Skip to content
5-Star Deluxe Nile cruise vessel

5-Star Deluxe · The middle of the fleet ·

Deluxe Nile cruises – the most-booked tier on the river.

The honest sweet spot. Larger cabins than Standard, more balcony cabins as a share of the boat, refurbished public spaces, full-board dining with à la carte options on most vessels. What most first-time British visitors actually want once they've compared.

43vessels currently in this tier

£790per person · 3 nights / 4 days

What you're actually paying for

The Deluxe tier, line by line.

Cabin size (typical)
17–22 m²
Decks
4 (cabins on 2–3)
Balcony
Most cabins · private balcony or French balcony
Dining
Full board · buffet + 1 à la carte
Crew-to-guest ratio
≈ 1 : 1.5
Pool
Yes · sun-deck plunge pool, bar
Best for
Repeat travellers · couples · honeymooners on a budget
From (per person)
£790 · 4 nights / 5 days

“If you have to pick one tier without seeing the cabins in person, this is the one most of our team picks.”

Standard sailing rotation

How the schedule works on the Luxor–Aswan loop.

Durations
Every vessel on this page sails 4-night, 5-night, and 7-night variants of the same Luxor↔Aswan loop. The 4-night covers Edfu + Kom Ombo + Aswan temples; the 7-night adds a return cruise with more leisure time and (on most ships) a Dendera + Abydos extension.
Embarkation days
The most common rotation is Monday from Luxor and Friday from Aswan, but each vessel sets its own schedule – exact departure days are shown per ship below where confirmed. Cat-A and Ultra-Deluxe vessels often add a Saturday Luxor sailing in peak season (Oct–Apr); dahabiyas typically embark on Mondays from Esna.
What's included
Full board on every vessel, all temple admissions, Egyptologist guiding, transfers from/to Luxor or Aswan airport, and port fees. Tipping is not included – a printed guide is issued at embarkation.

In the fleet

5-Star Deluxe Nile cruisers (40).

Each vessel below sails the 4 / 5 / 7-night variants on the schedule above. Prices shown are the lead-in 4-night cabin; longer variants and balcony cabins are quoted on request.

  1. Al Kahila Nile Cruise

    Al Kahila Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    Al Kahila Nile Cruise is a river vessel offering cabin classes with Nile views, a sun deck, lounge bar and a dining room. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Full board applies from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day, with shore excursions at Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu (Temple of Horus), Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings included in the vessel program. Discovery Tours Egypt has carefully selected and arranges this cruise as part of your Egypt travel plans. Unlike coach-based group tours, the cruise alternates sailing and on-shore visits for a paced itinerary.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£607/ pp

  2. Alyssa Nile Cruise

    Alyssa Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    Alyssa Nile Cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Philae Temple. We arrange small-group cruises with English-speaking Egyptologists, full-board meals, airport and port transfers, and entrance fees for the listed sites. Groups are capped at eight participants, so visits are quieter and queuing times are typically shorter than on larger cruise programs. The itinerary includes a horse-drawn chariot visit to Edfu and a folkloric evening ashore. Optional excursions, such as Abu Simbel from Aswan, can be added. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Cairo-based team coordinates every detail on the ground, from meet-and-assist to transfers and local guides.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£583/ pp

  3. Blue Shadow Nile Cruise

    Blue Shadow Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    The Blue Shadow Nile Cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan with guided visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Philae, Edfu and Kom Ombo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; our Egyptologists lead all guided excursions and explain the archaeology at each site. Onboard life alternates deck-side Nile views with full-board dining, short talks and an evening folkloric show. We do not run large-group bus tours, our sailings are restricted to small groups of no more than eight guests. Compared with mass-market coach tours, the cruise allows more time at Edfu and Kom Ombo to explore on foot. Optional excursions, including an Abu Simbel day trip from Aswan, can be arranged on request.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board
  4. Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

    Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

    Aswan → LUXOR

    Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak and the Valley of the Kings. The vessel is a classic, five-star cruise with a sun deck, pool and evening entertainment on board. Days combine guided visits to named sites, including a chariot ride to Edfu’s Temple of Horus, with relaxed afternoons watching the river. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we coordinate transfers, meet-and-assist and English-speaking Egyptologist guides for the excursions. We do not run group bus tours, excursions are private and led by an Egyptologist. Unlike many short packaged cruises that rush temple visits, this programme schedules fuller time at Edfu and Kom Ombo. Optional Abu Simbel excursions are available from Aswan on selected departures.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£543/ pp

  5. Concerto Nile Cruise

    Concerto Nile Cruise

    Luxor → LUXOR

    The Concerto Nile Cruise runs between Luxor and Aswan, offered as 3-night or 4-night full-board itineraries. Itineraries visit Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, the Colossi of Memnon, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Philae. Edfu is reached by horse-drawn chariot, and Kom Ombo receives an extended stop for photography and study of the reliefs. Full-board accommodation onboard, private air-conditioned transfers, entrance fees and an English-speaking Egyptologist are included, with guide groups limited to eight guests. We keep Egyptologist groups to a maximum of eight to reduce walking-group size at busy sites and allow more time with the guide. Optional Abu Simbel excursions can be added from Aswan. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange all transfers and local guides.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board
  6. Concerto Plus Nile Cruise

    Concerto Plus Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board
  7. Farida Nile Cruise

    Farida Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Farida Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel offering full-board sailing with a program of shared shore excursions to major Nile sites. The vessel typically sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with days alternating between sailing and excursions. Cabins are offered in Standard, Deluxe and Suite grades, many with Nile-view windows or balconies. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise for our clients and includes embarkation lunch through disembarkation breakfast. Unlike large coach-based tours, the Farida focuses on relaxed days afloat and on-site visits at Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£685/ pp

  8. Golden Nile Cruise

    Golden Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from AswanFull Board
  9. Grand Rose Nile Cruise

    Grand Rose Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    The Grand Rose Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile river vessel offering full board accommodation, on-board amenities and a scheduled shore-excursion programme. Cabins are offered in Standard, Deluxe and Suite grades, several with Nile-view windows or balconies, and public spaces include a sun deck with shaded seating, a lounge bar, dining room and a small pool. We arrange weekly sailings between Luxor and Aswan that alternate sailing days and shore excursions to well-known sites. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we book the cruise and coordinate the shore excursions and embarkation logistics for you.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£524/ pp

  10. Hambra Nile Cruise

    Hambra Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    The Hambra Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, offered as 4-day/3-night and 5-day/4-night itineraries. Each itinerary visits the High Dam, Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut's temple, Karnak and Luxor Temple. Mornings are guided by an English-speaking Egyptologist, afternoons are for sailing and on-deck time. We limit guided groups to eight travellers, rather than running large coach tours. On disembarkation in Aswan, an optional Abu Simbel excursion can be arranged. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange transfers, Egyptologists and local logistics.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board
  11. Iberotel Crown Emperor Nile Cruise

    Iberotel Crown Emperor Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from LuxorFull Board
  12. Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

    Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board
  13. Jamila Nile Cruise

    Jamila Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Jamila Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel offering full board accommodation and an on-board shore-excursion programme. The vessel typically sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with days alternating between sailing and visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Cabins are offered in graded classes, with Nile-view balconies on higher grades and panoramic windows in lower grades. We hand-pick this ship rather than include it in coach-led mass-market packages, and the excursion pattern gives time ashore at major temples rather than rushed port calls.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£607/ pp

  14. Jaz Crown Jewel Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Jewel Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board
  15. Jaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    Jaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile cruiser offering full board accommodation with public spaces including a pool, rooftop terrace and lounge bar. Cabins range by class, with Nile-view balconies on higher grades and panoramic windows in some Deluxe cabins. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with a shore-excursion program that calls at Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. We hand-pick this vessel for its combination of on-board leisure spaces and a shore-excursion schedule that alternates sailing and visits.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£696/ pp

  16. Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile river vessel with sun deck, pool, lounge bar and graded cabins. Full board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan and offers a shore-excursion program visiting Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. We do not run group bus tours; instead we arrange this carefully selected cruiser with on-board comfort and guided shore visits. Unlike short packaged cruises, the vessel’s program allows proper time ashore at the main archaeological sites.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£696/ pp

  17. Kleos Nile Cruise

    Kleos Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    MS Kleos is a four-day Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan with daily guided excursions to major temples and tombs. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists lead the shore visits. Unlike larger seven-night cruises, this compact itinerary concentrates on Karnak Temple, Luxor West Bank, Edfu and Kom Ombo so you see the key sites without extra nights. We keep shore groups deliberately small rather than running large coach rotations. Standard site entrance fees are included; premium tombs such as Tutankhamun or Seti I are extra. Note the trade-offs: early starts, walks on uneven ancient stone and limited shade on deck at midday.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£581/ pp

  18. Kontiki Nile Cruise

    Kontiki Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Kontiki Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile river vessel, offering cabins with Nile views, a sun deck and a lounge bar. The vessel typically sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with an organised shore-excursion programme visiting Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Cabins are graded Standard, Deluxe and Suite, and pricing is per person sharing with a single-supplement policy for sole occupancy. Unlike fast one-way transfers, the Kontiki gives time on board to relax between visits, and we carefully select this vessel for its balanced schedule and facilities.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£653/ pp

  19. Lady Carol Nile Cruise

    Lady Carol Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Lady Carol is a four-day Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan with guided shore visits to Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. We arrange private transfers and our Egyptologists lead all ashore visits. Unlike many larger 7-night cruises, this short cruise concentrates on principal river temples and keeps sailing time compact, which means shorter days ashore at smaller sites. Expect early starts for cooler visits and simpler onboard facilities rather than a full floating resort. Site entrance fees are included unless the itinerary states otherwise; premium tombs and gratuities are extra. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£610/ pp

  20. Lady Mary Nile Cruise

    Lady Mary Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    A four-day Nile cruise aboard MS Lady Mary between Luxor and Aswan. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange Egyptologists to lead each temple visit. We arrange private guided shore excursions rather than fixed coach-group timings, and unlike cruise-line timetables we plan departures to avoid peak crowds and the midday heat. Typical highlights are Karnak Temple, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae in Aswan. Expect early starts, limited shade at many temple sites and walking on uneven ancient stone; we recommend sensible footwear and sun protection.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£653/ pp

  21. Magic I Nile Cruise

    Magic I Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    Three nights aboard MS Magic I, sailing between Luxor and Aswan with guided visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. We include guided land visits led by our Egyptologist rather than relying on audio guides; this keeps group sizes small and the schedule reliable. Typical timings put two full mornings on Luxor’s West and East Banks, a daytime sail calling at Edfu and Kom Ombo, and a full day in Aswan. Standard site entrance fees are included; premium extras such as Tutankhamun’s tomb or private felucca rides are optional and charged separately. Practical trade-offs: cabins are compact, departures can start early, and temple sites have limited shade at midday. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange transfers, local crew and on-board meals.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Fri from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£566/ pp

  22. Magic II Nile Cruise

    Magic II Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    MS Magic II is a four-day Nile cruise operated on the River Nile by our licensed Egyptian tour operator. The schedule gives paced shore visits, evenings on board and dawn or dusk time ashore for photography. Unlike single-day excursions from Cairo or Luxor, the four-day pace provides multiple mornings and evenings to visit major sites properly. We do not automatically include pyramid interior tickets or premium tombs; clients choose those extras at booking or on request. Trade-offs include early starts on some mornings, limited shade at midday and walking on uneven ancient stone at sites. Standard site entrance fees are included unless stated otherwise.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Fri from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£624/ pp

  23. Mirage Nile Cruise

    Mirage Nile Cruise

    Luxor → ASWAN

    Sail the Nile between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak, Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. The itineraries run in both directions, giving you a choice of embarkation port and a different sequence of visits. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and our Egyptologists lead small groups of no more than eight guests per guide. Compared with larger overnight cruise operators, this itinerary keeps a steadier pace so you spend more time ashore at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than rushing between sights. Expect riverside approaches, a late-afternoon felucca sail at Aswan, and guided visits timed to reduce crowding where possible.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board
  24. Monica Nile Cruise

    Monica Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, offering the Monica Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan. The itinerary pairs visits to Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Deir el-Bahari, Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo and Philae with relaxed sailing time on the sun deck. Our Egyptologists place each monument in its historical context and answer specialist questions. We limit guided groups to eight guests to reduce queues and allow fuller time at each site. Unlike larger Nile boats that rush multiple stops, Monica provides longer onshore time at Edfu and Kom Ombo and an afternoon in Aswan for the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£624/ pp

  25. Moondance Nile Cruise

    Moondance Nile Cruise

    Aswan → 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.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£653/ pp

  26. Nile Capital Nile Cruise

    Nile Capital Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from AswanFull Board
  27. Nile Premium Nile Cruise

    Nile Premium Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    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.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£854/ pp

  28. Nile Story Nile Cruise

    Nile Story Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Nile Story Nile Cruise operates small-group sailings between Aswan and Luxor, on 3- or 4-night itineraries. The route visits Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank and Luxor East Bank, with guided excursions led by an English-speaking Egyptologist. Your package is full board, includes entrance fees to listed sites, private meet and assist at airports or stations, and transfers in air-conditioned vehicles. Groups are limited to 1–8 guests maximum, which gives more time ashore and shorter waits at ancient sites than typical large motor-boat cruises. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and manage your on-the-ground arrangements, including sightseeing, transfers and local guiding.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£624/ pp

  29. Nile Style Nile Cruise

    Nile Style Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Nile Style Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile river vessel with a mix of cabin classes, public lounges and a sun deck for panoramic Nile views. The ship sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, and the on-board program alternates sailing days with shore excursions to Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Cabins are offered in Standard, Deluxe and Suite grades, pricing is per person sharing and a single supplement typically applies. Full board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£797/ pp

  30. Radamis I Nile Cruise

    Radamis I Nile Cruise

    Aswan → LUXOR

    Sail the Nile between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Luxor Temples. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists lead guided visits with a maximum of eight guests, so commentary is focused and questions are welcomed. Unlike many short cruises that rush sites, this itinerary schedules full guided visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief photo stops. We arrange transfers, guided excursions and local logistics on the ground, while evening onboard programmes offer a folkloric show and time to relax between visits.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board
  31. Renaissance Nile Cruise

    Renaissance Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board
  32. Royal Beau Rivage Nile Cruise

    Royal Beau Rivage Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Sail the Nile for four days aboard MS Royal Beau Rivage, visiting Karnak Temple, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and operate this cruise on the ground. Unlike many cruise-only packages, our shore visits are led by our Egyptologists rather than hotel-contracted guides, which lengthens time at key sites. Cabins are compact compared with larger river yachts and deck shade is limited at midday. Abu Simbel is available as an optional add-on and requires either an early road transfer or a short domestic flight.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£524/ pp

  33. Royal La Terrasse

    Royal La Terrasse

    Luxor → Aswan

    Royal La Terrasse is a five-star Nile cruise vessel offering full board accommodation and an on-board programme of shore excursions between Luxor and Aswan. The vessel has a sun deck with pool, a lounge bar, a rooftop terrace, a spa and cabins graded Standard, Deluxe and Suite. We arrange sailings weekly in both directions, and the itinerary alternates sailing days with visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu (Temple of Horus), Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Unlike mass coach cruises, this vessel runs a regular weekly programme, so you see each major site across several sailing days.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£610/ pp

  34. Royal Princess Amira Nile Cruise

    Royal Princess Amira Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Four-day Nile cruise aboard MS Royal Amira between Luxor and Aswan. Egyptologist-led visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu and Philae. We schedule temple visits early to avoid midday heat and heavier river traffic. Unlike the quickest packaged sailings, this four-day itinerary allows proper time at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than rushed stops. Cons: early starts, walking on uneven ancient stone and limited shade on deck at midday. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; we provide Egyptologists, private transfers and on-board meals. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are excluded unless explicitly requested.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Fri from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£538/ pp

  35. Ruby 1 Nile Cruise

    Ruby 1 Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    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.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Fri from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£682/ pp

  36. Salima Nile Cruise

    Salima Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Salima is a five-star Nile cruise vessel offering full board cabin accommodation and a shaded sun deck, lounge bar and dining saloon. Cabins are offered in Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes, with Nile-view windows or private balconies where specified. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan and runs a shore-excursion programme calling at Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu (Temple of Horus), Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Discovery Tours Egypt arranges bookings and embarkation logistics for this carefully selected cruiser; drinks beyond water with meals and gratuities are typically extra.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£843/ pp

  37. Sonesta Nile Goddess Nile Cruise

    Sonesta Nile Goddess Nile Cruise

    Aswan → 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.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£754/ pp

  38. Stephanie Nile Cruise

    Stephanie Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    A deluxe 5-star Nile river cruise linking Luxor and Aswan, with sailing days alternating with shore excursions at Egypt’s principal ancient sites. The excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Sailings operate weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Cabins are offered in Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes, subject to availability. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks beyond water served with meals are generally extra. Unlike a fixed sightseeing tour, this format combines time on the river with visits to several archaeological sites.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£466/ pp

  39. Sun Times Nile Cruise

    Sun Times Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    MS Sun Times is a four-day Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan visiting Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings and Philae. We provide cabin accommodation, daytime navigation and shore excursions led by our Egyptologists. We don't run crowded coach transfers; excursions are escorted by our Egyptologists and scheduled to avoid the largest coach arrivals when possible. Unlike three-night sailings, the four-day timetable includes Edfu and Kom Ombo at sensible daylight hours. Expect early starts, walking on uneven ancient stone and limited shade at temple sites. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are excluded unless requested. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and can tailor cabin grade, private guide or added Cairo nights.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£566/ pp

  40. Tower Prestige Nile Cruise

    Tower Prestige Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Tower Prestige Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star river cruise arranged on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. Cabins are graded Standard, Deluxe and Suite, with air conditioning and Nile or panoramic windows. The vessel provides a sun deck with pool and shaded seating, a rooftop terrace, lounge bar and dining room. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Its scheduled shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings, with local Egyptologist guiding. Sailings operate weekly in both directions. Unlike a fixed sightseeing tour, the cruise combines time on the river with visits to major temples and tombs.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 4 nights£566/ pp

Sail-powered alternative

5-Star Deluxe dahabiyas (3).

Dahabiyas run a different schedule from motor cruisers – typically Monday from Esna with 5 or 7-night sailings only. No 4-night option. River-bank moorings at El Kab and Silsila are the standing draw.

  1. Amoura Dahabiya

    Amoura Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Amoura Dahabiya is an intimate sail-powered dahabiya offering a slower-paced Nile experience around Luxor. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, has hand-picked the vessel for travelers who prefer lateen sails, small groups and quiet river moorings. The vessel provides chef-prepared Full Board meals, a sun deck for lounging, a shaded lounge bar and cabins with panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies. The excursion program visits sites only shallow-draft boats can reach, and the vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Unlike mass-market motor cruisers, the dahabiya spends more time ashore and sails when wind conditions allow, producing a gentler rhythm to the day.

    Dahabiya3 / 4 nightsDeparts Mon from Esna / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 5 nights£840/ pp

  2. Hadeel Dahabiya

    Hadeel Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Hadeel Dahabiya is an intimate sail-powered dahabiya with lateen sails and under a dozen cabins, ideal for slow-paced Nile passages. We hand-picked this dahabiya for travellers who prefer personalised service, chef-prepared meals and access to shallower reaches larger motor cruisers cannot visit. The vessel's shore excursion programme includes Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu (Temple of Horus), Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings, with stops at Gebel Silsila and El Kab when conditions permit. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan.

    Dahabiya3 / 4 nightsDeparts Mon from Esna / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 5 nights£1,321/ pp

  3. Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya

    Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya

    Esna → 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.

    Dahabiya3 / 4 nightsDeparts Mon from Esna / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    From · 5 nights£840/ pp

Five things to know

Before you book Deluxe.

  1. 01What actually changes between Standard and Deluxe?

    Cabin square-meterage (≈+3–5 m²), bathroom finish (often a separate shower stall vs. a wet-room shower), balcony allocation (most Deluxe cabins have private balconies, not French balconies), and one à la carte specialty restaurant on top of the buffet. The temples and the Nile are the same.

  2. 02Are Deluxe ships newer than Standard?

    Usually yes – most Deluxe vessels in the 2026 fleet were refurbished within the last 5 years (carpets, soft furnishings, public spaces). A handful of Standard vessels are also recently refurbished and read like Deluxe; our reservations team will flag those when they apply to your dates.

  3. 03Is it worth paying for Deluxe over Standard for a 3- or 4-night cruise?

    If it's your only cruise of the holiday and you're spending two nights on board, yes – the cabin matters. If you're combining a short cruise with a long Cairo stay or a Red Sea extension, Standard is rarely a regret. Our reservations team will give you an honest read for your specific itinerary; we don't earn more selling Deluxe vs. Standard.

  4. 04How does the dining compare to a Luxury vessel?

    Deluxe dining is full board with a buffet and typically one specialty à la carte restaurant. Luxury vessels often run two à la carte restaurants, no buffet, butler service on suites, and a sommelier. The Deluxe buffet is genuinely good in 2026 – the Luxury step is about presentation and seating, not better ingredients.

  5. 05Can I combine a Deluxe Nile cruise with a Lake Nasser cruise?

    Yes. Lake Nasser cruises run between Aswan and Abu Simbel on a separate (smaller) fleet – our reservations team builds Nile + Lake Nasser combinations regularly. The hand-off is usually a fly-down from Aswan to Abu Simbel or a flight from Cairo to Aswan via Abu Simbel.

Different budget?

The other three tiers.

Then pick a route

Which way to sail.

Talk to the Cairo desk

Send your travel window. We'll send back three boats and a hold.

– Suhaila · Egypt Discovery