What you're actually paying for
The Standard tier, line by line.
- Cabin size (typical)
- 14–17 m²
- Decks
- 4 (cabins on 2)
- Balcony
- Standard cabins · French balcony
- Dining
- Buffet · open seating
- Crew-to-guest ratio
- ≈ 1 : 1.8
- Pool
- Yes · sun-deck plunge pool
- Best for
- First Egypt trip · families · groups
- From (per person)
- from $746 per person · High season, Oct–Apr
“The temples don't get fancier when you pay more. The cabin does.”
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 sees 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 Standard Nile cruisers (35).
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.
A Sara Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
A Sarah Nile Cruise is a 5-star Nile cruiser arranged for sailing between Luxor and Aswan, with shore excursions at major ancient sites along the river. The programme covers Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. On board, guests have a cabin, full board from lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation, plus access to a swimming pool, sun deck, restaurant, bar, lounge and Wi-Fi, subject to vessel availability. Sailings operate weekly in both directions. Drinks beyond water with meals, premium tombs, pyramid interiors and gratuities are excluded unless requested.
from$882per person · High season, Oct–Apr
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.
from$921per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Al Nabilatan Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Al Nabilatan Nile Cruise is a 5-star river vessel offering full-board sailings between Luxor and Aswan. Its 65 cabins, including junior suites, feature Andalos Islamic-style decor, while shared spaces include a sun terrace, swimming pool, pool bar, gym, reading room and grand lounge. The sailing programme combines time on the Nile with guided shore excursions to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae Temple. Sailings operate weekly in both directions. Evenings may include a folkloric show, galabeyah party, belly dancer and discotheque. An optional Abu Simbel excursion can be arranged at the end of the Luxor to Aswan sailing.
from$785per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Blue Shadow I Nile Cruise
LUXOR → LUXOR
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.
from$921per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Emilio Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Sail the Nile between Aswan and Luxor aboard the Emilio, calling at Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. All listed sightseeing and entrance fees are included, with English-speaking Egyptologists on every tour. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange meet-and-assist service, transfers, and full-board dining. The Emilio's cabins have private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and large windows. We keep groups small, maximum eight participants, so guide time at key sites is longer and queues are shorter. Unlike larger cruise lines, this itinerary allows extended visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief onshore stops. Optional excursions, such as hot-air balloon flights or an Abu Simbel day trip, can be added during booking or once onboard.
from$824per person · High season, Oct–Apr
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 program. 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.
from$843per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Jamila Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Jamila Nile Cruise is a five-star river vessel offering full board accommodation and an on-board shore-excursion program. 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.
from$921per person · High season, Oct–Apr
King of Thebes Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
King of Thebes Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star river cruise programme between Luxor and Aswan, with 3, 4 and 7-night sailing options. The vessel sails weekly in both directions, with embarkation and disembarkation in Luxor or Aswan. Full board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Our private English-speaking Egyptologist guides accompany shore excursions to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Aswan High Dam. On board, cabins have air conditioning, television, a fridge and Wi-Fi, while shared facilities include a swimming pool, sun deck, fitness area, lounge bar and entertainment lounge. An Egyptian folklore show is scheduled on board. Abu Simbel is available as an optional excursion.
from$785per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Kleos Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
MS Kleos is a four-day Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan with daily guided shore visits to major temples and tombs. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists lead every scheduled visit. We arrange private transfers and Egyptologist-guided shore programs rather than audio-only ship excursions. Unlike many cruise-ship shore schedules that rush sites, our pacing gives fuller time at Karnak and on the Luxor West Bank. Expect early starts and substantial walking on uneven ancient stone; strong sun and limited shade are common at sites. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs (Tutankhamun, Seti I) are excluded unless requested. Abu Simbel flights, extra hotel nights, and gratuities can be added on request.
from$785per person · High season, Oct–Apr
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 organized shore-excursion program 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.
from$882per person · High season, Oct–Apr
LA Sara Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
On request
Lady Carol Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
MS Lady Carol is our privately chartered motor vessel, sailing between Luxor and Aswan over four days with guided shore visits. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private transfers, on-board meals, and our Egyptologists for guided visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. Distinctive POV: we prioritise longer on-site time at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief drive-by stops common on mass-market overnight cruises. Comparison: unlike many cruises that limit Edfu to 90 minutes, our itinerary allocates a full morning ashore. Trade-offs: expect early starts, walking on uneven ancient stone, and limited shade at mid-day temple courtyards. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are excluded unless requested.
from$882per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Lady Mary Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
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.
from$882per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Magic I Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
MS Magic I is a four-day Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan with daily guided shore excursions from the ship. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange private transfers, port handling and certified Egyptologists for each stop. Unlike many three-night budget cruises, this itinerary includes both Edfu and Kom Ombo with fuller visit times. Standard site entrance fees are included; premium tombs (Tutankhamun, Seti I) and gratuities are excluded. Expect early starts, strong sun at midday and some walking on uneven ancient stone during excursions. We time visits to reduce waits where possible rather than running large coach-group schedules.
from$765per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Magic II Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
A four-day Nile cruise aboard MS Magic II, with onboard accommodation and guided shore visits in Upper Egypt. We operate MS Magic II as a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange our Egyptologists, private transfers and timed site entries so you avoid ticket queues. We do not run group bus tours on this vessel; shore visits are scheduled and staffed by our guides. Compared with seven-night cruises, a 4-day option covers core Upper Egypt highlights with less time ashore and earlier mornings. Expect early starts, some uneven ancient stone underfoot and limited shade on temple esplanades; bring sturdy shoes and sun protection.
from$843per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Moondance Nile Cruise
Aswan → Luxor
MS Moondance is a 4-day Nile cruise linking Luxor and Aswan with Egyptologist-led shore visits. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and assign our own Egyptologists and drivers rather than outsourcing guides. Typical calls include Karnak Temple, Luxor West Bank (Valley of the Kings), Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Philae on Agilkia Island. Unlike hotel day trips, the cruise moves you overnight between cities, reducing repeated baggage transfers. Trade-offs: there are early starts for key sites, walking on uneven ancient stone, and limited shade on deck at midday.
from$882per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Nephtis nile cruise
LUXOR → LUXOR
Nephtis Nile Cruise is a superior five-star river cruise arranged on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. The sailing programme combines time on the river with shore excursions to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Embarkation and disembarkation are available in Luxor and Aswan. Departures are scheduled weekly, with the supplied programme showing Monday departures from Luxor and Friday departures from Aswan. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks other than water with meals are typically charged separately. Cabin pricing is per person sharing and a single supplement usually applies.
from$804per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Nile Quest Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Nile Quest Nile Cruise is a 5-star river vessel, arranged for you by a licensed Egyptian tour operator. The ship combines graded cabins, a sun deck, a lounge bar, pool access and a dining room serving full board. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with an excursion program calling at Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. We select and book the cruise; the cruise line operates the vessel and runs on-board services.
On request
Nile Story Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
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.
On request
Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
from$843per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Princess Sarah Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
This deluxe 5-star Nile cruiser combines cabin accommodation with a sun deck, pool, lounge, bar, restaurant and Wi-Fi. Your cruise is arranged between Luxor and Aswan, with sailing days alternating with shore excursions at Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. The vessel sails weekly in both directions, subject to the selected sailing schedule. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks beyond water with meals are generally extra. Cabin grades include Standard, Deluxe and Suite, with pricing based on two people sharing and a single supplement normally applying.
from$843per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Queen of Sheeba Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Queen of Sheeba Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star river cruise linking Luxor and Aswan, with shore excursions to major ancient sites along the Nile. The vessel has 72 suite cabins, each with a private bathroom and large windows, with accommodation on the main or upper deck. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation, while drinks beyond water with meals are generally extra. The sailing programme operates weekly in both directions, with visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. A lounge bar, multi-cuisine restaurant and multilingual staff are provided on board. Our licensed Egyptian tour operator arranges the cruise and arrival transfer.
from$746per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Radamis II Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
On request
Royal Beau Rivage Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
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.
from$843per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Royal Elite Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Four days aboard MS Royal Elite sail between Luxor and Aswan with guided shore excursions and all main meals included. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and do not run large coach-group tours; our excursions use private cars or launches and English-speaking Egyptologists. Unlike many packaged 4-day cruises, we time departures and shore visits to reduce queues and waiting at the landing stages. Trade-offs: upper sun deck has limited shade at midday, and shore visits involve walking on uneven ancient stone and occasional early starts. We handle port paperwork, all pick-ups, and can arrange optional Abu Simbel transfers on request.
from$843per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Royal Esadora Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
On request
Royal La Terrasse
Luxor → Aswan
Royal La Terrasse is a five-star Nile cruise vessel offering full board accommodation and an on-board program 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 program, so you see each major site across several sailing days.
from$824per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Royal Princess Amira Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
This 4-day Nile cruise aboard MS Royal Amira runs between Luxor and Aswan with daily guided shore excursions. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; our Egyptologists lead the site visits and explain temple architecture and tomb contexts. We do not run mass coach tours – our approach avoids the compressed, minute-long shore calls typical of some river operators and gives fuller time at Karnak and Luxor West Bank. Included: standard site entrance fees unless stated otherwise; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are extra. Trade-offs: early starts for temples and limited shade on the open deck at midday; we advise sun protection and sensible footwear.
from$941per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Royal Princess Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
On request
Royal Ruby Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
On request
Ruby 1 Nile Cruise
Aswan → Luxor
MS Ruby 1 is a four-day Nile cruise operated by a licensed Egyptian tour operator. Typical 4-day itineraries run between Luxor and Aswan and commonly include Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings; confirm your ship’s exact calls when you book. We arrange private, Egyptologist-guided shore excursions rather than fixed coach schedules, so visits can be timed to avoid the busiest moments. Trade-offs: a four-day cruise concentrates highlights into fewer days, which usually means early starts and less time ashore at some sites. We handle transfers, embarkation logistics, and optional visits to premium tombs on request.
from$921per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Semiramis II Nile Cruise
Aswan → LUXOR
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.
On request
Semiramis III Nile Cruise
Aswan → Luxor
Semiramis III Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile cruiser offering full-board accommodation, public lounges, and a sun deck for views on the Nile. We arrange this vessel for sailings that run weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. The vessel's shore-excursion program normally calls at Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu (Temple of Horus), Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Cabins are grouped in Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes, pricing is per person sharing, and drinks beyond water with meals are typically extra.
from$765per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Tower Prestige Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
Board the MS Tower Prestige at Luxor's Nile pier; I meet you on deck and point across the river to Karnak's pylons. We set a steady rhythm: early-morning visits to the West Bank (Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon) before the coach tours arrive, an afternoon passage through the Esna lock, and an overnight mooring at Edfu so the Horus Temple receives a proper two-hour visit. Cabins are Classic Nile-cruise scale–roughly 12 m² with en-suite facilities and modest storage–suitable if you pack light. The sun deck gives shaded and open seating; the dining salon serves full-board meals prepared to local taste and timed around excursions. Expect straightforward service from a local crew; the vessel is Classic tier, not a five-star floating resort: there is no spa or gym, Wi‑Fi is patchy, and power can dip briefly when the generator switches. I guide every excursion: I explain the ritual passages at Karnak, point out tomb decoration styles in the Valley, and time our visits so light and crowd levels work to your advantage. Sailing between Luxor and Aswan keeps most travel on daylight hours; you live the riverbank–fishing feluccas, sugarcane fields, village children waving–rather than long overnight crossings. We disembark in Aswan with guided visits to Philae, the High Dam, and the Unfinished Obelisk. If you prefer more space or luxury amenities, ask about our higher-tier vessels; the MS Tower Prestige is compact, direct, and focused on the monuments.
from$921per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Zeina Nile Cruise
Luxor → Aswan
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.
On request
Sail-powered alternative
5-Star Standard dahabiyas (6).
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.
Akhnaton Dahabiya
Esna → Aswan
Akhnaton Dahabiya is a seven-day Nile sailing between Luxor and Aswan aboard a traditional dahabiya. We provide an Egyptologist for guided shore visits. We arrange embarkation, crew, daily breakfasts and scheduled transfers; standard site entrance fees are included unless stated otherwise (premium tombs and pyramid interiors are excluded). We don't run group bus tours – the dahabiya keeps travel slow, with fewer transfers and more daylight at temples than typical four-night Nile cruises. Expect early starts for sunrise visits, limited shade on deck at midday, and walking on uneven ancient stone during shore visits. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and handle all local logistics.
from$1,298per person · High season, Oct–Apr
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.
from$1,276per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Bens Dahabiya
Esna → Aswan
Bens Dahabiya is an intimate, sail-powered Nile boat arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator. Dahabiyas offer a quieter alternative to larger Nile cruisers, with lateen sails, fewer cabins and a slower pace on the river. Sailing between Egypt’s historic Nile towns, the vessel can reach smaller sites and riverbank villages that larger ships may pass. Meals are served as full board, from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The atmosphere is closer to a private sailing party than a large cruise programme, although wind conditions can affect sailing times and some movement between sites involves uneven ground.
from$1,331per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Queen Cleopatra Dahabiya
Esna → Aswan
Queen Cleopatra Dahabiya is an intimate standard dahabiya for private sailing on the Nile. With four double cabins, it suits couples, families or small groups who prefer a quieter boat than a large Nile cruiser. The dahabiya is available for full charter at US$1,000 per night, with a minimum of two cabins required to guarantee sailing. Full Board covers lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Drinks beyond water served with meals are generally charged separately. Unlike larger Nile cruise ships, a dahabiya offers a smaller setting and sailing under lateen sail, although sailing times depend on wind conditions. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the booking and supporting services on the ground.
from$1,341per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Queen Nefeer Dahabiya
ESNA → ASWAN
from$1,231per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Three Pyramids Dahabiya
Esna → Aswan
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.
from$1,331per person · High season, Oct–Apr
Five things to know
Before you book Standard.
01Is the food on a 5-star standard cruise actually OK?
Yes. Every 5-star Standard vessel we book runs a buffet that includes Egyptian, Mediterranean, and Western mains at every meal, fresh fruit, and freshly baked bread. A la carte specialty restaurants are typically Deluxe or Ultra-Deluxe and up – but the buffet on Standard ships in 2026 is genuinely good. We avoid the 4-star floating hotels for exactly this reason.
02Will I miss any temples by picking the budget tier?
No. Standard, Deluxe, Ultra-Deluxe, and Luxury vessels all dock at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Esna and visit Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Philae. The shore-excursion itinerary is identical – the cruise tier sets the cabin, food format, and on-board polish, not what you see ashore.
03What's the cabin like – is it cramped?
Standard cabins are 14–17 m² (smaller than a typical 5-star hotel room, larger than a cruise ship interior cabin). All have ensuite, climate control, panoramic window (or French balcony on higher decks), in-room safe, and twin or double bed configuration. They're designed for sleeping – you spend the day ashore or up top on the sun deck.
04How many people are on the boat?
Standard 5-star vessels typically carry 60–80 cabins (120–160 guests at full occupancy). That's social but not crowded. If you want fewer people on board, the Dahabiya tier sails with 8–12 cabins maximum – quieter, but a different style of trip and a different price.
05Is the operator the same as on the higher tiers?
Yes. Discovery Tours Egypt has operated cruise departures across every tier since 1988 from our Cairo head office and Luxor + Aswan branches. The shore-excursion crew, Egyptologists, and reservations team are shared. The vessel is what differs.
Different budget?
The other tiers.
5-Star Deluxe
Step up the cabin square-meterage and the bathroom. Same temples, more finish.
5-Star Ultra Deluxe
Newer fleet, broader balconies, attentive crew ratio – the polish without the Luxury price.
5-Star Luxury
Category-A vessels and sail-powered dahabiyas. Smaller-scale, off-the-beaten-path stops.
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 · Discovery Tours Egypt