Per cabin · Cabins are sold individually — book just your own cabin, sharing the boat with a handful of other guests.
Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
A 5-star dahabiya with eight cabins, a rooftop terrace, and full-board dining for a slower-paced Nile sailing experience.
The short answer
Royal Cleopatra is a 5-Star Deluxe dahabiya. Embark in Aswan on a Friday for 3 nights to Esna, or in Esna on a Monday for 4 nights to Aswan. Prices start at $1,496 per person sharing a double cabin, including full board, guided sightseeing and transfers.
02Overview
A first look
At dawn, the Nile is quiet between Luxor and Esna, with the lateen sail drawing softly against the current and riverbank palms sliding past the rooftop terrace. Days aboard Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya leave room for unhurried shore visits, from the columns of Karnak Temple to the painted tombs of the Valley of the Kings, while the smaller sailing boat reaches a gentler rhythm than larger motorized cruisers.
Our Egyptologists give each visit context without rushing you between landmarks, and there is time to watch village life, read in the lounge, or sit down to a chef-prepared meal. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange the vessel, shore program, drivers, and local guidance before you arrive.
Routes
Where this ship sails
Each route this ship sails. The direction changes the order of the temples, the number of nights and which city you fly out of. Embarkation days and prices are in the table below.
Cruise lengths, embarkation days and prices
Prices are per person in USD, from 2 people sharing a double cabin. Each price covers the whole cruise, the guided sightseeing program along the route, and your arrival and departure transfers between the ship and the local airport or train station.
| Cruise | October – Aprilcurrent season | May – September | Peak dates18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr, 9 Apr – 23 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 nights · Aswan → Esnaembarks Fridays | October – April: from $1,496double cabinsingle cabin $2,245 | May – September: from $1,208double cabinsingle cabin $1,748 | Peak dates: from $1,443double cabinsingle cabin $2,136 |
| 4 nights · Esna → Aswanembarks Mondays | October – April: from $1,902double cabinsingle cabin $2,901 | May – September: from $1,518double cabinsingle cabin $2,237 | Peak dates: from $1,831double cabinsingle cabin $2,755 |
Peak dates: 18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr, 9 Apr – 23 Apr. Choose your cruise 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.
On board
Detailed itinerary
- 1
On arrival at Luxor airport or train station, your Egyptologist guide takes you on a full day of sightseeing in Luxor: the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon and Karnak Temple. In the afternoon you're driven to Esna to board your dahabiya, welcomed aboard by the crew for your first night moored at Esna.
- 2
Breakfast at leisure as the dahabiya sails towards Edfu, arriving around midday. Visit the Temple of Horus by horse-drawn caleche — one of Egypt's largest and best-preserved monuments, its entrance flanked by two granite falcon statues — then browse the bazaar for spices, souvenirs and perfume.
After lunch on board, continue sailing towards the temple at Gebel el-Silsila, with dinner served in the temple grounds, on a nearby island, or on the sun deck.
- 3
Breakfast at leisure, then sail to Kom Ombo to visit the Greco-Roman double temple shared equally between the falcon god Haroeris and the crocodile god Sobek. Continue sailing towards Aswan, watching river life along the banks — water buffalo, donkeys and birdlife — and moor for the night close to the city.
- 4
After breakfast on board, spend the day exploring Aswan — the island Temple of Isis at Philae and the Aswan High Dam — with time to wander the Aswan bazaar. Return to the boat for your final evening and overnight in Aswan.
- 5
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Aswan airport or train station for your onward departure.
- 1
On arrival at Aswan airport or train station, your Egyptologist guide takes you on a day of sightseeing in Aswan — the island Temple of Isis at Philae and the Aswan High Dam, with time to browse the Aswan bazaar. In the afternoon you board your dahabiya and enjoy lunch on deck as the boat sets sail for Kom Ombo, mooring there for the night.
- 2
Breakfast at leisure, then visit the Greco-Roman temple at Kom Ombo — a perfectly symmetrical double temple with matching halls and sanctuaries dedicated to the falcon god Haroeris and the crocodile god Sobek. Sail on to the quieter temple at Gebel el-Silsila, mooring alongside the rock-cut Speos of Horemheb; dinner is served in the temple grounds or on the sun deck, weather and mood allowing.
- 3
After breakfast, visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu by horse-drawn caleche — one of Egypt's largest and best-preserved monuments, its entrance flanked by two granite falcon statues — then explore the bazaar for spices, souvenirs and perfume.
The dahabiya moors at a quiet island for a themed Egyptian evening: dinner by the riverbank or on the sun deck, Arabic music, and the option to dress in a gallabeya for the occasion, before sailing on gently towards Esna overnight.
- 4
After breakfast, disembark at Esna and drive to Luxor for a sightseeing day — the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon and Karnak Temple — before your transfer to Luxor airport or train station for departure.
The ship
- Class
- 5-Star Deluxe dahabiya
- Year built
- 2106
- Cabins
- 8
What lingers
- 01Includes guided visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor East Bank, Luxor West Bank, and the Valley of the Kings.
- 02Stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo with two-hour temple visits; avoids hurried 40-minute cruise-ship layovers.
- 03Aswan itinerary includes Philae Temple and felucca evening sail; optional Abu Simbel day trip from Aswan not included.
- 04We operate this as a licensed Egyptian tour operator; your Cairo or Aswan transfers and local Egyptologist-guides are arranged.
Aboard
Meet the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
A 38-metre dahabiya carrying up to 16 guests, crewed by 10.
- Length
- 38m
- Guests
- Up to 16
- Crew
- 10
On property
What's here
- Restaurant
- Wi-Fi
- Concierge
- Rooftop terrace
Bundled in
- Full board
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 the rooftop terrace, lounge, and dining room
- WiFi in public areas, subject to local signal availability
Not included
- Drinks, including water, are not included, even with meals
- Crew and guide gratuities
- National park or temple entrance fees where applicable, unless stated at booking
- International and domestic flights to Egypt
- Transfers, visas, and personal expenses
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.
After you dock
Aswan to Cairo flight and one hotel night
Two nights in Cairo with a day in Alexandria
3-Day Egypt Short Break: Cairo & Luxor
3-Day Cairo & Alexandria Tour
3-Day Luxor Tour from Marsa Alam
3-Day Cairo Tour from Sharm El Sheikh- 3-Day Luxor & Cairo Tour from Hurghada
2-Day Luxor to Cairo Post-Cruise Stay
3-Day Luxor to Cairo Post-Cruise Tour with Alexandria
Tailor it
Make it yours
The cruise can be arranged as a private charter, with a minimum of two cabins required to guarantee sailing. Travelers may request private or shared arrangements, additional transfers and guide services, subject to availability; premium tombs, special entrance fees, drinks (including water) and gratuities should be confirmed separately.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This experience suits adults and families who prefer a quieter, slower-paced Nile journey over a large motorised cruiser. It is particularly appropriate for history enthusiasts, couples and private groups comfortable with walking over uneven temple grounds and boarding a low-profile river boat.
Worth knowing
How this compares
Unlike larger motorised Nile cruisers, a dahabiya has a smaller cabin capacity and a slower sailing pace, creating a quieter river experience. Its compact design may allow a more intimate itinerary, while the included route focuses on major sites such as Karnak, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings.
Compare
Similar ships to compare
Ships of the same class with the closest prices. Prices are per person, sharing a double cabin, October to April.
- Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
5-Star Deluxe dahabiya
Embarks Wed from Esna / Sat from Aswan
From $1,496 per person
- Nour El Din Dahabiya Nile Cruise
5-Star Deluxe dahabiya
Embarks Mon from Esna / Fri from Aswan
From $1,444 per person
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
Snapshot
Good to know
- Accommodation
- Superior Dahabiya with eight cabins
- Destinations
- Luxor · Esna · Edfu · Kom Ombo · Aswan · Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Valley of the Kings · Philae Temple
- Includes
- Full-board meals from embarkation lunch through disembarkation breakfast · Rooftop terrace access · Lounge and dining room access · WiFi in public areas subject to local signal · Shore excursions listed in the confirmed program
- Best for
- Couples seeking a quieter Nile journey · Private groups · History enthusiasts · Travelers preferring small boats · Families planning shared cabins
- Guide languages
- English
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF50+
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Small day bag for shore visits
- Any required prescription medication
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Breathable layers for cooler evenings on the Nile
- Comfortable shoes for sand, steps and uneven stone
- Covered shoulders and knees at temples and religious sites
- Swimwear with a cover-up for shared areas
- Sun hat and sunglasses
Children & families
Children 0 to 5.99 years travel free, children 6 to 11.99 years pay 50%, and children aged 12 and over 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. No separate minimum age, stroller arrangements or high-chair provision has been confirmed, so please ask us before booking.
Accessibility
Who can join this
This dahabiya cruise requires regular movement between the riverbank, gangway and cabin areas. Boarding may involve a narrow or sloping gangway, and the vessel can move slightly while guests embark. Shore visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings include uneven ancient stone, sand, steps and exposed ground. Wheelchair access cannot be guaranteed on the vessel or at every site. Guests using mobility aids should contact us before booking so we can check the assigned vessel, boarding point and excursion arrangements.
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
Sailing by lateen sail can reduce engine use while the vessel is underway, although engine use may still be needed for maneuvering, safety or weather conditions. We arrange the cruise and excursions with local Egyptian suppliers, including local boat, transport, crew, catering and Egyptologist services. Meals are prepared on board. WiFi depends on local signal, so guests should not rely on it for continuous internet access. Please avoid single-use plastics where practical and follow crew guidance for waste disposal along the Nile.
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
If plans change
Cancellation and refunds
If you cancel, your refund depends on how early you tell us and on the type of trip. Read our current cancellation and refund policy
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
01What is the typical duration of the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise?
This allows for a relaxed pace and comprehensive exploration of the region's ancient sites.02What is included in the Royal 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 the rooftop terrace, lounge, and dining room, plus WiFi in public areas, subject to local signal.03What is not included in the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise fare?
Exclusions typically include drinks (including water), crew and guide gratuities, national park or temple entrance fees unless specified at booking, international and domestic flights, transfers, visas, and personal expenses.04What kind of accessibility should I expect on a dahabiya?
Dahabiyas offer a more intimate experience than larger cruisers, but they are not fully accessible. Guests should be prepared for stairs between decks and walking on uneven surfaces during shore excursions. Our team can discuss specific needs upon inquiry.05What is the policy for children on the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya?
Children 0–5.99 years travel free, and those 6–11.99 years pay 50% of the adult price. Children 12 and older pay the full adult fare. One child maximum can share a cabin with parents; two or more children require their own cabin.06What should I wear and bring for the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise?
We recommend light, comfortable clothing for daytime, modest attire for temple visits, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and any personal medications.07Can I take photos during the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise and at the sites?
Photography is generally permitted onboard and at most archaeological sites. Some sites or specific areas may have restrictions or require an extra fee for video cameras. Always check with your Egyptologist guide for specific rules.08What is the best time of year to take the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya cruise?
The best time to cruise the Nile is typically from October to April, when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for sightseeing. Summer months, May through September, can be very hot, though sailing is still possible.09How does the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya compare to larger Nile cruise ships?
The Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya offers a more intimate, sail-powered experience with only eight cabins, unlike larger motorized cruisers. It provides a quieter journey and can access smaller, less-visited sites like El Kab and Gebel Silsila.10What specific sites are visited on the Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya itinerary?
The itinerary includes major sites such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. The dahabiya's smaller size also allows for stops at unique locations like El Kab.
Last updated Product ID: CRU-NIL-952725
At a glance
- Length
- 3 or 4 nights
- Embarks
- Mon in Esna · Fri in Aswan
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-Star Deluxe
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