Egypt Holidays · Style
3-Night Nile Cruises
Three nights is the shortest sailing on the Nile, and it still reaches the temples most people come to Egypt to see. The usual 3-night route runs Aswan to Luxor: you board after lunch, sail past Kom Ombo and Edfu over two days, and step ashore at Luxor with Karnak and the West Bank close by. It is the segment we drop into a longer holiday when the days are tight but the river is non-negotiable. Every 3-night cruise here carries a private Egyptologist guide, all temple admissions, full board and dock transfers, so the headline price is close to the real one.
39 matching cruises
The shape
What is a 3-night Nile cruise?
A 3-night Nile cruise is a four-day sailing on the river between Aswan and Luxor (or the reverse), taking in the core temple run of Philae, Kom Ombo and Edfu, with Karnak and the Valley of the Kings reached at either end. It is the compact version of the classic Luxor–Aswan voyage, built for travellers who want the river without giving a week to it. The route and the stops match the longer cruises; what you trade is the slower pace and the smaller, less-visited temples.
Aswan to Luxor
How a 3-night sailing runs
- Day 1AswanBoard after lunch. Philae Temple by motorboat and the High Dam in the afternoon, then a felucca past Elephantine Island at sunset.
- Day 2Kom OmboSail north to the riverside double temple of Sobek and Horus, lit at dusk and reached straight off the gangway.
- Day 3EdfuThe Temple of Horus by horse-carriage at opening, the best-preserved temple in Egypt. Sail on towards Luxor.
- Day 4LuxorDisembark after breakfast. Karnak and the West Bank are yours before the airport or the sleeper train.
Direction reverses on Luxor-departure ships. We book the sailing that fits your onward flight, not the other way round.
MidTulip Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Tulip Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel with Standard, Deluxe and Suite cabins. Many cabins have panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies. On board, guests have access to a lounge bar, an indoor saloon and a sun deck with shaded seating and loungers. Full-board dining runs from lunch on embarkation day to breakfast on disembarkation day; drinks (including water) are extra. The shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Unlike a fixed land itinerary, the programme combines sailing on the Nile with visits at scheduled stops.
MidThree Pyramids Dahabiya
Esna
Three Pyramids Dahabiya cruises from Luxor to Aswan, calling at Karnak, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. The pace is measured, with mornings ashore for temple visits and afternoons spent sailing past palm groves and Nile islands. You pass through the historic Esna Lock, visit a riverside village and explore the Temple of Horus at Edfu and the twin temples at Kom Ombo. We favour small-group dahabiya sailings with eight to 12 guests rather than larger motor-ship cruises, so visits are quieter and more flexible. Our Egyptologists lead the sightseeing and we are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, available to answer planning questions and arrange your transfers and onward travel.
PremiumThe Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Four-day Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan aboard MS The Oberoi Phiale with guided visits to Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we provide our Egyptologists for shore excursions and time visits early or late to avoid the midday sun. Unlike larger motor-vessel programmes, we keep longer stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief drive-by visits. Expect early starts, walking on uneven ancient stone and limited shade on sun decks; premium tombs such as Tutankhamun's are excluded unless requested. We arrange private transfers and bespoke extensions in Luxor or Aswan.
MidSteigenberger Omar El Khayam Lake Cruise
Abu Simbel
This 5-star Lake Nasser cruise travels between Aswan and Abu Simbel, through a stretch of southern Egypt where shore excursions focus on Nubian temples and archaeological sites. The route includes Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Kasr Ibrim and the temples of Abu Simbel. A restaurant, pool and gym are listed among the cruise amenities. Full Board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) are typically extra. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise; the vessel is supplied and operated by the cruise line. Compared with the busier Luxor to Aswan river route, Lake Nasser has fewer shore towns and more isolated stops.
MidSteigenberger Legacy Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Steigenberger Legacy is a five-star Nile cruise vessel sailing between Luxor and Aswan, with a shore-excursion programme that includes major temples and ancient sites. The vessel sails weekly in both directions. Cabins are offered in Standard, Deluxe and Suite grades; some have Nile-view balconies or panoramic windows. On board, facilities include a restaurant, lounge bar, gym, WiFi, concierge service, a sun deck pool and rooftop terrace. Full board covers meals from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Unlike a fixed land itinerary, this cruise combines sailing on the Nile with scheduled shore visits. We arrange the booking; the cruise line owns and operates the vessel.
MidSonesta Star Goddess Nile Cruise
Aswan
Sonesta Star Goddess is a five-star Nile river vessel with suites that have private Nile-view balconies. On board, guests can use the sun deck, pool, lounge bar and dining room. The shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings, with sailing between visits. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Full Board covers lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) and gratuities are extra unless stated otherwise. Unlike a coach-based sightseeing programme, this cruise combines travel on the Nile with visits to archaeological sites.
MidRoyal Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
This seven-day Nile cruise aboard the Royal Cleopatra dahabiya visits Luxor West Bank, Karnak Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. We operate private, sail-powered dahabiyas rather than large motor cruise ships; sailing slows transit and reduces engine noise. One of our Egyptologists provides a pre-embarkation briefing in Luxor, and we arrange guided visits and local transfers throughout. Unlike standard four-night motor-cruise itineraries, the seven-day dahabiya gives proper time at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than rushed stopovers. Trade-offs: cabins are generally smaller than on larger Nile cruisers, sailing relies on wind, and some excursions require early starts to avoid midday heat. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and handle all practical arrangements.
Queen Isis Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Queen Isis Dahabiya is a Nile cruise aboard a dahabiya, a smaller style of river vessel associated with a quieter pace than larger cruise ships. The route connects Aswan and Luxor, with the direction determined by your selected departure. You can spend time on deck as the river landscape changes between the two cities, then use the on-board jacuzzi between stops. Full board is served from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks (including water), gratuities and optional services or excursions not listed in your booking are extra. Transfers are arranged according to the booking details.
MidQueen Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Aswan
Queen Cleopatra Dahabiya is a small sailing boat on the Nile, featuring four double cabins and room for up to eight guests. With its lateen sail and limited passenger capacity, it provides a more peaceful alternative to larger Nile cruise ships, although sailing times are dictated by the wind. Full Board covers lunch on the day you embark through to breakfast on the day you disembark; drinks (including water) cost extra. The dahabiya can be chartered in full; the rate is available on request. At least two cabins must be booked to guarantee sailing, and a private charter supplement may be charged when fewer than all four cabins are booked. The booking is arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator; we do not operate the vessel.
MidPrincess Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Aswan
The Princess Cleopatra dahabiya is a seven-day traditional-sailing cruise along the Nile. Unlike motorised mini-cruises, dahabiyas use sails traditionally and give quieter overnight crossings. We operate this itinerary as a licensed Egyptian tour operator and can adjust embarkation points where feasible. Expect compact cabins and generous deck space for daytime sailing; plan for early starts at temples, walking on uneven ancient stone, and occasional itinerary changes when wind is light. Standard site entrance fees apply unless we state otherwise; premium tombs and pyramid interiors are extra. We recommend seven days to see key riverside sites without repeated hotel changes.
MidNour El Din Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Nour El Din Dahabiya is a 45-metre sailing vessel on the Nile, designed for up to 20 guests and served by an 11-person crew. Its three-deck layout includes two cabin decks. As a dahabiya, it offers a slower style of river travel than larger Nile cruisers and may reach quieter stretches and smaller archaeological sites. The cruise is full board, from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) are extra. We arrange the booking as part of your Egypt plans. The cruise supplier owns and operates the vessel.
MidNile Premium Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
MS Nile Premiums is a four-day cruise linking Luxor and Aswan with guided temple visits and onboard accommodation. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and operate this as a Nile-only itinerary–Cairo or Giza visits are not bundled into the cruise. Unlike many three-night packages, the fourth day allows scheduled calls at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than rushed drive-bys. Expect organised shore visits with our Egyptologists, compact cabin layouts on most Nile vessels, and short organised walks on uneven ancient stone at shore sites. Standard site entrance fees are included unless stated; pyramid interiors, premium tombs and gratuities are excluded.
BudgetMoondance Nile Cruise
Luxor
MS Moondance is a four-day Nile cruise linking Luxor and Aswan. We arrange private Egyptologist-led visits and shore transfers as a licensed Egyptian tour operator. We don't run mass coach tours; we prefer private or small-group sailings that let you visit Karnak Temple and the Luxor West Bank at quieter times. Compared with single-day excursions from Luxor, a four-day cruise gives relaxed transit time and evening light on the Nile. Trade-offs: cabins are compact, upper decks have limited shade at midday, and some shore visits require walking on uneven ancient stone and early starts for sunrise photography.
PremiumMinya Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Esna
Minya Dahabiya is a seven-day Nile dahabiya cruise offering slow sailing, village moorings and extended daylight ashore. We operate small dahabiyas and do not run group bus tours; that keeps mornings and landings flexible. Unlike larger Nile cruise ships, this itinerary prioritises sailing time and evenings at village quays rather than fixed port turnarounds. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are extra and not included unless requested. Expect simpler cabins, occasional river noise and fewer onboard facilities during sail days. Arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator.
MidJaz Regent Nile Cruise
Aswan
Jaz Regent is a five-star river cruise vessel sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Cabins are available in Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes, with Nile views in higher grades. On board, guests can use the sun deck, lounge bar and dining room. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The vessel sails weekly in both directions, with sailing periods alternating with shore excursions at major Nile sites. These can include Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Unlike coach-based touring, the cruise combines river travel with visits arranged through the vessel’s excursion programme. Discovery Tours Egypt arranges bookings; the cruise line owns and operates the vessel.
BudgetJaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Cabins are available in Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes; many have panoramic windows or a Nile-view balcony. On board, guests can use the sun deck, pool, lounge bar and dining room, with complimentary WiFi in public areas. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Weekly sailings run in both directions. We arrange the cruise and shore visits; unlike shorter cruise packages, this programme includes several major archaeological sites along the river.
MidIris Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Aswan
Sail seven days along the Nile between Luxor and Aswan aboard Iris, a privately operated luxury dahabiya. We operate Iris as a private dahabiya rather than a large motor ship; that means slower transit and more time ashore. Unlike 4‑night motor cruise patterns, a dahabiya allows ad hoc moorings and quieter nights on the river. Our Egyptologists give daily briefings and accompany guided walks ashore. Trade‑offs: cabins are more compact than on larger ships, shade on deck is limited at midday, and some temple visits require early starts. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange private embarkations and ground transfers.
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Farah Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sail the Nile for four days aboard MS Farah, operating the standard Luxor–Aswan route with guided shore visits. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange cabins, transfers and Egyptologist-led excursions rather than running large coach tours. Unlike many packaged cruises, we prioritise private or small-group shore time so visits are less rushed. Expect honest trade-offs: early starts, walking on uneven temple stone, and limited shade on open decks at midday. Standard site entrance fees are included unless stated; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are excluded unless explicitly requested.
MidBens Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Luxor
Bens Dahabiya is a sail-powered dahabiya cruise on the River Nile in Egypt. Dahabiyas offer a quieter, slower-paced alternative to larger Nile cruise ships, though sailing times can vary with wind conditions. Full-board meals are provided from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Standard sightseeing and site entrance fees are included only where listed in the confirmed cruise programme. Some visits involve walking over uneven ground. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise; the vessel is operated by its cruise provider. Unlike larger cruise ships, a dahabiya offers a smaller-scale sailing experience, but the exact route and sightseeing stops depend on the confirmed booking.
MidAzhar Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Aswan
Board at the Luxor Nile pier, where the crew will bring your luggage aboard and your Egyptologist will meet the group and run through the week’s plans. The Azhar is a six-cabin dahabiya, offering an intimate sailing experience rather than an ocean liner. She sails south when the wind is favourable; otherwise, the engine carries you onwards. The days combine temple visits with leisurely time on the river: morning trips to Luxor and Karnak if you arrive early, passage through the Esna lock, an overnight stop at Edfu to allow two hours ashore, Kom Ombo from the riverbank and a motorboat visit to Philae temple in Aswan. Cabins are 12–16 m², with large windows, private en-suite bathrooms and daily cabin service. Expect a few steps between decks and narrow gangways rather than lifts. Meals are prepared on board using local produce, with breakfast, lunch and dinner included. As your Egyptologist, I’ll draw your attention to details in the temple reliefs, help you time photographs of the inscriptions and explain the choice of moorings, whether on a quiet riverbank near a village or in the shelter of the Esna lock. Please note that Wi-Fi is available in public areas, but the signal can be patchy; cabins are compact and some days begin early. This is slow-paced Nile travel for travellers who value detail, peaceful decks and time at temples without crowds.
MidAmoura Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Esna
Amoura Dahabiya is a sail-powered dahabiya for a quieter journey on the Nile. Its route includes stops at places such as El Kab, Gebel Silsila and the Hagar Salsala quarry, which are accessible to dahabiyas. The pace differs from that of larger motor cruisers, with sailing shaped by wind conditions and time ashore at river sites. Full Board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The captain and crew are on board, and guests can use the public areas and sun deck. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise; the vessel is operated by its supplier.
MidAkhnaton Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
The Akhnaton Dahabiya is a traditional sail-powered craft offering seven days on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. We operate it as a small, privately chartered dahabiya; we don't run group-bus tours. Typical calls include Luxor West Bank, Karnak Temple, Esna lock, Edfu Temple and Kom Ombo. Unlike packaged motor cruises, a dahabiya sails more slowly and anchors at quieter riverside moorings overnight. Trade-offs: cabins are generally smaller than on motor cruise ships and sailing days depend on wind; there is limited shade on the sun deck at midday. We can arrange a private Egyptologist and bespoke shore excursions for each group.
MidSteigenberger Royale Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
The Steigenberger Royale is a five-star Nile cruise vessel with cabins in Standard, Deluxe and Suite categories. Some cabins have Nile-view windows or balconies, subject to availability. On board, facilities include a pool, sun deck, lounge bar, restaurant, gym, spa and air-conditioned public areas. Full board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day; drinks (including water) are extra. Its shore-excursion programme may include Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges bookings for the vessel, which is owned and operated by its supplier.
BudgetJaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise
Luxor
Jaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel with Standard, Deluxe and Suite cabins. Some higher-grade cabins have Nile-view balconies, while some Deluxe cabins have panoramic windows. On board, guests have access to a restaurant, pool, rooftop terrace, lounge bar and indoor lounge. Full board includes breakfast, lunch and dinner served on board; drinks (including water) are extra. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Its shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. We arrange the cruise with the vessel’s operator; we do not own or operate the ship.
Princess Donia Dahabiya
Nile (cruise route)
A traditional dahabiya cruise from Luxor to Aswan, Princess Donia visits Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. The six-day voyage sails slowly during daylight, giving more time ashore than larger motor launches. We limit parties to 8–12 guests, and our Egyptologists lead each visit with local context and walking routes that suit small groups. Expect relaxed evenings on deck, an island stop for a short walk or swim, and riverside scenes of palm groves and village life. Practical notes, we cover: some early starts at key sites, walking on uneven ancient stone, and limited cabin availability which makes early booking advisable.
BudgetSonesta Nile Goddess Nile Cruise
Luxor
MS Nile Goddess is a 4-day Nile cruise operating between Luxor and Aswan with guided visits to Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Edfu and Kom Ombo. We organise private guided visits rather than scheduled coach excursions, so you have longer ashore and smaller groups. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator we arrange private transfers, cruising permits and licensed Egyptologists for each visit. Expect early starts for West Bank tombs and some walking on uneven ancient stone; shade on deck is limited at midday. We recommend sturdy shoes, sunscreen and a light sunhat.
MidRoyal Lily Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
The Mövenpick Royal Lily is a five-star Nile cruise vessel with air-conditioned cabins, Nile-view picture windows and a rooftop sun deck. On board, full-board meals are served in the restaurant, and the panoramic lounge bar offers a place to sit while the river scenery changes. An Egyptian folkloric show is listed among the onboard entertainment. The shore-excursion programme may include Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Philae, depending on the itinerary. We arrange the cruise with the vessel’s operator; the vessel is not operated by Discovery Tours Egypt. Site entrance fees, gratuities and drinks (including water) are not included.
Grand Mandarin Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Grand Mandarin Nile Cruise is a Nile river cruise product for travel between Luxor and Aswan. The sailing schedule runs weekly in both directions, with days alternating between time on the river and shore excursions. The programme can include Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Full Board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day; drinks (including water) are typically extra. The vessel is assigned at booking, so cabin features and onboard facilities are not confirmed here. We arrange the cruise with the vessel’s operator; it is not run by Discovery Tours Egypt.
- Budget
Ruby 1 Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
MS Ruby 1 is a Nile river vessel offering a four-day, three-night cruise along the Nile. We position this as a compact river option for travellers who prefer three nights aboard rather than a seven-night itinerary. Unlike longer cruises, this 4-day sailing concentrates on core river travel and normally requires earlier departures and shorter shore visits. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private transfers, luggage handling and Egyptologist-guided shore visits. Trade-offs include fewer stops ashore, more early starts for excursions, and more walking on uneven ancient stone during visits. Ask us about adding pre- or post-cruise nights in Cairo or Luxor.
BudgetAl Kahila Nile Cruise
Aswan
Al Kahila Nile Cruise is a river vessel sailing between Luxor and Aswan, with cabin classes, a sun deck, lounge bar and dining room. It sails weekly in both directions, with shore excursions in the vessel’s programme at Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The programme alternates sailing with visits to temples and ancient sites along the Nile. Unlike a coach-based tour, the cruise links these places by river. We arrange the booking as part of your Egypt travel plans; the vessel is operated by its cruise provider.
MidSteigenberger Regency Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
The Steigenberger Regency is a five-star Nile cruiser with Standard, Deluxe and Suite cabins, a restaurant, lounge bar, pool and rooftop terrace. Many cabins have panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies. Its shore-excursion programme includes sites such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Full board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day; drinks (including water) are extra unless stated otherwise. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise and embarkation formalities. Shore excursions and their fees should be checked against the booking details.
Star of Luxor Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Star of Luxor Nile Cruise is a five-star river cruise on the Nile. The vessel has a pool, restaurant, bar, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Sailings run weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with shore excursions at Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Discovery Tours Egypt arranges the cruise; the vessel is owned and operated by its cruise line. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) are typically extra.
MidSteigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Cabins are available in Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes; the shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. On board, guests can use the sun deck, pool, lounge areas and restaurant, with air-conditioning and WiFi available. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Weekly sailings operate in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. This is a river cruise with visits ashore, not a fixed stay in one city; the programme and sailing direction vary by departure.
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Queen Nefeer Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Aswan
Queen Nefeer Dahabiya is a dahabiya cruise on the River Nile, a smaller sailing vessel class associated with a quieter pace than larger motor cruisers. A dahabiya’s lateen sail uses the wind where conditions allow; sailing schedules can therefore depend on the breeze and river traffic. The smaller format can reach some Nile-side stops that larger cruise ships cannot, though the exact route and shore visits depend on the itinerary booked. Full Board covers lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) are generally extra. Discovery Tours Egypt arranges the cruise with the vessel’s operator; the boat is not operated by us.
Dahabiya Nora
Esna
Nora Dahabiya sails from Luxor to Aswan, calling at Edfu, Gebel el Silsila and Kom Ombo. Visits include the Temple of Horus at Edfu, the rock-cut shrines of Gebel el Silsila, and Kom Ombo’s twin shrines to Sobek and Haroeris. Onboard life is low-key, with mornings on deck, afternoons watching river traffic and evenings moored at quiet islands. A traditional dahabiya has a shallow draft, which allows closer riverbank navigation than larger motorised boats. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and coordinate local partners for each sailing. Unlike larger Nile motor cruises, Nora Dahabiya typically carries around 8 to 12 guests, which allows longer site visits and a quieter pace ashore.
BudgetNubian Sea Lake Nasser Cruise
Aswan
A four-day cruise from Aswan across Lake Nasser, visiting Kalabsha, Wadi El-Seboua, Amada and Abu Simbel with an Egyptologist. You start in Aswan with guided visits to Kalabsha Temple, Beit el-Wali and the Kiosk of Kertassi, then sail into the desert to explore temples at Dakka, Meharakka, Derr and the Tomb of Penout. The voyage includes full-board dining aboard the Nubian Sea and afternoons at leisure while the vessel moves between shores. We time the Abu Simbel visit for the cooler, less crowded hours and keep guided groups intentionally small. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange your transfers, onboard accommodation and shore visits, and your Egyptologist accompanies every scheduled excursion.
MidMövenpick Prince Abbas Lake Cruise, day cruise on Lake Nasser
Nile (cruise route)
This day cruise follows the Lake Nasser route from Aswan towards the Abu Simbel area aboard a deluxe 5-star cruiser assigned at booking. Lake Nasser lies behind the Aswan High Dam, and its archaeological sites include Abu Simbel, Wadi El Seboua, Amada and Kasr Ibrim. Lunch is served on board, with the menu confirmed at the time of booking. The cruise is arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator; the vessel is owned and operated by its cruise line. Site visits and entrance fees are not included, so check the booked programme before planning time at Abu Simbel or other archaeological sites.
MidSonesta Sun Goddess Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sonesta Sun Goddess is a five-star river vessel sailing weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Its cabins are graded Standard, Deluxe and Suite, with Nile views. On board, amenities include a pool on the sun deck, a rooftop terrace, lounges, a restaurant, room service and a spa. The shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae, with time divided between visits ashore and sailing. We arrange the cruise with the vessel’s operator; the ship is not operated by Discovery Tours Egypt. Full-board meals run from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day.
Esplanade Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
This cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan aboard MS Esplanade, with guided visits to Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. Accommodation is full board on MS Esplanade, and we provide an English-speaking Egyptologist for groups of no more than eight guests. All sightseeing between Luxor and Aswan is included, with private air-conditioned transfers at embarkation and disembarkation. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we coordinate arrival and departure meet-and-assist, onboard meals and excursions. Unlike shorter itineraries that compress temple visits, this schedule spaces morning and late-afternoon visits to avoid the midday heat. An optional Abu Simbel excursion is available from Aswan on disembarkation day.
Practical questions
What clients ask about this style of holiday.
01Is 3 nights enough for a Nile cruise?
Three nights is enough to reach every headline temple between Aswan and Luxor: Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Karnak. What you skip is the slower pace and the smaller sites such as El Kab and Esna that the longer sailings fold in. If your overall Egypt holiday is seven to ten days with Cairo included, a 3-night cruise is the right-sized river segment.
02Which direction is better, Aswan to Luxor or Luxor to Aswan?
Aswan to Luxor is the more common 3-night direction and the one we recommend. You sail downstream with the current, the temples build towards Karnak as a finale, and you finish in Luxor with onward flights and the sleeper train both close by. Luxor-departure ships sail the same stops in reverse.
03What is included on a 3-night Nile cruise?
Every 3-night cruise includes a private Egyptologist guide, all temple admissions, full board aboard and transfers between the dock and the airport or station. Drinks outside meals, gratuities and the optional Abu Simbel flight from Aswan are separate. The from-price shown is per person sharing a cabin.
04Do UK travellers need a visa for a Nile cruise?
Yes. British passport holders need an Egypt visa: the US$30 e-Visa applied for online at visa2egypt.gov.eg, or the US$36 visa on arrival at the digital consoles in the immigration hall. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival. Full guidance is sent with every confirmed booking, and your Cairo desk walks you through it if the form gives any trouble.
From the Cairo desk
Found the shape. Now make it yours.
Every Nile cruise we book is tailor-made – your dates, your cabin, your sailing direction. Send a short brief or talk to the Cairo desk direct. Replies inside one working day.
– Suhaila & the Cairo team · 38 years · 6 offices · IATA #90255546