Egypt Tours · Style
8-Day Nile Cruises
Eight days, seven nights aboard, is the dahabiya length. These are the small wooden sailing yachts, six to twelve guests in private cabins, that move at the pace of the wind and moor overnight at temples the big ships pass by. A week gives you the full Luxor–Aswan corridor plus the sites the 5-day sailing has to skip: the rock-cut tombs at El Kab, the temple at Esna, the sandstone quarries of Gebel el-Silsila. On a motor cruiser the same week usually becomes a round-trip Luxor to Aswan and back. Every 8-day cruise here carries a private Egyptologist guide, all admissions, full board, and transfers.
34 matching cruises
The shape
What is a 8-days Nile cruise?
An 8-day Nile cruise is a seven-night sailing on the Luxor–Aswan stretch, long enough to add the secondary temples that the standard 5-day itinerary leaves out. On a dahabiya it is the signature voyage: El Kab, Esna, and Gebel el-Silsila join the headline stops, and the boat moors on sandbanks where the only sound is the rigging. On a motor cruiser, eight days typically means a round-trip Luxor to Aswan and back to Luxor, ending where you started.
Dahabiya, Luxor to Aswan
How a week under sail runs
- Days 1–2LuxorBoard and take the East and West Banks in full: Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut. No rush to cast off.
- Day 3Esna & El KabThrough the Esna lock to the rock-cut tombs of El Kab, a site the motor ships sail straight past.
- Day 4EdfuThe Temple of Horus at opening, before the day boats arrive. Sail on under canvas through the afternoon.
- Day 5Gebel el-Silsila & Kom OmboThe sandstone quarries that built the temples, then the double temple of Kom Ombo at dusk.
- Day 6AswanPhilae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and a Nubian village on the islands. Two nights moored at Aswan.
- Day 7At leisure on the riverA mooring on a quiet sandbank, swimming off the deck, lunch under the awning. The day the schedule lets go.
- Day 8DisembarkBreakfast aboard, then the transfer to Aswan airport or the start of your onward leg.
Motor-cruiser weeks run as a round trip: Luxor to Aswan and back, finishing where you boarded.
BudgetNile Story - Nile Cruise
Nile Story Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Luxor's East and West Banks. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists lead all guided visits. The cruise runs as a small-group operation, limited to 1–8 guests, which keeps landings and temple visits quieter than on large Nile ships. Embarkation is available in Aswan or Luxor, and our team provides private meet and assist services at arrival. Visits focus on named sites and context, for example the Ptolemaic reliefs at Kom Ombo and the well-preserved hypostyle halls on Luxor's East Bank. Compared with standard large-ship itineraries, this Comfort-class option allocates more time ashore at Edfu and Kom Ombo, so walking routes around temples are less rushed.
MidJasmine Dahabiya
Sail from Luxor to Aswan aboard the Jasmine Dahabiya, visiting El Kab, Edfu, Gebel El Silsila, Kom Ombo, Daraw, and Philae. The small, traditional dahabiya follows a relaxed seven-day route, mooring at riverside villages for longer site visits and evening meals ashore. Our Egyptologists lead each onshore excursion, describing the archaeology at El Kab and the Temple of Horus at Edfu in detail. Unlike large cruise ships, the Jasmine can tie up at narrow riverbanks, allowing walks through Fawaza Village, extended time at Kom Ombo, and quieter visits to Philae as the light fades. Operated by a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange transfers, permits, and local logistics so you move between sites without taxi negotiation or scheduling surprises.
BudgetPrincess Farida Dahabiya
Nile (cruise route)
Sail the Nile aboard Princess Farida Dahabiya, a boutique luxury sailing cruise offering exclusive itineraries, cultural tours, and serene Nile adventures.

Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya
Sail from Luxor to Aswan aboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya, calling at El Kab, Edfu, Gebel El Silsila, Kom Ombo, Daraw, and Philae. The route focuses on short, purposeful stops that let you walk ashore in small riverside villages and inspect sandstone quarries, cliff-cut tombs, and riverside temples with time to spare. Unlike large cruise ships, the dahabiya moors overnight close to village landing stages, which reduces bus transfers and creates quieter evenings on deck. We prefer dahabiyas because they reach places larger vessels cannot, and this itinerary schedules longer visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo than most packaged cruises. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; contact us to tailor the cruise, add pre- or post-cruise hotel nights, or arrange an early-morning balloon flight in Luxor.
BudgetThree Pyramids Dahabiya
Embark in Luxor and disembark in Aswan, visiting Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator. Our Egyptologists lead every shore visit and explain the archaeology and inscriptions on site. The Three Pyramids Dahabiya sails slowly along the Nile, passing Esna Lock, palm groves, and riverside villages. We keep groups small, typically eight to twelve guests, for a quiet cruising environment and personal attention. Unlike larger motor cruises, this itinerary allows longer visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief shore calls. Expect walking on uneven ancient stone and occasional early starts at key temples. Evenings are relaxed on the sun deck as the river light changes.
MidSoleil Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
From Luxor to Aswan, the Soleil Nile Cruise Classic follows the Nile, visiting Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Guided visits with our Egyptologists are scheduled at each named site, and standard entrance fees for included sites are covered. Meals are served onboard, and evenings on deck let you watch riverside villages and palm-lined farmland pass by. We do not run large coach-group tours; our Egyptologists lead the visits we arrange, and we adapt pacing to the boat timetable. Unlike many short shore excursions, this itinerary allows extended on-site time at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than a brief photo stop. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we handle the on-the-ground arrangements for your embarkation, guided sightseeing, and transfers.
BudgetMiriam Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
You board MS Miriam at the Luxor Corniche pier mid-afternoon and settle into a compact river cabin before the first walk to Karnak. I meet you on the quay: I am the Egyptologist who guides this route and I take you straight to the temple avenues where the sound of sandals on sandstone and the smell of date-syrup stalls still set the rhythm of the day. We start early on the West Bank at the Valley of the Kings – low light, few people, and panels that explain the painted ceilings up close. Back on board you watch the Nile change color as the vessel slips through the Esna lock; we moor overnight near Edfu so the temple visit gets two hours rather than a rushed stop. Day three gives you Kom Ombo’s double shrines and the Nile at dusk; on arrival in Aswan I show you Philae’s hypostyle hall and the High Dam’s concrete scale against the river. Cabins are compact (about 12 m²) – classic river scale, not ocean-liner. Full board includes three meals daily; breakfasts are early to match excursions. Practical notes: bring a hat for the tombs, wear closed shoes on uneven rock, and expect short walks and stairs at most sites. I walk every route with you, point out mason’s marks and later-period graffiti, and keep the timing tight so photography fits the light.
BudgetAmwaj Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Amwaj Nile Cruise is a Nile river vessel arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt with cabin classes, full-board dining, and Luxor–Aswan shore excursions. Book now.
BudgetJamila Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sail in elegance aboard the Jamila Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Discover ancient Egypt’s wonders with deluxe comfort, fine dining, and personalized service.

Royal Beau Rivage Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sail the Nile for four days aboard MS Royal Beau Rivage with private Egyptologist-led shore visits and door-to-door transfers arranged by our licensed Egyptian tour operator. We do not run group-bus shore excursions; our Egyptologists lead private visits, and where scheduled we visit temples such as Kom Ombo and Edfu. Unlike packaged day trips from cruise ports, a four-day schedule compresses onshore time; we recommend adding nights in Luxor or Aswan to explore the West Bank or Philae at leisure. Expect compact cabins compared with land hotels, early starts, and walking on uneven ancient stone. Standard temple entrance fees are normally included; premium tombs and pyramid interiors are extra.
BudgetNile Style Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
BudgetKontiki Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sail the Nile in style aboard the Kontiki Nile Cruise. Discover ancient temples, elegant cabins, and world-class service on this unforgettable Deluxe Nile Cruise.
BudgetSalima Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sail in elegance aboard the Salima Nile Cruise. Discover ancient Egypt in comfort and style with 5-star service, scenic views, and deluxe Nile River experiences.

Nile Excellence Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Sail the Nile four days aboard MS Nile Excellence with guided visits to Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Kom Ombo and Edfu. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we don't run coach-based group tours; our schedule spaces morning and late-afternoon visits to reduce midday heat when possible. Unlike many packaged four-night cruises, we allocate fuller time at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than 40–90 minute drive-by stops. Standard site entrance fees are included; premium extras (for example Luxor hot-air balloon) and pyramid-interior tickets are excluded. Expect at least two early starts and limited shade on deck at midday.

Lady Mary Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
A 4-day Nile cruise aboard MS Lady Mary, typically running between Luxor and Aswan with guided shore visits. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange private transfers from city piers and Egyptologist-led excursions rather than large coach-group trips. We don't run group-bus shore excursions; our Egyptologists lead private visits timed to avoid the busiest periods when possible. Unlike packaged 4-night cruises, this short itinerary concentrates on core temples such as Edfu and Kom Ombo instead of many rushed calls. Trade-offs: cabins are compact, days often start early, and expect walking on uneven ancient stone and limited shade at midday.

Zeina Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Zeina Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, visiting Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank, and Luxor East Bank. The vessel offers full-board accommodation, a sun deck with pool and bar, a spa and massage room, a library, and a boutique. Shore visits run in small groups, maximum eight participants, which reduces time spent waiting at temple entrances. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange transfers, embarkation formalities, and local support on the ground. Unlike larger escorted coaches, this cruise keeps shore groups small, allowing longer visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo than many packaged river outings.

Radamis II Nile Cruise
Radamis II is a Nile cruise offering 3, 4, or 7 night sailings between Aswan and Luxor. It calls at Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank, and Luxor East Bank, depending on the chosen itinerary. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange meet-and-assist, private transfers, and guided excursions led by an English-speaking Egyptologist in small groups, maximum eight guests. Onboard facilities include panoramic-window cabins with individual air conditioning, mini bar, LCD TV, full-size bathtubs, a swimming pool, sun loungers, and a barbecue deck. The westbound option departs Aswan every Friday as a 4-day/3-night itinerary; the eastbound option departs Luxor every Monday as a 5-day/4-night itinerary. Optional excursions, for example Abu Simbel by private transfer or domestic flight, can be added for an extra fee.
BudgetBlue Shadow Nile Cruise
Blue Shadow is a 3/4/ or 7-night Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, visiting Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. We run small-group departures, maximum eight guests, with English-speaking Egyptologists guiding all listed tours. Full-board meals are served onboard, and we provide meet-and-assist on arrival, air-conditioned transfers, entrance fees to the listed sites, and a complimentary bottle of water per person per day. The Aswan disembarkation includes an optional Abu Simbel excursion. Compared with shorter Nile sailings, the 7-night itinerary spaces temple visits over more days to avoid back-to-back early mornings. Arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange all on-the-ground details and local guides for each excursion.

Royal Esadora Nile Cruise
Sail between Aswan and Luxor aboard Royal Esadora, visiting Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank, and Luxor East Bank. Accommodation is on a full board basis, with guided excursions led by an English-speaking Egyptologist, limited to a maximum of eight guests per guided party. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange private, air-conditioned transfers, meet-and-assist services, and entrance tickets listed in the itinerary. Onboard facilities include a sun deck with pool, a lounge and bar, a small fitness area, and a massage room. Unlike many short itineraries that treat Edfu and Kom Ombo as brief stops, this schedule allows proper time ashore at both temples. Optional excursions such as Abu Simbel can be arranged for an additional fee, and onboard WiFi and beverages are charged separately.
BudgetSemiramis II Nile Cruise
Semiramis II runs 3- and 4-night Nile cruises between Aswan and Luxor, with Aswan departures on Mondays and Luxor departures on Thursdays. The itinerary schedules guided visits to Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank, and Luxor East Bank, plus Aswan sightseeing. All tours are led by English-speaking Egyptologists we arrange, and small groups are capped at eight participants. Full board dining is provided on board, and the price covers airport and port transfers, meet and assist service, entrance fees to listed sites, and one bottle of water per person per day. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we keep groups small rather than running coach-size tours. Unlike larger cruise schedules that rush temple stops, this itinerary allocates dedicated visits to both Edfu and Kom Ombo.
BudgetRadamis I Nile Cruise
Radamis I cruises the Nile between Aswan and Luxor, visiting Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. We arrange guided visits with an English-speaking Egyptologist, and groups are kept to eight guests or fewer. Embarkation is available in Aswan or Luxor, and passengers dine on full-board meals served aboard. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator. We coordinate meet-and-assist, transfers, and shore excursions while you travel on Radamis I. Unlike short shuttle cruises, this itinerary schedules proper guided visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than very brief stops. Optional Abu Simbel excursions can be arranged from Aswan on request. Most departures include an evening folkloric show on board, and the cruise concludes with visits to Karnak and Luxor Temples on the East Bank.

Royal Princess Nile Cruise
Royal Princess Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor on scheduled 3- and 4-night departures. The route calls at Kom Ombo and Edfu, and includes visits to Luxor East Bank and Luxor West Bank. We provide full-board accommodation onboard, guided excursions with our English-speaking Egyptologists, entrance fees as listed, air-conditioned transfers, and one complimentary bottle of water per person each day. Group tours are limited to a maximum of eight participants, which allows longer time at Edfu and quieter landings at Kom Ombo compared with larger cruise ships. Embarkation is in Aswan, disembarkation in Luxor, with Friday departures running Aswan to Luxor and Monday departures running Luxor to Aswan. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange all on-the-ground services.
BudgetAlexander The Great Nile Cruise
Sail the Nile from Luxor to Aswan aboard the Alexander The Great, a Prestige-class vessel running the classic Luxor–Aswan river route. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange embarkation in Luxor, guided visits with our Egyptologists, and disembarkation in Aswan. Scheduled stops typically include major temples along the Nile banks, allowing time ashore for sites such as Karnak, the Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. We do not run coach-style, large-group shore calls; our Egyptologists prioritise early visits to reduce peak crowds when possible. Unlike short, overnight cruises that rush temple calls, this route gives more time at riverside sites and villages, and more opportunities to watch daily Nile life from deck. Standard site entrance fees are normally included on Nile cruises; premium tombs and pyramid interiors are excluded unless specifically requested.
BudgetHambra Nile Cruise
Hambra sails between Aswan and Luxor, visiting Upper Egypt's principal Pharaonic sites. The route calls at the High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan. It then stops at Kom Ombo and Edfu, with an afternoon chariot ride offered at Edfu Temple, followed by the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut's Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank. East Bank visits include Karnak and Luxor Temples. The program runs as a 4-day route from Aswan or a 5-day route from Luxor, allowing more time at Edfu and Kom Ombo than many shorter packaged cruises.

Concerto Nile Cruise
Sail the Nile between Luxor and Aswan aboard the Concerto, visiting Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. The vessel runs in both directions, allowing embarkation in Luxor or Aswan. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and our Egyptologists lead the guided visits, with on-site groups limited to eight guests for commentary and questions. Onboard facilities include a swimming pool, spa, panoramic lounge, and a sun deck used for lunches; evenings often feature a folkloric show. Unlike some motor-cruise schedules, this itinerary allocates longer visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo, and leaves afternoons for leisure or optional extras. We handle local arrangements on the ground, so you meet your guide at embarkation and proceed directly to the scheduled visits.

MayFair Nile Cruise
The MayFair Nile Cruise sails the Nile between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak, the Valley of the Kings on Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Shore visits are scheduled to allow focused time at the major temples and tombs, with Egyptologists available to accompany archaeological sightseeing. Cabins and public spaces vary by vessel; we confirm exact cabin details at booking. Unlike day trips that require long drives back each evening, a multi-night cruise keeps you close to the sites and reduces repeated land transfers. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange transfers, Egyptologists, and your cruise booking aboard the MayFair.
BudgetJaz Elite Senator Nile Cruise
Sail between Luxor and Aswan aboard the Jaz Elite Senator, visiting Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Philae, Edfu, and Kom Ombo. The vessel features all-suite accommodation and an evening folkloric show, with daytime deck space for river views and temple façades. Our Egyptologists lead guided visits, and tours are capped at eight guests to keep groups small and focused. Compared with many larger Nile boats, the Jaz Elite Senator offers only suite accommodation rather than mixed cabin types. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we coordinate on-the-ground logistics, so guests step off the gangway straight into scheduled visits and evening briefings with the guide.

Tosca Nile Cruise
MS Tosca sails the Nile between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, the Valley of the Kings, and Karnak. Tosca was designed by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, which shapes the ship’s dining and public spaces. We arrange private, Egyptologist-led excursions, capped at eight guests per guide, so site visits are small and focused. The itinerary is available as a 4-day cruise from Aswan to Luxor, or a 5-day reverse route with an optional Abu Simbel excursion. Departures run weeky from Luxor on Monday, and from Aswan on Friday. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and provide meet-and-assist at embarkation, modern air-conditioned transfers, and personal assistance throughout your cruise.

LA Sarah Nile Cruise
LA Sarah Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, visiting Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank, and Luxor East Bank. Departures are Wednesdays from Aswan and Saturdays from Luxor. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists lead all guided excursions, limited to eight guests. Full-board meals, private air-conditioned transfers, and the site entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included. The boat has panoramic windows, a sun deck, a small pool, and a lounge for evening music and folkloric shows. Unlike many mass-market cruises, our guided visits keep groups small and provide paced time at Edfu and Kom Ombo.

Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise
Princess Sarah II is a Comfort-level Nile cruise operating between Aswan and Luxor, with 3- or 4-night itineraries. The cruise departs from Aswan on Wednesdays and from Luxor on Saturdays, calling at Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor West Bank, and Luxor East Bank. All guided excursions are led by our Egyptologists in small groups, maximum eight guests. Cabins have panoramic windows and private bathrooms, and public areas include a sun deck, swimming pool, gym, and a main dining room serving international cuisine. The price covers full-board accommodation, private air-conditioned transfers, entrance fees listed in the itinerary, meet-and-assist service, and one complimentary bottle of water per person per day. Unlike larger coach-based cruises, we prioritize slow, shore-based visits that let you spend adequate time at Edfu and Kom Ombo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator.

Nebu Nile Cruise
The Nebu Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. Luxury full-board accommodation is provided onboard, with private excursions led by expert English-speaking Egyptologists, each guide working with no more than eight guests. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we meet and assist on arrival, and arrange private transfers in air-conditioned vehicles. Unlike larger cruise ships, excursions on the Nebu are private and run in small groups to limit time spent queuing at temple entrances. For travelers who disembark in Aswan, an optional Abu Simbel excursion is available on request.
BudgetRoyal Ruby Nile Cruise
The Royal Ruby Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Kom Ombo, Edfu, the Luxor East and West Banks, and Aswan sights. Choose the 4-day, 3-night Aswan to Luxor sailing that departs Fridays, or the 5-day, 4-night Luxor to Aswan sailing that departs Mondays. We arrange all guided excursions with an English-speaking Egyptologist, meet and assist on arrival and departure, and small-group tours limited to eight participants. Onboard facilities include a sundeck with a swimming pool, a panorama bar, a restaurant, nightly entertainment, and WiFi in public areas. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we do not run large coach groups, so shore visits aim for quieter access and more time at each temple. Optional excursions to Abu Simbel can be arranged from Aswan.
BudgetFarida Nile Cruise
Nile (cruise route)
Farida Nile Cruise is a Nile cruise vessel arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, with cabins, full board, and shore excursions. Enquire now.
PremiumPrivate Dahabiya Charter – Solar Eclipse 2027
Practical questions
What travelers ask about this style of tour.
01Is an 8-day Nile cruise worth it?
Yes, especially on a dahabiya. Eight days, seven nights aboard, buys the secondary temples that the 5-day sailing skips: El Kab, Esna, and Gebel el-Silsila, plus the time to absorb the river rather than tick it off. On a motor cruiser, a week usually means a round-trip Luxor to Aswan and back, which suits travelers who want to end where they started.
02What is the difference between a dahabiya and a motor cruiser over a week?
Size and pace. A dahabiya carries six to twelve guests under sail and moors at small temples no large ship can reach; a motor cruiser carries forty to two hundred and runs to a fixed dock schedule. Over an eight-day sailing the dahabiya adds El Kab, Esna, and Gebel el-Silsila and gives you private guiding throughout. The motor cruiser covers the same headline temples on a round-trip and costs less per night.
03How much does an 8-day Nile cruise cost?
An 8-day cabin on a shared dahabiya starts around $1,900 per person, all-inclusive of full board, Egyptologist guiding, and every admission. Whole-boat dahabiya charters run higher and suit a family or group taking all the cabins. A round-trip motor cruiser week sits at the lower end of that range. Single travelers pay a supplement of 50 to 75 percent.
04Can I sail round-trip Luxor to Aswan and back in 8 days?
Yes. A round-trip Luxor to Aswan to Luxor is the standard motor-cruiser shape for an eight-day sailing, and it means you fly in and out of the same city. You see the temples twice from different light and angles, and the return leg is slower because the dock pressure eases. We book the round-trip when your flights favor a single base city.
From the Cairo desk
Found the shape. Now make it yours.
Every Nile cruise we run is tailor-made – your dates, your cabin, your sailing direction. Send a short brief or talk to the Cairo desk direct. Replies within one working day.
– Suhaila & the Cairo team · 38 years · 6 offices · IATA #90255546



