equipped with a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, and air-conditioning, and there are room, laundry, and ironing services available.

You’ll also be able to relax during your time on board as the cruise has a spa and wellness center that offers massages, beauty services, manicures, and hair treatments. Once you’re done getting pampered, you can enjoy the rooftop swimming pool, hot tub, sun terrace, and game room!

11. Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise

The Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise departs from Luxor every Saturday for 4-7 nights and every Wednesday from Aswan for three nights. The cruise has an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace so you can relax and admire the river views from the deck.

The rooms include standard twin and single cabins with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-bar. The cruise also offers an optional Sightseeing Package for an additional price that includes a visit to the Karnak and Luxor Temples, Valley of the Kings, the Botanical Garden, and the Abu Simbel Temple, among other sites.

Each morning you can enjoy the breakfast buffet, and every evening, you’ll love having tea time on the sun deck. After dinner at one of the restaurants, you can attend one of the shows or parties, including a belly dance show, a Nubian show, a cocktail party, or the Galabya party, depending on the itinerary. 

12. M/S Esmeralda Nile Cruise

The M/S Esmeralda Nile Cruise departs from Luxor each Monday for 4-7 nights, and it departs each Friday from Aswan. The cruise features a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, spa, gym, and sun deck. In the evenings, you can attend one of the shows, including belly dancing, Tanoura, and Oriental and Heritage music entertainment.

The rooms on the M/S Esmeralda Nile Cruise include twin cabins, king-sized beds, and presidential suites equipped with an LED TV, a mini bar, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a safety box. Plus, you can even enjoy a private jacuzzi in the presidential suites!

The Garnet restaurant offers a great breakfast buffet with a good selection, and in the evenings, you can enjoy some delicious International dishes, including Chinese, Italian, Oriental Egyptian, and more. The restaurant is beautiful, and you’ll be able to enjoy your meals with a view of the Nile. 

The cruise’s itinerary will take you to the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut on the West Bank, the Edfu and Kom Ombo temples, the High Dam, the Temple of Philae, and the unfinished Obelisk.

13. Movenpick SS Misr Steamer Nile Cruise

The Movenpick SS Misr Steamer Nile Cruise departs on Mondays from Luxor for 4-7 nights and from Aswan on Fridays for three nights. You’ll immediately enjoy the old-time decor throughout the cruise ship as it was built in 1918 by the British Royal Navy. It was turned into a luxury steamer for King Farouk.

The Movenpick SS Misr Steamer offers four cabin options, including the standard, superior, senior suite, and panorama suite. No matter which cabin you choose for your Nile cruise adventure, you’ll enjoy large and panoramic balconies, air-conditioning, and a private bathroom. Other amenities include a TV, a minibar, and a safety deposit box.

You can also savor great quality drinks and cocktails at the Dhabiyyat Bar, and the Marasem Restaurant offers gourmet dishes, so you’ll feel like royalty! After you’re done exploring, you can relax on the large sun deck while sipping your favorite drink next to the swimming pool. 

Check prices on Booking.com

14. Movenpick MS Sunray Nile Cruise

The Movenpick MS Sunray Nile Cruise departs from Luxor each Thursday for 4-7 nights, and it departs from Aswan each Monday for three nights. The cruise features elegant and traditional designs, and it is equipped with a swimming pool, a sundeck with a recreational area, and reading and playroom.

You can choose between the standard, superior, and junior or senior suites with panoramic windows for you to see the Nile. All cabins have air-conditioning, a private bathroom with a bathtub and hairdryer, a TV, a minibar, and a safety deposit box. 

You can enjoy your international meals and breakfast buffet at the main restaurants, and the lounge bar offers afternoon tea and cocktails. You can also enjoy snacks and drinks on the sun deck while you take in all the monument views as you cruise down the Nile. 

15. Steigenberger Legacy Nile Cruise

The Steigenberger Legacy Nile Cruise departs from Luxor on Mondays for 4-7 nights and from Aswan every Friday for three nights. You’ll love the luxurious and modern decor across the cabins and the cruise boat!

The surprisingly stylish rooms are equipped with controllable air-conditioning, a minibar, a safe, a private bathroom, and a balcony with sliding doors that open up to the main and upper decks.

Explore the ship, and you’ll find a restaurant, bar, and lounge, where you can enjoy meals and drinks. The restaurant also offers options for vegetarians, and the staff is very friendly and kind. 

When you’re not taking in the Nile views, you can soak up the sun on the sun deck, splash around in the pool, and sip poolside drinks at the bar. There’s also a souvenir shop, a fitness center, and a beauty salon onboard, so you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay!

We hope you have a wonderful cruise down the Nile River!

Want more help planning your trip to Egypt? Check out our favorite travel guides!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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2 thoughts on “the 15 best nile cruises in egypt: luxury sailing from luxor to aswan”.

Many thanks for great information!

Based on the review here, we booked on the Sonesta Moon Goddess March, 2023. We were disappointed. The rooms were indeed classic and comfortable. The carpets in the hall were old and stained. The HVAC systems in the room did not work properly despite engineering’s best efforts. Hot water was often hard to come by. The most disappointing element was the food. This was served buffet style, and almost never maintained hot. It was as if I had returned to my high school cafeteria. The staff were attentive and tried to please.

The review above does not reflect on the current state of affairs.

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19 of the best Nile cruises for 2024

Discover egypt’s past on a voyage along the world’s longest river with one of these unforgettable nile cruises.

S ailing the River Nile is a bucket-list experience. Since the first tourists travelled down the river in 1869, it has attracted visitors enthralled by Egypt’s pharaohs, prophets and pyramids. The world’s longest river flows through 11 African countries for 4,100 miles before spilling out into the Mediterranean, but it’s the Upper Nile, which snakes through southern Egypt, that offers the most cruise itineraries. These visit some of the country’s famous ruins and archaeological discoveries, including the Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Aswan and the Temple of Horus. Cruises operate year-round but sailings between October and May will avoid scorching summer temperatures. Whether you choose to sail on a modern cruise ship, a restored paddle steamer or even a traditional two-masted dahabiya, these are some of the best Nile cruises and itineraries for this journey of a lifetime.

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1. G Adventures: Pyramids, Temples & the Nile

Best for a dahabiya experience Leave the crowded ports to the oversized ships and opt for a more serene sailing with G Adventures. Its ten-day Egypt: Pyramids, Temples & the Nile itinerary includes four nights in Cairo and five on board a traditional dahabiya, which has no engine so you can sit back and listen to the sounds of the waves. With just ten cabins, it can dock at small sites close to villages for a more authentic experience. These include a visit to a nonprofit charity working with young people in the West Bank, a barbeque on a remote island in the middle of the Nile and a trip to Nubian village for mint tea with a local family.

Passengers 16 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome N Price £££

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2. ms farah: taste of egypt.

Best for on-board experience The real attraction of a Nile cruise lies on dry land, but guests on an Avalon Waterways cruise will be in no hurry to disembark. This ship has 56 deluxe cabins and two suites, and all have oversized balconies to watch the world sail by. Treats on board include free use of a sauna and steam room, complimentary wi-fi, barbecue lunches and dinners on the sun deck, a library and welcome amenities including a fruit basket and canapés. Guests can join an Egyptian cooking class, use a telescope to stargaze or attend a lecture by an Egyptologist. Ten-day Taste of Egypt itineraries feature five nights in Cairo, including lunches in local restaurants, trips to the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Aswan High Dam, and an optional dinner cruise with live music and belly dancing.

Passengers 124 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y (aged over eight) Price ££

3. MS Nile Plaza: Cairo, Alexandria and a Nile Cruise

Best for visiting Alexandria While most cruises include time in Cairo before sailing from Luxor, Titan Travel’s Cairo, Alexandria and a Nile Cruise itinerary also squeezes in a full-day excursion to the port city of Alexandria, the former capital of ancient Egypt. The 12-day tour includes seven nights on the MS Nile Plaza with its restaurant, bar and sundeck, two and a half days of free time and even a VIP transfer from your home for your flight to Cairo. Highlights of the sailing include the Valley of the Queens, the beautiful Temple of Philae and an excursion on a traditional wooden felucca.

Passengers 110 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites No Children welcome Y (aged over 16) Price ££

4. Mövenpick MS Darakum: Wonders of the Nile, Cairo to Luxor

Best for watching the world go by Those who like to take the long route and stay on a boat for the duration of their Egyptian adventure in Egypt will enjoy a cruise on the 52-cabin MS Darakum. Thanks to its very low draft, it is one of the few vessels that can sail from Cairo to Luxor. After an intoxicating few days in the capital, exploring its markets, mosques and ancient wonders, it’s time to travel south. The beauty of covering a much longer distance than a traditional Nile cruise is the extra time it allows to simply sit and watch the world go by. Riviera Travel’s Wonders of the Nile: Cairo to Luxor itinerary is sprinkled with long and leisurely sailing days where there’s little to do except relax on the sun deck and gaze out at the small farms and date plantations, before retreating inside to attend the fascinating onboard lectures.

Passengers 104 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price £££

5. Mövenpick MS Royal Lily or Royal Lotus: Premium Nile Cruise

Best for ticking off the sights All of Egypt’s most significant sites are given adequate attention on Exodus’ nine-day Premium Nile Cruise. After time in Cairo and a short flight to Luxor, it’s time to board for a voyage through 7,000 years of history. The traditional-style ships include large Royal suites and very high levels of service and comfort throughout. As well as all the usual big hitters, there are plenty of offbeat options that make this an eye-opening choice for the curious traveller. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the impressive seventh-century St Simeon Monastery, the nearby traditional Nubian village and the chance to see Cleopatra’s unfinished obelisk.

Passengers 126 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome N Price ££

6. Oberoi Zahra: Luxury Nile Cruise

Best for maxed-out luxury Devotees of the namesake hotel chain can enjoy the brand’s luxury on the water aboard the plushest boat on the Nile. The modern and minimalist Oberoi Zahra enjoys prime position at its private mooring spot on the banks of the corniche in Aswan. Its elevated approach doesn’t end there. As well as offering trips to the temples of Edfu and the island of El Nabatat on itineraries that include a four-day trip from Luxor, the boat has plenty to keep guests entertained, from a library and games room to a gym and open-air pool. At night, astrology lectures reveal how the night sky influenced life in Egypt in the past. The 27 cabins are tasteful and decorated in a natural colour palette; both of the suites have a private terrace and a hot tub.

Passengers 54 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome N (minimum age is 12) Price £££

7. Tui Al Horeya: Legends of the Nile

Best for home comforts Tui River Cruises launched its first Nile ship in November 2024. The sailings are aimed squarely at the British market and include charter flights from Gatwick and Manchester. The five-deck ship was fully refurbished for Tui and seven-night round-trip Legends of the Nile sailings from Luxor include two excursions to the Temple of Horus in Edfu and the Temple of Kom Ombo. Other optional shore tours available to purchase include the atmospheric sound and light show at Karna, a hot air balloon ride over Luxor and a visit to the Valley of the Kings. Tui Al Horeya also has a top-deck pool, an area for alfresco dining on warm Egyptian nights and an on-board Egyptologist.

Passengers 145 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome N Price £

8. SS Sphinx: Splendors of Egypt & the Nile

Best for first-timers The SS Sphinx showcases the very best of Egypt, both old and new, in the utmost comfort. Uniworld’s 11-night Splendours of Egypt & the Nile itinerary provides the perfect introduction to Egypt. The Cairo-to-Cairo trip begins with highlights that include the Pyramids of Giza, as well as tea with a Nubian family and even a spot of fishing and birdwatching. The onboard experience is no less delightful, with 42 suites decked out with Egyptian art, hand-carved furniture, a massage room, swimming pool and two gourmet dining rooms. Trips include guided tours of the Egyptian Museum and sailing on a felucca.

Passengers 84 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price £££

9. Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau: private charter

Best for families and groups of friends This 164ft-long traditional dahabiya sailing boat may be small but it is perfectly packaged. The first of its kind on the Nile, it is available through Sanctuary Retreats for private charter with personalised week-long itineraries to suit specific interests. This cruise is a great option for families or groups of friends looking for privacy and flexibility. On board there is a heated plunge pool and six individually designed cabins influenced by the country’s culture, geography and heritage, including the Farouk Suite on the upper deck, where the decor is inspired by Egyptian royalty. Guides can be arranged according to guests’ interests — from food to history.

Passengers 12 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price £££

sanctuaryretreats.com

10. SS Sudan: On the River Nile

Best for Agatha Christie lovers One of the most historic and atmospheric vessels to ply the Nile’s waters, this celebrated 19th-century steamer once welcomed Agatha Christie aboard. It is widely believed that it was that trip in 1933, accompanying her husband on an archaeological mission, which paved the way for one of her most accomplished murder mysteries. Following Kenneth Branagh’s 2022 adaptation of Death on the Nile , the SS Sudan is the perfect ship for fans of the Queen of Crime; there are cabins named after Christie and her character Hercule Poirot. The boat exudes opulent period charm, from the teak decks and parquet flooring to the brass bed frames in many of the rooms. Guests also have exclusive access to a network of expert archaeologists who will help bring the historical ruins to life.

Passengers 46 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites Y Children welcome Y Price £££

originaltravel.co.uk

11. SS Misr: Timeless Nile

Best for traditionalists Misr, which means “Egypt” in Arabic, is a propeller steamer that has long enjoyed a romance with this country. Built in Preston in 1918 by the Royal Navy, in 1938 it was converted into a luxury yacht that played host to King Farouk, the country’s penultimate monarch. The vessel has now been fully restored to its former glory, and its 12 and 14-night trips are known for celebrating local food — there’s a rather regal feeling inside the main Marasem restaurant, with framed photos of past royalty dotted about and waiters smartly dressed in attire inspired by the glory days of Farouk. The food is largely international but local flavours are celebrated in dishes such as bessara, a local dip made from fava beans.

Passengers 45 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites Y Children welcome Y Price ££

noble-caledonia.co.uk

12. MS Esplanade: Nile cruises

Best for R&R A sophisticated option, focusing on the Upper Nile, the MS Esplanade offers cruises of up to seven nights (minimum three nights) that take in both the east and west banks of Luxor, the Temple of Horus at Edfu and even the mummified crocodiles of Kom Ombo. When it comes to relaxation, guests can spend time on their three, four and seven-day sailings in the hushed spa on the lower deck or relax on one of the shady poolside cabanas on the breezy top deck.

Passengers 150 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price ££

mayfaircruises.com

13. La Flaneuse du Nil: traditional-style sailing

Best for return visitors For those who have already sailed the Nile and may be looking for something different, La Flaneuse du Nil is a tempting option. While most boats travel north from Aswan towards Luxor, this intimate five-day cruise heads south into Lake Nasser bound for the rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel. Powered by sails and tugs, just like the original dahabiyas that were once a regular sight on the waterway, this cosy vessel showcases the subtle beauty of the vast man-made reservoir that straddles Egypt’s border with Sudan. The boat sails at a leisurely pace, with stops for lake swims, sunset hikes and solitary mornings on quiet beaches, as well as guided trips to some of the most impressive ancient wonders Egypt has to explore.

Passengers 14 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y (aged over six) Price ££

authentichotels.com

14. Sanctuary Sun Boat III: luxury cruise

Best for fun on the river An extremely attractive boat, and one of the few vessels to (occasionally) cruise from Cairo to Aswan, the Sanctuary Sun Boat III takes its inspiration from the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s. Think ecru tones, four-poster beds draped in the finest Egyptian linen and entertainment in the form of belly dancers and whirling dervishes. There are modern touches, too, with air conditioning and a swimming pool on the Cleopatra Oasis sundeck: the perfect spot on which to sip a hibiscus juice and watch the world go by.

Passengers 32 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y (aged over ten) Price £££

15. RV Da Vinci: Land of the Pharaohs

Best for value With its understated style, the RV Da Vinci is a good choice for passengers who want to travel in more contemporary surroundings. Built in 1993 and fully refurbished since, it offers a comfortable base to travel on the classic route from Luxor or add on a few days in Cairo. CroisiEurope’s eight-day Land of the Pharaohs cruise includes excursions to all the headline sights, such as the Valley of the Kings and Temple of Kom Ombo, and options to book others, such as a breathtaking balloon ride over the Nile Valley or the evocative sound and light show at Karnak. At the end of the day, enjoy a final cocktail as the sun goes down — all drinks are included in the fare.

Passengers 108 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price £

croisieurope.travel/en

16. River Tosca: Splendours of Egypt and the Nile

Best for those with children Luxury line Uniworld has expanded its family-friendly Generations programme with an all-new multigenerational itinerary in Egypt. The adapted version of its 11-night Splendours of Egypt and the Nile holiday is aboard the River Tosca and includes child-friendly menus and two dedicated family hosts to oversee activities for junior cruisers aged four to 12 and teen cruisers. Alongside famous sights such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings and Karnak, activities include a football match with local children and some of the ship’s crew, sand dune boarding, swimming in the Nile, exploring the river by bike and traditional felucca, and a behind-the-scenes visit to the captain’s wheelhouse. While youngsters are having fun with the onboard hosts, adults can relax on the sun deck with its shaded cabanas and swimming pool.

Passengers 82 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price £££

uniworld.com

17. MS Radamis II: Nile River Cruise including Cairo and Hurghada

Best for solo travellers If you’re fed up with being stung by single supplements, don’t want to set sail with loved-up couples, or simply just enjoy travelling alone, then check out the Travel Department’s dedicated sailings for singles. The company charters this comfortable ship, which has 75 cabins, and for solo travellers it makes for an exclusive and intimate holiday. The sun-deck bar is a top spot to mingle over cocktails with newfound friends and enjoy barbecues. The supplement-free solo itineraries take in a 12-night Nile cruise, with included shore trips to the Temple of Horus, Valley of the Kings, High Dam and temples of Karnak and Luxor. At the end of the cruise you’ll fly and flop with a couple of days of relaxation in the Red Sea resort of Hurghada. The tour operator also uses the vessel for its escorted group tours on the Nile.

traveldepartment.co.uk

18. Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat: Nile cruise

Best for groups You can sail the Nile in style on this twin-masted dahabiya, which harks back to the graceful travel of bygone times. Inspired by the 19th-century vessels used by royalty and aristocrats, this intimate and sophisticated 14-passenger ship is the smallest in the fleet owned by the international Sonesta hotel group. It’s a wonderful choice for extended families or groups of friends who want to book an entire ship for an exclusive holiday. Sumptuous cabins are decked out in blue, gold and cream, and guests can wallow in baths after a busy day sightseeing. The ship goes back and forth on week-long trips between Luxor and Aswan and wherever possible sails under wind power.

Passengers 14 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites N Children welcome Y Price £££

sonesta.com/sonesta-dahabeya-amirat

19. AmaLilia: Secrets of Egypt and the Nile

Best for being pampered AmaLilia, which sailed on the Nile for the first time in March 2024, would impress even the most discerning pharaoh with its marble bathrooms, heated pool, massage treatments — and even a nail bar. Its suites are stylish and contemporary, and the decor throughout the ship has an understated elegance, showcasing Egyptian ornaments and artwork. The thoughtful Secrets of Egypt and the Nile itinerary includes extras such as the Abdeen presidential palace for lunch and a lesson in papyrus making in Luxor. AmaLilia is an almost identical ship to AmaWaterways’ first Nile ship AmaDahlia, with the addition of more plush suites.

Passengers 72 Private guides Y Private access to historical sites Y Children welcome Y (aged over four) Price £££

amawaterways.co.uk

Additional reporting by Jeannine Williamson and Siobhan Grogan

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Nile River Cruises

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Nile Jewel - 5* Cruise

Husband & I enjoyed a 14 night trip to Hurghada & then a Nike Cruise. George was our cruise tour guide. We found him to be considerate & knowledgeable. He spoke excellent English & had a depth & breadth of knowledge on Egyptian history that only a person with a passion for their subject could have. George was an amazing guide & I would recommend him & the tour company 100%

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

4 Days 3 nights 5 stars Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor

Hassan Hossni our tour guide was absolutely awesome he ensured that everything we wanted was catered for and so very helpful and funny. Tourradar have been a pleasure to deal with we would definitely travel with them again.

• In-depth Cultural
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Felucca Odyssey (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

This tour was fantastic. Our tour leader Mo was amazing. So incredibly knowledgeable and just an awesome dude. So many amazing sights packed into 8 days. I couldn't recommend it more highly.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Nile Adventure - Felucca cruise

When I did my research for a tour I felt confident when I choose Timeless Tours however when I met Meena I knew I made the right decision...Meena surpassed my expectations from his knowledge to keeping you interested...his patience and attention to detail. I could not have asked for a better guide or experience. Meena made us feel like family he aided when one person was sick. He is really an exceptional human and I would like to say thank you .

Pharaohs Nile Cruise Adventure - Return Flights Included

What an amazing experience! We had a wonderful time and was treated so professionally all the way. The tour guides were outstanding. Ahmed in Cairo, an archeologists himself was amazing. Gabe was great. On the boat tour our guide was Ahmed. Great person, great knowledge and very good sense of humor. Well done Harry for arranging everything for us

9 Days Nile Jewel (Cairo, Cruise, Hurghada) Superior hotels

The experience you received perfectly matched what you paid for. With iconic landmarks such as the Pyramids, Sphinx, museums, and countless temples, coupled with the guidance of an exceptional trip leader, your journey was truly remarkable.

Egypt Nile Jewel

Medhat was great- saw everything and more.

10-Day Ancient Egypt Tour (Superior Hotels)

I'd wholeheartedly recommend our trip. It was really cool. Egyptian history is super interesting, and our tour guide Walid was awesome. Plus, I lucked out with a really fun group.

Holiday In Egypt 4 Days – 3 Nights Nile Cruise From Cairo by Flight

As someone who travels a lot I can honestly say this was the Best experience I have ever had abroad and on a cruise. Egypt is beyond amazing; such warm and friendly people, I am still amazed by their unparalleled hospitality and care for their tourists. I will now go into details, let me start with the fact that all our needs were taken care of, from being picked up on time in safe and comfortable cars with friendly and skilled drivers. The ship, their crew, the food, the planning and luxury was just perfect. So much variety of high quality foods in the buffet, every day something new! And 10+ dishes to choose from + many more deserts. Breakfast, lunch and dinner all unique. Everything was just super. The room and service was great 10/10. We were assigned what I now believe is the best tour guide ever Hassan! (We miss him already) Every day we got to see different breath taking archeological sites and marvels. With the accurate and detailed explanations from Hassan. He made sure that our health and safety was always a priority with frequent drinks for hydration and patience for everyone in our group. All our questions were answered and he made sure we were always on time before the other tourists from other companies showed up. This way we had peace at every location and time to look at many of the the beautiful temples and locations in Egypt. We felt like we went back in time!! Next year we hope to return simply for these reasons: Egypt, it’s culture, the locals, the excellent luxury cruise and Hassan!! The best tour guide in Egypt.( you might think why again?) Well there is just so much more to see and the tour guide will bring you anywhere! Also being on the ship and the Nile is just something you’ll want more than once in your life. I recommend you to experience it for yourself. Book the cruise, see and experience the cruise for yourself and your family, and gain extensive understanding about ancient Egypt. Rest assured you will not regret it. .

Egypt Adventure

Great taster of ancient egypt

King Ramses - 13 days

The King Rameses Tour was excellent. The itinerary was well thought out, we had a great group of fellow travellers and most important, our guide Dino was superb - really knowledgeable about every aspect of Egypt's ancient history and the sites we were seeing, an excellent communicator and the perfect host. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants to get the most out of a couple of weeks in Egypt.

Best of Egypt

Excellent trip, very well organized, and amazing itinerary. Got a few early mornings but totally WORTH it. Our CEO Mayer is brilliant, fun, knowledgeable, and really accommodated everyone's needs. Our group has an amazing vibe and everyone became good friends in the end. It was less like a trip with strangers but more like a trip with friends. The trip was one of my highlights in 2021!

Egypt Nile Adventure

Wow!! More than I could have imagined in one trip. George (Tamer) was an excellent tour guide!! We always felt safe and taken care of. 100% recommend

Cairo and Nile Cruise Tours - Included Internal Flights

Tour was amazing - tour guides are very organized and always on time. I felt completely safe at all times. Would highly recommend this tour.

• €110 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Beyond the Pyramids: Egypt's Hidden Gems - Return Flight Included - 9 Days

We had an amazing time with Abdou Othman as our guide in Cairo / Luxor / Alexandria! He is an incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and professional guide. We were very impressed with his depth of knowledge, proficiency in English, and the added bonus of his experience in the field of Archaeology. He was flexible, organized, and very helpful. If we ever visit again we would love to have Abdou as our guide, and highly recommend him for any Egypt tours!!

Reviews of Nile Cruises

Husband & I enjoyed a 14 night trip to Hurghada & then a Nike Cruise. George was our cruise tour guide. We found him to be considerate & knowledgeable. He spoke excellent English & had a depth & breadth of knowledge on Egyptian history that only a person with a passion for their subject could have. George was an amazing guide & I would recommend him & the tour company 100%

The ship is very nice, Has a pool, an indoor and an outdoor bar. Meals are Served as a Buffet, there is Always good for every one. But the best of the Tour is the Tour Guide WAEL. He knows Everything. Explained the ancient Stories in a very Entertaining way. We loved ihm. Our friend did not feel very well, Wael organised very fast good medicine. What you Need to know about this tour, there is not a lot of sleep, behause there is always something to See.

It was a wonderful trip with MO, he is very informative and tried his best to accommodate everyone’s needs.

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S.S. Sphinx

The S.S. Sphinx offers two gourmet dining venues, a swimming pool, massage room, and 42 gorgeously appointed suites. This Super Ship vessel offers an authentically immersive onboard experience, with bespoke decor by local artisans and materials sourced regionally—such as fine Egyptian cottons, marble, and hand-carved blonde wood—to highlight Egyptian craftsmanship while minimizing our carbon footprint.

All staterooms and suites onboard have French balconies. While the S.S. Sphinx is a beautiful and luxurious ship, its amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld-company-owned ship.

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Splendors of Egypt & the Nile

12 days | cairo to cairo.

2025 | Cruise the Nile in a manner once reserved for queens and pharaohs.

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Nile River Cruises

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WE SAIL THE NILE!

So who’s the team behind Luxor Sail the Nile? We are Captain Mohammed Morsy from Luxor and Johanna Marius from Munich, a German/Egyptian dream team with a shared love of the Nile and of sailing. We are passionate about introducing our discerning guests to the beauty of Upper Egypt. We love making dreams come true with our dahabeya journeys, gliding along the Nile in supreme style and comfort on this elegant, traditionally designed ship.

Abundant experiences

Off the beaten track, romantic and intimate, uniquely personal, qualified guides.

ABUNDANT NILE CRUISE OPTIONS

8 Days on Dahabiya MINYA

The nile cruise of your dreams, dates on request.

Sail to El Minya

Luxor to el minya / el minya to luxor, november 2024.

Dahabiya Nile Cruise

Cruises between luxor and aswan, every week - contact us for details.

Felucca Nile Cruise

Adventurers' and romantics' tour, 5 days on the nile - dates on request.

Luxor to Aswan and back

Enjoy sailing the nile up and down, 8 day cruise - dates on request, explore egypt with us - nile cruises 2023/24, 8 day dahabiya nile cruise.

Nile Cruise to El Minya

Enjoy the Abundance

Magic Cairo

5 Day Dahabiya Nile Cruise

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Dahabiya, feluccas and more.

Adventurers, explorers, romantics

Simple, traditional sail boats, dahabiya ``minya``, a dream made true, our ``happy bride``.

Dahabiya ``ABUNDANCE``

Fulfill your dreams.

Independent of the wind

Sleep under star-studded skies., read fascinating details and travel experiences in our blog.

What our guests say about travelling Egypt with us

“Dear Brittani, Dear Johanna, we just arrived last night back in Switzerland, and I wanted to write and tell you how happy we were with our trip. The sailboat and the crew were amazing. It was such a beautiful experience, and such a privilege to be able to take a sailboat up and down the…

First view of the world’s biggest archeological museum

The Grand Egyptian Museum rises in the shadow of the Pyramids, an Egyptian project with Japanese investment. A soft opening provides first impressions of what visitors to this mega- museum museum can expect. by Susanne Mauthner-Weber

People on board: the MINYA team

Can you see the old man in the back row (3rd from right), to the left of Captain Mohammed (centre, back row)? That is Abd El-Fatah, Captain Mohammed’s former sailing teacher. Now he accompanies the MINYA on its travels as a guiding and enriching presence, taking over if the captain has to leave the helm…

WHY SAIL WITH US

Magic places, luxury life, sustainable travel, travel with family and friends, from previous expeditions.

Click on the photos to enlarge! If you want to see more photos from our ships, the cabins, and impressions of Egypt’s beautiful sights and views, visit our gallery here .

An unforgettable cruise on the Nile

A dream coming true: Sailing the Nile on dahabeya MINYA

What travellers say about us.

Le voyage était fantastique! La nourriture, la décoration, la propreté … Tout était parfait! La pause baignade était super.

Aiya + Jonas

So in awe of these past few days on this spectacular boat! Everyone on board made the entire experience so incredible.

An amazing trip on the Nile. We loved every minute of it. We felt truly taken care of. Everyone made our trip very exciting and special.

What a fabulous trip. For those not familiar with a dahabiya (and I was not either), it is a most comfortable way to visit the great sights of Egypt.

Danki vir’n lekker tyd op die Nile rivier! Ons het diet baie geniet! Julle het baie mooi na uns gekyk. Almal het ons trip spesiaal gemaak. Ons het al julle efforts waarden!

The sights are unforgettable, the realisation of dreams all my life and to do this in such style and comfort and with the support of you and your wonderful crew….

Monica E. A.

Este viaje ha sido maravilloso, increíble y mágico y todo esto ha sido gracias a ABUNDANCE y a cada uno de ustedes. …”

Erholung pur für Seele, Geist und Körper! Jeden Tag aufs Neue begeisterten uns die kulinarischen Köstlichkeiten. ….”

Margaret D.

Gráce à Johanna und Mohammed, l’équipe entière et notre guide super-compétent nous avons passés un séjour excellent sure cette dahabiya de rève …

Your crew are warm, caring, interesting, hard working and eager to make sure all guests are given superior service. The food …. Oh my goodness!!

The food is delicious, the tours are spectacular and the crew are welcoming.

GET IN TOUCH!

+2 0101 3131 886 (johanna marius, egypt), +49 178 872 3988 (johanna marius, germany), +2 0100 277 5897 (captain mohammed, egypt), [email protected], al laqalta, luxor, westbank, egypt, 10.00 - 18.30 h.

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• Egypt Packages
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Dahabiya Nile Cruise

Amazing luxury small boat nile cruise.

Do you like quiet? Do you like the Nile of Egypt? A Dahabiya Nile Cruise is a great way for a memorable trip on the Nile between Luxor , Aswan , and Esna. Away from the crowds and pre-packaged entertainment on the big ships, enjoy exclusive comfort and privacy. A Dahabiya Nile Boats is a 2-masted ship sailing with the wind, sometimes towed by a tugboat if the wind is calm. It is a small boat ideal for small groups, friends, individuals, and newlyweds. Families also use it as a private cruise or boat/family home with high-end privacy, private tours, special food, and special memories of the Nile and the people.

Through Dahabiya Cruise, you will explore the attractions of the most amazing sites on the banks of the Nile such as Karnak Temples , Luxor Temple , Hatshepsut temple , High Dam , Temple of Philae , and Temple of Kom Ombo .

Thus, a Dahabiya can dock at the most inaccessible sites, not to be seen in advance! So, this is an opportunity to discover several must-see sites, but also to see the rural life on the banks of the Nile. The Dahabiya is built on the traditional sailing model of ancient Egypt and include new means of comfort and convenience.

Let yourself be sailed in a refined and warm atmosphere and choose your trip on the Nile. Show More

Book the best Egypt Dahabiya Nile Cruise

Dahabiya Nuun and Nuut

Dahabeya of Eyaru

Dahabiya Amoura

Dahabiya Nour El Nile

Dahabeya Nebyt Nile Cruise

Lazuli Dahabiya

Dahabiya Sonesta Amirat

Tailor-made holiday to egypt, dahabiya nile cruise at a glance.

Dahabiya Nile Cruise in Egypt is definitely one of the most luxurious experiences to be included in your trip to Egypt, an opportunity to relax and make the trip unforgettable through the history of ancient Egypt. So here we have, a few tips for you when booking any Luxury Small Boat Nile Cruise as we want you to make the most of your trip to this land.

What are the available Nile cruise packages in Egypt?

If you are bored of visiting the ancient monuments, you can take up Nile River Cruises in Egypt for a change. These are fun activities and can be very refreshing. Here are some best picks-

• Egypt Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor
• Egypt Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan
• Dahabiya Boats
• River cruise tour through Cairo, Giza, Aswan
• A river cruise through Cairo, Luxor, Dendera

What is a Nile Cruise?

A Nile Cruise is a river cruise on the Nile, the most common route between Luxor and Aswan in Upper Egypt. The ship makes several stops at different stations to allow its passengers to visit the ancient Egyptian monuments. It is the best way to take a trip into the past to get close to the pharaonic culture and enjoy the breathtaking nature of the Nile Valley.

As already mentioned, most Nile cruise ships operate between Luxor and Aswan. The trip south from Luxor to Aswan takes 5 days and vice versa from Aswan to Luxor takes 4 days.

During the journey, the most important monuments in Upper Egypt are visited. In Luxor, one visits the Luxor temple and the Karnak temple, one of the biggest temple arrangements of Egypt on the eastern Nile shore Theben east. On the western side in Thebes-West the temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, and the Valley of the Kings.

In Aswan, the dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Philae Temple on Elephant Island are visited. Between both cities, the Horus Temple in Edfu and the double temple of the two gods Sobek and Haroeris in Kom Ombo are visited.

When the ship docks at Aswan, passengers can make an optional excursion to Abu Simbel on Lake Nasser to visit the impressive temple complex of Ramses II.

There are very few ships that sail the route in a different period and then make a few more sights, but here we have introduced you to what most ships do.

Also, there is the big or long Nile cruise that goes from Aswan or Luxor to Cairo or of course vice versa. This takes place however only at certain times because of the Nile level, which is why most visitors to Egypt prefer a short stay in Cairo, after or before the Nile cruise in Upper Egypt, if you want to see the sights of all Egypt.

How does the Nile Cruise work?

The duration of a Nile cruise varies according to the route the ship takes. There is either the small Nile cruise, which only goes in Upper Egypt from Luxor to Aswan or vice versa, and the long or large Nile cruise, which goes from Cairo to Luxor or Aswan and vice versa. From Luxor to Aswan it takes 5 days and from Aswan to Luxor 4 days.

It is also possible to go from Luxor to Aswan and back to Luxor and in this case the trip takes 8 days. The same is valid of course for the journey Aswan-Aswan. The ships that make the long Nile cruise are considerably less than those that travel between Luxor and Aswan, and besides, this cruise is only possible at certain times of the year due to the level of the Nile.

There are very few fleets of ships, among which the two Oberoi Nile cruise ships Philae and Zahra, which make the route between Luxor and Aswan at a different time of year. They sail from Luxor to Aswan or vice versa in 6 or 7 days. With all the rest of the ships the journey takes the same time as mentioned above, the only difference is the day of the week when the respective ship starts the journey.

On the way between Aswan and Luxor, one visits different beautiful sights for example, in Thebes-East (Karnak and Luxor Temple), then in Thebes-West (Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Memnon Colossus). Afterward one visits the legendary Horus Temple in Edfu and the double temple in Kom Ombo. Do not miss the chance and take part in one of our Nile cruises.

Which deck to choose on the Nile Cruise?

Actually, you are only in the cabin for sleeping and therefore you should not pay too much attention to it, but we still want to give you some useful tips and advice on how to choose the right cabin.

In general, cabins in the middle deck are the most popular because it is the quietest there. On the upper deck, you will be disturbed by the pattering on the sun deck and you can hear it when tables or sunbeds are pushed.

On the Nile deck, you may hear the engines in the cabins in the stern. But it is important to mention that the ship almost always sails during the day and therefore the engines are off at night while the guests are sleeping.

For the same reason it is rather unimportant on which side your cabin is, because the ship sails almost exclusively during the day, you will have a view on the Nile anyway.

During the times when your ship will be onshore and the view from another ship is blocked on one side, you will either be on a sightseeing tour or you will sleep.

As we told you above, the guests are in their cabins almost only at night to sleep, otherwise, you are either on a tour, in the restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, in the bar, or lying by the pool on the sun deck.

When is the best time for a Nile Cruise?

The Nile Cruise is a river cruise on the Nile, the most frequent between Luxor and Aswan in Upper Egypt. The ship makes several stops at different stations to allow its passengers to visit the ancient Egyptian monuments. It is the best way to take a trip into the past to get close to the pharaonic culture and enjoy the breathtaking nature of the Nile Valley.

The best time for a Nile cruise in Upper Egypt can not be determined, because it depends on the interests of the visitor and his resilience in heat. One could only say that the Nile Valley in summer (May to September) can be too hot for most European visitors. The temperatures in Luxor and Aswan are about 45° and therefore it is not suitable for a Nile cruise especially for people who cannot stand the heat or who have circulation problems.

In the months from October to April, the maximum temperature is 30° and therefore one could say that this is the optimal time for a Nile cruise. If you plan bathing stay at the Red Sea after or before the Nile cruise in Upper Egypt, you should consider that it can be rather too cold for bathing in the winter months (December to February). At this time the temperatures in Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheik can sink up to 10°.

But it is also worth mentioning that the heat in Upper Egypt is dry and that the above mentioned high temperatures are only under the sun and that it is mostly bearable in the shade. Therefore, despite the heat, some travelers still decide to go on a Nile cruise in the summer months.

The ships are seldom fully occupied and one can avoid the crowds at the monuments. Most of the sightseeing tours take place early in the morning and the tour guide always looks for a place in the shade if he wants to explain something to the group. Also, the prices fall at this time and one finds a lot of special offers for a Nile cruise in Upper Egypt.

What clothes do you pack for the Nile Cruise?

Every place has its matching clothes, even on the sundeck. Because of this, you should consider appropriate clothing if you want to travel. For example, half-naked during temple visits are not normal and customary. On high-quality luxury Nile cruises, you can choose something more festive to wear. Your suitable, carefully chosen clothes will distinguish you from the ship’s restaurant crew and you will, therefore, follow the dress code correctly.

Every place has its suitable clothes, even on the sun deck. Because of this, you should consider appropriate clothing when you travel. For example, half-naked during temple visits are not normal and customary. On high-quality luxury Nile cruises, you can choose something more festive to wear.

Your suitable, carefully chosen clothes will distinguish you from the ship’s restaurant crew and you will, therefore, follow the dress code correctly.

As far as women are concerned, unlike most Upper Egyptian cities, it is quite alright for women to walk in shorts and spaghetti straps, or to lie down comfortably in Bikini by the pool. Luxor and Aswan are two of the most important tourist destinations in the world and their inhabitants have been used to the European way of dressing for a long time and show a great tolerance towards different cultures.

However, shorts and flip-flops or sandals are forbidden for men as well as for women in the restaurant of the ship. You do not necessarily have to wear a suit or an evening dress for lunch, but you are expected to wear at least a pair of jeans and a T-shirt.

Onboard, the program includes a Nubian show, Galabya party, or belly dance show. There are nice costumes, which you can buy with the help of your guide from the market during the excursions.

On excursions, you should pay attention to appropriate clothing, so miniskirts or shorts are not recommended. Half-naked through the temples does not go down well.

A further hint would be sturdy shoes for the sightseeing tours. Please note that the monuments you will visit are located in the desert. You will also often have to walk a distance until you reach the temple or until you have seen all parts of the huge temple complexes. Many women in Egypt wear a hijab/headscarf, but this is not required for tourists. You will need to cover your head with a headscarf when you visit a mosque.

Don’t miss the chance and choose one of our Egypt Nile Cruise Packages, where you will learn about the ancient fascinating history.

Tipping on a Nile cruise

Is it customary to tip on a Nile cruise? As is common in the cruise world, it is customary, or rather expected, to tip on board. The staff on the ship will do their best to make the stay of their guests as pleasant as possible, and are therefore happy to receive the tip in appreciation of this.

Is it obligatory to tip on board? You can never say that tipping is obligatory, but unfortunately, it has come to pass that the staff of the ships see tipping as a fixed part of their remuneration due to the low payments in Egypt. But as already mentioned, this is not mandatory and if you think at the end of the trip, which is very rarely the case, that the staff has not earned the tip, then tell the Reileiter and tell him the reason right away.

Who should I give the money to? The tour guide will come to you at the end of the trip and ask nicely and politely about the tip, which is collected from the guests and then distributed among the crew. It is therefore collected so that everyone gets something because the guests do not come into contact with all the staff on board. It would be possible to tip the bartender directly during the cruise, but in this case, it would be unfair to cooks or machinists you don’t usually meet.

How much should I tip? There are of course no exact figures as to how much you should pay, but about 5$ per day per person, for every adult in the family, is reasonable. If you think this amount is too much, imagine there are about 50 people on board to make sure you feel comfortable during the trip.

Things to Read.

Full Guide For Visiting Egypt in January 2024/2025

Explore Top 5 Hidden Gems in Egypt

Beaches in Egypt: Your Ultimate Guide to Egyptian Beaches

Ancient Egyptian Festivals 

Best 8 Sights in Old Cairo: Historic Landmarks and Attractions

Egypt Nile Cruise Tips

Nile Cruise Itinerary

How to Enjoy A Perfect Vacation in Egypt With Friends

How to Enjoy a Classic Holiday in Egypt

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Cairo Nile boar tour

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We are are group of 7 including two young children aged 3 and 6.

We would like to go on a Nile boat tour that lasts 2 hours max. Is this possible? The ones I have seen online are over 4 hours.

2 replies to this topic

Here's a link to some previous posts on this subject.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/SearchForums?ff=9404&geo=294201&scope=2&q=felucca&pid=34633&s=D

Probably a good idea to state where you're staying or your preferred point of departure. That will help responders suggest appropriate areas to find a boat.

These are more leisure type cruises than formal tours.

Feluccas come in a variety of sizes.

If you're looking for or need a larger boat, a good place is at Al Andalus Park right across the Kasr el Nil Bridge from Downtown Cairo . These are motorized.

It's a matter of personal taste but we think that a felucca is a more enjoyable and "authentic" trip than a motorized larger boat.

I did also see fallucas for hire from the Mamsha ahl el Ness walk which would sail the other side of the city.

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YALLA NILE is a custom-built 50 metre (164 feet), two masted Egyptian riverboat that accommodates up to 12 guests in 4 junior & 2 large suites. [email protected]

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Santa Catalina Island CA (Avalon, California)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region West Coast USA and Canada

Local Time 2024-05-13 02:58

Port Santa Catalina Island CA cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Santa Catalina Island CA, Avalon, California. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Santa Catalina Island (aka Catalina Island) is located off California's coast (USA) in the Gulf of Santa Catalina (Pacific Ocean). The island has length of 35 km (22 mi) and max width of 13 km (8 mi). It is located approx 35 km (22 mi) southwest of Los Angeles . Its highest elevation point (Mt Orizaba) is 639 m (2097 ft). Catalina Island is part of Channel Islands (Californian archipelago of 8 islands).

The island's only town is Avalon - located on the southeastern coast.

Originally, Catalina was settled by Native Americans who named the island Pimu (Pimugna). The first Europeans on Catalina were the Spanish, but over the years, territorial claims were transferred to Mexico and later to USA. The island was developed as tousit destination in the early 1920s by William Wrigley Jr (1861-1832, chewing gum industrialist.

Of Catalina's total population (around 4,000), nearly 90% live in Avalon (island's only city). Online searching for "Isla Catalina" often results in finding three Catalina-named islands - the namesakes Isla Catalina (Baja Mexico), Isla Catalina (Dominican Republic) and the island Santa Catalina (California USA).

Santa Catalina Island CA cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Santa Catalina Island California anchor at sea near Avalon - port town on the southeastern coast. Between the anchored ship and the port (Green Pleasure Pier), passengers are transported via the ship's tender boats.

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Love Exploring

14 Brand New Cruise Ships That Have It All

Posted: May 8, 2024 | Last updated: May 8, 2024

The shipping news

From vertigo-inducing slides and waterparks (including the largest waterpark at sea) and decadent afternoon teas to luxurious, marble-floored suites and hybrid, eco-focused ships – cruising is set to wow in 2024 and beyond. The newest ships offer something for all ages and every type of traveler, whether you’re after a quiet vacation or something seriously adrenaline-fueled.

Click or scroll through the gallery to discover a selection of the best new river and ocean vessels to get excited about, launching between now and the end of 2024, plus some 2025 inclusions too...

January 2024: Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Never one to do things by halves, Royal Caribbean has created the world's largest cruise ship – at a whopping 1,198 feet, with space for 7,600 passengers on board. Icon of the Seas, the first of the line's Icon-class ships, is scheduled to set sail in January 2024 – and people are excited about it. In fact, when the ship's first sailing went online in October 2022, the cabins sold out in hours. Icon features 20 decks and eight themed neighborhoods, including Thrill Island, home to the largest waterpark at sea and six record-breaking slides; and Chill Island, which boasts the line's first swim-up bar at sea.

With a pool for every day of the week, including the largest at sea and a suspended infinity pool, as well as more than 40 restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you'll never be bored on board. For more fun, head out on the line's largest ice rink or marvel at the ship's waterfall. For entertainment, visit the AquaDome (pictured), which is perched on top of Icon and hosts aqua shows and theater by night. 

Cabins span 28 categories and include Family Infinite Balcony suites, with a separate bunk alcove for kids, decked out with TVs, beds and chill-out areas (pictured), or to splash the cash, book the three-story family townhouses. Icon of the Seas will sail year-round, seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean trips from Miami. 

February 2024: Sun Princess, Princess Cruises

When Sun Princess launches this year she will be Princess Cruises’ largest (and 16th) ship, with room for 4,300 passengers. Currently under construction in Italy, Sea Princess will pay tribute to Europe’s ship-building heritage, with public spaces inspired by Santorini’s famous terraces and the beautiful Piazza found on Princess’s other ships. 

Sun Princess will have a staggering 29 restaurants, lounges and bars. We’re predicting the most popular spot will be the three-story Piazza, with its enormous LED screen and various eating and drinking spots – including the Coffee Currents cafe, a new concept for Princess. There’s also the Dome, a glass dome with an indoor-outdoor pool that transforms into a stage at night and will be the setting for adrenaline-fueled acrobatic performances. 

Sun Princess’s 2,157 total staterooms (including 50 suites and 100 connecting rooms) will include a new cabin category. Passengers who bag one of the new Signature Collection cabins will enjoy luxury amenities and access to the Signature restaurant, as well as the Signature Collection sundeck and lounge. Sun Princess’s inaugural season will focus on the western Mediterranean. 

March 2024: Ama Magdalena, AmaWaterways

Although AmaMagdalena will have just 30 staterooms, there’ll be no shortage of space – all will have a twin balcony design, and will measure between 237 and 516 square feet. Amenities include the whirlpool (located on the ship’s sundeck) and a large fitness room, while the main restaurant will specialize in Western and Latin American cuisine.

Wondering about the name? It’s a nod to her home turf – Colombia’s Magdalena River. AmaWaterways will become the first major cruise line to offer sailings along this particular river, and they’re expected to be especially popular with wildlife fans, including twitchers keen to see Colombia’s 1,900 bird species (bonus points if you spot a rare Cianeguo hummingbird).

March 2024: AmaLilia, AmaWaterways

AmaLilia's 41 staterooms will accommodate 82 guests, and the swankiest cabins include the 13 suites, which have marble bathrooms featuring bathtubs as well as showers, and twin balconies from which to admire the views of the Nile. Africa's longest river will be her home turf, more specifically the stretches which weave past Egypt's the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza.

There will be just two restaurants – a main restaurant and Chef's Table, for fine dining. Both will regularly serve up Egyptian delicacies, although it's not the only way in which guests can gain an insight into this beautiful region. The ship's crew will include an Egyptologist, and passengers who don't fancy joining group tours of the archaeological sites lining the Nile can sign up for various exclusive excursions, including private tours of the tomb of Queen Nefertari.

April 2024: Avalon Alegria, Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' newest ship will have 37 Panorama Suites and 14 staterooms, but don't worry if you don't bag a suite – Avalon Alegria's staterooms will be 30% larger than the ones on other Avalon ships. The vessel has been designed to make the most of the views, with panoramic windows throughout and a sky-deck which includes its very own premium lounges. It's easy to stay connected, too – the ship will use Starlink for lightning-fast wifi. The best bit? It's included in the price. 

This particular ship is all about the added extras, whether it's the extra space in the staterooms, the window-facing beds (a rarity on river boats) or the way guests can hire fitness gear from the onboard gym. When it comes to dining, it's all about quality over quantity. Head to the main dining room for delicious buffets or to the Panorama Dining Room for decadent afternoon teas and four-course dinners.

April 2024: Amadeus Nova, Amadeus River Cruises

Amadeus Nova will have 12 suites with balconies and 67 exterior cabins with panoramic windows. The most sought-after spots look set to be the Lido Bar on the sun deck, along with the elegant Cafe Vienna for that all-important caffeine fix. She will sail along the Danube, offering cruises between Vienna and Bucharest and Passau and Budapest.

Amadeus Nova will be a seriously sustainable ship, relying on hybrid diesel-electric power and engines which significantly reduce emissions with the help of various hi-tech filters and catalysts. Heat recovery systems use excess heat from the engine room to heat public areas and highly insulated glass minimizes heat loss in winter.

May 2024: Queen Anne, Cunard Line

Love a fun fact? When the Queen Anne sets sail in 2024, she’ll be the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag, and her launch will mark the first time since 1999 that Cunard has had four ships sailing the seas simultaneously. Her 3,000 passengers will stay in cabins spread over 14 decks, and there will be a huge selection of restaurants (15 in total), ranging from Cunard staples such as the Princess Grill to dining concepts being rolled out by Cunard for the first time.  

There will be six categories of accommodation and cabins have been designed by Sybille de Margerie, whose portfolio includes Atlantis, The Royal Residences in Dubai. The ship’s piece de resistance will almost certainly be the three-story lobby, closely followed by the ornate 835-seat Royal Court Theater. Another reason to love this ship, which will initially sail the waters of Northern Europe? It will be helmed by Inger Klein Thorhauge – Cunard’s first female captain.

June 2024: Silver Ray. Silversea

Silver Ray will be a sister ship to (and a mirror image of) Silver Nova. Silver Ray will be similarly spacious, with one of the highest space-to-guest ratios of any ship in Silversea's fleet. She'll have a maximum capacity of 728 passengers, and with 544 crew passengers, you can expect to be waited on hand and foot – thanks in part to the cruise line's legendary butler service. The eight restaurants will include several which have become Silversea staples, including S.A.L.T for regional cuisine.

Public areas will include the pool deck, Dusk Bar and Arts Cafe, and further details about onboard amenities will be released prior to her first sailing in June 2024. She'll spend her first few months sailing around the Mediterranean, offering itineraries which take in Athens, Venice and Rome.

June 2024: Viking Vela, Viking Cruises

Bagging a room with a view won’t be an issue on Viking Vela – every stateroom will have its own veranda. The 499 cabins can accommodate a maximum of 998 guests, and the ship’s restaurants will include Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant, The Chef's Table and the World Cafe. Keep an eye out for the onboard art collection, which includes several paintings by Edvard Munch.

The amenity many passengers will love is the spa, more specifically the snow grotto and thermal area, inspired by Scandinavian bathing rituals. The idea is that passengers alternate between the snow grotto and the sauna (although we totally understand the temptation to stick to the latter!). The ship will specialize in Mediterranean cruises.

June 2024: American Liberty, American Cruise Lines

There will be just 100 guests on American Liberty, a compact vessel which American Cruise Lines says will offer expedition-style river sailing, thanks to its ability to slip into smaller ports. Every cabin will have a balcony, and it will have one particularly cool amenity – an activity platform at the stern of the boat designed for passengers who fancy a watersports session, or (if the weather allows) a dip in whichever river it's floating down.

American Liberty will spend her inaugural season sailing around New England's islands, a region which has inspired the decor – think homely color palettes, furnishings and artworks. Impressively, American Cruise Lines currently has five new ships under construction, some of which will offer sailings along the Mississippi and Columbia Rivers.

July 2024: Porto Mirante, Riviera Travel

Porto Mirante will accommodate 120 guests in 60 cabins. Highlights include the sun deck with its splash pool – perfect for those days when the mercury cranks up – and the spacious lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows.

The ship will initially stick to the Douro River, offering seven-night sailings which depart and finish in Porto. The sailings are ideal for cruise fans with a dislike of unexpected added extras – the price of every cruise includes transfers, all onboard meals, a superior drinks package, complimentary onboard tea and coffee, plus wifi.

July 2024: Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

This will be one of the largest ships to launch in 2024, with room for 5,668 passengers. But it’s not the size which sets Utopia apart – there will be several Royal Caribbean firsts, including a Caribbean tiki bar, an immersive dining experience (details of which are yet to be revealed) and the longest dry slide at sea.

Utopia, which will be an Oasis class ship, will initially offer Caribbean sailings, the departure point for which will be Florida. Guests certainly won’t be going hungry – there will be 11 complimentary dining options, including a poolside food truck; as well as 12 specialty restaurants; plus 13 bars where passengers can enjoy a sundowner.

August 2024: Explora II, Explora Journeys

Explora II’s 461 suites will include 371 Ocean Terrace and Ocean Grand Terrace Suites, 22 Ocean Residences and – for those with cash to splash – one truly spectacular Owner’s Residence. Passengers can soak up the views from some of the largest balconies at sea, and all suites will have floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious walk-in wardrobes with seated vanity areas.

Passengers who can drag themselves away from their suites can take a dip in four pools (three are outdoor and one is indoor with a retractable roof) or retreat to one of 64 poolside cabanas. Did we mention the spa, which will cover 27,000 square feet? In addition to nine treatment rooms there’ll be a beauty salon and thermal area. Explora II will initially offer Mediterranean itineraries before heading for the Arabian Gulf.

November 2024: Estrela, APT Travel-marvel

Bigger is definitely better on board when it comes to Estrela, which will have the largest pool of any ship sailing along Portugal’s Douro River, along with a putting green, supersized fitness center and various areas designed without outdoor exercise in mind. There will be 60 suites and staterooms and the ship will have a maximum capacity of 120 passengers.

Estrela’s sailings will focus on Portugal and APT was keen that its newest ship reflected the destination. They commissioned Portuguese ship builders to construct the vessel and paid homage to the destination in a variety of ways, including via the decor, cuisine and entertainment. 

December 2024: Disney Treasure, Disney Cruise Line

Now for something guaranteed to appeal to younger cruisers. Disney Treasure, the sister ship to Disney Wish, has been designed with explorers in mind, and pays tribute to Walt Disney’s love of travel with decor inspired by wanderlust-inducing Disney movies such as Aladdin and Zootopia . Highlights will include a Marvel-themed dining experience and 1923, a restaurant filled with artwork from Disney’s most famous animated films. The ship's inaugural season will be spent in the eastern and western Caribbean.

The vast majority of the ship’s 1,256 staterooms will offer an ocean view, while 70% will have a veranda. Other highlights will include the Grand Hall, where passengers can meet their favorite Disney characters; the Walt Disney Theater, which will be the setting for Broadway-quality shows; and the Hero Zone, a fun-filled area where passengers can take part in game show-style competitions and sign up for action-packed physical challenges.

Spring 2025: Alma, Tui Cruises

Finally a look ahead into 2025, more specifically at the first newbuild ship being launched by TUI River Cruises. When TUI Alma sets sail next year she’ll have 62 cabins spread over four decks. We’re predicting that the top deck, with its sun lounger-surrounded pool, will be the most popular spot, although we’re also excited about the cuisine – the ship’s restaurants will include one specializing in Portuguese delicacies.

The ship’s first sailings will take place in spring 2025, and Alma will initially be based on Portugal’s Douro River, offering seven-night sailings that start and finish in Porto. The sailings are designed to highlight five specific riverside locations, including Entre-os-Rios, Peso de Regua, Vega de Terron and Barca d’Alva.

June 2025: Allura, Oceania Cruises

Oceania, which will have 613 staterooms and will initially offer itineraries focusing on the eastern Mediterranean, says that Allura will have the most spacious standard staterooms at sea – they’ll cover 291 square feet. Space won't be the only thing in abundance – there'll be one chef for every 10 guests, a reminder that Oceania Cruises takes its food very seriously. Details of the restaurants are yet to be revealed, but there will be five in total and every venue will pay tribute to a specific type of cuisine.

Allura will spend her first summer sailing around the Mediterranean (her first sailing will be a seven-day voyage from Athens to Istanbul, departing in early June 2025), before heading to Canada and New England. Her first winter will be spent in the Caribbean, and her launch will bring the total number of ships in Oceania’s fleet to eight.

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Many thanks to Henk Jungerius and Ted Finch for their assistance in collecting this data. The following list was extracted from various sources. This is not an all inclusive list but should only be used as a guide. If you would like to know more about a vessel, visit the Ship Descriptions (onsite) or Immigrant Ship web site.

Shamandora (Dock Boy)

This page contains a translation into English of the lyrics to the hit Nubian pop song "Shamandora", which was sung by Mohammed Mounir. Also included is a transliteration of the Arabic and Nubian lyrics into the Roman alphabet so you can sing along if you like.

Song lyrics are provided for educational purposes. If you like the song, please purchase either the album or a download from an authorized source.

Before the Aswan High Dam was built, the Nubian people of southern Egypt mostly spoke their own language, which is quite different from Arabic. Although the resettlement of the Nubian people after the dam was built has led to their using Arabic more, some people work to preserve their language. This song, "Shamandora", is partly in the Arabic language and partly in Nubian.

The Nubian word "shamandora" refers to a boy who used to guide the ships on the Nile to land, particularly during the times of the annual Nile floods. The vocalist in this song is essentially telling his beloved that she is like this boy, guiding him in life and making him feel safe.

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