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This New Luxury Nile River Cruise Is a Gateway to Egypt's Ancient Wonders

There’s no better immersion into the wonders of ancient Egypt than a sailing along the Nile. Uniworld's opulent new river ship is a journey for the ages.

Thomas Chatterton Williams is a freelance writer and author of the books "Losing My Cool" and "Self-Portrait in Black and White." His work has appeared in The New York Times Magazine , Travel + Leisure , The Atlantic , and The New Yorker .

The sunbaked temples and tombs on the banks of the Nile River are books penned in stone. You do not pass through them as mere physical spaces. These walls are legible, carrying missives from another world. If the medium is the message, these enduring piles of engraved and painted rock amount to some of the most sophisticated communication devices in existence. That was my first thought as I wandered in amazement through Karnak, the vast temple complex in Luxor, and the idea stayed with me for the duration of my eight nights in Egypt.

Emli Bendixen

I had arrived via Cairo from my home in Paris to experience the  Sphinx , a new Uniworld river ship. But I had also come to fulfill a childhood dream of exploring the relics of ancient Egypt. Upon arrival in Luxor, my fellow passengers and I were spirited away from the ferocious African sun at our first stop, Pharaoh Ramses II’s temple complex, by the gentle humor and substantive knowledge of our guide, Hazem Khalaf. Uniworld partners with the Egyptian-owned Spring Tours for its sailings, and Khalaf is its director — a genial Egyptologist who has been leading tours for 22 years. He treats his métier with the reverence of a master chef or doctor, or maybe even one of Hemingway’s priestly Spanish bullfighters.

A river cruise, among other things, is a study in repetition and rhythm. After several days on the Nile you start to get in touch with the more meditative qualities of moving along the water and contemplating the shifting landscape.

The previous day I’d met Emli Bendixen, the photographer for this story, at the Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, where the gardens tumble toward the Nile, and we acclimated ourselves to the silent power of the slowly moving water. There is a dignity to this river that is palpable, yet difficult to explain. It’s partly visual: those green depths cutting the dusty, palm-tree-studded riverbanks, covered with an intensely blue sky that later turns orange and purple, then finally inky black and splashed with stars. But the river’s dignity is also conjured just by the sound of its name. In the fourth century B.C., the Greek historian Herodotus reported in his  Histories  that “Egypt is the gift of the Nile,” and it is unimaginable that anything important or lasting could have occurred here in its absence.

The  Sphinx  is billed as a floating five-star hotel. This is what Khalaf and his friend of 20-plus years, Sameh El-Sayed, stress with the pride of creators. El-Sayed is the ship’s manager, and together they launched the  Sphinx  in September 2021. El-Sayed, who struck me immediately as a serious and meticulous man, oversaw the construction and design down to the hand-carved wood ceilings and marble bathrooms.

All of us were set up in cabins that felt more like grand suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows, king-size beds, and spacious sitting areas. (The  Sphin x also offers four Royal Suites, which have separate living rooms that are fit for entertaining.) Returning to the ship after the daily excursions was to retreat into a familiar bubble, to be fussed over, though never to the point where it felt invasive. The Egyptian men who cleaned and restocked the rooms and staffed the bars and dining rooms were as diligent as they were personable. As in much of the rest of the service industry here, the staff were categorically male; in this religiously conservative culture, spending weeks away from home is still not considered appropriate for women.

Bendixen and I took our meals together and grew fond of several of our regular waiters, none more than the attentive Abdo Zaref, who kept our glasses flowing with crisp Egyptian pilsners. No matter how many times we explained our professional situation to him, Zaref could not bring himself to believe that we were not married. “Is your husband coming down?” he would ask Bendixen with concern if she arrived at the table before me. One evening, when she fell asleep early, Zaref and several others helped me prepare a doggie bag “to take upstairs to your wife” so that she wouldn’t miss supper.

Meals were served on the first-level deck, which came with arresting water-level views. Among my favorite dishes were classics of the region, like couscous and  börek  (a puff pastry with salted cheese and yogurt dip) — along with surprisingly smooth Egyptian and Libyan wines.

It takes very little imagination to forget the hum of the engine and put yourself in the mindset of a visitor from another time who has come to pay respects to Sobek (the crocodile god) or Horus (the falcon-headed god).

I was eager to learn what motivated the other travelers, many of whom were aficionados of the high seas and various European rivers. “On a cruise you switch your brain off,” one retired American woman told me early on, and I began to notice the philosophical divide between the people who diligently rose at dawn to go on all of the demanding daily excursions and the people who played hooky, stretching out and sunning themselves on the deck in piña-coladified silence.

I fell somewhere in between, having jumped at this voyage in part to see Egypt and in part to flee the whirlwind pace of daily living in Paris — in other words, to slow down, accomplish less, purposefully read sentences on paper instead of a screen, and stare into the distance at sundown. For the duration of the trip, the Internet was reliably unreliable — and when it did work, a VPN was necessary to get around the government’s strict content blocks, which was either a blessing or a curse, depending on your perspective. For me, it was blissful relief.

A river cruise, among other things, is a study in repetition and rhythm. After several days on the Nile you start to get in touch with the more meditative qualities of moving along the water and contemplating the shifting landscape, which at times grows lush — with tall grasses, date palms, and papyrus — and at other times more arid, with children and livestock dipping in and out of view at regular intervals as they climb boulders framed by sand dunes. Sometimes it reveals shocking sights, like men and donkeys washing by the banks beside an industrial complex spilling sudsy runoff.

Occasionally, the ship becomes a portal through which time travel seems genuinely feasible. The Greco-Roman temple at Kom Ombo near Aswan looms so large and substantial over the docking cruise ships it leaves you with the impression you can reach out and touch the worn columns from your window. It takes very little imagination to forget the hum of the engine and put yourself in the mindset of a visitor from another time who has come to pay respects to Sobek (the crocodile god) or Horus (the falcon-headed god). It was in their honor that the structure was erected, and it is hard not to appreciate the resilience of the people who braved these predator-infested waters to worship — and even mummify — the reptiles that routinely attacked them.

Spring Tours provided shuttle buses that cocooned us in climatized comfort while Khalaf expounded capsule lectures on the history and vocabulary behind the day’s itinerary. On the way to the Valley of the Kings — where the pharaohs were buried in the barren, inhospitable hillsides before they shifted their capital from Memphis to Cairo and learned to build pyramids — we passed, beside a nondescript highway with ramshackle gas stations and convenience stores wrapped in blue Pepsi signage, one of the most awe-inspiring sights I have ever encountered: the Colossi of Memnon. It consists of two 59-foot-high seated statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, which have stood since 1350 B.C. Ruined and effaced almost beyond recognition, they nonetheless convey an almost supernatural severity I’d never experienced before. These are the remnants of a people who believed they possessed some measure of divinity in the here and now.

Farther up the road, and deep into the stone hills of the Valley of the Kings, I descended into Tutankhamen’s Burial Chamber and stood mesmerized before his partially shrouded, blackened, yet jarringly intact corpse. It was the size of a small child and I could count all 10 of his gnarled but impossibly tenacious toes. Finding yourself in the presence of physical spaces that have lived within your individual psyche (not to mention the culture’s collective consciousness) for so long is a profound and uncanny thing. Before this trip, it had only really happened to me at the Garden of Gethsemane in Israel and the Acropolis in Greece. In Egypt it happened over and over again.

As the cloudless sky grew black and pinholed with starlight, unveiling the razor-thin moon, I was reminded that Ramadan had begun — and that our gracious crew had been fasting and even abstaining from water since sunrise.

BY THE TIME the tour reached Aswan — one of the most important cities of Ancient Egypt — I had acclimated to my evening ritual on the roof deck, where I would clutch my cold gin and tonic as the air slowly cooled around me and contemplate the extraordinary sherbet-toned sunsets streaking the sky. I hadn’t expected the lushness and natural splendor of the ancient Nubian city and complex of islands in the river, on which visitors will find botanical gardens, archaeological sites, and temples. (Nubia was an early northeastern African civilization that ruled over parts of modern-day Egypt and the Sudan.)

We went bird-watching one morning among the islands. Diaa Araby, our tour guide that day, pointed out great blue herons, beautiful night herons, pied kingfishers, and reed warblers in the pampas grass along the banks of the river, as the traditional felucca sailboats zigzagged all around. “When you take the boat against the wind you have to tack back and forth,” Khalaf explained. “Steering a felucca on the Nile is like driving in Cairo!”

On one side of the river the steep, velvety dunes of the Sahara fall dramatically into the water. On the other side, there looms the colonial-era oasis of the Old Cataract Hotel, in green and brick-red hues. Among many other distinguished guests, Agatha Christie once holed up for a year in 1937 to write her novel  Death on the Nile . We had tea and cocktails on the hotel’s spectacular terrace one evening and I almost expected Hercule Poirot himself to appear. As the cloudless sky grew black and pinholed with starlight, unveiling the razor-thin moon, I was reminded that Ramadan had begun — and that our gracious crew had been fasting and even abstaining from water since sunrise.

ASWAN REPRESENTED the climax of the cruise, and after that we retraced our route to Luxor. From there, some of us would continue on by plane to Cairo to visit the Pyramids — that lifelong dream for many of the passengers, myself included. At the airport in Luxor, there was a festive atmosphere as entire clans gathered to wave off the lone family members who had saved sufficient funds to make the pilgrimage to Mecca.

Upon landing in Cairo, political realities reasserted themselves. Egypt is a military dictatorship, lest anyone forget, and everywhere I looked in the capital, huge billboards and murals of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met my gaze. The tour whisked us to the cool sanctuary of the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, through the labyrinthine megalopolis that, just over a decade prior, had been the epicenter of an Arab Spring; those portraits serve as a reminder that it never materialized.

It’s good that the Pyramids and their hypnotizing, noseless guard arrive at the very end of the voyage. (Nothing can diminish these sights — not even the appalling presence of a Kentucky Fried Chicken, which Khalaf had joked the poor Sphinx must now stare at in perpetuity.) I can think of nothing that could fairly compete.

“I have often considered the survival of paintings and what it means for our civilization that an image has survived across time undamaged,” the novelist Rachel Cusk observed, “and something of the morality of that survival — the survival of the original — pertains, I believe, to the custody of human souls too.”

When we finally pulled up to the Pyramids and disembarked from the buses to make our way toward the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the only remaining “wonder of the ancient world,” one of the women in my group began to cry. “I have always wanted to see the Pyramids,” she said by way of explanation to no one in particular, wiping her eyes. I smiled at her and continued toward the immense mounds of stone. The morality of the survival of these three-dimensional images from the deepest civilized past is impressed to this day against the polluted, golden-blue contemporary sky. It demands precisely such a reaction, I thought, as my own eyes began to well.

Uniworld offers 12-day Splendors of Egypt & the Nile sailings, which include two days in Cairo, from $6,199, all-inclusive.

A version of this story first appeared in the October 2022 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "The Eternal River ."

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Press Release

Viking announces additional sailings in egypt, strong demand leads to release of additional 2024 departure dates on viking's newest nile river ship.

Los Angeles (June 1, 2023) – Viking® ( www.viking.com ) today announced voyages on its newest Nile River ship, the Viking Hathor , are now available for booking. Set to debut in 2024, the Viking Hathor will join the company’s growing fleet of purpose-built ships on the Nile River, which sail the popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. Demand in Egypt remains strong, with Viking’s 2023 season sold out and some sailings into 2025 already selling out.

“Egypt continues to be one of our most popular destinations,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “As a country rich with history and culture, we are pleased to bring the Viking way of exploration to Egypt for our guests. With the addition of the Viking Aton this summer and the Viking Hathor next summer, we are looking forward to meeting the growing demand in the region.”

The news follows recent accolades for Viking’s river fleet in Egypt. In its first year of sailing, the Viking Hathor’s identical sister ship, the Viking Osiris , was named as one of the “Best New Cruises” in Condé Nast Traveler’s “2023 Hot List.” Additionally, TIME magazine featured both Giza and Saqqara on its “World’s Greatest Places of 2023” list, recommending sailing the Nile River with Viking. TIME notes that Viking is among the very few who stop in both Giza and the village of Saqqara, where excavation sites, like the megatombs of animal and human mummies, are active.

The Viking Hathor & Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Hathor is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The Viking Hathor is the identical sister ship to the Viking Aton , which debuts in August 2023, and the Viking Osiris , which was named in 2022 by Viking’s first ceremonial godfather, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon. The sister ships feature several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. In addition to the Viking Aton and the Viking Osiris , the Viking Hathor will join the other ships in the Egypt fleet, the Viking Ra and the MS Antares . In response to strong demand, Viking will have six ships sailing the Nile by 2025 with the addition of a new sister ship, the Viking Sobek , which is also under construction and will be delivered in 2025.

Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary

During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Saqqara (also known as “Sakkara”) and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

For guests looking to extend their journey, Viking also offers Pre and Post Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Guests on the five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt extension will begin the journey in London, where they will meet their Viking Tour Director, an expert Egyptologist, and experience Privileged Access to two museums: first a private, early morning visit to the Egyptian Collection at the British Museum before it opens to the general public – and then a visit to the home and personal museum of world-renowned architect, Sir John Soane, where the tour will be illuminated by candlelight, a re-enactment of how Soane entertained guests and showcased his exquisite collection of Egyptian antiquities, including a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sarcophagus. Guests will also visit London’s Petrie Museum, which houses more than 80,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt and Sudan. In Oxford, guests will visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest in the world, and home to a varied collection of Egyptian mummies and art—and go behind the scenes at Oxford University’s Griffith Institute, where they will enjoy a Privileged Access visit to see Howard Carter’s archives, which detail the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Lastly, guests will have further Privileged Access with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts, as well as archives and exhibits not normally accessible to the public.

Additional offerings include a new three-night Pre-Extension in Istanbul , where guests can visit the timeless city and important religious sites including the “Blue Mosque” and the legendary Hagia Sophia. Before their voyage, guests can also choose to extend their journey in Jerusalem , exploring the ancient history and vibrant culture of Israel’s fascinating capital. After concluding the river voyage, guests can also extend the journey with a 4-night Post-Extension to Jordan – Petra, Dead Sea & Amman to view Roman antiquities at Jerash, Crusader-era castles at Kerak or Shobak and experience the lost city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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For more information about Viking, or for images and b-roll, please contact [email protected] .

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being the first cruise line to ever be named both the #1 Ocean Line and the #1 River Line in a single year in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 “World’s Best” Awards. Viking has also been rated the #1 River Line and #1 Ocean Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2022 and 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com . For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv .

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Viking® has announced voyages on its newest Nile River ship, the  Viking Hathor ,  are now available for booking. Set to debut in 2024, the  Viking Hathor  will join the company’s growing fleet of purpose-built ships on the Nile River, which sail the popular 12-day  Pharaohs & Pyramids  itinerary. Demand in Egypt remains strong, with Viking’s 2023 season sold out and some sailings into 2025 already selling out.

Additional Sailings in Egypt

“Egypt continues to be one of our most popular destinations,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “As a country rich with history and culture, we are pleased to bring the Viking way of exploration to Egypt for our guests. With the addition of the  Viking Aton  this summer and the  Viking Hathor  next summer, we are looking forward to meeting the growing demand in the region.”

The news follows recent accolades for Viking’s river fleet in Egypt. In its first year of sailing, the  Viking Hathor’s  identical sister ship, the  Viking Osiris ,  was named as one of the “Best New Cruises” in  Conde Nast Traveler’s  “2023 Hot List.” Additionally, TIME magazine featured both Giza and Saqqara on its “World’s Greatest Places of 2023” list, recommending sailing the Nile River with Viking.  TIME  notes that Viking is among the very few who stop in both Giza and the village of Saqqara, where excavation sites, like the megatombs of animal and human mummies, are active.

The  Viking Hathor  & Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art  Viking Hathor  is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The  Viking Hathor  is the identical sister ship to the  Viking Aton , which debuts in August 2023, and the  Viking Osiris , which was named in 2022 by Viking’s first ceremonial godfather, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon. The sister ships feature several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. In addition to the  Viking Aton  and the  Viking Osiris , the  Viking Hathor  will join the other ships in the Egypt fleet, the  Viking Ra  and the  MS Antares . In response to strong demand, Viking will have six ships sailing the Nile by 2025 with the addition of a new sister ship, the  Viking Sobek , which is also under construction and will be delivered in 2025.

Viking’s  Pharaohs & Pyramids  Itinerary

During the 12-day  Pharaohs & Pyramids  itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Saqqara (also known as “Sakkara”) and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

For guests looking to extend their journey, Viking also offers Pre and Post Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Guests on the five-day  British Collections of Ancient Egypt  extension will begin the journey in London, where they will meet their Viking Tour Director, an expert Egyptologist, and experience Privileged Access to two museums: first a private, early morning visit to the Egyptian Collection at the British Museum before it opens to the general public – and then a visit to the home and personal museum of world-renowned architect, Sir John Soane, where the tour will be illuminated by candlelight, a re-enactment of how Soane entertained guests and showcased his exquisite collection of Egyptian antiquities, including a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sarcophagus. Guests will also visit London’s Petrie Museum, which houses more than 80,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt and Sudan. In Oxford, guests will visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest in the world, and home to a varied collection of Egyptian mummies and art—and go behind the scenes at Oxford University’s Griffith Institute, where they will enjoy a Privileged Access visit to see Howard Carter’s archives, which detail the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Lastly, guests will have further Privileged Access with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts, as well as archives and exhibits not normally accessible to the public.

Additional offerings include a new three-night Pre-Extension in  Istanbul , where guests can visit the timeless city and important religious sites including the “Blue Mosque” and the legendary Hagia Sophia. Before their voyage, guests can also choose to extend their journey in  Jerusalem , exploring the ancient history and vibrant culture of Israel’s fascinating capital. After concluding the river voyage, guests can also extend the journey with a 4-night Post-Extension to  Jordan – Petra, Dead Sea & Amman  to view Roman antiquities at Jerash, Crusader-era castles at Kerak or Shobak and experience the lost city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Get To Know Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being the first cruise line to ever be named both the #1 Ocean Line and the #1 River Line in a single year in  Travel + Leisure’s  2022 “World’s Best” Awards. Viking has also been rated the #1 River Line and #1 Ocean Line by  Condé Nast Traveler  in the publication’s 2022 and 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.

For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit  www.viking.com . For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit  www.viking.tv .  

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The New Viking Aton Cruise Ship Brings Sleek Scandinavian Design to Egypt’s Nile River

The newest ship on the nile river is an 82-passenger vessel from viking, complete with distinctly modern spaces, a sun deck with a pool, and some of the world’s most priceless views of antiquities..

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Imagine floating along with views of the Nile River while relaxing in the Viking Aton pool.

Courtesy of Viking

After thinking about it, $20 was a pretty good deal. My search back home in New York for the right kind of tablecloth/rug/tapestry (I hadn’t decided its official use yet) had been futile, and I had already settled on the idea that success in this investigation was meant to elude me.

But I found what I was looking for on Egypt’s Nile River . Hanging over the edge of a banister on the sundeck of a brand new river cruise ship, the Viking Aton , I haggled with a persistent but charming Egyptian merchant who was selling his wares from the rowboat he and his partner wobbled in five decks below along the lock we were starting to pass through.

We settled on $20 for the black patterned cloth. He tossed it up to me in its plastic packaging with precision, up all five decks, over the banister, and straight into my hands just before he tossed another plastic package up to me, which I used to put the money in and tossed back to him. The money had barely touched his hands before he whipped out another tablecloth to show me, this time offering a bold new price.

“$50?! You already got $20,” I shouted indignantly at him as he casually tried to upsell me, as if I was an American tourist who had never been to Egypt before (which I was).

Whether I was annoyed or impressed with his stellar sales tactics in 100-degree heat was beside the point; the man got his money, and I got my cloth for purposes still unknown. Contract complete. Unable to persuade me to shell out more money, the merchant turned his attention to other onlookers on the sundeck and on the lower-level balconies who caught wind of the show going on between us, now wanting souvenirs of their own.

Shopping is not an uncommon aspect of river cruising; many vessels often have a souvenir shop onboard complete with jewelry, Christmas ornaments, T-shirts, and silk scarves, among other items.

But this was clearly a wildly different shopping affair. I could hardly put a price on such a strangely unique encounter as this. Pretty good deal, indeed.

Sailing along the Nile River offers a unique vantage point from which to view life, culture, and history in Egypt.

Sailing on the new Viking Aton

My trip to Egypt this past August was short but memorable. I was traveling with Viking and a small group of journalists on an abbreviated version of the line’s sole Egypt itinerary, the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids journey , which starts and ends in Cairo and sails on the Nile River between Luxor and Aswan.

The company currently has four ships on the Nile River: a charter vessel, the MS Antares , and three of its own ships, the Viking Ra , Viking Osiris, and now, the Viking Aton , its newest ship that our group was there to witness the launch of.

Like its sister ship, the Viking Aton can accommodate 82 guests in its 41 staterooms. Onboard, you’ll find the line’s signature Aquavit Terrace, a dining and lounge area that feels light and airy at any time of day or night due to floor-to-ceiling glass walls that separate the indoor seating area from the patio.

The Aquavit Terrace was probably my favorite place aboard the Viking Aton . Not only were the fresh menu options a delight—I still think about that chicken, quinoa, and avocado bowl I ate—but the outdoor area is also home to the ship’s very modern pool.

The design of the pool could have easily tempted me to stay out on the terrace all day under the hot Egyptian sun. Minimalist and elongated, the pool was a fun place to be; the fact that it can fit in so many people side-by-side along its built-in bench made for the perfect spot to socialize with other guests onboard. The pool also featured a glass wall, giving it an infinity edge and an upscale modernity.

The sundeck lounge was also an area of note. As cool as it was inside the air-conditioned ship, it was hard to resist going topside. Yes, it was notably hot outside, especially in August, but most of the sundeck is covered by awnings that shade it, and somehow the pastel-colored furniture, with its light, linen upholstery, plus the breeze from sailing along the river offset some of the late summer heat.

With shade and some breeze, the Viking Aton sundeck provides an inviting space for viewing the passing scenery.

If you’ve never been on a Viking ship, know that the company stays true to its Scandinavian roots across its entire fleet, whether on the rivers or at sea—and the Viking Aton is no exception. That means an emphasis on light, modern, minimalist design with an appreciation for attention to detail, from the books in the common and stateroom libraries, to the warm earth-toned color palette throughout the ship.

Richard Riviere, the architect behind most of Viking’s ocean, expedition, and river cruise ships, and godfather of the Aton , was onboard the inaugural sailing and explained the five pillars of Viking’s ship design.

“We have five big ideas for all Viking ships everywhere: residential modernism, Scandinavian heritage, craft, nature, and exploration,” Riviere said, adding that it’s a brand concept that gives the company and its design team structure.

I particularly appreciated the residential modernism aspect, which is on full display in the Aton’s staterooms. My room, a Veranda Suite on Deck 3, was generously spacious—as in, “this could be a one-bedroom apartment” spacious.

Guests have room to spread out in the staterooms and suites onboard the Viking Aton .

There was a full walk-in closet, along with a vanity space and bench; an actual living room (separate from the bedroom) where you could entertain friends before heading off to evening cocktails in the lounge; and a balcony with room for two to stretch their legs and take in the warm Nile air.

The common areas felt as comfortable as the staterooms. There’s a mix of open spaces to lounge in and plenty of quieter areas, such as a shaded corner on the sundeck, a nook in the Aquavit Terrace, or a plush window seat in back of the lounge.

No matter where I hung out, I was always well cared for by the attentive Viking Aton staff, who would offer me a refreshing hibiscus drink in the afternoon or something a little stronger—say, a glass of chardonnay or a light Egyptian beer, in the evening.

Dining onboard was casual, with a menu of familiar favorites like Caesar salad, steaks, hamburgers, and fries. But a selling point for me were the fresher options, such as that quinoa avocado bowl. I also thoroughly enjoyed a themed Egyptian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern dining night on the ship, featuring assorted regional culinary items, including baba ghanoush, lamb with a chimchurri or a mint jelly sauce, and baklava among the standouts.

Experiencing the Nile River with Viking

Our cruise up the Nile River was a straight shot due to our abbreviated five-day schedule; we cruised nonstop from Aswan to Luxor in one day without doing some of the usual excursions to visit ancient sites such as Esna, one of the last Egyptian temples to be decorated with hieroglyphic texts, and Edfu, home to the Temple of Horus, among the best preserved shrines in Egypt.

Along the way, we glided past desert-colored towns in shades of taupe and beige, dotted with colorful doors and walls. We saw children swimming and fishermen bobbing in boats. There were more barren stretches of the Nile as well, where seemingly nothing and no one lived.

And there were even lesser-known temple ruins scattered along some of those barren stretches, something I didn’t expect to see.

Tarek Fawzy, one of the Egyptologists onboard, confirmed that my eyes hadn’t deceived me, pointing out that even with all of the tombs, temples, and ancient sites that had been discovered and become areas of study for Egyptologists like him, there was still much more in Egypt yet to be unearthed. “They’re still digging out there, hoping to find more,” Fawzy said, adding that sites like these are scattered all over Egypt, from Alexandria to Aswan to the western desert. “We still think that all of the archaeology in Egypt is not even 40 percent of what we’ve got today. A few years ago, we found a couple of obelisks at the bottom of the river.”

But my naivete revealed something I think might be a universal truth: You don’t know what to expect from Egypt until you go there. And perhaps that’s why the fascination with Egypt—it even has a term, Egyptomania—has endured from Napoleon’s plunder to the countless movies, fashion, and design that continue to inspire and influence the world beyond this desert.

The writer visits the Karnak temple complex during a Nile river cruise on the Viking Aton .

Courtesy of Nicole Edenedo

During our daily excursions, I could feel that very fascination reverberating between me and the ancient temple walls of Karnak, Luxor, and Philae, where detailed hieroglyphics carved into limestone told the stories of kings and queens, and even tragic figures. When we visited the Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground for Egypt’s pharaohs and one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, I understood the awe that must have struck the archaeologists who discovered the tombs of Ramses II and Tutankhamun in the 19th and 20th century.

And I could feel my own awe building as our group soared over the Valley of the Kings at sunrise one morning in a hot air balloon ride, where we looked upon the Nile River Valley, vegetation flanking the river and the desert lands that surrounded the region as far as our eyes could see.

There’s nothing like this feeling—being caught somewhere between reality and fantasy upon seeing a place you’ve only ever heard of or seen in movies and textbooks.

Passengers get a different vantage point of the Nile River Valley from a hot air balloon ride during a Viking sailing.

The details

Most land tour operators offer a river cruise on the Nile River, from three to seven nights, with hotel stays in Cairo book-ending the trip. And most river cruise lines with Nile River trips start itineraries with a three-night stay in Cairo and include robust excursions on land to explore sites in Luxor, Edfu, Esna, Aswan, and even Abu Simbel, which is typically reached by a short plane ride.

For those who want to see Egypt through a historical and educational lens, one that inspires a spirit of exploration and prioritizes an appreciation for the natural beauty of this desert land of contrasts, Viking may be the perfect choice.

There are a plethora of historical texts and novels set in Egypt, including Agatha Christie’s iconic Death on the Nile , memoirs from famed archeologists, and wildlife photography books that guests can find in their private libraries in their staterooms, as well as in the communal libraries on the ship. Guest lecturers and in-house Egyptologists onboard also ensure that Viking guests can have a question about Ramses II or Queen Hatshepsut readily answered.

Viking is also best for those who might be planning several trips to Egypt and are looking for a seamless sailing experience, no matter what ship they end up on. Most of the company’s ships are identical in design, which takes the guesswork out of learning new surroundings and jump-starts total immersion in the destination.

Viking is rapidly growing its fleet on the Nile, with plans to launch two more ships, Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek , in 2024 and 2025, respectively. The company has already made its 2026 season aboard the Viking Hathor available to book for those looking to lock in their fares early, as the 2024 and 2025 seasons dwindle in availability.

Fares for Viking’s 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary begin at $5,999 per person, including 11 guided tours. Pre- and post-cruise excursions are available in Istanbul from $1,399 for three nights, and in London from $3,699 for four nights, which offers unique access into the archives and exhibits surrounding world famous archaeologist Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the fifth Earl of Carnarvon, who discovered the tomb of King Tutankhamun.

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This 12-day cruise from Cairo to Cairo (roundtrip) uncovers ancient secrets and reveals the welcoming culture of Egypt along the picturesque Nile, with visits to historic cities, awe-inspiring pyramids and well-preserved temples.

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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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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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Cruise to Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in alexandria.

Cultural Collections

Alexandria's museums house many priceless artifacts from ancient times.

Alexandria, Egypt, has a rich and complex history. To get a sense of it, make sure you visit at least one of the city's many museums. The Alexandria National Museum and the Antiquities Museum are heavy hitters, but there's also the Royal Jewelry Museum, a stately manor that harbors a vast collection of awe-inspiring jewels — from priceless diamonds and rubies to rarely seen stones from far-flung places.

Adventure Underground

The catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are a showcase of ancient culture

Archaeologists will tell you that an entire world can be buried just beneath your feet. This is true in Alexandria, where impressive tombs and temples have been discovered underground. The catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are a great example. They form a maze of subterranean burial chambers dating to the Roman era, and taking a tour of these catacombs is one of the best things to do in Alexandria, Egypt. They contain all kinds of spectacular relics that showcase a combination of Egyptian, Roman and Greek cultures.

Shore Up on Beach Vibes

Alexandria sits along the northern coast of Egypt. The city has beautiful golden-sand beaches kissed by the sapphire-blue waters of the Mediterranean fit for sunseekers. One of the prettiest and cleanest beaches is Mamoura Beach, beloved by locals looking to take a break from the bustle of the city. Ice cream and food stands line the quaint cobblestone boardwalk that runs along the beach, and you'll find ample options to rent loungers and umbrellas.

LOCAL CUISINE

You'll find delicious food throughout Egypt, but cities along the northern coast — like Alexandria — offer a unique and flavorful fusion of Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Snack on some crispy falafel, foul fava bean dip, and warm Baladi bread. You'll find this fare at cafes throughout the city. Or head to Alexandria's seafood market for some amazing catches — shop owners will cook them for you on-site for a small fee. And if you're craving something hearty, try some of Alexandria's famous fondue, typically made from seven kinds of cheese and paired with different meats.

The best places to shop during cruises to Alexandria, Egypt, are traditional souks — labyrinthine bazaars where artisans, spice traders, jewelers and more display and sell their wares. Alexandria's souk district is located at the westernmost point of Midan Tahrir. This area is always bustling. Its cafes, bakeries and stalls buzz with energy around the clock, especially at night. You'll find everything here including beautifully woven cloth, bangles, souvenirs and sundries.

Best Deals to Alexandria, Egypt

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Egypt Cruises

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• Most Popular
• Private Yacht Charter
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Classic Egypt Tour

• Discover pyramids and Sphinx
• Visit the Museum and Temples
• Walk around town of Esna
• Sail the Nile river

Nile River Explorer

• Discover the pyramids and Sphinx
• Explore the temple of Dendera
• Walk around the town of Esna
• Aboard a luxurious riverboat

Treasures of Egypt

• Tour the Valley of the Kings
• Soak in views of the Great Pyramids
• Cruise to Aswan home of the Nubians
• Visit the impressive Abu Simbel

Luxor to Aswan

• Visit the Temple of Karnak
• Attend an Egyptian cooking lesson
• Sail around Elephantine Island

Secrets of Egypt & the Nile

• Explore Egyptian Museum
• Visit the tombs of ancient Egypt
• Visit old city, Coptic Cairo

Pharaohs & Pyramids

• Enjoy scenic views in Nile river
• Visit Grand Egyptian Museum
• Visit pyramids and camel riding
• Visit Aswan's spice market

Aswan to Luxor

• Visit majestic Philae Temple
• Discover the Valley of the Kings

Passage Through Egypt: Luxor to Aswan

• Explore temple of Dendera
• Sail through Nile river

Cruising Greece, Turkey & Saudi Arabia

• Discover Samos' charming villages
• Visit the ancient city of Ephesus
• Cruise to the scenic Antalya
• Explore Papho's archaeological site
• Visit Giza's Great Pyramid & Museum
• Explore the Granite Quarries
• Visit ancient temples
• View the Colossi of Memnon

Top Egypt Travel Destinations

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Egypt Trips by Activity

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Deluxe Nile Cruises

Boarding a cruise is a wonderful experience but boarding a Luxor & Aswan Nile Cruise is a life-changing experience. Sail on the bloodstream of Egypt and feel the soul of Egypt with our Egypt Nile cruise packages. Begin your journey to discover all the hidden secrets of the ancient civilization in Luxor and Aswan. Our entire Egypt Nile cruise packages are customized by a professional travel consultant to make your Nile cruise holidays as epic as possible. We have a variety of Luxor and Aswan Nile cruises to Karnak temple, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Abu Simbel temple of the great pharaoh King Ramses II, Valley of the Kings, and other breathtaking monuments. All of our Luxor & Aswan Nile cruises are joined by a professional Egyptologist tour guides and accommodating at 5* deluxe Nile Cruises to get the most luxuries Nile cruise ever. Don’t miss this opportunity to sail through the heart of Egypt. Book us now! Check also, our Egypt tour packages if you want to combine your Egypt tours to Cairo and Hurghada with Nile cruises.

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Nile river cruises (faqs):, what is the duration of nile river cruises vacation.

In Egypt, you can have a truly special experience to sail via the longest river in the world which is called "The Nile River". To have such an exceptional tour, you need to get on the board of a Nile cruise putting in mind that there are tens of different Nile Cruises from different categories. The most recommended Nile cruise categories in Egypt are the 5* and the 5* High Deluxe category. Prices differ from a cruise to another based on the facilities on each cruise and the time you would like to visit Egypt in and to check the best possible Nile River Cruise with the different guided prices, kindly check our best suggested

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature in 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 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What should I wear in Nile Cruise?

Dress not just for the heat, but for the culture. This is a conservative, Muslim culture and should be respected accordingly. Women should refrain from wearing short shorts, see-through clothing or swimwear when on shore excursions. In mosques, for example, women and men should wear clothing that covers both their legs and upper arms.

What is the Best Time for Nile River Cruise in Egypt?

When it comes to choosing the best and the most suitable time to have a perfect Nile river cruise vacation, you will find that the period from the end of October till the middle of April is the best season ever to plan your Nile river cruise vacation in. You can choose any time between the mentioned period to have your vacation at but kindly notice that Easter and Christmas seasons in Egypt are considered the peaked seasons and prices get higher during those seasons that any other period during the whole year so kindly put this in mind while planning your marvelous Nile River Cruise vacation in the land of Pharaohs, however, you will get the most incomparable affordable tour prices from our side to enjoy the true concept of having an imaginary holiday.

What are the Best Prices for Nile River Cruise?

What are the types of egypt’s nile river cruises.

There are two types of Nile cruises in Egypt, the first one is the private Nile river cruises also known as "Dahabiya" which has about 10 cabins and the standard, more common group, Nile river cruise which has about 150 cabins equipped with everything a traveler could need.

What're the Facilities on the Nile River Cruise?

The Luxury Nile cruise is basically a fully equipped floating hotel which holds sun deck, a full entertaining center, an inner swimming pool, lounge bar, discotheque, a marvelous restaurant, a spa, beauty center, a laundry, and gift shops and a safe deposit box, and everything you would expect from a hotel.

What’re the Top Attractions to Visit Through a Nile River Cruise?

The Nile River Cruise sails between the two heavenly cities of Luxor and Aswan or vice versa where everyone can explore the divine Karnak temples Complex, the legendary Valley of the Kings, the mesmerizing Hatshepsut temple, the unique Kom Ombo temple the majestic Philae temple, the glorious Edfu temple, the Great unfinished obelisk, and various more.

What are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

What are Egypt Festival and Public Holidays?

There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve.

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A trio of new super-small cruise vessels promises luxury adventure from South America to Asia

Much of the buzz in the cruise world in recent years has been about a new crop of megaships that can carry many thousands of passengers and are packed to the gills with over-the-top attractions. We're talking about such amenity-filled giants as Royal Caribbean's 18-deck-high Wonder of the Seas — the new world's largest cruise ship.

But there have been a lot of wonderful small cruise vessels debuting, too, including some so small that they sometimes aren't even mentioned at cruising sites.

Here, we look at three of the very smallest new cruise vessels of them all, all of which are in the process of starting up service on rivers and oceans from South America to Asia.

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Even the biggest of the three vessels carries just 82 passengers — less than 2% of the number that can fit on Wonder of the Seas. Or, to put another way, the total passenger count of all three of these ships wouldn't even fill half of one of Wonder of the Seas' lifeboats.

All three of these new vessels have us super excited here at TPG — and not just because they offer an intimate and upscale experience that is designed to be anything but mass-market or cookie cutter.

They also are vessels specifically designed to visit some of the world's most alluring destinations, from the ancient temples along the Nile River in Egypt to the wildlife-filled reserves along the coast of Ecuador — and to do it in style. All three vessels fall on the luxury side of the spectrum for cruising.

As you'll see below, two of the vessels are from a single line, Viking. Viking is in the midst of expanding its small-ship footprint into more regions of the world, including Antarctica . The other newcomer is from a startup small-vessel company, Kontiki Expeditions.

Here, we take a closer look at these three tiny and luxurious new cruise vessels.

Viking Osiris

Location: Nile River.

Cruise operator: Viking.

River cruise giant Viking is calling its new river ship the most upscale cruise vessel on the Nile, and from what we've seen of it so far, it's a boast that's hard to dispute. Designed to hold just 82 passengers, Viking Osiris features an entire deck of sprawling suites with two full-size rooms apiece; two suites even have stunning glass walls that wrap around the front of the vessel.

The river ship also has a swanky sun deck where you can kick back on shaded loungers while enjoying 360-degree views of the ancient Egyptian temples that line the waterway. The views are almost as grand from its main restaurant, which sits high on the ship and features floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Scheduled to be christened Monday in Luxor, Egypt, Viking Osiris is notably smaller than the typical Viking ship, with just 41 cabins. But it's a classic Viking vessel in other respects (think: minimalist Scandinavian design and included tours). If you've been on any of Viking's 60-plus river ships in Europe, you'll feel right at home.

Related: 20 things you must bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

That's in part because Viking Osiris is the first Nile River vessel specifically built to Viking's specifications. It's also owned and operated by Viking. That's unusual in a market where most Western lines charter local vessels for their trips. In Viking's eyes (and ours, too), that means Viking will be able to offer the most consistent product on the river. Unlike some other Western companies operating in Egypt, Viking will have complete control of the experience.

The details: Viking's Egypt trips pair a seven-night Nile cruise on Viking Osiris with a four-night stay at a hotel in Cairo (three nights before the cruise and one night after), with included tours to such iconic Egypt sites as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. Fares start at $5,299 per person, not including taxes and fees. For information, visit viking.com .

Viking Saigon

Location: Mekong River.

Viking also is going small and upscale with a new cruise vessel for the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. New as of this month, the three-deck-high riverboat was designed with just 40 cabins, every one of which has a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening onto a traditional balcony or French balcony — a high-end touch you don't always see on Mekong River ships.

Like Viking Osiris, Viking Saigon boasts Viking's signature, clean-lined Scandinavian design. It is packed with onboard amenities including a small spa, fitness center, library and even an infinity pool (which lies at the back of the top deck next to an open-air bar). That's an impressive mix for such a small vessel.

As is typical for Mekong River ships, Viking Saigon is sailing one-way voyages between Kampong Cham, Cambodia (not far from the famed ruins of Angkor), and My Tho, Vietnam, near Ho Chi Minh City. Viking combines the cruise with hotel stays in Ho Chi Minh City; Hanoi, Vietnam; and Siem Reap, Cambodia (the gateway to the Angkor ruins), to create a 14-night "Magnificent Mekong" tour of Cambodia and Vietnam.

The details: Viking Mekong River trips combine a seven-night Mekong cruise on Viking Saigon with a two-night stay in Hanoi, a three-night stay in Siem Reap and a two-night stay in Ho Chi Minh City. Fares start at $4,499 per person, not including taxes and fees. For information, visit viking.com .

Kontiki Wayra

Location: Coast of Ecuador.

Cruise operator: Kontiki Expeditions.

If you've always wanted to explore the coast of Ecuador in style, this is your vehicle. Designed to travel to off-the-beaten-path places along the country's coastline, the 18-passenger Kontiki Wayra is as upscale as it is intimate.

Despite its small size, Kontiki Wayra offers a lot of upscale amenities, including a sun deck, two outdoor lounges, bar, Jacuzzi, spa treatment room and fitness area. Every one of the vessel's nine cabins is a suite.

The ship's 12 crew members include wellness professionals (wellness is a big focus for the brand), naturalist guides and a local chef. There also are two local expert guides on board, who will provide insight as Kontiki Wayra stops at small Ecuadorian towns, historic sites and nature areas full of wildlife.

During initial sailings in Ecuador, passengers can expect to see such wildlife as blue-footed boobies, sea lions and howler monkeys. A focus on cuisine incorporates local seafood and produce on board and on land as well as tastings of local chocolate. The vessel also carries kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment for watery adventure; diving is an option.

The details: Wayra is operating a weeklong itinerary between Bahia in the north of Ecuador and Salinas in the south. Fares start at $7,245 per person, based on double occupancy, and include all activities and meals as well as transfers to and from ports. Solo traveler rates and private charter rates are also available. For more information, visit kontikiexpeditionscruises.com .

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Nile River Cruise - Egypt Nile Cruise 2024/2025

Experience journey to egypt nile river cruises.

On a Nile River Cruise, Discover Egypt’s Timeless Lifeline

Flowing through the heart of Egypt , the Nile River offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. Embark on Exquisite Egypt Nile Cruise to experience a rich immersion in the spectacular ancient wonders that line the banks of this legendary river. Joined by the best Egyptologists in the region, relish visits to unique sites - including immense and awe-inspiring Luxor , epically storied temples like Isis and Kom Ombo, and Aswan, the jewel of the Nile - as well as access to private docks in both Luxor and Aswan .

Discover it all from the seat of a boutique Egypt Nile River cruise ship with Journey To Egypt , experiencing the stylish Nile River Cruise Boats. Every moment aboard promises personalized service, luxurious amenities and legendary Egyptian hospitality, paired ideally with the expertise and authenticity that only Journey To Egypt  - the world’s leader in luxury travel - can deliver.

Recommended Nile Cruise Journeys Luxor To Aswan

4 night nile cruise from luxor to aswan.

Bask in the timeless majesty of ancient Egypt on an immersive journey through the land of the pharaohs, exploring its quintessential archaeological treasures with an expert tour guide, and cruise for four nights along the Nile. Cruises Schedule: Every Saturday Or Monday Or Thursday Tour Advantages Embark on a four-night Nile river cruise, gliding in comfort through stirring desert landscapes and going ashore to discover ancient Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sites. Descend into the tombs of the Pharaohs, in the Valley of the Kings. Marvel at the colossal statues and towering colonnade of the sprawling Temple of Luxor, and listen as your expert tour guide deciphers the scenes carved upon them. [OPTIONAL, $110 Per Person Per Trip] Journey to Abu Simbel to set eyes upon the imposing twin temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari.

8 Day Nile Cruise Luxor to Luxor

It is a journey where Egypt moves past you, children swimming in the Nile River, people riding donkeys, farmers planting their lands, fishermen in feluccas will wave back to you the same way their ancestors did to the pharaohs thousands of years ago. Our 8 Day Nile Cruise tours include visit to Valley of Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and Karnak temples then enjoy the monuments in other cities along your journey to Aswan to see Edfu temple, Kom ombo temple and finally see the main monuments in Aswan, the High Dam, Philae temple, Unfinished Obelisk. Schedule: Every Saturday Or Monday Or Thursday TOUR ADVANTAGES Sail the Nile River on a 5 Star Nile Cruise. Gain entry the tomb of “the Pharaohs,” in the Valley of the Kings. Discover the archaeological icons of ancient Egypt, with your own private and expert local guides. Sail the Nile in a felucca (sailboat). Design your Day on Day 5. ""

Recommended Nile Cruise Journeys Aswan To Luxor

3 night nile cruise from aswan to luxor.

Bask in the timeless majesty of ancient Egypt on an immersive journey through the land of the pharaohs, exploring its quintessential archaeological treasures with an expert tour guide, and cruise for three nights along the Nile. Cruises Schedule: Every Friday Or Monday Or Wednesday Tour Advantages Embark on a three-night Nile river cruise, gliding in comfort through stirring desert landscapes and going ashore to discover ancient Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sites. Descend into the tombs of the Pharaohs, in the Valley of the Kings. Marvel at the colossal statues and towering colonnade of the sprawling Temple of Luxor, and listen as your expert tour guide deciphers the scenes carved upon them. (OPTIONAL, $110 Per Person Per Trip) Journey to Abu Simbel to set eyes upon the imposing twin temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari.

4 Day Nile Cruise Aswan, Abu Simbel & Luxor

On this intriguing 4 day itinerary, you can immerse yourself in ancient secret, long burial in desert sands while enjoying the welcoming culture of Egypt as you explore with Journey to Egypt. Your journey begins in Aswan and serene Philae temple and set out for Abu Simbel to admire the great temple of Ramesse II. A picturesque voyage along the Nile River brings you to Kom Ombo and Edfu city, where you’ll visit the temple of Hours, It’s one of Egypt best preserved temples. Luxor is next, satisfy your curiosity at the great temples of Luxor, Karnak and remarkable Valley of the Kings, here you’ll enjoy privileged access to the tombs of the Pharaohs, and exquisite preserved site. Cruises Schedule: Every Friday Or Monday Or Wednesday

Discover More about Nile River Cruises

Acamar Nile Cruise

Mövenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise

Mövenpick MS Royal Lily

Mövenpick MS Sun Ray Nile Cruise

MS Amwaj Nile Cruise

MS Farah Nile Cruise

MS Le Fayan Nile Cruise

MS Mayfair Nile Cruise

MS Mayflower Nile Cruise

Recommended journeys to egypt, 11 day cairo & cruise 7 night.

This journey is the ideal way to see Egypt. Not only can you enjoy the wonderful ancient sites along the Nile, from Luxor to Aswan but also Visit famous Pyramids of Giza, feel an authentic spirit of old Cairo ! Be sure, it will be one of the most exciting Egypt tours, you’ve ever made! Highlights Discover Egypt on a special holiday departure, including seven-night Nile cruise. Ride Like a Local on camel back and sail the Nile in a felucca (sailboat). Gain entry the tomb of “the boy king,” Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings. Discover the archaeological icons of ancient Egypt, with your own private and expert local guides. Design your Day on Day 7.

5 Day Cairo & Nile Cruise

This cultural tour will start in Cairo, where you'll explore the bustling city and visit the Pyramids of Giza, before embarking on a three-night cruise on the Nile River during which you'll visit Egypt's most famous temples including Philae temple. You'll then set sail on the Nile to Luxor with stops in Kom Ombo and Edfu. In Luxor, you'll do a tour of this historic city and visit the Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and others before returning to Cairo to board your departure flight home. Highlights Discover the Great Pyramids of Giza. Visit one of Egypt's largest surviving temples during a Nile River cruise. Sail along the Nile River to Luxor. Walk through the Valley of the Kings.

12 Day Cairo, Cruise & Hurghada

Explore the top sights of Egypt. Tailor-made Travel package for your holiday includes Cairo, Nile cruise and Red Sea in Hurghada. Visit the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, Old Cairo, and Saladin’s Citadel. Then Travel to Aswan to embark on a Nile Cruise to Luxor. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Nile. End your trip relaxing on the beach in Hurghada. Highlights Sail on a three-night Nile River cruise on a 5 Star Nile Cruise. Sail the Nile in a felucca (sailboat). Ride like a Local on camel back. Gain entry the tomb of “the Pharaohs,” in the Valley of the Kings. Discover the archaeological icons of ancient Egypt, with your own private and expert local guides.

8 Day Cairo, Nile Cruise & Abu Simbel

Follow the ancient Nile down through Egypt to sail to some of the ancient world's most dramatic structures. Spots such as Karnak, Luxor, and Abu Simbel evoke the complex structures of ancient Egyptian life and architecture, while a city tour of Cairo and trip to the Aswan Dam will help bring you into Egypt's present. Highlights Stand in the shadows of the Pyramids. See the temples of Karnak and Luxor. Stroll through the Valley of the Kings. Sail down the ancient Nile.

10 Day Cairo, Alexandria, & the Nile

On this 10-day tour of Egypt, enjoy the sites by land and sea. Begin in Cairo to visit the pyramids and the Sphinx. Then, fly to Luxor for some sightseeing, before boarding a multiday cruise along the Nile, with stops in Edfu and Aswan. Then, fly back to Cairo and take a day trip to Alexandria to discover the catacombs, citadel and library. Highlights Tour the famous, ancient pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza. Enjoy a cruise along the Nile River. Tour Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and more in Luxor. Take a day trip to Alexandria to tour the catacombs, citadel, and library.

Nile Cruise & Hurghada - 7 Days

Hit the highlights of Egypt on this tour, enjoy the sites by Nile and Sea: Begin in Aswan to visit the Philae Temple and Aswan High Dam before boarding a multiday cruise along the Nile, with stops in Kom Ombo and Edfu. Then, disembark and transfer to Hurghada on the Red Sea for a beach days at the Red Sea. Journey Schedule: Every Friday Or Monday Or Wednesday Highlights Sail down the ancient Nile. See the temples of Karnak and Luxor. Stroll through the Valley of the Kings. Enjoy a free days of relaxation at the Red Sea.

7 Day Pyramids & Nile Cruise by Air

Scenic wonders, rich heritage, warm hospitality...all part of what makes Egypt such an intriguing place to visit. On this Egypt 7 day Pyramids and Nile Cruise package, you'll enjoy the must-see Egypt attractions, plus special experiences you won't get anywhere else. With this Egypt tour, you'll encounter Egypt unlike anything you ever imagined. Live tour guide English

8 Day Pyramids & Nile Cruise by Air

Bask in the timeless majesty of ancient Egypt on an immersive journey through the land of the pharaohs, exploring its quintessential archaeological treasures with an expert tour guide, and cruise for four nights along the Nile. Live tour guide English, German, Spanish

Coptic Egypt, & The Nile - 10 Days

Dive deep into Egypt's history and religion on this packed 10-day itinerary. Walk through the Old City of Cairo and see the pyramids and the Sphinx, visit the Egyptian Museum, which includes antiques that date back 5,000 years. Explore the Egypt desert, and tour ancient religious sites include several churches and monasteries mark the Holy Family Journey. Then cruise down the Nile to visit towering temples, elaborate tombs, and other monuments. Highlights Tour the famous, ancient pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza. Visit the Coptic monasteries of Wadi El Natrun. Visit Old Cairo churches and monasteries. Enjoy a cruise along the Nile River. Tour Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut,& more.

Nile Cruise Gallery

Nile cruise reviews, nile cruise faqs.

The cost of a Nile river cruise varies depending on factors such as duration, amenities and season. Typically, a basic 3-4 day cruise starts around $550-$650 per person, while luxury cruises with longer itineraries can range from $2,000 to $3,000 or more per person.

A Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan usually takes about 4 to 5 days, covering a distance of about 215 kilometers (134 mi) along the river. During the journey, passengers can explore ancient temples, tombs and beautiful landscapes while enjoying the comfort of the cruise ship.

A four-night cruise affords enough time to see the Nile’s major highlights including the temples of Luxor and Abu Simbel, while a more leisurely paced seven-night cruise reveals a wealth of additional less-frequented sites, such as Dra Abu Nag and the magnificent Medinet Habu, built by Ramses III.

Yes, visitors are allowed into select interior chambers of one of Giza’s three most iconic pyramids. The Giza Pyramid Complex (or Giza Necropolis) also comprises some ancillary pyramid complexes and the Great Sphinx of Giza.

Aswan and Abu Simbel are can’t-miss sites in Upper Egypt. Fronting the Nile, Aswan boast a wealth of monumental treasures, including the Philae temple complex, the Temple of Isis and the Temple of Khnum. Located southwest of Aswan, the small Nubian village of Abu Simbel is renowned for its two massive rock-cut temples, both built during the reign of King Ramses II (1200 BC).

Egyptologists are experts who study the language, history and culture of ancient Egypt, a period dating back to 7,000 BC. Their skillsets span humanities disciplines such as literary theory to hard sciences, including the physics of radiocarbon dating. Leading every journey to Egypt, all of JtE Guides and Resident Tour Directors are also trained Egyptologists, revealing privileged insights every step of the way.

Yes, a tourist visa is required for U.S. and Canadian passport holders for entry into Egypt. JtE recommends an electronic visa (eVisa). To apply online, visit visa2egypt.gov.eg/eVisa/Home.

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CRUISES TO ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT

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• Alexandria Port Guide
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Alexandria Cruise Port Guide

On a cruise to Egypt, explore the incredible history of Alexandria and its surroundings. Only a few hours away from bustling Cairo, this coastal city has a relaxed Mediterranean feel. Founded by Alexander the Great, its famed former residents include Cleopatra, Caesar, and Mark Antony, who lived storied lives here.

Stroll the Corniche, Alexandria’s 10-mile long waterfront promenade, taking in the sea air, the local sights, street vendors, and music. Explore the National Museum to learn about Alexandria’s illustrious history and see amazing artifacts. Visit ancient temples, an amphitheater, and catacombs, or take a tour out of the city to see the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. The charming seaside walkway and fascinating architecture make Alexandria an exotic, romantic destination.

Cruises to Alexandria, Egypt

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Alexandria Shore Excursions

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to alexandria, bibliotheca alexandrina.

The Library of Alexandria was the largest library of the ancient world and the place where ancient philosophers and scientists came to increase their knowledge. The modern-day version has three floors that provide a complete history of the city, from the ancient Pharaohs to the Greek-Roman period to now. There’s even a planetarium and science museum for kids.

Citadel of Qaitbay

This 15th-century medieval fort was built on the island of Pharos—where the famed Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood—to defend against attacks from the Ottoman Empire. Explore the castle-like structure and enjoy incredible views of the bay from its ramparts. Look for the stones on the outer walls that have a slightly reddish hue. These are the stones from the destroyed Lighthouse of Alexandria that were repurposed.

Alexandria National Museum

Located in a restored Italian-style palace dating to 1926, this museum contains thousands of artifacts that tell the remarkable story of Alexandria and Egypt. You’ll see mummies, pottery, mosaic portraits, jewelry, fabrics, weapons, and more. Stroll through the surrounding garden after your visit to the three-level museum.

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Top things to do in alexandria, venture to the great pyramids of giza.

No cruise to Egypt would be complete without a visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza. With an overnight stay in Alexandria, you have plenty of time to see the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still intact. Just outside of Cairo, you’ll find the three main pyramids along with several smaller structures and the Great Sphinx of Giza. All were built between 2600 and 2500 BC.

Shop the Souks & Streets

Venture a few blocks inland from the Corniche to find souks, antique stores, bookstores, clothing stores, and food markets. Bring back souvenirs like loose hibiscus tea, local dates, scarab beetle jewelry, oud incense, or a cozy pashmina. You can even visit a souk to find a craftsman who will paint your name in hieroglyphics on a piece of parchment paper.

Vist Montazah Palace Gardens

Stroll the Montazah Palace Gardens, a serene oasis of nature on the city's eastern edge. Montazah is a lavish garden with majestic palms, manicured lawns, and breathtaking flowers that were all once off-limits to all but royals and their entourage.

Top Food & Drink in Alexandria

On a cruise to Egypt, sample some of the country’s national dishes. Some you may be familiar with, like tahini sesame paste and grilled lamb kebabs. Go on a culinary adventure by trying kushari lentils, macaroni, rice, and chickpeas, the pita-like aish baladi, or a spicy minced lamb called kofta.

Sayadiyah fish is a dish made mainly in coastal cities such as Alexandria. It’s a baked casserole with white fish, yellow rice, onions, spices, and tomato sauce. Dessert can be something as simple as mint tea and baklava, or try Om Ali, which is layers of milk-soaked puff pastry mixed with nuts, raisins, coconut, and sugar, and then baked.

Culture & History of Alexandria

Founded in 331 BCE by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was the most vital cultural center of its time. Pharos, the legendary lighthouse and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, was built here. So was the Library of Alexandria, where scholars, mathematicians, astronomers, scientists, and philosophers gathered to seek knowledge.

Today, visiting Alexandria is a relaxed, friendly and laid-back experience. Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country. The dress code in Egypt is considered conservative by Western standards, and it is respectful to obey this code. That means no exposed shoulders or knees, and no tank tops or shorts. If you’re visiting a mosque, don’t forget to remove your shoes.

Alexandria Port Facilities & Location

The Port of Alexandria is located on the western side of the Nile River between the Med and Lake Mariout. The recently renovated passenger terminal takes inspiration from Alexandria’s history with the design incorporating Pharaonic architecture and features from the Roman era. It has a variety of cafes and service areas inside and taxis outside that will take you on the short trip to the heart of the city.

Transportation in Alexandria

Within Alexandria, there are a number of transportation options including the tram network, the commuter rail, and public buses. Having the names of places you want to go written down in Arabic as well as English can make it easier for locals to point you in the right direction. Taxis are also abundant, although it’s best to ask a restaurant host or hostess about usual fares as you may have to negotiate with drivers.

Shopping Near the Alexandria Cruise Port

Alexandria’s two main streets—Al Aksander Al Akbar and Ebadah Ibn Al Somet—are lined with shops selling jewelry, clothing, textiles, and home decor. Prices are written in Arabic, so it is a good idea to have a conversion chart app on your smartphone.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The official currency of Alexandria is the Egyptian pound (EGP). You’ll find ATMs scattered throughout the city, and many establishments accept credit cards. Tipping is commonplace here, and leaving a small tip (10% to 15%) at a restaurant or with someone who provided a service is considered extremely polite.

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