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5-Star Deluxe Nile cruise vessel

5-Star Deluxe · The middle of the fleet ·

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

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

35vessels currently in this tier

$999from, per person · High season, Oct–Apr

Fares are per person sharing a standard double cabin on each ship's shortest sailing, with sightseeing, entrance fees and transfers included; Christmas–New Year and Easter dates are priced separately as peak.

What you're actually paying for

The Deluxe tier, line by line.

Cabin size (typical)
17–22 m²
Decks
4 (cabins on 2–3)
Balcony
Most cabins · private balcony or French balcony
Dining
Full board · buffet + 1 a la carte
Crew-to-guest ratio
≈ 1 : 1.5
Pool
Yes · sun-deck plunge pool, bar
Best for
Repeat travelers · couples · honeymooners on a budget
From (per person)
from $999 per person · High season, Oct–Apr

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

Standard sailing rotation

How the schedule works on the Luxor–Aswan loop.

Durations
Every vessel on this page sails 4-night, 5-night, and 7-night variants of the same Luxor↔Aswan loop. The 4-night 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 Deluxe Nile cruisers (28).

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

  1. Alma Nile Cruise

    Alma Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Alma Nile Cruise is a 5-star river cruise arranged along the Nile, with air-conditioned cabins, a restaurant, lounge bar, Wi-Fi and a pool on the sun deck. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. Its shore-excursion programme includes Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Days combine sailing between Egypt’s principal Nile cities with guided visits to ancient sites. Drinks beyond water with meals are typically charged separately, so check the final arrangements before sailing.

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

    from$1,077per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  2. Alyssa Nile Cruise

    Alyssa Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    The Alyssa Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Philae. We arrange accommodation aboard the Alyssa, and the vessel has a sundeck, swimming pool, spa, fitness area, restaurant, bar, and cabins with Nile views. Our Egyptologists lead all guided visits, and group sizes are small, limited to a maximum of eight participants. We do not run large coach tours; the small-group approach keeps landing parties compact and manageable. Unlike many short-stop itineraries, this cruise allows proper time ashore at Edfu and Kom Ombo, and selected departures offer an optional Abu Simbel excursion. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and our Egyptologists time visits to avoid the largest crowds when possible.

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

    from$1,077per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  3. Amada Nile Cruise

    Amada Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Amada Nile Cruise is a luxury 5-star river cruise linking Luxor and Aswan, with sailing scheduled weekly in both directions. Your cruise ship provides a calm base while the shore-excursion programme visits 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 or Aswan. Unlike a land-based Nile itinerary, you unpack once while travelling between the principal archaeological sites. The cruise is arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, with the vessel selected and booked through its cruise partners.

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

    from$1,077per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  4. Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

    Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    The Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, and Luxor Temple. We offer 4- and 5-night programs that combine guided archaeology with relaxing time on the sun deck. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange transfers, meet-and-assist, and English-speaking Egyptologist-led visits. We run small-group guided excursions rather than large coach tours, which keeps time at the sites focused and unrushed. Unlike day-trip itineraries that return to a land base each evening, this cruise sleeps between Edfu and Kom Ombo so you visit the temples at quieter times. Onboard facilities include a sun deck, pool, restaurant, bar, and evening folkloric entertainment, with daily complimentary bottled water and all service charges included.

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

    from$1,077per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  5. Concerto Nile Cruise

    Concerto Nile Cruise

    Luxor → LUXOR

    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.

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

    On request

  6. Concerto Plus Nile Cruise

    Concerto Plus Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Concerto Plus Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star river cruise experience arranged along the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. Your vessel sails weekly in both directions, with sailing days alternating with shore excursions at Egypt’s principal ancient sites. The programme includes 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 or Aswan. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Cabins are priced per person sharing, with Standard, Deluxe and Suite classes subject to availability. Unlike a land-based sightseeing programme, the cruise combines hotel-style accommodation with movement between Upper Egypt’s main archaeological sites.

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

    from$1,038per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  7. Farida Nile Cruise

    Farida Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

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

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

    from$1,038per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  8. Golden Nile Cruise

    Golden Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from AswanFull Board

    On request

  9. Grand Sun Nile Cruise

    Grand Sun Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Grand Sun Nile Cruise is a 5-star river cruise programme linking Luxor and Aswan through Egypt’s principal Nile sites. Your cruise ship sails weekly in both directions, with an excursion programme covering Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Days alternate between sailing and shore visits, giving you time to see the monuments without treating the Nile as a simple transfer. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The vessel is selected and booked by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator. Cabin pricing is based on two people sharing, with a single supplement typically applying.

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

    from$1,077per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  10. Hambra Nile Cruise

    Hambra Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    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.

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

    On request

  11. Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

    Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

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

    On request

  12. Jaz Crown Emperor Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Emperor Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Aswan / Thu from LuxorFull Board

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  13. Jaz Crown Jewel Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Jewel Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board

    On request

  14. Jaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Jubilee Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

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

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

    from$1,038per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  15. Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise

    Jaz Crown Prince Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

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

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

    from$1,038per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  16. Mirage Nile Cruise

    Mirage Nile Cruise

    Luxor → ASWAN

    Mirage Nile Cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Onboard life is low-key, with daytime shore excursions and relaxed evenings on deck. We include a felucca ride in Aswan and guided visits to the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk. Our English-speaking Egyptologists lead groups of up to eight guests, which keeps commentary interactive and questions practical. Unlike larger day-boat schedules, the itinerary allows substantive time at Edfu and Kom Ombo for on-shore exploration. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and our local team arranges meet-and-assist, transfers, and shore logistics so you step straight into each day’s program.

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

    On request

  17. Monica Nile Cruise

    Monica Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Monica Nile Cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Guided shore visits are led by English-speaking Egyptologists, and meals are served on a full board basis. We limit shore groups to a maximum of eight participants, not large coach groups, so excursions ashore move faster and allow more time at each site. Unlike short daytime shore trips, the overnight sailing schedule gives calmer visits to Edfu and Kom Ombo. Optional extras such as a felucca ride or a hot-air balloon can be arranged. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and our team coordinates meet-and-assist, transfers, and sightseeing on the ground.

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

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  18. Nile Capital Nile Cruise

    Nile Capital Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Luxor / Fri from AswanFull Board

    On request

  19. Nile Dolphin Nile Cruise

    Nile Dolphin Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Nile Dolphin is a deluxe 5-star river cruise vessel sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Its onboard facilities include a swimming pool, sun deck, restaurant, bar, lounge and Wi-Fi, giving you space to relax between shore excursions. The programme combines sailing days with visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Sailings operate weekly in both directions, with embarkation and disembarkation in Luxor or Aswan. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks beyond water with meals are normally charged separately.

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

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  20. Nile Style Nile Cruise

    Nile Style Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

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

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

    from$1,077per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  21. Nile Treasure Nile Cruise

    Nile Treasure Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Nile Treasure Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star river cruise arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, with air-conditioned cabins, a restaurant, lounge bar, pool and sun deck. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, with sailing days alternating with shore excursions. The programme includes visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Full board covers lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation. Wi-Fi, room service and laundry are available, while drinks beyond water with meals are typically charged separately. Unlike a fixed sightseeing tour, the cruise gives you time to view the Nile from the deck between guided visits.

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

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  22. Radamis I Nile Cruise

    Radamis I Nile Cruise

    Aswan → LUXOR

    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.

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board

    On request

  23. Renaissance Nile Cruise

    Renaissance Nile Cruise

    LUXOR → LUXOR

    3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Wed from Aswan / Sat from LuxorFull Board

    On request

  24. Royal Liberty Nile Cruise

    Royal Liberty Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

    Four-day Nile cruise aboard MS Liberty, handled on the ground by a licensed Egyptian tour operator. Typical shore visits include Karnak Temple, Luxor West Bank and either Kom Ombo or Philae depending on sailing direction; check your departure's day-by-day route. We coordinate our Egyptologists, transfers and timing directly with the vessel rather than outsourcing ground handling overseas. Unlike many large-ship packages, we prioritise aligning visits with local opening times and daylight, not merely filling a checklist. Trade-offs: a four-day schedule requires earlier starts and gives shorter time at each site than longer cruises. Ask us for the sample itinerary and cabin options.

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

    from$1,038per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  25. Sonesta Nile Goddess Nile Cruise

    Sonesta Nile Goddess Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    MS Nile Goddess is a 4-day Nile cruise operating from Luxor with guided shore visits to East and West Bank monuments. We operate this cruise as a licensed Egyptian tour operator and run Egyptologist-led, private shore excursions rather than coach-based group stops. Typical calls include Karnak, Luxor Temple and Luxor West Bank (Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut); northbound sailings often visit Edfu and Kom Ombo. We handle all private transfers, embarkation formalities and daily briefing by our Egyptologists. Trade-offs: expect early starts, walking on uneven ancient stone, and limited shade at midday ashore.

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

    from$1,019per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  26. Stephanie Nile Cruise

    Stephanie Nile Cruise

    Luxor → Aswan

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

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

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  27. Sun Times Nile Cruise

    Sun Times Nile Cruise

    Aswan → Luxor

    A four-day Nile cruise aboard MS Sun Times between Luxor and Aswan with Egyptologist-guided shore visits. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we operate the logistics on the ground, including airport pickups and private transfers to and from the ship. We don't run large coach tours; instead we schedule longer visits at Karnak Temple and the Luxor West Bank to avoid rushed shore time. Unlike fast-turnaround day trips, this cruise includes full visits to Edfu and Kom Ombo without hurried drives. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors, premium tombs, and gratuities are excluded. Expect early starts, walking on uneven stone, and limited shade at sites.

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

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  28. Tiyi Nile Cruise

    Tiyi Nile Cruise

    Luxor → ASWAN

    The Tiyi Nile Cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Guided shore visits focus on the named archaeological sites, so you spend meaningful time at each temple and tomb rather than brief stopovers. We schedule full guided visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo, not short port calls, which matters if you want time to study reliefs and inscriptions. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we coordinate arrival assistance, transfers, and Egyptologists on the ground. Optional extensions to Abu Simbel, Cairo, or the Red Sea are available if you wish to continue your trip after disembarkation.

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

    from$999per person · High season, Oct–Apr

Sail-powered alternative

5-Star Deluxe dahabiyas (7).

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

  1. Hadeel Dahabiya

    Hadeel Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

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

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

    On request

  2. Iris Luxury Dahabiya

    Iris Luxury Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Sail the Nile for seven days aboard the Iris Luxury Dahabiya with Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator. We operate the Iris as a private charter, avoiding large river-ship schedules and crowded day-stop itineraries. The dahabiya cruises at a traditional, slow pace, which gives longer shore time at Kom Ombo and Edfu and relaxed mornings in Luxor and Aswan. Our Egyptologists can join guided visits ashore; we arrange transfers, permits, and local guides. Trade-offs: cabins are more compact than contemporary river ships and onboard amenities are fewer, but the pace and privacy are materially different from standard Nile cruises.

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

    from$1,662per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  3. Nour El Din Dahabiya

    Nour El Din Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Nour El Din Dahabiya is a 45-metre sailing vessel on the Nile, designed for up to 20 guests with an 11-person crew. Its 8-metre beam and three-deck layout create a more intimate setting than larger Nile cruisers, with two cabin decks and a slower rhythm between shore visits. As a dahabiya, it uses sail power for much of the journey and can offer access to quieter stretches of the river and smaller archaeological sites. Full board runs from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Drinks beyond water served with meals are generally extra. We arrange the cruise as part of your Egypt programme; the vessel is owned and operated by its cruise supplier.

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

    from$1,428per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  4. Nour El Nil Dahabiya

    Nour El Nil Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Nour El Nil Dahabiya is a 5-star traditional dahabiya offering intimate sailing on the Nile, with full board and an on-board shore excursion program. Cabins are graded Standard, Deluxe and Suite, each with en-suite bathrooms and Nile-facing windows or balconies where the layout allows. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, and alternates sailing days with excursions to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. Unlike larger motor ships, a dahabiya offers fewer cabins, quieter sailing and more daylight time on deck for shore visits.

    Dahabiya5 nightsDeparts Mon from Esna5★Full Board

    from$3,071per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  5. Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya

    Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Sail seven days between Luxor and Aswan aboard the Princess Cleopatra Dahabiya, a traditional Nile sailing vessel with limited cabins. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and provide private transfers, mooring permits, and an Egyptologist for the cruise. We avoid large coach tours; shore visits are led by our Egyptologist and reserved for the dahabiya’s passengers. Unlike mass overnight Nile ships, a dahabiya sails slower and schedules longer stops at Kom Ombo and Edfu. Expect compact cabins and simpler onboard facilities; Wi‑Fi is intermittent and some temple visits start early to avoid crowds. Standard site entrance fees are included unless otherwise stated; pyramid interiors and premium tombs cost extra.

    Dahabiya3 / 4 nightsDeparts Wed from Esna / Sat from Aswan5★Full Board

    from$1,480per person · High season, Oct–Apr

  6. Queen Isis Dahabiya

    Queen Isis Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    Queen Isis is a 5-star dahabiya cruise on the Nile, arranged for travellers who prefer a quieter sailing experience than a large river cruiser. The itinerary links Aswan and Luxor over three nights, with departures from Aswan to Luxor on Mondays and from Luxor to Aswan on Thursdays. Full board covers lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation. A jacuzzi is available on board, while included transfers connect the cruise with the agreed arrival and departure points. This intimate style of Nile travel has a slower pace and a lower passenger capacity than larger cruise ships. Drinks beyond water with meals and gratuities are not included.

    Dahabiya3 / 4 / 7 nightsDeparts Mon from Esna / Fri from Aswan5★Full Board

    On request

  7. Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya

    Royal Cleopatra Dahabiya

    Esna → Aswan

    A 7-day Nile cruise aboard a traditional dahabiya between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. We operate this trip as a licensed Egyptian tour operator; our Egyptologists lead all site visits and our local crew handle navigation and meals. Unlike large motorized cruise boats, a dahabiya sails slowly and anchors overnight, allowing longer, quieter ashore visits. Expect smaller cabins and narrower gangways compared with larger river steamers; luggage and mobility constraints can apply. Typical days begin early for temples and may include walking on uneven ancient stone. We arrange private transfers, local guides, and flexible shore time; entrance fees are handled as stated in your booking.

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

    from$1,480per person · High season, Oct–Apr

Five things to know

Before you book Deluxe.

  1. 01What actually changes between Standard and Deluxe?

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

  2. 02Are Deluxe ships newer than Standard?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Different budget?

The other tiers.

Then pick a route

Which way to sail.

Talk to the Cairo desk

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

– Suhaila · Discovery Tours Egypt