Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
A 5-star sail-powered dahabiya with ten cabins, panoramic dining windows, a sun deck, and an intimate onboard lounge bar.
At a glance
- Length
- 4 days · 3 nights
- Embarks
- Wed, Sat
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-star
Per cabin · Cabins are sold individually — book just your own cabin, sharing the boat with a handful of other guests.
The short answer
This intimate sail-powered dahabiya Nile cruise is arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, with a 10-cabin vessel assigned at booking and scheduled sailing between Luxor and Aswan.
·In summary
This full-board dahabiya Nile cruise includes lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation, use of the sun deck and lounge bar, and scheduled shore visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple and the Valley of the Kings. Land transport and an Egyptologist are included for shore visits where provided by the cruise line; drinks (including water), gratuities, flights and optional extras are excluded.
- Luxury
- Cultural
- Archaeology & history
- Honeymoon
- Couples·
- Groups·
- Seniors·
- Solo traveller
Snapshot
Good to know
- Accommodation
- 10-Cabin Dahabiya with Two Suites and Eight Double Cabins
- Destinations
- Nile River · Luxor · Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Edfu · Temple of Horus · Kom Ombo · Philae Temple · Valley of the Kings · Aswan
- Includes
- Full-board meals from lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation · Use of sun deck and lounge bar · Scheduled shore excursions · Land transport for shore visits where provided · Egyptologist for shore visits where provided
- Best for
- Couples and honeymooners · Small private groups · Travelers seeking quiet Nile sailing · Ancient Egypt and temple enthusiasts · Luxury-minded travelers preferring intimate accommodation
- Guide languages
- English
- Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator that selects, books and arranges the cruise with the third-party cruise line.
- DTE can provide on-the-ground travel coordination and support for the services it arranges.
- Standard site entrance fees are included unless stated otherwise; premium tombs, pyramid interiors and gratuities are excluded unless specifically requested.
- Cruise availability, cabin assignment, sailing guarantees and cancellation terms are confirmed according to the booking conditions shown on the page.
What lingers
- 01Seven-day dahabiya cruise between Luxor and Aswan, visiting Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae.
- 02We moor overnight at Edfu and Kom Ombo, enabling evening visits after day boats depart.
- 03Small dahabiya shallow draft reaches riverside quays larger cruise ships cannot access.
- 04Includes guided visits to Karnak Temple and Luxor West Bank; site entrance fees are included unless stated otherwise.
- 05Unlike larger Nile cruise ships, we operate a sailing dahabiya with lower passenger numbers and quieter evenings.
- 06Optional hot-air-balloon pickup in Luxor and flexible transfers – we handle airport-to-boat logistics on arrival day.
02Overview
A first look
At first light, the lateen sail catches the Nile breeze, and the riverbank slips past at a pace that lets you hear water against the hull. Aboard Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya, you can take coffee on the sun deck, watch village life from the panoramic dining saloon, and settle into the quieter rhythm of sailing between Luxor and Aswan.
Our team arranges your booking and shore program, from the columns of Karnak Temple to the rock-cut sanctuaries at Philae. Unlike larger Nile cruise ships, this ten-cabin dahabiya has no nightclub or crowded pool deck, so evenings stay calm. Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we confirm your cabin, meal plan, land transport, and Egyptologist arrangements before departure.
Background
The facts
This intimate dahabiya Nile cruise uses a small sail-powered vessel with 10 cabins: two suites and eight double cabins. Public areas include a sun deck, lounge bar and dining saloon with panoramic windows. The vessel is designed for a quieter river journey than larger Nile cruise ships and may be available for full charter at US$2,800 per night. A minimum of two cabins is required for guaranteed sailing.
The scheduled shore program includes Luxor’s Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple near Aswan and the Valley of the Kings on Luxor’s west bank. Karnak is approximately 3 km from Luxor Temple, while the Valley of the Kings lies roughly 7 km west of the Nile in the Theban Necropolis. Philae Temple is located on Agilkia Island, reached by boat from the Philae landing area near Aswan.
Full-board service runs from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Included shore visits use land transport and an Egyptologist where provided by the cruise line. Drinks (including water), gratuities, personal expenses, optional excursions and flights are excluded unless specifically arranged.
Named in this entry
Nile River·Luxor·Karnak Temple·Luxor Temple·Valley of the Kings·Temple of Horus at Edfu·Kom Ombo Temple·Philae Temple·Agilkia Island·Theban Necropolis·Aswan·Ancient Egypt
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This dahabiya suits couples, honeymooners, mature travelers and small private groups who prefer a slower, quieter Nile journey over the facilities and capacity of a large cruise ship. It is particularly appropriate for travelers interested in ancient Egyptian temples, flexible private arrangements and intimate river travel, provided they can manage uneven temple surfaces and occasional steps.
Worth knowing
How this compares
Unlike larger Nile cruise ships, a dahabiya has a smaller cabin capacity and sail-powered operation, creating a quieter and more intimate river experience. It has fewer resort-style facilities and a limited number of cabins, but provides access to scheduled archaeological sites including Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. Discovery Tours Egypt selects, books and arranges the cruise; a third-party cruise line owns and operates the vessel.
The route
Esna and Aswan
- EdfuThe Temple of Horus
- Kom OmboThe Temple of Sobek
Choose your direction
- Esna → Aswan4 nightsupstream, against the current
- Aswan → Esna3 nightsdownstream, with the current
The route
Where this ship sails
The stretch of river this vessel works, and what the sailing is like end to end.
On board
Detailed itinerary
Based on embarkation from Esna and disembarkation in Aswan.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
Bundled in
- Full board
- Group Egyptologist
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Full-board meals from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day
- Use of public areas, including the sun deck and lounge bar
- Shore excursions scheduled by the vessel
- Land transport and an Egyptologist for shore visits where provided by the cruise line
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Drinks, including water, are not included, even with meals
- Gratuities for crew and local guides unless otherwise stated
- Personal expenses and optional extras, including hot-air balloon rides and private tours
- Single supplement where applicable
Tailor it
Make it yours
Discovery Tours Egypt can arrange the cruise privately or coordinate selected travel services around the scheduled sailing, subject to cabin availability and the cruise line’s program. Optional additions may include private sightseeing, hot-air balloon rides, extra hotel nights, domestic flights and alternative land arrangements; these are not included unless confirmed in writing.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Accessibility
Who can join this
This dahabiya requires moderate physical mobility. Shore visits can involve uneven stone, sand, cobblestones, narrow paths, steps, and steep or irregular access points at Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. Boarding may require stepping from a dock or gangway onto the vessel, depending on the Nile water level. Wheelchair access is limited, and a standard wheelchair may not be practical on every excursion. Strollers are also difficult on ancient-site terrain. Please tell us about any mobility, balance, or stair requirements before booking so we can check the assigned vessel and excursion arrangements.
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
A dahabiya uses a lateen sail and travels with a smaller passenger capacity than larger Nile cruise ships, which can reduce reliance on continuous engine-powered cruising during suitable wind conditions. The vessel still requires auxiliary systems and may use an engine when wind, river traffic, or safety conditions require it. We arrange shore transport and licensed Egyptologists through local Egyptian suppliers where these services are provided by the cruise line. Full-board meals are prepared for guests on board, while excursions direct spending toward local guides, drivers, site staff, and Egyptian heritage destinations. Specific fuel use, waste procedures, and supplier initiatives vary by the assigned vessel and are confirmed by the cruise line.
Licensed Egyptologist guides
State-licensed, and people we have worked with for years
Fair wages on the ground
Drivers + guides paid above market
Site preservation
We follow the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities' site rules: marked paths, no touching reliefs
Local teams, real help
Our own offices in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Marsa Alam and Sharm El Sheikh
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport and travel documents
- Comfortable walking shoes with secure soles
- Sunscreen SPF50+ and lip balm
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Insect repellent
- Personal medication and a small first-aid kit
- Small day bag for shore visits
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for daytime heat
- Breathable layers for cooler evenings on the Nile
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
- Covered shoulders and knees for temples and religious sites
- Swimwear with a cover-up for use on the sun deck
- Light scarf or wrap for sun protection
Children & families
Children 0 to 5.99 years travel free; children 6 to 11.99 years pay 50%; children 12 and older pay the full adult price. Children must share a cabin with their parents, with a maximum of one child per cabin. Two or more children require their own cabin. Strollers are not practical for many shore visits because ancient sites include sand, steps, and uneven surfaces. High-chair availability should be requested before booking and confirmed with the assigned vessel.
Prices by sailing
Prices are per person in USD, from 2 people sharing a double cabin. Each price covers the full sailing, the guided sightseeing programme along the route, and your arrival and departure transfers between the vessel and the local airport or railway station.
| Sailing | October – Aprilcurrent season | May – September | Peak dates18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr, 9 Apr – 23 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 nights · Aswan → Esnaembarks Saturdays | October – April: from $1,480single cabin $2,229 | May – September: from $1,193single cabin $1,732 | Peak dates: from $1,623single cabin $2,793 |
| 4 nights · Esna → Aswanembarks Wednesdays | October – April: from $1,845single cabin $2,844 | May – September: from $1,462single cabin $2,181 | Peak dates: from $2,036single cabin $3,596 |
Peak dates: 18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr, 9 Apr – 23 Apr. Choose your sailing and date in the booking panel for the exact price.
Cabin allocation
- Nile vessels do not have interconnecting cabins.
- Book early and we will ask the vessel to place your party together — usually adjacent, or directly opposite.
- Cabin numbers are confirmed by the vessel at check-in.
Indicative rates only – pricing and cabins fluctuate. Please enquire for live rates on your specific dates.
Add before or after your cruise
The ship sails between Luxor and Aswan. The Pyramids, and most flights home, are in Cairo. These short add-ons join the two.
If plans change
Cancellation and refunds
What you get back if you cancel depends on how far ahead of your trip you tell us and the type of trip you book. Read our current cancellation and refund policy
Location
On the map
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
01What is the duration of the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise?
The Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise is 4 days long, offering an intimate sailing experience on the Nile River. This allows for a relaxed pace between Luxor and Aswan, with dedicated time for shore excursions.02What is included in the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise fare?
The cruise fare includes full-board meals, from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. You also have access to public areas like the sun deck and lounge bar, along with scheduled shore excursions, land transport, and an Egyptologist for site visits as provided by the cruise line.03What shore excursions are part of the cruise itinerary?
The scheduled shore program includes visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. These excursions are arranged by the vessel, with land transport and an Egyptologist included.04What is the dining arrangement on the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya?
The Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya operates on a full-board basis, meaning all meals are included from lunch on your embarkation day until breakfast on your disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) are typically extra, unless specified otherwise.05What is the policy for children on the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya?
Children aged 0-5.99 years travel free, while those 6-11.99 years pay 50% of the adult fare. Children 12 years and older pay the full adult price. One child maximum can share a cabin with parents; two or more children require their own cabin.06Is the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya accessible for travelers with mobility concerns?
Dahabiyas, including the Princess Cleopatra, are smaller vessels with stairs to the sun deck and cabins. Shore excursions involve walking on uneven ancient terrain. Travelers with significant mobility concerns should contact us to discuss specific needs before booking.07What should I wear and bring for a Nile dahabiya cruise?
We recommend light, breathable clothing for daytime, and a light jacket for cooler evenings on the Nile. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for shore excursions. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Modest dress is advised for temple visits.08What is the best time of year to take a Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise?
The best time for a Nile cruise is typically from October to April, when temperatures are milder and more pleasant for sightseeing. The summer months, May to September, can be very hot, especially in Upper Egypt.09What is the difference between a dahabiya and a larger Nile cruise ship?
The Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya is an intimate, sail-powered vessel with 10 cabins, offering a quieter and more personalized experience than larger cruise ships. It can access smaller sites like El Kab and Gebel Silsila that larger vessels cannot reach.10Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?
Gratuities for the crew and local guides are not included in the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise fare, unless explicitly stated. It is customary to tip for good service, and we can provide guidance on appropriate amounts.
Product ID: CRU-NIL-633770
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