Nile Excellence Nile Cruise
A five-star Nile cruiser with a sun deck, lounge bar, dining room, full-board meals, and cabins with panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies.
The short answer
Nile Excellence is a 5-Star Ultra Deluxe Nile cruise ship. Embark in Aswan on a Monday for 3 nights to Luxor or a 7-night round trip, or in Luxor on a Thursday for 4 nights to Aswan or a 7-night round trip. Prices start at $1,380 per person sharing a double cabin, including full board, guided sightseeing and transfers.
02Overview
A first look
As the Nile slips past the sun deck, palm shadows move across the water and the lounge bar settles into the quiet rhythm of river sailing. From your cabin, a panoramic window or Nile-view balcony frames villages, farmland, and desert edges as the landscape changes between Luxor and Aswan.
Our Egyptologists give the shore excursions their context, from Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, and the Valley of the Kings. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we select the vessel, arrange your cabin, and coordinate the program around your sailing schedule.
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 | Peak dates18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr, 9 Apr – 23 Apr |
|---|---|---|
| 3 nights · Aswan → Luxorembarks Mondays | October – April: from $1,380double cabinsingle cabin $1,926 | Peak dates: from $1,575double cabinsingle cabin $2,355 |
| 4 nights · Luxor → Aswanembarks Thursdays | October – April: from $1,743double cabinsingle cabin $2,471 | Peak dates: from $2,003double cabinsingle cabin $3,043 |
| 7 nights · Luxor → Luxorembarks Thursdays | October – April: from $2,778double cabinsingle cabin $4,052 | Peak dates: from $3,233double cabinsingle cabin $5,053 |
| 7 nights · Aswan → Aswanembarks Mondays | October – April: from $2,797double cabinsingle cabin $4,071 | Peak dates: from $3,252double cabinsingle cabin $5,072 |
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
Board at Luxor and enjoy lunch on board before visiting Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East Bank.
- 2
Explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon, then begin sailing south towards Edfu.
- 3
Visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu and the double temple at Kom Ombo, then sail on to Aswan.
- 4
Visit the High Dam, Philae Temple and the Unfinished Obelisk. An optional flight or drive to Abu Simbel can be arranged.
- 5
A relaxed day at Aswan: sail by felucca around Elephantine Island and Kitchener’s Island, or visit a Nubian village, before the vessel turns north.
- 6
- 7
Arrive back at Luxor with time for any West Bank sites not yet seen, or relax on the sun deck as you moor for the final night.
- 8
After breakfast, disembark at Luxor for your onward transfer.
- 1
Board your Nile cruiser at Aswan and enjoy lunch on board. Visit the High Dam, the Temple of Isis at Philae and the Unfinished Obelisk.
- 2
Sail north to Kom Ombo for its double temple of Sobek and Haroeris, then continue to Edfu to visit the Temple of Horus. Sail on towards Luxor.
- 3
Reach Luxor and cross to the West Bank for the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon.
- 4
After breakfast visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East Bank, then disembark for your onward transfer.
- 1
Board your Nile cruiser at Luxor and settle into your cabin over lunch. In the afternoon visit Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex of ancient Egypt, and Luxor Temple on the East Bank.
- 2
Cross to the West Bank for the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari and the Colossi of Memnon. The vessel then begins sailing south towards Edfu.
- 3
Visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu, the best-preserved temple in Egypt, then sail on to Kom Ombo and its double temple dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris. Continue sailing to Aswan, where the ship moors for the night.
- 4
The ship lies moored at Aswan. Guests visiting Abu Simbel leave before dawn, by road or by air, for the two rock temples Ramesses II cut into the cliff, returning aboard around midday. The afternoon is at leisure on board.
- 5
After breakfast, disembark at Aswan. The morning then covers Aswan itself: the High Dam, the Temple of Isis at Philae reached by motor launch, and the granite Unfinished Obelisk, before your onward transfer.
- 1
Board at Aswan and enjoy lunch on board, then visit the High Dam, Philae Temple and the Unfinished Obelisk.
- 2
A relaxed day at Aswan by felucca around Elephantine and Kitchener’s Islands, or a Nubian village visit. An optional Abu Simbel excursion can be arranged.
- 3
Sail north to Kom Ombo for the double temple of Sobek and Haroeris, then Edfu for the Temple of Horus.
- 4
At Luxor, cross to the West Bank for the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon.
- 5
Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East Bank, then the vessel begins its return sailing south.
- 6
- 7
Arrive back at Aswan with time to relax on board or take an optional excursion before your final night.
- 8
After breakfast, disembark at Aswan for your onward transfer.
What lingers
- 01Overnight moorings in Aswan allow an early Philae visit before mid-morning tourist boat traffic.
- 02Small-group guided excursions led by our Egyptologist, with flexible boarding times to avoid peak crowds.
- 03Unlike cruise-ship schedules, we stop at Esna Lock to transit and offer short commentary on the lock's operation.
Bundled in
- Full board
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Accommodation aboard the Nile Excellence in the booked cabin class
- Full board meals: lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day
- Scheduled shore excursions as listed in the vessel's program
- Use of public facilities on board: sun deck, lounge bar and dining room
Not included
- Drinks, including water, are not included, even with meals
- Optional or premium excursions
- Gratuities for cruise staff and Egyptologists unless explicitly requested
- International or domestic flights to embarkation/disembarkation ports
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
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This cruise suits travelers who want a structured Nile journey with a five-star cabin, set mealtimes, and guided temple visits. It is a good fit for first-time visitors, couples, and adults who prefer organized river travel over independent logistics.
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.
- Nile Serenity Nile Cruise
5-Star Ultra Deluxe Nile cruise
Embarks Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor
From $1,380 per person
- Miriam Nile Cruise
5-Star Ultra Deluxe Nile cruise
Embarks Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor
From $1,400 per person
- Medea Nile Cruise
5-Star Ultra Deluxe Nile cruise
Embarks Mon from Aswan / Thu from Luxor
From $1,400 per person
The route
Luxor and Aswan
- EdfuThe Temple of Horus
- Kom OmboThe Temple of Sobek
Choose your direction
- Luxor → Aswan4 nightsupstream, against the current
- Aswan → Luxor3 nightsdownstream, with the current
- Round-trip7 nightsreturn to Luxor or Aswan
Snapshot
Good to know
- Destinations
- Luxor · Edfu · Kom Ombo · Aswan
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport and any required visas
- Comfortable walking shoes with grip for uneven ancient stone
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen SPF30+
- Lightweight, layered clothing for hot days and cooler evenings
- Refillable water bottle
- Small daypack for shore excursions and camera equipment
- Any personal medications plus a copy of prescriptions
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for daytime on the Nile
- Covered shoulders and knees for temple and mosque visits
- A light sweater or long-sleeve for evenings on deck
- Stable, closed-toe walking shoes for archaeological sites
- Smart-casual outfit for evenings in the lounge or dining room
Children & families
Children 0 to 5.99 years travel free; children 6 to 11.99 years pay 50% of the adult price; children 12 years and older pay the full adult price. Children must share a cabin with their parents, maximum one child per cabin; two or more children require their own cabin. Strollers are usable on the vessel but are impractical at many shore sites because of steps, narrow tomb passages, and sandy approaches; bring a lightweight, foldable stroller if needed. High chairs and child meals can usually be provided on request; tell us at booking so we can confirm availability with the vessel.
Accessibility
Who can join this
This Nile cruise requires moderate physical mobility. Boarding and disembarkation use a gangway with steps; some ports require climbing ramps or short stairways to reach the shore. Cabins and public areas on many Nile cruisers include one or two shallow steps; elevators are uncommon on smaller vessels. Shore excursions visit ancient sites with uneven stone, narrow tomb passages, steep steps (for example inside many tombs in the Valley of the Kings), and open sun exposure with limited shade. Wheelchairs can be used on the vessel in many public spaces, but shore access is often restricted by steps, sand, or cobbled surfaces. If you require wheelchair assistance, oxygen, or other mobility support, please tell us in advance so we can arrange appropriate help at airports and ports, and advise which shore visits may be impractical. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and will provide a named representative on arrival to discuss accessibility needs and coordinate alternatives where possible.
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange this Nile cruise with locally based suppliers and crew. The vessel uses diesel-powered river engines typical for Nile sailing; where possible operators use low-sulfur fuel and modern engine maintenance to reduce emissions. Excursion guides are local Egyptologists and boat crew are Egyptian, so tourism revenue remains in local communities along the Nile corridor. Onboard practices typically include recycling where facilities permit and reduced-plastic initiatives, such as encouraging refillable water bottles aboard. Shore visits buy food and services from local vendors and employ licensed site guides, which supports small businesses in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. If you want additional low-impact choices, ask us about vegetarian meal options, group transfers to reduce vehicle use, or booking excursions that work with registered community guides.
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 included in the full board meal plan on the Nile Excellence?
The full board meal plan covers lunch on your embarkation day through breakfast on your disembarkation day. This includes all main meals served in the ship's dining room.02Which historical sites are visited during the Nile Excellence shore excursions?
The Nile Excellence shore excursion program visits key sites such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu's Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. These excursions are led by our Egyptologists.03What are the cabin options available on the Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
The Nile Excellence offers Standard, Deluxe, and Suite grade cabins. Many cabins feature panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies, providing views of the river. All cabins are designed for comfort during your sailing.04Is the Nile Excellence Nile Cruise suitable for families with children?
Yes, the cruise is suitable for families. Children aged 0-5.99 years travel free, while those 6-11.99 years pay 50%. Children 12 and older pay the full adult price. One child maximum can share a cabin with parents; two or more children require their own cabin.05What should I wear or bring for a Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
We recommend bringing light, comfortable clothing for daytime excursions and slightly more formal attire for evenings. Essential items include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient sites. Modest dress is advised for religious sites.06What is the policy regarding gratuities for staff and Egyptologists on the cruise?
Gratuities for the cruise staff and your Egyptologists are not included in the standard cruise price. This allows you to tip based on your satisfaction with the service received. Specific guidance on customary amounts can be provided upon request.07Are there any additional costs or excluded items I should be aware of?
Yes, drinks (including water) are generally extra.08What is the best time of year to take a Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
The best time to take a Nile cruise is typically from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. Summer months, May to September, can be very hot, though the vessel is air-conditioned.09How does Discovery Tours Egypt arrange my Nile Excellence cruise?
Discovery Tours Egypt carefully selects and books the Nile Excellence cruise for you. We coordinate your accommodation, full board meals, and the vessel's scheduled shore excursions, ensuring a seamless experience on the Nile. The vessel itself is owned and operated by the cruise line.
Last updated Product ID: CRU-NIL-580202
At a glance
- Length
- 3, 4 or 7 nights
- Embarks
- Thu in Luxor · Mon in Aswan
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-Star Ultra Deluxe
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