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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

• Is it safe to travel to Egypt? • When is the best time to cruise the Nile? • Best tours of Egypt

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Nile River Cruises

Find the right river cruise for you on the Nile departing in 2024/2025. Trips are most popular in May, with the most river cruise departures on this route then.

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11-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel, Dendarah, Abydos & Alexandria

We highly recommend this trip. It is meticulously planned, and our guide possesses extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the region. The locals are incredibly welcoming, opening their hearts, and fostering lasting friendships. We eagerly anticipate our next adventure.

Nile Jewel - 5* Cruise

We had a private tour from the the 28th of January for 9 days. Our Gude was Marian who gave us a balance tour between.free time and commentary. The whole trip was faultless, even with our extra requests to see sights. I recommend more a better company to travel in Egypt with. Thankyou for everything.

• 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

What a Great experience! The staff is so very friendly and our Guide Wael was very enthusiastic, friendly and knew a lot of fun facts and interesting stuff about everything! We absolutely recommend this trip.

Nile Adventure - Felucca cruise

Great tour! I enjoyed every minute of it. Food was amazing and the sites visited breathtaking. Will do it again definitely!

Pharaohs Nile Cruise Adventure - Return Flights Included

It was good. In the beginning, we had some issues with the lack of communication in El Cairo. We chose the sleeping train option from El Cairo to Luxor (included in the tour) but we spent 3-4 hours sitting in the train station when we could have done anything else. Also, we didn't know that the train didn't have showers and we were supposed to start the tour day in Luxor as soon as we arrived.... so if you are choosing the sleeping train option consider this, also that you share the bathroom with the people in the same wagon. Once we arrived on the cruise, everything went smoothly. The tour guide always took care of us, gave us tips, and explained everything well. The cruise was overall good, they gave you what you paid for. I do recommend the tour!

• Coach / Bus

Felucca Odyssey (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

The tour guide/ Egyptologist Mo is very knowledgeable and thoughtful throughout the tour. He ensures everything goes smoothly. Highly experienced and professional. Mo went above and beyond to ensure us beat the crowds when visiting places and so much more. Couldn’t not thank him enough for this once a life time experience! Wonderful human. :) Thank you Mo! :) Sophie

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

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

Great trip! Our tour guide Ramiz explained the history excellently. I loved all of the sightseeing. Definitely recommend!

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

5 Stars, but not perfect. Good: Excellent Operations Office, available 24/7 via WhatsApp. All Transfers worked as planned. Everything on time. Charismatic Tourguide with good english skills. Everything as described. Areas to improve: Accomodation on Cruise Ship very dirty, Hairs on the sheets and so on. Rude staff at cruise ship reception. Flight back to cairo booked incorrectly by travel agent - 7 hrs wait at Luxor Airport, no apology. Keep in Mind: You will be harassed by locals trying to sell you stuff. Some will even grab you. Unpleasant.

Egypt Luxury Guided Tour W/Nile Cruise & Air 5*

Well organized and excellent accommodation. Good and detailed guide. Strongly recommend.

• €131 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Egypt Adventure

Great taster of ancient egypt

Best of Egypt

Great tour with a perfect mix of included activities and free time. Highly reccommended

Egypt Nile Adventure

Excellent tour from start to finish, saw all we wanted to see. Our guide Mina Magda was excellent and very knowledgeable and well informed about everything, also very well presented. He was such a pleasant and positive person and this radiated to everyone on the tour. The hotels were mostly excellent but some had no drinking water in the rooms. Other than that they were fine. Strangely enough I really enjoyed the bus rides through the desert to Luxor and Hurghada, I love remote places. All in all my wife and I really enjoyed the tour and it was also a good time of year to go, not scorching hot.

Cairo and Nile Cruise Tours - Included Internal Flights

Die Reise war schlichtweg hervorragend & hat keine Wünsche offen gelassen. Durch die Top Organisation, Kompetenz & Verlässlichkeit der Tourguides, Auswahl des interessanten, abwechslungsreichen & unterhaltsamen Programms wird die Ägyptenreise ein unvergessliches Erlebnis bleiben.

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

King Ramses - 13 days

Egypt is amazing! From the time we landed in Cairo to the time we left, we never once felt unsafe or unwelcome. The local people were all so warm, friendly and welcoming. Our tour was incredible, and that was in large part to our guide MoMo, who was so knowledgeable and passionate about all things Egypt. He was so friendly, funny and made our small group of strangers feel like a family after the first day. The information he shared was very indepth and insightful and I came away from this trip wanting to learn even more about the history of Egypt. Although we covered many miles visiting so many wonderful sites from Cairo to Giza, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Agilika Island and Luxor, we still had time to visit a local perfumery, an alabastor workshop, a papyrus factory and a spice store to pick up treasures to take home. There was also free time for us to enjoy taking in the sites of the small villages and farms as we relaxed on the deck of our Nile Cruise, and spending time on the beaches in Hurghada. Besides MoMo, I want to thank the whole On-The-Go team from those guides whom we only spent a day or two with, plus the drivers and to all those people involved in the organizing of this tour for making this a truly amazing experience! If Egypt is not on your bucket list, it should be as you will never regret making the journey.

Reviews of Nile Cruises

It was very informative and educational, but there were a lot of activities packed into the 11 days, leaving hardly any free time.

Mina was an incredible tour guide - so friendly and knowledgeable. He is such a kind hearted man who made our trip so special.

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Nile River Cruises

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

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Nile River Cruises fleet

Ms mayflower, ms amwaj livingstone, ms esplanade, ms sonesta st george, ms viking princess, ms steigenberger omar el khayam, movenpick ms darakum, ms oberoi zahra, ms nile dolphin, ms sonesta star goddess, movenpick ms hamees, ms sonesta moon goddess, movenpick ms prince abbas, ms kasr ibrim, review of nile river cruises.

Egypt cruises on Nile River and Lake Nasser are of those experiences imperative to take at least once in a lifetime. Nile River has been the lifeline of Egypt since ancient times and the best way to trace the passage of Egypt's history is to follow the course of the river.

Nile cruise itineraries are between the ports of Luxor and Aswan . River cruising is a comfortable, luxury hotel-style way to visit Upper Egypt's archaeological sites. Most voyages on the river depart from Cairo and last between 3 and 7 days (round-trips), rarely over a week. Longer itineraries offer additional hotel stays in both embarkation / disembarkation ports, but also in the companies' privately owned hotel and resort properties located on Egypt's Red Sea coast - in or near the resort towns and port cities Sharm El Sheikh , Hurghada , El Gouna, El Quseir, Makadi Bay, Sokhna (55 km / 35 mi south of Suez ).

Nile-based cruise ships - the very boats cruising the mighty river - are generally larger in comparison to typical river cruise ships, for example, to those sailing on European waterways. Each vessel accommodates up to 200 passengers. Similar sized (bigger) riverboats can be only deployed on wider inland waterways, such as Yangtze (in China), or Mississippi (in the USA).

Lake Nasser and Nile river cruises in Egypt

The Nile is a major river in northeastern Africa. This very special north-flowing waterway is generally regarded as the longest in the world at 4258 ml (6853 km). The resources of the Nile are shared by eleven countries, and the river is also the primary water source of Sudan and Egypt.

The Greek historian Herodotus once wrote that "Egypt was the gift of the Nile". Being a precious source of sustenance, Nile provided a crucial role in the evolution of Egyptian civilization. As the river played such an important role, even the ancient calendar was based on the 3 cycles of Nile.

To sail these life-giving waters, surrounded by millennia-old sites, is an unforgettable experience through Egypt’s heritage. Step back in time to explore the ancient wonders of the Great Hypostyle Hall of Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Luxor, as well as temples devoted to Egypt's pantheon of gods and goddesses.

Colourful bazaars, ancient temples, and pyramids, that were already ancient by the time of Cleopatra, only begin to mark the highlights of the unique cruising vacation on Nile River through Egypt. Itineraries commonly include tours of landmarks in Aswan, Cairo, and Luxor, as well as visits to solitary temples, such as Abu Simbel . The Nile River cruise offers plenty of tours, but there is also time to relax while watching this ancient world float by.

List of Lake Nasser cruise ships

These are the names of the few big-sized hotel ships and new riverboats deployed at Lake Nasser in Egypt:

• Movenpick Prince Abbas - departures are on Monday (from Aswan) and on Friday (from Abu Simbel).
• Movenpick Darakum (Nile River) - departures are on Monday (from Luxor) and on Friday (from Aswan).
• SS Sphinx (2020, Nile River) is Uniworld 's ship in Egypt, deployed on the route Aswan-Luxor (transfer flights Cairo-Luxor-Cairo).
• AmaDahlia (2021, Nile River) is AmaWaterways ' new boat with scheduled roundtrips from Luxor (transfer flights Cairo-Luxor-Cairo).
• Kasr Ibrim - departures are on Saturday (from Aswan) and on Wednesday (from Abu Simbel). The ship is also exclusively chartered by Viking Cruises .
• Steigenberger Omar El Khayam - departures are on Monday (from Aswan) and on Friday (from Abu Simbel). The ship is also exclusively chartered by Viking Cruises.
• Movenpick MS Hamees - departures are on Monday (from Luxor) and on Friday (from Aswan). The boat is also chartered to Emerald Waterways and Riviera Travel UK.
• MS Farah (2011-built, Nile River) operates between Aswan and Luxor. The ship is also exclusively chartered by Avalon Waterways .
• MS Nubian Sea - departures are on Monday (from Aswan) and on Friday (from Abu Simbel).
• MS Eugenie - departures are on Friday (from Aswan) and on Monday (from Abu Simbel).

Nile River cruise package prices

In this section are listed several of the numerous Nile cruise travel package deals. Know, that all offers and their pricing are only indicative. Prices are per person, in USD, and represent the lowest possible cruise fares. Group booking rates are different, and dependent on the number of passengers.

• 1-Day Fishing Trip In Luxor (prices start from USD 100) - Nile river fishing trips give the opportunity to cruise on a traditional for Egypt sailboat (like Felucca) in the region of Luxor. Deals are inclusive of one oriental meal. No cabin or entertainment are included.
• 1-Day Cruise From Luxor To Dendera Temple (prices start from USD 100) - the small boat cruise visits the Temple of Hathor.
• 3-Night / 4-Day Cruise from Aswan to Luxor or the reverse Luxor to Aswan - prices start from USD 350).
• 4-Night / 5-Day Cruise Tour Luxor-Aswan, or the reverse Luxor–Aswan - prices start from USD 420.
• 7-Night / 8-Day Cruise Tour Luxor to Aswan, or the reverse Aswan to Luxor - prices start from USD 740.
• 7-Night / 8-Day Red Sea and Nile Cruise - prices start from USD 730. The itinerary includes 3-night "Red Sea Cruise" round-trip from Hurghada, followed by 4-night "Nile Cruise" from Luxor or Aswan. The same pricing is offered on the tour package that includes 3-night "Nile Cruise", followed by 4-night Red Sea Cruise" round-trip from Hurghada.
• 7-Night / 8-Day Cruise Tour from Cairo - prices start from USD 900. The itinerary includes 3-night Cairo hotel package, day tours visiting The Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Sakkara necropolis (Zhoser’s step pyramid), Cairo Airport transfers, domestic (Egypt) flight travel to Luxor, a transfer from Luxor Airport to the ship and embarkation before lunch. On day 7 there is onboard Breakfast and disembarkation from the ship, transfer to Aswan Airport, domestic (Egypt) flight travel to Cairo, transfer to a Cairo hotel (second overnight stay), and on day 8 there is a Breakfast, hotel checkout and transfer to Cairo Airport. International flights to and from Egypt are not included in cruise fares.
• 7-Night / 8-Day "Nile and Red Sea Cruise Tour from Cairo" (round-trip) - prices start from USD 1200. Itineraries start and end in Cairo (Sunday to Sunday, Tuesday to Tuesday, or Thursday to Thursday). Deals are inclusive of Cairo Airport meet, visiting the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, transfer a Cairo hotel(overnight stay), domestic (Egypt) flight Cairo to Aswan, visiting the Temple of Philae, transfer to the ship, embarkation before lunch. On day 5 there is disembarkation, visiting the Valley of Kings, bus travel from Luxor to Hurghada (the Red Sea, approx 280 km / 175 ml drive distance), a Hurghada hotel (2 overnights). On day 7 there is bus travel from Hurghada to Cairo (approx 450 km / 280 ml drive distance), a Cairo hotel (overnight). On day 8 is the hotel check out and transfer to Cairo Airport.
• 11-Night / 12-Day "Nile and Red Sea Cruise" - prices start from USD 1150. The itinerary includes 7-night "Nile Cruise" from Luxor or Aswan, followed by 4-night "Red Sea Cruise" round-trip from Hurghada. The itinerary includes arrival in Luxor (private arrangement), transfer to the ship, embarkation before lunch. On day 8 there is Breakfast and disembarkation in Luxor, bus travel to Hurghada, plus 4-day Hurghada hotel package (included meals - Breakfast and Dinner).

Egypt river cruise ship companies

Among the largest cruise companies operating on the Egypt river cruising market (the Nile and Lake Nasser) are the "hotels, resorts and cruise" brands Travcotels, Steigenberger, Jaz, Sonesta, Iberotel, Sanctuary, Oberoi, Movenpick.

• Travco Group (founded 1979) is a large corporation that owns around 160 luxury hotels, resorts and river cruise ships. The "Travco Travel" company handles over 1,3 million tourists annually. Among its renowned brands are the luxury resort and hotel chains Jaz, Travcotels, Iberotel, Steigenberger, Sol Y Mar. Since 2010, Travco and Air Arabia have a joint venture domestic airline called "Air Arabia Egypt"(50% Travco, 40% Air Arabia, 10% private investors). Travco Group has its network of local tour operators.
• Oberoi (founded 1934) is an award-winning chain of 30+ luxury hotels and resorts located in premium destinations in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India, Indonesia, Mauritius. The company's head office is in Delhi, India.
• Sonesta International Hotels Corporation owns prime hotel and resort properties in Egypt, USA, Brazil, Peru, Italy, Bermuda. The company also privately owns 4 luxury Nile cruise ships.
• Movenpick Group (founded 1973, headquarters in Baar, Switzerland) is a joint venture hotel company owned by Movenpick Holding (66,7%) and Kingdom Holding Company (Saudi Arabia, 33,3%). Movenpick operates around 110 hotels, resorts, and Nile ships.
• The hotel chain serves 5.8 million people per year, and in 2003 was named the “fastest growing hotel chain in the Middle East” by The World Travel Market.
• CEO Jean-Gabriel Pérès left the company in early 2016. His replacement, Olivier Chavy, took over in September 2016.
• Sanctuary Retreats is a chain of 17 luxury African safari camps and lodges, plus 6 luxury cruise ships operating on rivers in Egypt (Nile), Burma / Myanmar (Ayeyarwady, Chindwin) and China (Yangtze).

List of owned by Egypt river cruise companies hotels and resorts

Follows the list of owned by Nile riverboat cruise lines hotels and resorts. These are premium location properties, that are included in the "cruise and hotel" package. Another option is to book "cruise and stay" package that includes more hotel overnights or even resort vacation in Egypt - all at discounted pricing.

• Iberotel's hotels in Egypt are named: Iberotel Makadi Beach (Hurghada), Iberotel Luxor, and Iberotel Palace (Sharm El Maya Bay).
• Steigenberger's leisure properties in Egypt are named: Steigenberger Cecil Hotel (Alexandria), Steigenberger El Tahrir (Cairo), Steigenberger Golf Resort (El Gouna), Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel (Hurghada), Steigenberger Aqua Magic (Hurghada), Steigenberger Nile Palace (Luxor), Steigenberger Makadi (Madinat Makadi, Safaga), Steigenberger Coraya Beach (Marsa Alam), and Steigenberger Alcazar (Sharm El Sheikh).
• Oberoi's leisure properties in Egypt are named: The Oberoi Philae (hotel ship), Oberoi Zahra (hotel ship), and Sahl Hasheesh (on the Red Sea, across Sharm El Sheik, approx 18 km / 11 mi south of Hurghada Airport).
• Sonesta's leisure properties In Egypt are named: "Sonesta Cairo Hotel, Tower & Casino", "Sonesta Beach Resort & Casino" (Sharm El Sheikh, Red Sea), and "Sonesta Pharaoh Beach Resort" (Hurghada, Red Sea).
• (Travco) Jaz Travel hotels and resorts in Egypt (on Red Sea, near Sharm El-Sheikh) are named Jaz Belvedere (El Montaza), Jaz Fanara Resort (Ras Om El-Seid), Jaz Mirabel Beach (Nabq Bay), Jaz Mirabel Club (Nabq Bay), Jaz Mirabel Park (Nabq Bay), Sol Y Mar Naama Bay, and Sol Y Mar Sharks Bay. Jaz Travel properties near Marsa Alam are named: Jaz Dar El Madina, Jaz Lamaya, Jaz Samaya, and Jaz Solaya. Company's leisure properties near Hurghada (Madinat Makadi) are named Jaz Acquaviva, Jaz Makadi Oasis Club, Jaz Makadi Oasis Resort, Jaz Makadi Saraya Palms, Jaz Makadi Saraya Resort, Jaz Makadi Star & Spa, Jaz Makadina, Sol Y Mar Makadi Sun, and Sensimar Makadi Hotel. The company's leisure properties in Hurghada (Magawish District) are named Jaz Aquamarine, Jaz Bluemarine, and Sol Y Mar Ivory Suites.
• Movenpick resort and hotel properties in Egypt are mainly at the Red Sea - in Hurghada (incl Soma Bay), El Gouna (approx 30 km / 19 ml from Hurghada Airport), El Quseir, Ain Sokhna, Sharm el Sheikh, and Taba (Gulf of Aqaba). In Cairo are Movenpick Hotel Cairo Pyramids, and Movenpick Hotel & Casino Cairo.

Note: You can see the CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our River Cruises hub. All companies and their fleets are listed there.

Itinerary of Nile River Cruises

This is a review of the longest (12 days) the Red Sea and Nile cruise itinerary, as it includes the typical Nile River itinerary with all its ticket price inclusive tours, also domestic flights (in Egypt, between embarkation/disembarkation ports) and the coach transfers to and from the ship. The itinerary map below shows also Lake Nasser.

(Day 1) Arrival in Luxor and Embarkation

• Arrival in Luxor, bus transfer to the ship, embarkation before lunch.
• Tours included on the river's East Bank - Temple of Karnak, Temple of Luxor
• Bus transfer to the ship
• Onboard welcome dinner, overnight stay on the ship in Luxor
• Lunch and Dinner are included.

(Day 2) Southbound cruising from Luxor to Esna

• Onboard Breakfast
• Tours included on the river's West Bank - Valley of Kings, Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut (aka Djeser-Djeseru, at Deir El-Bahari), Colossi of Memnon
• Cruising to Esna Lock
• Onboard Lunch
• Arrival in Esna (Dinner and overnight on the ship)
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are Included.

(Day 3) Southbound cruising from Esna to Edfu and Kom-Ombo

• Cruising to Edfu
• Arrival in Edfu (on the river's West Bank) - an included tour to Temple of Edfu (God Horus).
• Cruising to Kom-Ombo
• Arrival in Kom-Ombo (on the river's East Bank) - an included tour to Temple of Kom-Ombo (God Sobek and God Haroeris).
• Onboard Dinner and overnight on the ship in Kom-Ombo

(Day 4) Southbound cruising from Kom-Ombo to Aswan

• Arrival in Aswan (aka Assuan, on the river's East Bank), onboard Lunch
• Included tours to Temple of Philae (relocated to the nearby Agilkia Island ), Aswan High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, boat tour (by felucca/traditional for Egypt wooden sailing boat) around Elephantine Island and the Aswan Botanical Gardens.
• Dinner and overnight on the ship in Aswan

(Day 5) Optional tour from Aswan to bu Simbel

• Overnight stay on the ship in Aswan

(Day 6) Northbound cruising from Aswan to Kom-Ombo, Edfu, and Esna

• Overnight stay on the ship in Esna

(Day 7) Northbound cruising from Esna to Luxor

• Optional excursion - Luxor Museum
• Overnight stay on the ship in Luxor

(Day 8) Cruise ending (disembarkation), transfer to Hurghada (Red Sea)

• Onboard Breakfast, follows disembarkation and transfer (bus travel) to Hurghada
• A Hurghada hotel check-in, free exploration time
• Breakfast and Dinner are Included.

(Day 9, 10, 11) Hurghada (Red Sea)

• Hotel Breakfast, free exploration time
• Optional tour - Giftun Island snorkeling (lunch included)

(Day 12) Hurghada (cruise vacation ending)

• Hotel Breakfast, transfer to Hurghada Airport for departure.
• Breakfast is included.

Avalon Waterways ' Nile cruise itineraris are roundtrips from Cairo, with included all 4x Cairo hotel overnight stays and two domestic flights (Cairo-Aswan and Luxor-Cairo). Avalon Waterways currently charters for its Egypt Nile cruisetours the ship MS Farah .

Viking Cruises' "Nile and Lake Nasser" itinerary

Next is shown the Viking River Cruises ' Nile and Lake Nasser cruise itinerary map. Also round-trip from Cairo, this river cruise tour includes an additional flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel, where the Lake Nasser based ship is docked for embarkation. From Abu Simbel, the riverboat visits Kasr Ibrim and Amada.

The itinerary (themed "Pathways of the Pharaohs") is also operated by the newbuilds Viking Ra (2018), Viking Osiris (2022), Viking Aton (2023), Viking Hathor (2024) and Viking Sobek (2025). Its total duration is 12 days, with included 17 guided tours and excursions ashore.

Below listed tours are all included in the fares.

• (Day 1, 2, 3) Cairo - 3-night stay
• (Day 2) tour to Sakkara necropolis, Giza Plateau, Great Pyramids (Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure), camel ride, Great Sphinx
• (Day 3) tour to Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, guided city tour (Saladin Citadel, Muhammad Ali Mosque), walking tour (bazaar, Al-Aqmar Mosque), Al-Azhar Park dinner
• (Day 4) flight from Cairo to Luxor, in Luxor - tour to the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, embarkation, optional tour (Karnak Temple - evening sound and light show)
• (Day 5) Luxor - optional tour (hot air balloon ride over the temples and monuments), including tours to Valley of the Kings and Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, Madīnat Habu, Mortuary Temple of Ramses III. Follows cruising to Edfu.
• (Day 6) Edfu - horse-drawn carriage ride (tour) to Temple of Horus. Follows cruising to Kom-Ombo (arrival, tour to the temple of Haroeris and Sobek. Follows cruising to Aswan (dinner time arrival), an onboard Nubian party in the evening (traditional music and dancing)
• (Day 7) Aswan - tour to Philae Temple (Isis), tour to Nubian Museum (gardens, terraced waterfalls), tour to Aswan High Dam, a scenic boat tour on a felucca sailboat, overnight in Aswan
• (Day 8) Abu Simbel (flight from Aswan), arrival, tour to the temples, embarkation on the Lake Nasser cruise ship. Optional evening tour - Abu Simbel temples (sound and light show)
• (Day 9) Lake Nasser cruising to Kasr Ibrim and Amada (sun deck / onboard lecture on Kasr Ibrim Fortress, Amada arrival in the afternoon, tour to Temple of Amada (by Pharaoh Thutmose III, dedicated to Amun), cruising to Wadi el Seboua
• (Day 10) disembarkation, excursion to Wadi el Seboua (Valley of the Lions), tour to Temple of Dakka (Thoth) and Temple of Meharakka, afternoon cruising back to Aswan, evening Nubian show (traditional music, dance, costumes)
• (Day 11) Aswan - morning arrival, breakfast, tour to Temple of Kalabsha (God Mandulis), tour to Aswan High Dam, shore lunch, transfer to Aswan Airport (flight to Cairo). 1 overnight in a luxury hotel (Citystars Cairo, or similar first-class hotel, dinner is included. Optional tour - Giza pyramids (sound and light show).
• (Day 12) Cairo - hotel breakfast and transfer to Cairo Airport for the return flight from Egypt.
• 4-night Nile River voyage
• 3-night Lake Nasser voyage
• 3-night Cairo hotel package (Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah)
• 1-night luxury Cairo hotel stay (Cairo CityStars)
• 17 fully escorted and professionally guided tours - each led by a certified Egyptologist
• A total of 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 9 dinners, including Welcome Cocktail Reception and Gala Dinner
• Complimentary beverages (wine, beer, soft drinks - during onboard dinners and lunches)
• 3 domestic (Egypt) flights
• Onboard enrichment programming (in-depth narration by Egyptologists, Nubian evening event), also camel riding
• All transfers and port charges.

Note: In March 2018, the company started its own operations on Nile River with the newly refurbished/reconstructed ship Viking Ra.

Nile River cruise fleet

Follows a list of large-sized riverboats operating on the Nile River in Egypt. Most of the vessels are operated as "hotel ships". It means they are moored dockside and their staterooms are bookable as hotel accommodations. In brackets are shown the shipowners and hotel brand companies' names.

• (Sunrise Resorts and Cruises Egypt ships) Sunrise Terramar, Sunrise Semiramis 1, Sunrise Semiramis 2, Sunrise Semiramis 3
• (Travco Group / Travco-Steigenberger Hotels and Resorts ships) Steigenberger Minerva, Steigenberger Legacy
• (Travco Group / Travcotels ships) Regina, Regent, Nile Monarch, Nile Empress, Lady Sophia, Imperial, Helio, Crown Prince, Crown Jewel
• (Travco Group / Travco-Jaz Hotels and Resorts ships) Jaz Jubilee, Jaz Regency, Jaz Senator, Jaz Yakouta
• (Travco Group / Travco-Iberotel Hotels and Resorts ships) Iberotel Crown Empress, Iberotel Crown Emperor
• (Movenpick Hotels and Resorts ships) Sun Ray, Royal Lotus, Royal Lily, Hamees , Darakum
• (Oberoi Hotels and Resorts) Oberoi Philae
• (Presidential Nile Cruises ships) Nile Symphony, Nile Ritz, Nile Plaza, Nile Odyssey, Nile Commodore, Nile Admiral
• (Grand Circle Cruise Line GmbH) River Anuket
• (Grand Cruises Egypt ships) Nile Romance, Nile Beauty, Grand Star, Grand Rose, Grand Preziosa, Grand Palm, Grand Glory
• (Sakkara Tours ships) Monte Carlo, Monaco, Mojito
• (Amarco Nile Cruise) Amarco II Antares
• Tamr Henna, Tower Prestige
• Stephanie, Solaris II, Sentido Mahrousa
• Royal Viking, Royal Ruby, Royal Esadora
• Ra I, Ra II
• Nubian Sea, Nile Supreme, Nile Smart, Nile Rhapsody, Nile Premium, Nile Festival, Nile Crown
• Moon Dance, Monica, Magic I
• Lady Mary, Lady Carol
• Golden Boat
• Eugenie, Emilio
• Domina Prestige
• Amarante Osiris, Amarante Isis, Alexander The Great

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Here’s what it’s like to take a Nile cruise in 2022

Oct 16, 2022 • 7 min read

Plan your trip of a lifetime in Egypt with this guide to cruising on the Nile © Lauren Keith / Lonely Planet

Egypt is nothing short of a miracle. Though the forbidding Sahara encroaches from every direction, the Nile River splashes a verdant green ribbon through the country, sometimes managing to push the desert sands only a few hundred feet back from the riverbank.

One of the world’s longest and most legendary rivers, the Nile travels more than 6500km (4100 miles) through five countries, but it’s most closely connected with Egypt. And indeed, so much of Egyptian history has unfolded along the Nile that nearly all of the country’s major cities and ancient tombs and temples are located along this lush life-giving artery.

The ancient Egyptians used the river as a highway, dispatching trade and military expeditions and toting statues of their gods between temples. The 5th century BCE Greek historian Herodotus famously called Egypt the “gift of the Nile,” and even now, millennia later, cruising the Nile is still the best way for travelers to see Egypt’s gifts for themselves.

Ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime? Here’s what you need to know about picking the best Nile river cruises.

Why are so many travelers talking about Egypt in 2022?

Nowhere else in the world is the past so intertwined with the present than in Egypt, and 2022 promises to be a blockbuster time to experience them both.

Lonely Planet named Egypt one of the top 10 countries to visit this year , and the long-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum is expected to open in November to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun , the famous golden pharaoh and “boy king.”

September marked 200 years since the Rosetta Stone was translated, which revealed the meanings of the hieroglyphs and recaptured knowledge that had been lost for centuries. New archaeological discoveries continue apace in Luxor, Saqqara and elsewhere that keep rewriting history.

Tourism hit a record high in Egypt in 2019 and was expected to grow even more in 2020, but we all know what happened then. Like many places, tourism in Egypt has now entered recovery mode, making the coming months a great – and still relatively quiet – time to visit. 

Some Nile cruise companies continued construction projects that have seen new boats launched on the river, including the August 2022 debut of the Viking Osiris , a brand new 82-passenger vessel built specifically to navigate the Nile.

Why you should take a Nile cruise when you visit Egypt

While cruises might get a bad rap elsewhere in the world, traveling by boat on the Nile is a time-honored tradition that stretches back to the pharaonic era.

Along the riverbanks, life carries on in the way that it has since time immemorial: mudbrick houses poke out from behind the foliage, children wave excitedly at passing ships, a lone man paddles a blue-painted canoe piled high with alfalfa for his hungry livestock, palm trees heavy with golden dates sag as they await the harvest.

In a fast-paced world, opportunities to simply sit back and watch life glide by are few and far between. Sitting outside on the Osiris ’s balcony traveling at the speed of the river, I felt like I was watching a slow travel TV show – at once both an outside spectator and also completely immersed in it.

In ancient times, mastering the river helped rulers unite the country, and most temples are built within easy reach of the water. Sure, Egypt’s modern-day road and rail network can transport you to these temples overland, but if you skip a cruise on the Nile, the magic of the journey will certainly be missing.

How to choose a Nile cruise itinerary

The vast majority of Nile cruises operate in both directions between Luxor and Aswan in southern Egypt, making stops in Edfu, Kom Ombo and sometimes other small towns.

Which Nile cruise you pick depends on the usual two travel constraints: your budget and your time. Certain boats sail only on certain days, and Nile cruises can be as short as three days, but more commonly last five days.

Most luxury cruises on the Nile, including Viking’s Nile cruises, require signing up for a full Egypt-wide itinerary that starts and ends in Cairo , an excellent option for first-time visitors.

With little signage at historic sites and prices always open to negotiation, Egypt is a tricky place for independent travel. Unless you want to spend your precious vacation time bargaining with taxi drivers and tour guides everywhere you go, it’s best to join a tour for your first visit and leave the logistics to someone else.

What I liked in particular about Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary is that it includes two unusual stops that aren’t standard ports of call for most Nile cruises. 

The ship travels north of Luxor to Qena for passengers to disembark and visit the gorgeous Temple of Hathor at Dendera , where the ceilings have recently been cleaned, exposing beautifully painted zodiac symbols and the warped body of the sky goddess Nut, who swallows the sun every night and gives birth to it the next morning. 

The boat also stops in Esna for the Temple of Khnum , a small but wonderfully preserved structure. Look up to spot the column-topping capitals, each of which has a colorfully decorated, unique bouquet of palm fronds, bunches of grapes, lotus flowers and papyrus shoots.

In Luxor, you’ll get private access to the show-stopping tomb of Nefertari – arguably the most beautiful burial site in the entire country (and certainly the most expensive at LE1400, about US$72) where nearly every square inch is painted in stunningly vibrant bas-reliefs – as well as the chance to see the stark dichotomy of Egypt’s landscapes from the sky in the basket of a gently drifting hot air balloon.

Tours of the temples and tombs are led by local expert Egyptologists who explain and translate the meanings of the hieroglyphs before your very eyes. 

A few companies offer Nile cruises from Cairo, but these sailings are rare, usually operating just once a month – if at all – and take significantly longer because of the distance involved. But you’ll get the chance to check out off-the-beaten-track tombs and temples between Cairo and Luxor that see few visitors.

What is it like on board the Viking Osiris ?

Decked out in a sleek Scandi color scheme of blond wood and blue textiles that are drenched in natural light thanks to huge floor-to-ceiling windows across much of the ship, the Viking Osiris is an oasis of calm that’s a treat to return to after a long and dusty day of exploring. 

The cruise ship has 41 cabins across three decks, plus two upper levels with an indoor/outdoor dining space with windows that fold away for al fresco evenings, a cozy bar and lounge with a resident piano player in the evenings, an infinity-style pool at the back of the boat and a sun deck for days of lazy lounging.

Travelers can check out books from the on-board library’s exquisite collection to read up on Egyptian history on their voyage.

The guest rooms are surprisingly spacious, with comfy hotel-like beds, plenty of wardrobe and storage space, and good-sized bathrooms. Many staterooms come with balconies.

The ship is partially powered by solar panels, and you can see how much electricity is being generated by the sun as well as the carbon dioxide savings on a screen inside.

What travelers should know before visiting Egypt

Almost all nationalities need a visa to visit Egypt , which you can get on arrival at the airport or apply for online in advance if you’d rather skip the line. The cost of a single-entry Egyptian tourist visa is USD$25, payable in cash at the airport or by card online.

Egypt is a traditional, Muslim-majority country, so both men and women should dress modestly when visiting. For tips on what to pack, local etiquette and more, check these 14 things to help you plan your visit to Egypt .

Lauren Keith traveled on the Viking Osiris cruise by invitation from Viking River Cruises .

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• Testimonials

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

Sunset Cruise

4 Day Dahabiya Nile Cruise

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.

Would you like to discover Egypt while cruising the Nile on a dahabiya or a felucca? Are you interested in our offers or do you have any questions? Please feel free to send us a message.

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Nile River Cruise Ships Luxor

Egypt nile cruise, our selected ultra luxury, deluxe and all suite nile cruise ships, with and without hotel stay combination booking possibility for your best moments in the year..

The Oberoi Zahra

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Exclusive and tasteful luxury class Nile ship of the Oberoi hotel chain with a total of 27 cabins and suites. Offer Price per person from 1975 €

The Oberoi Philae

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Exclusive and tasteful premium luxury class Nile ship of the Oberoi hotel chain with a total of 22 cabins and suites. Offer Price per person from 1985 €

Sanctuary Sun Boat III

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Special 5-star premium luxury class Nile Ship of the Sanctuary Retreats. 14 cabins, 2 Royal Suites and 2 Presidential Suites. Offer Price per person from 1995 €

Sanctuary Nile Adventurer

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Tasteful 5-star luxury class Nile Ship of the Sanctuary Retreats Luxury River Cruises with 28 cabins, 2 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Presidential Suites. Offer Price per person from 1995 €

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Exclusive 5-star premium class Nile ship of the Sanctuary Retreats Luxury River Cruises with 36 cabins, 2 Presidential Suites and 2 Royal Suites. Offer Price per person from 1485 €

Sanctuary Nile Intrepid

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | New 2025 New 5* Ultra Luxury Nile cruise ship of the Sanctuary Retreats offers 30 cabins with a french balcony and 2 presidential suites with terrace jacuzzi. Build 2024/25. Launching 2025. Offer Price per person from 815 €

Sonesta Star Goddess

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Exclusive premium class Deluxe Suite Nile cruise ship of the international Sonesta hotel chain with 33 suites. Offer Price per person from 1355 €

Sonesta St. George I

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5 Star Deluxe Nile Cruise Ship operating by the Sonesta Group with 47 deluxe cabins, 9 presidential suites and 1 royal suite cabin. Offer Price per person from 1395 €

Sonesta Moon Goddess

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Sonesta Cruises deluxe nile ship features 49 Standard Cabins with balconies and 4 Presidential Suite Cabins with lounge. Offer Price per person from 1365 €

MS Blue Shadow

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Luxury 5-star Deluxe Nile Cruise Ship (built in 2015/ Winter) with 54 Standard Cabins (22 sqm.), 2 Suite Cabins (40 sqm.) and 2 Presidential Suites (45 sqm.). Offer Price per person from 705 €

MS Blue Shadow II

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New 5-star Deluxe Nile Cruise Ship of the Princess Cruise Line with 54 Standard Cabins (22 sqm.), 2 Suite Cabins (40 sqm.) and 2 Presidential Suites (45 sqm.). Offer Price per person from 705 €

MS Blue Shadow III

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5-star deluxe Nile river cruise ship of the Princess Nile Cruises, MS Blue Shadow 3 (ex. MS TU YA, TuYa) has only 58 cabins with large panoramic windows. Offer Price per person from 785 €

MS Royal Esadora

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5* deluxe Nile ship of Princess Cruise Line M/S Esadora II (M/S Blue Shadow IV) with Italian architecture, offers 61 cabins, of which 57 are standard cabins (20 sqm.) and 4 are suites. Offer Price per person from 795 €

MS Historia

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Boutique 5-star deluxe Nile River cruise ship (built 2021) has only 36 deluxe cabins (22 sqm.) and 8 suites (33 sqm.) with large panoramic windows. Offer Price per person from 895 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5-star deluxe Nile cruise ship of Spring Tours (built in 2020), a total of 46 deluxe cabins and suites (Royal Suite, Grand Suite) with a french balcony. Offer Price per person from 890 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Farah a noble 5-star deluxe Nile river cruise ship with a gym, a spa, premium-class cabins and suites with large panoramic windows / french balcony. Offer Price per person from 910 €

MS Le Fayan

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Premium class 5-star-deluxe Nile River cruiser ship (floating hotel) has elegant cabins and suites with french-balcony (large panoramic window). Offer Price per person from 915 €

MS Alexander the Great Yacht

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Luxury Nile cruise ship Alexander the Great Yacht (ex. Sanctuary Retreats), a popular Nile cruise boat (floating-hotel) with panoramic windows. Offer Price per person from 925 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New Super-Deluxe Nile Cruise Suite Ship completed in August and put into operation 2022/2023 Saison with 25 junior suite cabins. Offer Price per person from 855 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Noble deluxe Nile river cruise ship (built in 2008) has only 40 deluxe cabins (about 28 sqm.) With large panorama windows. Offer Price per person from 865 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Noble deluxe Nile river cruise ship of Sabena Group has only deluxe cabins with large panorama windows. Offer Price per person from 880 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Noble deluxe Nile river cruise ship of Sabena Cruises has only deluxe cabins with large panorama windows. Offer Price per person from 880 €

MS Nile Excellence

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Popular 5-star deluxe all-suite Nile cruise ship (suite ship) of the pioneer FTI Touristik group BigXtra, known from Sonnenklar TV with 31 suite cabins. Offer Price per person from 790 €

Nile Diva & Spa

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Beautiful 5-star deluxe ship which was also known under the concept brand MS Sonnenklar TV Lady Karine with wellness area and 20 Cabins. Offer Price per person from 790 €

MS Steigenberger Senator

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Exclusive 5+ Deluxe Suite Only Nile Cruise ship of Steigenberger Hotels chain - Jaz Cruises (Travco) TUI Group with 17 Suites. Offer Price per person from 1090 €

MS Jaz Viceroy

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board One of the newest 5* Nile cruise ships on Nile (floating hotel), owned and operated by Jaz Cruises - Jaz Hotel Group JHG (Travco Nile Cruises). Offer Price per person from 1090 €

MS Viking RA

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New (May 2017) Deluxe All-Suite Nile cruise ship owned by Viking Eastmar Nile Cruises with only 24 Suite Cabins. Offer Price per person from 835 €

MS Viking Osiris

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board One of the newest Nile river floating hotels in Egypt. Build 2022, owned/managed by Viking Cruises, sister ship to Viking Aton. Offer Price per person from 845 €

MS Viking Aton

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New sister ship to Viking Osiris, owned and operatet by Viking River Cruises, state-of-the-art vessel built in 2023. Offer Price per person from 845 €

MS Antares (Viking Antares)

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board First Class 5-Star Deluxe Suite-Only Nile Ship from Amarco Cruises company under the Viking Nile Cruises line with 35 Suites. Offer Price per person from 775 €

MS AmaLilia

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New Nile cruiser of AmaWaterways Cairo, starting in 2024 and built similarly to its sister floating hotel M/S AmaDahlia. Offer Price per person from 915 €

MS AmaDahlia

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board One of the newest, 2021 built/launched Nile river ship of AmaWaterways Nile Cruises Egypt (sister M/S AmaDahlia). Offer Price per person from 915 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Premium 5* deluxe Nile ship by Sakkara Group. 37 suites (28 sqm), 1 owner suite (71 sqm) and 2 executive suites (42 sqm). Offer Price per person from 815 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Noble 5-star deluxe Nile river cruise ship (built in 2008) offers 40 deluxe cabins (28 sqm) With large panoramic windows. Offer Price per person from 765 €

MS Amwaj Living Stone

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5-Star Deluxe Nile Ship with Livingstone SPA, 46 Standard Cabins, 12 Junior Suites, 2 Presidential Suites and 2 Royal Suites. Offer Price per person from 785 €

MS Royal Viking

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board One of the most popular 5* Deluxe vessels on the Nile by Viking Group Egypt offers 68 deluxe cabins and suites, built 2008. Offer Price per person from 790 €

MS Nile Vision

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5* standard Nile river cruise ship (built in 2003) has 66 cabins with panoramic windows, operating for Phönix Reisen. Offer Price per person from 755 €

MS Royal Vision

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board First class 5 star deluxe Nile cruise ship with 36 standard cabins and 2 DeLuxe cabins is chartered from Phoenix Reisen. Offer Price per person from 815 €

MS Crown Vision

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Premium 5-star deluxe Nile cruise ship with 36 standard cabins and 2 DeLuxe cabins is chartered from Phoenix Reisen. Offer Price per person from 815 €

MS Queens Vision

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | New 2024 New 5* deluxe Nile cruiser of the Dynasty Travel with 48 deluxe cabins and 1 suite sails for Phoenix Reisen. Renovation 2023/24. Reopening/beginning 2024. Offer Price per person from 815 €

MS Grand Mandarin

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | New 2024 New 5* Superior-Deluxe Nile cruiser offers 64 junior suites and royal suites with french balcony. Renovation 2023/24. Reopening/beginning 2024. Offer Price per person from 815 €

2 Weeks | Cairo-Luxor-Aswan | New 2024 New re-opening 5* suite Nile cruise ship, Cairo to Aswan by Kuoni, M/S Sindbad (HS Sindbad) offers 17 suite cabins. Renovation year 2023. Launch/opening 2024. Offer Price per person from 3995 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | New 2024 New 5* Super-Deluxe (Superior) Nile cruiser with luxury cabins and suites with a french balcony. Renovation 2023/24. Launch/beginning 2024. Offer Price per person from 915 €

MS Cleopatra

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | New 2024 New 5*-Deluxe Nile cruise ship M/S Cleopatra offers 45 cabins and suites with fench balcony. Renovation 2023/24. Launch/beginning 2024. Offer Price per person from 820 €

Sunrise Terramar

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Premium Class All-Suite 5*-Deluxe Nile cruise ship of the SUNRISE Resorts & Nile Cruises hotel chain with only 20 exclusive Suite cabins. Offer Price per person from 1495 €

MS TUI Al Horeya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | New 2024 New 5-star deluxe adults-only Nile cruise ship of TUI Cruises (TUI River Cruises) by Travco, Jaz Al Horeya offers 74 cabins, full board plus and all-inclusive. Construction year 2023/24. Launch/opening 2024. Offer Price per person from 795 €

MS Jaz Ghalia

2 Weeks | Cairo-Luxor-Aswan | New 2024 New 5-star deluxe Nile cruise ship of Jaz Cruises (Jaz Hotel Group) by Travco, Jaz Ghaliia (ex. Jaz Asteria) offers 47 cabins and full board. Renovation year 2023. Launch/reopening 2024. Offer Price per person from 720 €

MS Jaz Gloria

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | NEW 2024 New 5-star deluxe Nile cruise ship of Jaz Cruises (Jaz Hotel Group - JHG) by Travco, M/S Jaz Gloria offers 46 cabins, 1 Suite and full board. Renovation year 2023. Launch/re-opening 2024. Offer Price per person from 720 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New and popular deluxe cruise ship Mayfair Cruises with SPA area, 56 Standard Cabins, 16 Executive Cabins and 2 President Suites. Offer Price per person from 990 €

MS Esplanade

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board 5-star deluxe ship from the Mayfair Grand Plaza shipping company with spa, 56 standard cabins, 15 executive cabins and 2 presidential suites. Offer Price per person from 990 €

MS Mayflower

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board New Winter 2019/2020 completed Super Deluxe Nile Ship with SPA, 30 Deluxe, 8 Executive Cabins, 16 Royal Suites and 2 Presidential Suites. Offer Price per person from 995 €

Mövenpick Darakum

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Elegant and tasteful luxury class Nile ship of the Mövenpick hotel group with 44 Standard-Cabins and 8 Suite Cabins. Offer Price per person from 1115 €

Mövenpick Royal Lily

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Popular 5-star deluxe Nile ship of the Mövenpick Cruises hotel group with 56 Standard Cabins and 4 Royal Suites. Offer Price per person from 985 €

Mövenpick Royal Lotus

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Modern Deluxe Class Nile Ship of the Mövenpick Hotel Group with 60 cabins and 2 Royal Suites. Offer Price per person from 985 €

Mövenpick Sunray

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Noble and high-quality Nile Cruise Ship of the Mövenpick hotel group with 66 Cabins and 2 Senior Suites. Offer Price per person from 1115 €

Mövenpick Hamees

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Modern Deluxe Cruise ship of the well-known Mövenpick Cruises group with 72 Standard Cabins and Superior Cabins. Offer Price per person from 1125 €

Mövenpick Prince Abbas

5 Days | Aswan-Abu Simbel | Full Board Exclusive, comfortable Retro Nasser Lake Cruise Ship of Mövenpick Group with 65 Standard Cabins, Junior and Royal Suites. Offer Price per person from 595 €

Mövenpick SS Misr

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Historical steam-Nile cruise ship (built in 1907) of the Mövenpick chain with 16 Cabins, 6 Suites with balcony and 2 Suites with private panoramic terrace. Offer Price per person from 2160 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Special paddle steamer Nilschiff (side wheels, built in 1921) got out of the movies "Death on the Nile" as SS Karnak with 23 cabins and suites. Offer Price per person from 2290 €

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Full Board Exclusive and historic Nile Steamboat (wheel steamer with rear wheels, built in 1917) for groups and charter with 11 Cabins and 3 Royal Cabins. Offer Price per person from 2595 €

Mövenpick Feddya Dahabiya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Butler Luxury suite Nile cruise Dahabiya sailing boat "boutique Nile cruise" by Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts "Mövenpick Nile Cruises", SB Mövenpick Feddya Dahabiya offers only 4 suite cabins with Butler service. Offer Price private charter on Request

Sonesta Amirat Dahabeya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Deluxe Luxury Nile cruise Dahabiya sailing boat of the Sonesta Hotels & Resorts "Sonesta Nile Cruises", SB Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya with Jacuzzi offers 5 deluxe cabins and 2 suites with private balcony. Offer Price per person from 1700 €

Farouz El Nil Dahabiya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Deluxe Deluxe Nile cruise Dahabeya sailing boats of Jaz Cruises (Jaz Hotel Group, JHG) by Travco, S/B Jaz Farouz El Nil 1, 2 & 3 Dahabiyas offers 6 deluxe cabins with panoramic window. Offer Price per person from 3516 €

KAZAZIAN Arax Dahabiya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Ultra Luxury New ultra-luxury Nile cruiser Dahabiya sailing yacht by Kazazian Cruises, S/B "KAZAZIAN Arax" Dahabiya yacht offers V.V.I.P. class service in Egypt. Price on Request

KAZAZIAN Berge Dahabiya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Ultra Luxury New ultra-luxury Nile cruiser Dahabiya sailing yacht by Kazazian Cruises, S/B "KAZAZIAN Berge" Dahabiya yacht offers V.V.I.P. class service on the Nile. Offer Price per person from on Request €

AQUA Dahabiya

1 Week | Luxor-Aswan-Luxor | Ultra Luxury New ultra-luxury Nile cruiser Dahabiya sailing yacht by Aqua Cruises, S/B The AQUA Dahabiya yacht offers V.V.I.P. class service in Upper Egypt. Offer Price per person from on Request €

Nile Cruise Tours

Our selected nile cruises and egypt round trips with and without hotel combination booking option for your best moments of the year..

Nile Cruise

1 Week | Double Cabin | Full Board | Incl. Excursions Experience Egypt from the Nile and see the highlights of millennia-old culture. See much of Egypt and Nile Valley from the deck of your "floating hotel". Offer Price per person from 945 €

Nile Cruise Tour/Itinerary From Luxor via Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo to Aswan and Abu Simbel, and from Aswan via Kom Ombo back to Luxor then check-out and disembarkation, transfer to the airport or hotel. Nile Cruise Ship 1 Week Nile Cruise Tour; Arrival in Luxor Egypt, transfer to the Nile ship and embarkation (check-in). Beginning of the Classic Nile Cruise Tour. If booked, after the Nile cruise from Luxor by bus over the desert or with Domestic flight EgyptAir to Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea and check-in at The Oberoi Hotel.

Nile Cruise Excursions & Sights In Luxor Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Tomb of Thebes West with "Kings Valley", Visit to the tomb of Tutankhamen, Medinet Habu and mortuary temple Ramses III, Dendera Hathor Temple, Memnon Colossi and Hatshepsut Temple as well as sound and light show in the Karnak temple. In Esna Chnum temple, in Edfu Temple of Horus, in Kom Ombo the double temple Sobek temple and Haroeris temple, in Aswan Kitchner island, Agilka Island with Philae Temple, Unfinished obelisk, Dam and Felukkenfahrt to visit the Botanical Garden. Abu Simbel Temple of Ramses II and Temple of Nefertari.

Nile Cruise Including Services V.I.P. Reception at the airport, private transfers and tour guides, private tour guides, all excursions (including entrance fees for temples and museum), Nile ship is with full board board. Sound and light show Karnak Temple. Luxor Balloon Tour. Nile Cruise Exclusive Service Butler service, Oberoi SPA & Wellness Anwendungen, Massagen und Beauty Behandlungen, Private plane/Business Jet or Helicopter Charter, V.I.P. Limusine Transver mit Security, Escort services, Oper service for kids up to 12 years, Drinks, additional individual excursion wishes.

Lake Nasser Cruise

5 Days | Double Cabin | Full Board | Incl. Excursions Experience Nubia from Lake Nasser and visit the highlights of millennia-old culture. See much of Egypt and Nubia from the deck of your "floating hotel". Offer Price per person from 495 €

Lake Nasser Cruise Tour/Itinerary From Aswan via Kasr Ibraim to Abu Simbel, and from Abu Simbel via Kalabsha back to Aswan, then check-out and disembarkation, Transver to the airport, or Nile cruise ship, or hotel on the Red Sea. Nasser Lake Cruise Ship 5 Days Nasser cruise; Arrival in Aswan, Egypt, transfer to the ship and embarkation (check-in). begin the Nasser cruise tour. Check-out, disembark and transfer to Aswan Airport for return flight, or by EgyptAir#flight to your connecting trip in Cairo or Luxor as well as hotel on the Red Sea.

Lake Nasser Cruise Excursions & Sights On Lake Nasser (Nubian Sea), visit the Kalabsha Temple and visit the kiosk of Kertassi. In Wadi el-Sebua, visit the Wadi el-Sebua and visit the temple complex of Dakka and Maharakka in the "Valley of the Lions" (Dakka Temple and Maharakka Temple). Fortress Fort Kasr Ibrim (there is no shore leave, sightseeing is only by boat), In Abu Simbel visit the temple of Ramses II and the temples of his wife Nefertari (Temple of Ramses II and Temple of Nefertari), in Amada the Amada temple visit and visit the tomb of Penut. Wadi Halfa in Sudan with visa only.

Lake Nasser Cruise Including Services V.I.P. Reception at the airport, private transfers and tour guides, private tour guides, all excursions (including entrance fees for temples and museum), Nasser Cruise Ship is with full board board. Desert and Bedouin village tour. Luxor Balloon Tour. Lake Nasser Cruise Extra Services Butler service, Oberoi SPA & Wellness treatments, Massages and beauty treatments, Private plane/Business Jet or Helicopter Charter, V.I.P. Limousine transfer with security, Escort services, Oper service for kids up to 12 years, beverages, Additional individual excursions wish.

Nile & Lake Nasser Cruises

12 Days | Double Cabin | Full Board | Incl. Excursions Experience Egypt from the cruise ship and see the Highlights of millennia-old culture. See much of Egypt, Nile Valley and Nubia from the deck of your "floating hotel". Offer Price per person from 1395 €

Nile & Lake Nasser Cruise Tour/Itinerary From Luxor via Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo to Aswan, from Aswan to Abu Simbel, from Abu Simbel via Aswan back to Luxor then check-out and disembarkation, Transver to the airport. Nile & Nasser Cruise Ships 1 Week Nile cruise and 5 Days Nasser Lake Sea Cruise; Arrival in Luxor/Aswan, Egypt, transfer to the Nile ship and embarkation (check-in). Beginning of the Classic Nile Cruise Tour. Check-out, disembarkation and transfer to the Lake Nasser cruise, check-in, boat trip on the Nasser Lake Cruise.

Nile & Lake Nasser Excursions & Sights Luxor / Karnak Temples, West Bank Valley of the Kings, Tutankhamun's Tomb, Medinet Habu and Ramses III Temple, Hathor, Memnon Colossi, Hatshepsut Temple, Sound/Light show Karnak Temple. Chnum Temple Esna, Horus Temple Edfu, Kom Ombo Sobek and Haroeris temples, in Aswan Kitchner island, Philae Temple, Unfinished obelisk, dam (Barrage), Felucca ride visit the Botanical Garden. Lake Nasser, Kalabsha Temple, Kiosk of Kertassi. Wadi el-Sebua, Temple of Dakka and Maharakka in the "Valley of the Lions". Fortress Kasr Ibrim (no shore leave), Abu Simbel temples of Ramses II and Nefertari, Amada Temple and Tomb of Penut.

Nile & Lake Nasser Cruise Including Services V.I.P. Reception at the airport, private transfers and tour guides, Private tour guide, All excursions (including entrance fees to temples and museum), Nile and Nasser ships with full board board. Sound/Light show Karnak Temple. Luxor Balloon Tour. Nile & Nasser Lake Cruise Exclusive Service Butler service, Oberoi SPA & Wellness treatments, Massages and beauty treatments, Private plane/Business Jet or Helicopter Charter, V.I.P. Limousine transfer with security, Escort services, Oper service for kids up to 12 years, beverages, Additional individual excursions wish.

Our selected Taylor made Egypt special tours for your most beautiful moments of the year.

Nile Cruise & Red Sea

2 Weeks | DBL | FB/HB | Incl. Excursions 1 Week Nile cruiser The Oberoi Zahra & 1 Week Hotel The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh Offer Price per person from 2.845 €

Nile Combination Tour/Itinerary From Luxor via Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo to Aswan and Abu Simbel, and from Aswan via Kom Ombo back to Luxor then on to the Red Sea Oberoi Hotel for a beach holiday. The Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise Ship 1 Week Nile Cruise: Arrival in Luxor, Egypt, transfer to the Nile ship and embarkation (check-in). Beginning of the Classic Nile Cruise Tour. From Luxor by bus over the desert or with EgyptAir domestic flight to Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea.

The Oberoi Hotel Sahl Hasheesh Check in and start the bathing stay in Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea "Half Board".

Combination Tour Including Services V.I.P. Reception at the airport, private transfers and tour guides, Private guide, All excursions (including entrance fees for temples and museum), Nile ship is full board and the hotel is half board. Fantasia 1001 Night Alf Leila Wa Leila Show. Discover Scuba diving. Desert Safari Tour. Mahmya Giftun Island Boat Tour. Exclusive Services Butler service, Oberoi SPA & Wellness treatments, Massages and beauty treatments, Private plane/Business Jet or Helicopter Charter, V.I.P. Limousine transfer with security, Escort services, Oper service for kids up to 12 years, beverages, Additional individual excursions wish.

Nile Cruise & Hurghada

2 wk. | DBL | FB/HB | Incl. Excursions 1 Week Nile cruiser The Oberoi Philae & 1 Week The Oberoi Hotel Sahl Hasheesh Offer Price per person from 2.865 €

Nile Combination Tour-Itinerary From Luxor via Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo to Aswan and Abu Simbel, and from Aswan via Kom Ombo back to Luxor then on to the Red Sea Oberoi Hotel for a beach holiday. The Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise Ship 1 Week Nile Cruise: Arrival in Luxor, Egypt, transfer to the Nile ship and embarkation (check-in). Beginning of the Classic Nile Cruise Tour. From Luxor by bus over the desert or with EgyptAir domestic flight to Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea.

Oberoi Hotel Sahl Hasheesh Check in and start the bathing stay in Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea "Half Board".

Combination Tour Incl. Services VIP Reception at the airport, private transfers and tour guides, Private guide, All excursions (including entrance fees for temples and museum), Nile ship is full board and the hotel is half board. Fantasia 1001 Night Alf Leila Wa Leila Show. Discover Scuba diving. Desert Safari Tour. Mahmya Giftun Island Boat Tour. Excl. Services Butler service, Oberoi SPA & Wellness treatments, Massages and beauty treatments, Private plane/Business Jet or Helicopter Charter, V.I.P. Limousine transfer with security, Escort services, Oper service for kids up to 12 years, beverages, Additional individual excursions wish.

Nile Cruise and Red Sea

2 Weeks | DBL | FB/HB | with Excursions 1 Week Nile ship Sanctuary Sun Boat IV & 1 Week Hotel The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh Offer Price per person from 2.885 €

Nile Combination Itinerary/Tour From Luxor via Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo to Aswan and Abu Simbel, and from Aswan via Kom Ombo back to Luxor then on to the Red Sea Oberoi Hotel for a beach holiday. Sanctuary Sun Boat IV Nile Cruise Ship 1 Week Nile Cruise: Arrival in Luxor, Egypt, transfer to the Nile ship and embarkation (check-in). Beginning of the Classic Nile Cruise Tour. From Luxor by bus over the desert or with EgyptAir domestic flight to Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea.

The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh Hotel Check in and start the bathing stay in Sahl Hasheesh on the Red Sea "Half Board".

Combination-Tour Including Services VIP-Reception at the airport, private transfers and tour guides, Private guide, All excursions (including entrance fees for temples and museum), Nile ship is full board and the hotel is half board. Fantasia 1001 Night Alf Leila Wa Leila Show. Discover Scuba diving. Desert Safari Tour. Mahmya Giftun Island Boat Tour. Exclusive-Services Butler service, Oberoi SPA & Wellness treatments, Massages and beauty treatments, Private plane/Business Jet or Helicopter Charter, V.I.P. Limousine transfer with security, Escort services, Oper service for kids up to 12 years, beverages, Additional individual excursions wish.

About Nile River Cruise Ships

Nilerivercruiseships.com offers you the selected best premium luxury deluxe and suite nile river cruise ships, nile cruises with more services, nasser lake cruise ships as well as exclusive nile cruises with cairo, luxor, aswan and red sea hotel combination tours, which are also individually organized, planned and arranged according to your personal wishes, for your best moments in the year in egypt nile cruise ships with certificate from germanischer lloyd certification (int. lloyds) or similar and crystal hygiene management program..

What categories and types of Nile cruise ships are there? Officially there are 3 categories of cruise ships from the 80s; 3-star, 4-star and 5-star Nile ships that do not meet today's ship equipment and standards or are no longer up to date. Since the end of the 1990s, only ships in the 5-star category have been built or old 3- and 4-star Nile ships have been renovated and upgraded to 5-stars. Common (market) 5-star Nile cruise ship types and categories are: 5-star (5* standard), 5-star deluxe, 5-star seperior, (also 5* super deluxe), 5-star all-suite (also 5* suite-only), 5-star ultra-luxury and special category (historic steamships and paddle boats). There are also the very exclusive Dahabiya Nile cruise sailboats. Nilkreuzfahrtschiff.com is a portal of MISRTOUR.COM in Egypt.

NileRiverCruiseShips.com

Egypt Nile Cruise Specialist Powered by MISRTOUR.COM West Bank, Luxor City, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, Egypt. Booking phone: +20 1002405415 Website: www.nilerivercruiseships.com E-mail: [email protected] YouTube: Nile River Cruise Ships Videos

Booking Request | Contact

Please let us know the travel and tour details for your wish nile cruise ship, nile river cruise trip or nasser lake cruise and tour booking in egypt. direct telephone booking hotline: 0020 100 240 5415.

• Egypt Travel Guide
• Nile Cruise Travel Guide

Best Nile Cruise Ships Sailing Between Luxor & Aswan

You may have heard that having a  Nile River Cruise  is a typical experience that you can have in Egypt and many questions may come to your mind when it comes to planning a Nile Cruise tour. The first and the main question is how can you choose a good Nile Cruise and is it really safe to board a Nile Cruise in the middle of  the Nile ? And lots of other questions and through our article, we will introduce the most highlighted issues about the best Nile cruise ships and answer as many questions as we can regarding such a wonderful tour.

First of all, you should know that there are two major classifications for Nile cruises in Egypt based on the type of services and amenities you can find on board, and based on this, here are the  two types of Nile Cruises  that you can choose your Nile Cruise from:

5* High Luxury Nile Cruise Ships

Luxury Nile Cruises are the version of high luxury hotels in Egypt but in a floating shape. If you are looking for the most comfortable accommodation, the greatest notable services, amenities, and facilities, if you are looking for a luxury tour full of passion and excitement, then board one of our 5*high luxury Nile Cruise will definitely fill your satisfaction and make you get back home with a memorable experience and a lifetime adventure. There are some 5* high luxury Nile cruises in Egypt that will allow you to live like a real Pharaoh or a gorgeous queen in the land of miracles as you will receive the most fabulous services ever.

5* Deluxe Nile Cruise Ships

There are many  5* deluxe Nile cruises  in Egypt that you will enjoy the most while getting on the board of any of them and have some wonderful time while making use of their interesting facilities for travelers on their board. It is very important for you to notice that there are many 5* deluxe Nile cruises that aren’t recommended because they have old furniture and the food served there isn’t of high quality as other cruises. That is why you need to make sure that you are booking your Nile cruise tour with a trusted travel agency to get the most incredible adventure you have always wanted.

We always make sure that we choose the best Nile cruises especially those which were recently renovated to offer an amazing experience that can’t be forgotten and we keep update the list of our 5* Nile cruises based on our guests’ reviews and feedback so we keep working with specific ones, add more to our list, and omit some others from our list if they have any negative feedback.

Top Deluxe & High Luxury Nile Cruise Ships

Here is a list of the most recommended 5* deluxe & 5* high luxury Nile cruises based on their classification in Egypt:

The Best 5* High Luxury Nile Cruise Ships

1. mayfair ship, 2. oberoi zahra ship, 3. oberoi philae ship, 4. movenpick royal lily ship, 5. farah ship, 6. acamar ship, 7. sonesta moon goddess ship, 8. tulip ship, 9. sanctuary sun boat iii ship.

The charming  Sanctuary Sun Boat III Nile cruise  has been classified among the top 5* high luxury cruise in Egypt with its fabulous Spa, gym, lounges, outside dining, and other luxury features. There are 36spacious cabins on its board and 3 spacious suites.

The Best 5* Deluxe Nile Cruise Ships

1. crown jewel ship, 2. crown prince nile cruise, 3. nile style ship, 4. moon dance ship, 5. concerto ship, 6. steigenberger regency ship, 7. steigenberger minerva ship, 8. steigenberger legacy ship, 9. nile premium ship, 10. sonesta nile goddess ship, 11. crown jubilee ship.

In order to get on the board of  MS Crown Jubilee Nile cruise , you need to check-in either on Thursday from Luxor for the 4 or 7 nights tour or on Monday from Aswan for the 3 nights tour. On the board of such a deluxe Nile cruise, you will find an amazing restaurant that serves the best oriental & international cuisine in Egypt. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, an amazing bar, truly interesting cabins with a TV screen with satellite channels and of course a private bathroom. There is a sun terrace on the board of Ms. Crown Jubilee to enjoy the terrific beauty of the view all around you.

Best Egypt Nile River Cruises

There are tens of other interesting  Nile River Cruises  through which you will have the chance to enjoy the most magnificent sightseeing in both  Luxor  and  Aswan  and we are always available for you so that you send us your request and it is going to be our responsibility to provide you with the most unforgettable  and the safest tour in your life. Just contact us “ Trips in Egypt ” and let us achieve your dreams.

4 Day Nile Cruise Itinerary From Aswan

Our 4 Days Nile cruise Aswan to Luxor itinerary is the best ...

4 Days / 3 Nights

Availability

Wed & Fri

From: 480 $

5 days nile cruise itinerary from luxor.

Stunning 5 days Nile cruise Luxor to Aswan to witness the br...

5 Days / 4 Nights

Sat & Mon

From: 625 $

8 days nile cruise itinerary from aswan.

Board one of our magical cruises and sail through the wondro...

8 Days / 7 Nights

Fridays / Wednesdays

From: 950 $

8 days nile cruise itinerary from luxor.

Book now our breathtaking 7 Night Nile Cruise from Luxor, vi...

Share Your Comment

What should i wear while being in egypt.

You should wear whatever you want. It is advised to wear something light from cotton or linen, comfortable and put on sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the sandy terrain.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should bring a brimmed hat and sunglasses if you not used to the Egyptian sun &pack everything you could ever need and put in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Are All Nile Cruises Available at Any Time?

Yes, it is available all years. as the Nile from Aswan to Luxor takes three to four days of sailing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the total cost of 600$ and the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take four to five days in Saturday, Monday and Thursday for the coast of 650$.

Why book Trips in Egypt?

We have experience in vacation planning for more than 10 years & our staff consists of the most professional operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort create the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time advisors to fit your every possible need during your time in egypt. we always keep in mind that your safety & comfort are our main priority until you return home.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to egypt, You will feel secure in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is very peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt and construct an entire environment dedicated for ensuring the lives of all tourists.

What are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

They are very simples, If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries(check the link), have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD entry fee in cash. As for the E-Visa for 30 days, you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could be one of the countries eligible for a free visa for 90 days.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature of Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c, Summer in Egypt is somehow hot and winter is cool and mild but sometimes it becomes cold at night. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 23 ¡ÆC in the summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 32 ¡ÆC in the summertime while the temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What is the Best Time of Visit Egypt?

It is known the best time to travel to Egypt is in the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical, a warm atmosphere with a winter breeze. You will also be notified a week before your trip if the weather is unsafe or if any changes have been made.

Should I Give Tips in Egypt?

It is totally up to you, but if you choose to you can tip the servers at your restaurant 5-10% by handing it to them directly and 5 Egyptian Pounds as a general tip of anyone.

Can I Enter the Pyramids?

Yes, you can enter the pyramids for the small fee of 20$.

How to Enjoy Egypt During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims that should be celebrated by non-Muslims and feel the essence of the Islamic culture. You can fast with the Muslim or just observe but you are always welcome to join the celebrations and festivals.

Company Core Values

About Trips In Egypt

Trips In Egypt was founded in 2002 when it launched, since then the company specialized in providing trips in Egypt only which includes tour packages, vacations, Nile cruises, day trips, shore excursions, and any kind of trips in Egypt.

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• Nile River Cruise - Egypt Nile Cruise 2024/2025
• Luxor and Aswan Nile Cruises
• Luxury Nile Cruise

Sanctuary Sun Boat III Luxury Nile Cruise

Description.

• Inquire Now

Sanctuary Sun Boat III Nile Cruise is akin to an intimate river yacht representing the ultimate in luxury and relaxation on the Nile. It was launched in 1993, and fully renovated in 2005. This elegant Egypt cruise boat accommodates up to 36 guests on seven night cruises. WHY THE SANCTUARY SUN BOAT III Nile Cruise? 

• Has several times been voted one of the top 100 most beautiful boats in the world by Condé Nast readers.
• Choice of seven and ten night itineraries, led by best Egyptologists.
• Award-winning chefs.
• Only 18 cabins, allowing for an intimate and personalised Nile cruise.
• First boat in over 15 years to cruise from Cairo to Aswan, opening up new sites to guests including Beni Hassan rock tombs.

Tour Details

Sanctuary sun boat iii luxury nile cruise facilities, accommodation.

• Reception 24 Hours 
• Daily Housekeeping service
• Laundry facilities 
• Spacious sundeck and Swimming pool 
• Gymnasium and massage room 
• Gift shop 
• Room service 
• Library and games room 
• Computers and Internet access
• Shaded sun deck with lounge Bar
• Spacious dining room 
• Medical service on call (24/7)
• Wireless Internet access available

Other Facilities

Air condition, private bath with shower, doctor available 24 hours, sanctuary sun boat iii luxury nile cruise itinerary, 04 days / 03 nights program (every friday), day 01: aswan city tour - aswan on.

Upon arrival to Aswan , you will be met and greet by our English-speaking representative who will transfer you by private A-C van to your fabulous Nile cruise ship. Check in before 12:00 PM. At the beginning you will have your Lunch meal on board. After Lunch, you will be transferred to visit The High Dam , which has been erected by the Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1960 AD to protect Egypt from the Nile flood. After that you will enjoy sailing on the Nile by a motor boat to reach Temple of Philae , which was erected during the Graeco-Roman period and was dedicated to goddess Isis. At last you will be escorted to visit The Unfinished Obelisk , which was made out of red granite and was dedicated to god Amun Ra. After finishing your tour, you will return to your ship. At night, free at leisure on your own in Aswan. [L-D]

Meals Included:

N.B : If your arrival time to Aswan is so early, so we will start the tour direct upon arrival as the cruise check in time at 12:00 and we don't want our guest waste their time waiting at the lobby for check in.

Day 02: Kom Ombo - Edfu & ON

Breakfast will be served on board your ship. After that you will join your Egyptologist tour guide to visit one of the most wonderful temples in Egypt, Temple of Kom Ombo , where the two gods Sobek & Haroeris were worshipped for a while. Get back to your ship and enjoy your lunch on the sun deck, watching the unique landscape of the great river Nile. Afternoon, enjoy chariot riding to Temple of Horus in Edfu, which is considered to be one of the most well preserved temples in Egypt. After finishing your tour, you will be transferred back to your ship. Afternoon, you willmenjoy relaxing on board your ship. Dinner will be served on board. At night Egyptian Folkloric Show party will be operated by staff on board.

Day 03: Luxor West Bank - Luxor ON

Breakfast on the Nile cruise. After that you will start your magical tour in Thebes, the sacred land by exploring the west bank of Luxor including Valley of the Kings , which considers as the royal cemetery of the Theban kings and rulers of ancient Egypt, and the place where our Pharaohs were buried. After that, you will proceed to visit Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir El Bahari. This temple is considered as one of the most wonderful examples of the Architecture in ancient Egypt, because it was totally carved inside the mountain. At the end of the tour you will visit Colossi of Memnon , which is belonging to king Amenhotep III. After that you will return to your ship to have your lunch. Afternoon, free at leisure. Dinner and overnight on the cruise.

Day 04: Check Out - Luxor East Bank

Check out after breakfast (at 08:00 AM). After that you will enjoy your tour discovering the East Bank of Luxor, including the most wonderful Karnak Temples Complex , which is considered to be the biggest complex construction in the world covering an area of a hundred. Finish your lovely tour in Temple of Luxor , built by one of the kings of the 12th dynasty & completed by the well know king Ramses II. After finishing your day tour, you will be transferred by private A-C van to your location in Luxor (where our services will be ended).

05 Days / 04 Nights Program (Every Monday)

Day 01: luxor east bank - luxor on.

Upon arrival at Luxor airport or station, our representative will transfer you to your Nile Cruise by a private A/C van. Embarkation before 12:00 PM. Afternoon, you will discover the East bank of Luxor including Karnak Temples Complex , which are the largest structures ever build in the history of the mankind. The principal building is that of god Amun Ra, since it was considered the house of god on the earth, the earlier structure date back to the middle kingdom, but there are some references which refer to the earlier buildings as old as the 3rd dynasty. Later on, you will proceed to visit Temple of Luxor , which was built by one of the kings of the 12th dynasty and completed by the well know king Ramses II. This temple was located in the heart of ancient Thebes and, like Karnak, was dedicated to the main/chief god Amun Re. After finishing your day tour, you will be transferred back to your ship for rest and refresh. At night, Egyptian folkloric show will be operated by the staff. Dinner will be served and overnight in Luxor. (L-D) N.B: If your arrival time to Luxor is so early, so we will start the tour direct upon arrival as the cruise check in time at 12:00 and we don't want our guest waste their time waiting at the lobby for check in.

Day 02: Luxor West Bank - Sail to Edfu & ON

Day 03: edfu - kom ombo - sail to aswan & on.

Breakfast on board your Nile cruise. Then your tour guide will take you in a mysterious journey to land of secrets. This guided tour of today begins by visiting one of the most wonderful temples in Egypt, Temple of Horus in Edfu, which is considered to be one of the most well preserved temples in Egypt. After that, you will revert back to your ship. Lunch will be served on board during sailing to the city of Kom Ombo.

Afternoon, you will proceed to explore Temple of Kom Ombo, where the two gods Sobek & Haroeris were worshipped for a while. Get back to your ship and enjoy your lunch.

Enjoy the sun deck, watching the unique landscape of the great river Nile. On its banks the ancient Egyptian civilization has been created and flourished.

Dinner meal will be served on board during sailing to the city of Aswan. Late evening arrive to Aswan and overnight.

Day 04: Aswan City Tour - Aswan ON

Breakfast will be served on board your ship. Later on, you will join your Egyptologist tour guide to discover the great city of Aswan, including The High Dam , which has been erected by the Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1960 AD to protect Egypt from the Nile flood. After that you will enjoy sailing on the Nile River by a motor boat till reach Agilika Island, where you will visit Temple of Philae , which was erected during the Gaeco-Roman period and was dedicated to goddess Isis (mother of god Horus). Finally you will be escorted to visit one of the marvelous sightseeing in Aswan, The Unfinished Obelisk , which was made out of red granite and was dedicated to god Amun Ra. After finishing your day tour, you will get back to your ship. Lunch will be served on board. Afternoon tea will be served on board. At night free at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Aswan.

Day 05: Disembarkation from cruise - Departure to Cairo

Check out after breakfast. Then our representative will accompany you to Aswan airport - station to take your flight to Cairo (Breakfast) **

Optional Tour: Excursion to Abu Simble temples either by private coach or by domestic flight: you will be met with our English-speaking tour guide in Aswan who will transfer you by private A-C van to Abu Simbel, lies south of Aswan on the western bank of the Nile, 180 miles south of the First Cataract in what was Nubia. The site was known as Meha in ancient times and was first documented in the 18th Dynasty, when Ay and Horemheb had rock-cut chapels hewn in the hills to the south. Upon arrival, you will proceed to visit Abu Simbel Temples, which were built by the well-known king Ramses II. The biggest temple was called as the Great temple. It was built by Ramesses II and being dedicated to the famous god Rahorakhty. While the smaller temple and it was dedicated to king Ramesses II himself and his beautiful wife queen Nefertari. After finishing your day tour, you will drive back toward Aswan. Arrive Aswan and be transferred by private A-C van to your chosen hotel there for check in, rest and refresh or transfer to Aswan airport to catch your domestic flight to Cairo.

Cruise Fact Sheet:

Sanctuary sun boat iii luxury nile cruise fact sheet, what's included.

• 04 or 03 nights’ accommodation on board the Nile cruises based on FB basis.
• Meet and assist service upon arrival & departure 
• Assistance of our personnel during your stay and excursions 
• All transfers by a modern air-conditioned deluxe vehicle private
• All Nile Cruise excursions as mentioned in the itinerary private
• Entrance fees to all sights in and between Luxor and Aswan
• English-speaking tour guide during your excursions on the Cruise (group size is 1 - 8 maximum)
• Complementary 01 bottle of water per day per person
• All transfers by A-C vehicles with qualified driver (s).
• All service charges and taxes

Not Included

• Any Extra meals and beverages.
• All personal expenses like laundry etc.
• Tipping to Guide, Driver, etc.
• Any Optional tours may require.

Contact us for prices

Essential trip information

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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

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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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Step Into a Dream Come True…

Welcome aboard “Nile Lily,” a chartered luxury sailing boat waiting to take you on an extraordinary journey back in time. Inspired by the elegance of the Pharaohs’ royal sail boats, this dahabia, known as “The Golden Boat,” offers a unique and enchanting experience on the majestic Nile River.

Stepping on board, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, relishing the timeless charm and tranquility that only sailing can provide. As the gentle breeze guides us through the Nile’s scenic landscapes, you’ll embark on a sailing meditation, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of Egypt, just as it was experienced thousands of years ago during Biblical times.

Join us on Nile Lily and let the spirit of ancient Egypt embrace you, as we sail off the beaten path, and towards unforgettable memories.

Allow Yourself to be Pampered…

Nile Lily boasts 10 elegantly designed cabins with panoramic views, featuring large windows that can be fully opened to invite in refreshing breezes. The accommodation includes 7 twin cabins and 3 king cabins, all meticulously furnished with period pieces and handcrafted wicker chairs, exuding an air of timeless luxury. A 36 jet jacuzzi on deck enhances your relaxation experience.

Uniquely, Nile Lily offers the most expansive deck space among all Nile sailing boats. Take pleasure in the breathtaking vistas of the Nile River from the partially shaded main deck and upper deck, where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

An Experience Fit for Pharaohs

The highest US and European standards of hygiene and cleanliness are rigorously enforced in the kitchen, the dining room and throughout the entire boat.

The sumptuous traditional Egyptian and Continental cuisine is meticulously and carefully prepared by the head chef.

Nile Lily is air-conditioned throughout, including each cabin with individually controlled units.

Privately chartered Nile Lily is staffed with an experienced crew. The boat is equipped with required safety equipment, and is fully insured.

Enjoy your days with “Nile Lily.” A luxury sailing yacht, she is waiting to take you on an extraordinary journey.

Inspired by the elegance of the Pharaohs’ royal sail boat, this dahabiya offers a unique and enchanting experience on the timeless Nile River.

Nile Lily Buffet

Nile Lily Chef

Nile lily reception area, group photo, swan towel bed dressing.

Nile Lily Culinary Staff

Beautiful cruise view, nile lily on the bank, sunset on the cruise, nile lily with a tug boat, “the crew and attendant staff were impeccable…healthy, delicious prepared foods at each meal are just a couple of examples of how the nile lily experience made us feel special and well cared for…”, services & facilities.

A sumptuous appointed Dining Room

Beautiful Lounge Area with bar

Outdoor Dining & Bar on the 2 sun decks

Fully relax in a Jacuzzi with 36 jets

Also Enjoy These On-Deck Amenities

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner with organic, locally sourced, fresh meats, fruits & vegetables
• Exquisitely prepared traditional Egyptian cuisine, with an occasional Continental, French-inspired touch
• Afternoon Tea Time during sailing days
• Special dietary requests available
• Large kitchen with deluxe  European standard appliances
• Meals are prepared with mineral bottled water. Staff members involved with food preparation are gloved and wear hair nets
• An industrialised ultraviolet purification water system services the entire boat
• Meeting and Conference Facilities ; Inside the boat and on the gorgeous wooden deck surrounded by The Nile.
• Laundry Service- Laundry & Ironing (no dry cleaning.)
• Dynamic Surround Sound for your listening pleasure.
• Handicapped bathrooms.
• Large gang planks available for those with wheelchair or walkers.
• Satellite capability to accommodate TV in the lounge and cabins.
• Baby/child cot available upon request

About NILE LILY

5-star yacht sailing boat dahabiya. There are 7 twins and 3 king cabins.

5-star Nile Lily comfortably carries 20 passengers with an experienced well-trained crew, ensuring world-class service.

Nile Lily has 10 luxuriously appointed, outside facing cabins, with large windows that open to the fresh air. Sink into the soft comfortable bed with its 300 count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and plush pillow top mattress.

Enjoy organic, always fresh and locally farmed produce. The fish, lamb, poultry and beef served are always fresh, never frozen. Gluten free, vegetarian, and diabetic cuisine available.

NILE LILY: Deck Plan

(Click to Enlarge)

Egypt Tours Expert

Ranked #1 Local Tour Operator

20 Best Luxury Small Boat Nile Cruises: An Unforgettable Way To Explore Egypt

Egypt, a realm of wonders and captivating beauty, boasts a history that unfurls across millennia. To truly embrace the tapestry of this remarkable land, a Nile cruise aboard a luxurious small boat presents an ideal vantage point. Amidst an array of choices, selecting the perfect cruise can be a daunting task. That’s precisely why we’ve curated a comprehensive list of the top 20 luxury small boat Nile cruises, designed to streamline your journey toward crafting the ultimate dream vacation.

4 Days Nile River Cruise Aswan to Luxor

Discover the essence of Egypt’s ancient history as you cruise along the Nile River from Aswan to Luxor. This 4-day journey takes you to iconic landmarks, including the Aswan High Dam, the Philae Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, and the remarkable Valley of the Kings in Luxor. Onboard your luxurious cruise ship, indulge in world-class amenities and enjoy the panoramic views of the Nile’s ever-changing landscapes. Our expert guides will provide insights into Egypt’s fascinating past, making this an educational and immersive experience for all travelers View Tour Details

5 Days Nile River Cruise Luxor to Aswan

Explore the heart of Egypt’s history on a 5-day Nile River Cruise from Luxor to Aswan. This carefully curated itinerary encompasses a wide array of historical gems, from the renowned Karnak Temple Complex and Valley of the Kings in Luxor to the twin temples of Kom Ombo and the grand Edfu Temple. Cruise leisurely along the Nile River, relishing the charm of the surrounding landscapes. Our knowledgeable guides will enrich your journey with fascinating tales and insights into the rich tapestry of Egypt’s past View Tour Details

4 Nights Nile River Cruise From Luxor Include Abu Simbel

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 4-night Nile River Cruise from Luxor that includes a mesmerizing visit to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Ancient Egypt as you sail along the legendary Nile River, passing by iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Explore the treasures of Luxor’s East and West Banks, encounter the grandeur of Kom Ombo and Edfu temples, and be awe-struck by the colossal statues at Abu Simbel View Tour Details

7 Night Nile River Cruise Itinerary From Luxor  

Embark on a remarkable 7-night Nile River Cruise from Luxor and experience the splendor of Egypt’s ancient civilization like never before. This extensive itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey, revealing the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that have captivated travelers for millennia. Sail serenely along the Nile River, relishing the ever-changing landscapes and historical treasures. Explore the wonders of Luxor’s East and West Banks, encounter the grandeur of Aswan, and immerse yourself in the charm of Kom Ombo and Edfu View Tour Details

4 Days Dahabiya Nile River Cruise Aswan To Luxor

The 4-day Dahabiya Nile River Cruise from Aswan to Luxor is a unique and intimate way to explore Egypt’s timeless treasures. The Dahabiya is a traditional sailing boat, offering a luxurious and personalized experience as you sail along the tranquil waters of the Nile. This carefully curated journey blends ancient history with modern comforts, allowing you to immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying top-notch hospitality View Tour Details

5 Days Dahabiya Nile River Cruise Luxor To Aswan  

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day Dahabiya Nile River Cruise from Luxor to Aswan, immersing yourself in the timeless wonders of Egypt. Sail along the historic Nile River, witnessing ancient temples, picturesque landscapes, and local culture. This all-inclusive cruise promises a luxurious and intimate experience, with expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service View Tour Details

8 Days Dahabiya Nile River Cruise From Luxor

The 8-day Dahabiya Nile River Cruise from Luxor is a carefully crafted expedition that delves deep into Egypt’s fascinating history and culture. The Dahabiya, a traditional sailing boat, offers a boutique and personalized experience as you leisurely sail from Luxor to Aswan. This exclusive journey ensures ample time to explore iconic historical sites and lesser-known gems, all while indulging in luxury and comfort on the serene Nile waters View Tour Details

4 Days Aswan Abu Simbel Nile River Cruise  

The 4-day Aswan to Abu Simbel Nile River Cruise is a journey back in time, where you’ll witness Egypt’s grandeur and history. Sail on a traditional Dahabiya, a luxurious and intimate sailing boat, as you travel through the heart of ancient Egypt. This carefully curated cruise ensures an unforgettable experience, combining historical exploration with modern comforts View Tour Details

5 Days Abu Simbel Nile River Cruise Package

Discover the treasures of Egypt with our 5-day Nile River Cruise Package, offering an unparalleled exploration of the Abu Simbel region. Sail in comfort and style on a luxurious cruise ship, while experienced guides and Egyptologists lead you through awe-inspiring ancient sites. Unravel the mysteries of the Pharaohs, witness the grandeur of iconic temples, and experience the cultural richness along the banks of the Nile View Tour Details

Luxury Movenpick MS Royal Lily Nile Cruise

Indulge in a voyage of sophistication and discovery as you cruise along the legendary Nile River on the exquisite Movenpick MS Royal Lily. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Egypt’s cultural heritage and explore ancient wonders while enjoying the finest accommodations and amenities. Our meticulously crafted itinerary ensures you witness the most iconic sites while relishing the lavish comforts of this remarkable cruise View Tour Details

Luxury MS Mayfair Nile Cruise  

The Luxury MS Mayfair Nile Cruise offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining the timeless allure of the Nile River with the finest in modern luxury. This elegant cruise ship takes you on a mesmerizing journey, from the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel to the ancient wonders of Luxor and Aswan. Unwind in sumptuous cabins, relish gourmet cuisine, and let expert Egyptologists guide you through the stories of ancient Egypt View Tour Details

Luxury MS Acamar Nile Cruise

The Luxury MS Acamar Nile Cruise promises an exceptional blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural enrichment. This elegant cruise ship offers a refined and opulent experience, featuring spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and top-notch facilities. As you sail along the Nile, expert Egyptologists will guide you through the stories of Egypt’s past, sharing fascinating insights into the country’s rich history View Tour Details

Luxury MS Farah Nile Cruise

The Luxury MS Farah Nile Cruise promises an unparalleled blend of sophistication and cultural immersion. This elegant cruise ship offers a refined and opulent experience, featuring lavish cabins, exquisite dining, and top-tier facilities. As you sail along the Nile, expert Egyptologists will enrich your journey with captivating stories of ancient Egypt. This carefully curated itinerary ensures a harmonious balance of exploration and relaxation, creating a truly immersive and memorable experience View Tour Details

Luxury MS Tulip Nile Cruise  

Embark on a luxurious voyage along the storied Nile River aboard the exquisite MS Tulip Nile Cruise. Immerse yourself in the magic of Egypt’s ancient wonders while indulging in unparalleled comfort and opulence. Join us for an unforgettable journey that seamlessly blends history, culture, and luxury View Tour Details

Luxury Sanctuary Sun Boat III Nile Cruise

Experience the epitome of luxury and cultural immersion on the Sanctuary Sun Boat III Nile Cruise. Embark on a voyage that seamlessly combines opulent accommodations, gourmet dining, and expert-guided exploration of Egypt’s iconic sites. Join us for an unforgettable journey along the storied Nile River, where history and comfort converge View Tour Details

Traveler’s Guide: Read This Before You Embark on Your Trip

The Ultimate Guide About Egypt Nile Cruise

How to Book A Nile Cruise

How to Enjoy Best Nile Cruise Depending on Your Budget

How to Enjoy Best Nile Cruise Depending on Your Destination

All You Need To Know About Dahabiya Nile Cruise

What to Pack For A Nile Cruise

Nile Cruise Tips

• Never worry about which season you should come to visit Egypt since the weather is ideal all through the year
• Bring your camera with you to keep every wonderful moment you spend either on the cruise ship or during the tours
• Don’t forget to bring both light summer clothes just like shorts & shirts and heavy clothes like a jacket or a sweater
• You will need to get your Sun-block, your hat, & sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun rays while touring the historical sites
• Remember to enjoy the super-high deluxe facilities and services located onboard the Nile cruises like Spa, Sauna, Gym, Sun deck, and more.

Nile Cruise Highlights

• Unleash your mind and spirit across the marvelous Nile views on the banks of the Nile River.
• The Nile River will lead you to witness the Immortal Pharaonic civilization in Upper Egypt.
• You will enjoy visiting the precious tombs and treasures of the ancient Egyptian kings and queens.
• The Nile cruise experience will give you the opportunity to discover all the fabulous landmarks of the Nile banks.
• Heading down far south in Aswan, you will take have the chance to discover how wonderful this Nubian city really is.

Travelers’ Choice Awards & Recent Reviews

20 Best Luxury Small Boat Nile Cruises FAQs

• What are luxury small boat Nile cruises? Luxury small boat Nile cruises offer an upscale and intimate way to explore the Nile River in Egypt. These cruises typically feature smaller vessels with luxurious amenities and personalized service.
• What makes these cruises the best for luxury travelers? These cruises are considered the best for luxury travelers due to their attention to detail, high-end accommodations, gourmet dining, exclusive experiences, and the opportunity to explore Egypt’s historical sites.
• Are there different types of luxury small boat Nile cruises? Yes, luxury small boat Nile cruises vary in terms of itineraries, amenities, and services offered. Some focus on traditional elegance, while others blend modern comforts with cultural exploration.
• What types of vessels are used for luxury small boat Nile cruises? Luxury small boat Nile cruises use various vessels, including traditional Dahabiyas, modern boutique cruisers, and historic steamships, each offering a unique ambiance and style.
• Which cruise is suitable for travelers seeking a vintage experience? The “Steam Ship Sudan” is known for its vintage charm and historical design, offering travelers a nostalgic journey reminiscent of the 19th century.
• Can I expect private balconies or outdoor spaces on these cruises? Many luxury small boat Nile cruises offer cabins with private balconies or outdoor seating areas, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic Nile views in privacy.
• Are guided tours provided during these cruises? Yes, guided tours are usually included in luxury small boat Nile cruise packages. Expert guides provide insights into Egypt’s history and cultural landmarks.
• What type of dining experiences are offered on these cruises? Luxury small boat Nile cruises often provide gourmet dining experiences with a focus on both local Egyptian cuisine and international dishes, prepared with quality ingredients.
• Are themed cruises available, such as archaeology or photography? Some luxury small boat Nile cruises offer themed cruises focused on specific interests like archaeology, photography, or cultural immersion. Availability may vary.
• How can I book a luxury small boat Nile cruise? You can book a luxury small boat Nile cruise through reputable travel agencies, cruise specialists, or directly through the cruise companies’ websites.
• What is the typical duration of these cruises? The duration of luxury small boat Nile cruises can vary from 3 to 7 nights, allowing travelers to explore different sections of the Nile River and its historical sites.
• Are these cruises suitable for families with children? While some luxury small boat Nile cruises may accommodate families, most are better suited for couples or travelers seeking a romantic and tranquil experience.
• Is Wi-Fi available on these cruises? Wi-Fi availability can vary among different luxury small boat Nile cruises. It’s recommended to check with the cruise company before booking.
• What type of attire is recommended for these cruises? Pack comfortable and elegant clothing suitable for both daytime excursions and evenings. Some cruises may have optional formal nights.
• Are curated shore excursions included in the cruise package? Yes, most luxury small boat Nile cruises offer curated shore excursions to explore historical and cultural attractions along the Nile.
• Can I extend my stay in Egypt before or after the cruise? Absolutely! Many travelers choose to extend their stay in Egypt before or after the cruise to explore more destinations like Cairo, Luxor, or Aswan.
• Is tipping customary on these cruises? Tipping is customary in Egypt, including on luxury cruises. It’s recommended to check the cruise company’s guidelines for tipping.
• What is the best time to book a luxury small boat Nile cruise? The best time to book a luxury small boat Nile cruise is during the cooler months from October to April when the weather is more pleasant for cruising and exploring.
• Can I expect a personalized and exclusive experience on these cruises? Yes, luxury small boat Nile cruises emphasize personalized and exclusive experiences, often due to their limited number of passengers and attention to detail.
• Is accessibility considered for travelers with limited mobility? While some luxury small boat Nile cruises may have limitations on accessibility, it’s recommended to inquire about this when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

An Ultimate Nile Cruise Guide (And 8 Essential Tips!)

A Nile cruise is the best way to see Ancient Egypt’s most iconic temples. Here’s your ultimate local’s Nile cruise guide to plan your perfect trip.

A Nile cruise boat is the best (and easiest) way to see legendary Luxor, Aswan and all the magnificent Ancient Egyptian temples in between.

No itinerary to Egypt is complete without stops at these major sites – and a cruise boat is the most comfortable way to see everything Egypt has to offer.

But it’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re planning your bucket list Nile adventure.

There’s around 250 different cruise boats travelling between Luxor and Aswan. How do you pick the right one? And how can you avoid the pitfalls and scams you often hear about online?

I’m an expat living in Cairo for the past decade and counting. I’ve taken a Nile cruise four different times – and they are definitely not all created equal.

So here’s my ultimate guide to taking a Nile Cruise – from how to plan your perfect itinerary, to essential tips and honest insights about what to expect.

I’ll also tell you what to avoid so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.

Table of Contents

Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan: what to expect

All the major Nile cruise boats travel between Luxor and Aswan, hitting all the major temples in between.

That means you start your cruise at either Luxor or Aswan where the boat docks for sightseeing. Then the boat departs and visits the temples along the way (before returning the same way with a new set of passengers).

3 nights Nile cruise itinerary

Most basic 3-night cruise itineraries include a stop in Luxor where you’ll see Egypt’s most incredible temples like Karnak, Hatschepsut and Luxor Temple. You’ll also visit the breathtaking Valley of the Kings to see the famous tombs of kings like Tutankhamun and Ramses II. Luxor was once the ancient capital of Thebes so it’s the epicenter for all things Ancient Egyptian.

The standard itinerary also includes a stop in Aswan, home to the charming Graeco-Roman Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk and Egypt’s colorful Nubian community. Aswan’s Nile is dotted with beautiful islands and its Nubian villages offer a glimpse into a vibrant culture.

During the cruise between Luxor and Aswan, ships usually stop at two different temples: Kom Ombo, dedicated to the ancient crocodile and falcon gods, and Edfu, dedicated to sky god Horus.

In Aswan, an optional excursion is usually offered to Abu Simbel (pictured above) – and I’d highly recommend it as it’s one of Egypt’s most stunning temples. In Luxor, optional hot-air ballooning is available with incredible views over the West Bank.

How many days do I need on a Nile cruise?

Longer cruise itineraries (between 4 to 7 nights) usually include more time in Luxor and Aswan and additional stops at temples like Esna.

If this sounds like a packed itinerary, it really is. But it’s absolutely worth it.

This 214-kilometer stretch of the Nile River is the heartland of Ancient Egypt and it’s an open-air museum of monuments and wonders.

You’ll get plenty of time to sit on the boat sundeck, sip a beer, take a swim and enjoy the scenes of rural Nile life sweeping past. But most days are filled with sightseeing with windows of downtime.

To avoid getting “templed out” and overwhelmed by all the history, study up on the temples before you leave. It doesn’t have to be a deep dive. But just watching a few YouTube videos about the temples does wonders to enrich your experience.

The best Nile cruise boats

The quality of the boats cruising the Nile varies wildly – so choose wisely!

How do you find your perfect, comfortable boat? Read reviews, do your research and get recommendations from seasoned travelers (like this one).

I booked my Nile cruise with Egypt Rest Tours and I was very happy with my cruise boat the Royal Beau Rivage.

It was clean and comfortable with a beautiful dining area and spacious rooms with Ancient Egyptian touches (all the photos in this story were taken aboard the Beau Rivage).

I also loved the food: it was fresh, varied and offered a good mix of international standards and local cuisine.

Boats on Nile cruises start from bargain, run-down ships with soggy buffets and rooms in desperate need of renovations – and these can work if you’re a backpacker on a budget.

Other ships are top of the line luxury offered by some of the world’s best-known cruise and hotelier brands like Oberoi and Viking. They feature wooden sun decks, stylish cabins, spas and gourmet cuisine.

But here’s the tricky part: 5 stars in Egypt doesn’t always mean high standards. It just means the boat was awarded 5 stars because it has all the amenities (swimming pool, bar, etc) required for a top rating. It can still be a 5-star boat with run-down facilities – so do your research.

The dahabiya: a slower way to travel

If you’re looking for a slower-paced and more immersive experience  than a standard cruise boat, consider a wind-powered Dahabiya.

Dahabiyas are smaller, carrying around 10-20 passengers, slower and more historic. They are the vessels used by 19th-century travelers that originally popularized the concept of a Nile cruise. And they were famously romanticized in Agatha Christie’s novel Death on the Nile .

Dahabiyas can dock in smaller villages that larger cruises can’t reach. And this means authentic experiences like Nubian musicians around a bonfire and tea with mint at a local cafe.

Dahabiyas are a pricier option and the offer longer itineraries, more personalized service and flexible itineraries. But they’re also smaller so they don’t include facilities like a swimming pool or spacious dining room.

Is a Nile cruise worth it?

A Nile cruise is absolutely worth it. Even a 3 or 4-day cruise offers a comfortable way to visit Luxor, Aswan and all the temples in between with glimpses of the gorgeous scenery and rural life along the Nile.

A cruise lets you avoid the logistics of inter-city travel. You don’t have to book tour guides, buses, planes and taxis because everything is taken care of.

I once took a trip across this part of Egypt by plane, bus and train, and it was a lot more exhausting. Not to mention the constant packing and unpacking as you move from one city to another.

A Nile cruise lets you skip all that hassle. You get on board and sleep in the same room all through your journey, with all your meals and sightseeing included.

It might feel a bit formulaic as you’re following an itinerary with a half dozen other tour groups (most cruisers carry around 50-100 passengers). But a Nile cruise also lets you relax and focus on the sightseeing.

For me, the scenery along the way is a huge bonus. I love to sit on the sun deck or at the open window in my room to watch the greenery along the Nile and the scenes of rural Egyptian life – the fishermen, the kids swimming in the river and the azans from village minarets.

You can’t get that experience going from one temple to another on a speeding bus.

Life on board: what to expect

A Nile cruise boat is a kind of floating hotel. Most boats include a sundeck with a swimming pool and bar area, and a dining room downstairs where all the meals are served.

My boat also had a small spa upstairs and a gift shop with gold jewelry, t-shirts and other souvenirs.

The day starts with a breakfast buffet. My boat had a big selection of pastries, cereals, an omelette station, breakfast sausages, beans and more.

The day’s itinerary is posted on a TV screen or bulletin board in the reception area. It usually includes a stop at a temple for sightseeing, and times of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Coffee and juice is included at breakfast, and any beverages during lunch and dinner (from bottled water and juice to wine and beer) are billed to your room.

On most nights, cruises offer evening entertainment which ranges from belly dance and galabeya parties (where you dress up in Egypt’s traditional dress) to more sophisticated offerings like Egyptology lectures and cooking classes.

Rooms are comfortable and range widely depending on price. The most luxurious boats will have private balconies or wide windows in your room that make the most of the Nile views.

All cabins are equipped with air conditioning and a TV set, closet and bathroom with toilet and shower.

Rooms on the lower decks have smaller windows and are usually cheaper.

But avoid the cabins that are closest to the engines – they get very loud. They’re usually given to staff, but it’s always good to check because I’ve seen some real YouTube horror stories.

Nile cruise guide: tips and recommendations

Here are some things to keep in mind based on my experience taking different Nile cruises.

Follow these tips for smooth sailing on your trip:

1. Pack some flip flops (and slippers in winter)

Not all boats provide slippers in the room so bring your own to lounge around comfortably. And don’t forget a pair of flip flops for the pool and sundeck.

2. Forget any dress codes

Lots of blogs will tell you to dress conservatively in Egypt. And while that may apply for sightseeing the mosques around Cairo, it doesn’t really matter when you’re on a Nile cruise. You’ll be going from temple to boat to temple, moving in a bubble with other travelers, so t-shirts and shorts for women when it’s hot are perfectly fine.

3. Get a local SIM card

Not all boats have free WiFi. Get a local SIM card to avoid the overpriced and measly data sold on board many ships.

4. Stock up on water and snacks

If your cabin doesn’t have a minibar, pick up your drinks and snacks while you’re out and bring them back to the boat.

5. Don’t haggle too much over souvenirs.

An unpopular opinion, but prices in Egypt are fairly low and it’s not worth the haggling to save the equivalent of a dollar or two. Many people in this part of Egypt rely on tourism for their livelihoods and they’re still bouncing back after the difficult pandemic years.

6. Wear comfortable shoes and pants

You’ll be getting in and out of boats on a sometimes slippery dock, especially in Aswan. Flimsy sandals and flowing skirts are a real nightmare.

7. Don’t worry about pushy salesmen.

They are persistent, but nowhere near as bad as click-bait YouTubers will have you believe. A simple and respectful “no thank you” (or two) usually does the job.

8. Pack some layers.

Even if the days are mild, nights get quite cold so bring a light jacket for the evenings.

What is the best month to cruise the Nile?

The best time to cruise the Nile is between October and April, when temperatures are mild and the weather is cool. You’ll be refreshed enough to get the most out of all that sightseeing.

Visit in the summer and the hot sun and balmy humidity will sap your strength. And you’ll spend all your time at the temples guzzling your water and looking for some shade.

A Nile cruise is the easiest and most magical way to see all of Ancient Egypt’s most legendary temples from Luxor to Aswan – and to take in all the lush scenery along the way.

Though it’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning this bucket list adventure. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and avoid the pitfalls and scams you often hear about online. And book a reliable tour guide – I went on this cruise with Egypt Rest Tours and highly recommend them.

I would love to hear from you. Is a Nile cruise on your Egypt itinerary?

MORE RESOURCES:

30 Incredible Things To Do In Egypt (A Local’s Guide!)

12 Must-See Things At The Temple of Kom Ombo

4 Best Things To Do On The Nile River In Cairo

Dee Nowak is the founder of Vanilla Papers. She keeps a daily journal and takes long walks on weekends. After a decade of slow living in Cairo, she's on a mission to help travelers navigate Egypt and the Middle East like a local. She loves simple living, journaling and local cultures.

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]

10 Thrilling Experiences On A Viking Nile River Cruise

W hen Viking launched its first purpose-built Nile River cruise ship in August 2022, voyages through the heart of Egypt immediately became more accessible, luxurious, and exciting. 

Viking also offers Viking Aton , which debuted in August 2023, so even more cruisers have a chance to take a voyage in style in this exotic destination.

Viking Osiris and Viking Aton both carry up to 82 passengers on five spacious decks and the ships are outfitted with roomy staterooms, lounges, restaurants, bright public areas, and a beautiful open sun deck.

While these comfortable ships certainly set the standard for Nile River cruising, that’s only part of what makes a Viking river cruise in Egypt such a wonderful experience. We sailed on one of the first voyages on Viking Osiris and found a host of great activities that travelers will love.

1. The Great Pyramid 

Viking’s Nile River cruise program starts with three nights at a luxury hotel in Cairo. You begin your immersive journey in Egypt’s capital, where you have a comfortable place to eat and relax — and even enjoy the pool, spa, restaurants, and fitness center — after your long flight to Egypt. 

While here, you meet your Viking Egyptologists, who will take you to one of the top highlights of your trip, the Great Pyramid Complex of Giza. This is the world-renowned attraction of three massive pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu.

These three structures, built more than 4,500 years ago, make an amazing spectacle in the hot desert. The symmetry and size offer a testament to the architectural mastery of ancient Egyptians who built these fantastic tombs for the pharaohs. You can even venture inside the Great Pyramid, creeping along a tight and hot passageway to the King’s Chamber. 

Pro Tip: Our guide for the journey on Viking Osiris warned us that there would be a lot of high-pressure hawkers selling trinkets and souvenir items at the Great Pyramid Complex (as well as at several sites and temples during our voyage). Her best tip was that we simply do not engage with them in any way if we were not interested in buying anything at that time.

2. The Great Sphinx On Camelback

Viking covers the fee for a short camel ride and photo opportunity during your visit to the Great Pyramid site. It’s thrilling to nestle atop of one of these fascinating animals and feel it lift you high above the Sahara to saunter along the sand for about 15 minutes. Your guides will happily snap an iconic photo of you astride your camel with the stunning pyramids in the background. 

Adjacent to the pyramids is the Great Sphinx. Your day in Giza continues with a visit to this famed attraction, too. 

Pro Tip: Be ready with your camera or cell phone to hand it over to your camel guide so that he can take a few pictures for you during your ride.

3. Valley Of The Kings

The Viking Osiris Nile River cruise itinerary visits Luxor for some of the most-anticipated days of adventure. Viking offers a premium shore excursion that is that rare one-of-a-kind experience.  

The early-morning balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings (and the Valley of the Queens) allows you to see the sun rise and illuminate the vast mountain range and valley that was the final resting place for Egypt’s great pharaohs, including Rameses II and King Tut. 

Cruisers rise around 3:30 a.m. and head across the river to the West Bank to watch the balloons inflate and take shape before they rise majestically into the sky. Seeing the colorful balloons floating all around while you ride in your basket with a group of new friends as the golden sun emerges on the horizon makes for a jaw-dropping spectacle. 

Pro Tip: Dress in layers for this activity and bring a water bottle. It’s cool in the morning before the sun rises in the desert, but it quickly heats up throughout your ride. You can peel off layers as needed.

4. King Tut’s Famous Burial Site  

While in Luxor, you also will be able to visit King Tut’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Viking takes cruisers over for a full tour of the impressive burial sites, with the tombs carved deep inside the mountains.  

You wander down long passages to visit chambers, with every wall ornately decorated with colorful murals. The art depicted the daily life and religious doctrine of ancient Egyptians.  

King Tutankhamun’s mummy is on display within the tomb, and you can also visit the crypts of some of the most notable pharaohs of ancient Egypt. These include Ramses I, Ramses III, Seti II and Merenptah. 

5. The Grand Temples Of Karnak And Luxor 

These two historic sites are nearby, and cruisers get to visit them both during Viking’s time in Luxor.  

The Luxor and Karnak Temple complexes are filled with a mix of well-preserved and decaying chapels, massive pylons and columns, and other structures on which construction began more than 4,000 years ago. These sprawling sites are filled with carvings, statues, and engravings that depict stories and cultural aspects of society at the time. 

Karnak Temple is one of the largest in the world and the second-most visited tourist site in Egypt, ranking behind the Great Pyramid Complex. 

Pro Tip: Hats, scarves, water, and good walking shoes are essential for visiting these sites and all temple sites in Egypt. 

6. Abu Simbel And Other Incredible Temples 

While the temples of Karnak and Luxor are notorious as two of Egypt’s most famous temples, cruisers on a Viking Nile River voyage will get to see many other spectacular temple sites along the journey. 

In Quena, a town right on the river, you’ll be amazed by the blue colors of the murals and art on the walls of the well-preserved Dendera Temple of Hathor. At Esna, you can explore the temple dedicated to the water god Khnum, who was worshiped as the guardian of the Nile’s headwaters. 

Edfu is fun to visit, especially because you can enjoy a ride to the Temple of Horus on a traditional horse-drawn caliche.  

When in Aswan, though, I highly recommend Viking’s premium excursion (added fee) that takes cruisers to Abu Simbel. The Temples of Abu Simbel are a marvel for their beauty and scale. Plus, the story of the rediscovery and a massive relocation project to preserve them is fascinating.  

Abu Simbel was built in the 13th century and honors Ramses II. Lost to the sands of time, it was uncovered in the early 19th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site was moved in 1968 to accommodate the construction of the Aswan Dam that controls the flow of the vital Nile River.  

Abu Simbel was moved more than 200 feet higher and 650 feet farther inland. 

It sits in its new place with a striking facade of four enormous statues of Ramses II guarding the entrance of the sandstone temples. 

7. The Nile River

The best thing about traveling right through the heart of Egypt on your Nile River cruise is that you get to see the landscape and scenery from a different perspective. As you sail from port to port, you also will be happy to call a luxury river boat such as Viking Osiris your home.  

The top Sun Deck offers plenty of comfy seating areas to take in the green banks of the river that are framed by the brown mountains in the distance. You also will be enticed to enjoy a sunset cocktail in the aft infinity pool as you cruise the exotic and historic waterway. We were charmed by the young children seen playing and swimming along the Nile’s banks, waving excitedly to greet us as we sailed past. 

8. The Egyptian Museum 

In Cairo, Viking includes a tour of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. This is where you can see tens of thousands of pieces from the times of the ancient pharaohs. These include magnificent sarcophaguses, statues, tools, jewelry, murals, writings, and the famed golden mask of King Tut. 

9. Bustling Markets 

Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, and Esna all offer opportunities to visit small and large souks (marketplaces), where you can shop for souvenirs, regional foods, spices, or other items of interest. Here, you’ll get to engage with very friendly people who rely heavily on tourist dollars for income.

Pro Tip: Don’t agree on the first price offered. Egyptians love to negotiate, and they welcome the chance to haggle a bit before you both agree to a fair price. 

10. Aswan Dam 

Viking spends two days in Aswan, and this is a chance to learn about the High Dam project and how it was built in the 1960s to provide stability to the fertile lands along the Nile. Before the dam, the region had problems with flood conditions ruining crops and leading to famine. The High Dam created the 300-mile-long Lake Nasser, which now offers irrigation and electricity. Cruisers can tour the dam and later ride a traditional wooden felucca boat on the Nile River.

Related Reading:

• 7 Things I Loved, Plus 4 Things I Didn’t During Princess’s Alaska Cruisetour
• My 7 Favorite Meals On Viking’s New Expedition Ship
• 6 Fabulous Perks Of Cruising Alaska In The Fall

The Best New Cruises in the World: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech , or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises Arrow

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent ’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that make a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From $710 per person for a seven-night sailing. —Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara — Emerald Cruises Arrow

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August, the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles. Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia , has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From $3,850. —David Dickstein

Explora I — Explora Journeys Arrow

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where aging meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs—such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic—curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From $698 per person per night. —Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International Arrow

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map—forgetting your sunscreen, for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the specialty seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crew members dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From $2,249. —Charlie Hobbs

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

MSC Euribia — MSC Cruises Arrow

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the European cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details—this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. From $519. —Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva — Norwegian Cruise Line Arrow

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima . There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over the top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From $979. —Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista — Oceania Cruises Arrow

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilizers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience— Vista ’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley, and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul, Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025 From $2,699. —Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II — Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Arrow

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse . Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs—and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveler. From $7,455. —Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit — Seabourn Cruise Line Arrow

Pursuit is a small “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear—or damp Arctic expedition gear—in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From $10,799. —Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises Arrow

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travelers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving specialty pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur 's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jeweled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From $4,699 . —Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova — Silversea Cruises Arrow

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool, the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova ’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova ’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate—as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture, and place, before even disembarking. From $3,050. —Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton — Viking River Cruises Arrow

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio–designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration—just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travelers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real time, to shepherding travelers through modern night markets with endless fervor. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen—and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travelers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until, that is, your next Aton sailing). From $5,999. —Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady — Virgin Voyages Arrow

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai. Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship—20-plus to be exact—and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From $2,000 . —Rachel Dube

World Voyager — Atlas Ocean Voyages Arrow

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by. Back in your cozy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant—think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favorite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From $1849. —Celeste Moure

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The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

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2024-2026 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES: Offer applies to bookings made from April 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour , Lyon Provence & the Rhineland , European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by May 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by July 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offers expires April 30, 2024.

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