Royal Elite Nile Cruise
A 5-star Nile cruiser with Standard, Deluxe and Suite cabins, a shaded sun deck, outdoor pool, lounge bar, and full-board dining.
The short answer
Royal Elite is a 5-Star Standard Nile cruise ship. Embark in Aswan on a Wednesday for 3 nights to Luxor or a 7-night round trip, or in Luxor on a Saturday for 4 nights to Aswan or a 7-night round trip. Prices start at $990 per person sharing a double cabin, including full board, guided sightseeing and transfers.
02Overview
A first look
By early morning, the Nile carries the soft sounds of river traffic past your cabin, while the sun deck begins to warm above the water. Royal Elite gives you space to settle into the rhythm of sailing, with a shaded deck, outdoor pool area, lounge bar, and dining room between shore excursions.
On land, our Egyptologists help you read the changing landscape through Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple of Horus, and Philae Temple. You can choose a Standard, Deluxe, or Suite cabin, with selected cabins offering a Nile-view balcony or panoramic window. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise, shore visits, and local support so your Egyptologist is ready when you go ashore.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 3 nights · Aswan → Luxorembarks Wednesdays | October – April: from $990double cabinsingle cabin $1,263 | May – September: from $854double cabinsingle cabin $1,049 |
| 4 nights · Luxor → Aswanembarks Saturdays | October – April: from $1,223double cabinsingle cabin $1,587 | May – September: from $1,041double cabinsingle cabin $1,301 |
| 7 nights · Luxor → Luxorembarks Saturdays | October – April: from $1,868double cabinsingle cabin $2,505 | May – September: from $1,549double cabinsingle cabin $2,004 |
| 7 nights · Aswan → Aswanembarks Wednesdays | October – April: from $1,887double cabinsingle cabin $2,524 | May – September: from $1,569double cabinsingle cabin $2,024 |
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 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 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 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.
The ship
- Class
- 5-Star Standard Nile cruise ship
- Year built
- 2023
What lingers
- 01Embarkation and disembarkation transfers included in port cities; we handle luggage and check-ins.
- 02Full-board meals served aboard; evenings are free to relax on deck or attend our brief historical talks.
- 03Unlike large coach tours, we avoid rushed 30‑minute stops; shore visits allocate adequate time at Karnak and Edfu.
- 04We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; local Egyptologists lead excursions and our Cairo office supports on-the-ground logistics.
Bundled in
- Full board
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Accommodation in the selected cabin grade aboard Royal Elite
- Full board meals from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day
- Use of onboard facilities, including the sun deck, lounge bar, and dining room
- Use of the outdoor pool area
- Shore excursion program provided by the cruise line
Not included
- Drinks, including water, are not included, even with meals
- Crew and guide gratuities
- International flights and airport taxes
- Visas and travel insurance
- Optional extras, such as premium cabin upgrades, private transfers, and specialty excursions
- Single supplement for solo travelers
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
Optional arrangements may include premium cabin upgrades, private transfers and speciality excursions; private guiding or extended stays in Luxor and Aswan can also be discussed with Discovery Tours Egypt.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This cruise suits first-time visitors to Egypt, couples, families and travelers interested in ancient Egyptian temples without changing hotels between Luxor and Aswan. It is appropriate for travelers with moderate mobility, although shore excursions involve walking on uneven surfaces, steps and exposed archaeological sites.
Worth knowing
How this compares
Unlike a land-only Egypt itinerary, this cruise combines accommodation and river travel between Luxor and Aswan, reducing the need for repeated hotel changes.
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.
- Royal Beau Rivage Nile Cruise
5-Star Standard Nile cruise
Embarks Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor
From $990 per person
- Magic II Nile Cruise
5-Star Standard Nile cruise
Embarks Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor
From $990 per person
- Grand Rose Nile Cruise
5-Star Standard Nile cruise
Embarks Wed from Aswan / Sat from Luxor
From $990 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
- Accommodation
- 5-Star Cruise Vessel
- Destinations
- Luxor · Aswan · The Nile · Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Edfu Temple of Horus · Kom Ombo Temple · Philae Temple · Valley of the Kings
- Includes
- Chosen Standard, Deluxe or Suite cabin · Full board from lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation · Shaded sun deck · Outdoor pool area · Indoor lounge bar · Dedicated dining room · Cruise line shore-excursion program
- Best for
- First-time Egypt visitors · Couples · Families · Ancient history enthusiasts · Travelers seeking a structured Luxor–Aswan sailing
- Guide languages
- English
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport
- Printed or digital booking confirmation
- Comfortable walking shoes with secure soles
- Sunscreen SPF50+ and lip balm
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Small day bag for shore excursions
- Motion-sickness medication if needed
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Breathable layers for changing temperatures
- Comfortable shoes for uneven temple surfaces
- Covered shoulders and knees for temples and religious sites
- Swimsuit and cover-up for the pool area
- Light jacket for cooler evenings
Children & families
Children 0–5.99 years travel free; 6–11.99 years pay 50%; 12+ 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 generally impractical on gangways, internal stairs, quays, and uneven archaeological sites. Please confirm crib, high-chair, and cabin arrangements before booking, as availability depends on the assigned vessel.
Accessibility
Who can join this
A Nile cruise combines access to the vessel with shore excursions on uneven historic ground. Embarkation may involve a gangway, steps, or a steep ramp, depending on the quay and water level. Cabins, dining areas, lounges, and the sun deck are connected by internal stairs, and elevator availability should be confirmed before booking. Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings include uneven paving, steps, sand, and limited shade. Wheelchair users and travelers with reduced mobility should contact us before payment so we can confirm the assigned vessel, cabin access, gangway conditions, and practical shore-excursion arrangements.
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
Your cruise uses a river vessel rather than separate daily road transfers between Luxor and Aswan, which can reduce repeated overland travel for the same route. Shore excursions are arranged through the cruise line's local operating teams, while Discovery Tours Egypt coordinates the booking and local arrangements with Egyptian suppliers. Food service, cabin care, navigation, and shore operations support workers on the Nile corridor. Specific fuel systems, waste treatment, recycling, and water-saving measures vary by the vessel assigned at booking, so we do not claim standards that have not been verified. Guests can help by carrying a refillable bottle where permitted, avoiding single-use plastics, and following site rules at temples and tombs.
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 shore excursions are included with the Royal Elite Nile Cruise?
The Royal Elite Nile Cruise includes a comprehensive shore excursion program. You will visit iconic sites such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. These excursions are provided by the cruise line.02What meals are included on the Royal Elite Nile Cruise?
The Royal Elite Nile Cruise operates on a full board basis. This includes all meals, from lunch on your embarkation day through breakfast on your disembarkation day. Drinks (including water) are typically an additional cost.03What types of cabins are available on the Royal Elite Nile Cruise?
The Royal Elite Nile Cruise offers various cabin grades, including Standard, Deluxe, and Suites. Some selected cabins feature Nile-view balconies or panoramic windows, providing excellent views of the river scenery as you sail.04What onboard facilities can I use during the Royal Elite Nile Cruise?
Guests on the Royal Elite Nile Cruise can enjoy several onboard facilities. These include a shaded sun deck, an outdoor swimming pool area, a comfortable lounge bar, and a dedicated dining room. These amenities enhance your sailing experience on the Nile.05Is the Royal Elite Nile Cruise suitable for children and families?
Yes, the Royal Elite Nile Cruise welcomes families. Children aged 0–5.99 years travel free, while those 6–11.99 years pay 50% of the 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.06What is the policy for solo travelers on the Royal Elite Nile Cruise?
Solo travelers are welcome on the Royal Elite Nile Cruise. However, pricing is based on two people sharing a cabin, so a single supplement typically applies for those traveling alone. Please inquire for specific details on solo traveler rates.07What should I pack or wear for the Royal Elite Nile Cruise and excursions?
For the cruise, pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring swimwear for the pool. For shore excursions, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest dress, covering shoulders and knees, is recommended when visiting temples and religious sites.08Are gratuities included in the Royal Elite Nile Cruise price?
No, crew and guide gratuities are not included in the standard Royal Elite Nile Cruise price. It is customary to tip the cruise staff and your Egyptologist guide at the end of your trip. Specific recommendations for gratuity amounts can be provided.09How does embarkation and disembarkation work for the Royal Elite Nile Cruise?
Embarkation and disembarkation for the Royal Elite Nile Cruise occur at either Luxor or Aswan, depending on your chosen sailing direction. We arrange your transfers to and from the vessel, ensuring a smooth start and end to your cruise experience.
Last updated Product ID: CRU-NIL-895034
At a glance
- Length
- 3, 4 or 7 nights
- Embarks
- Sat in Luxor · Wed in Aswan
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-Star Standard
You Might Also Like
Nile7 Nights
Zeina Nile Cruise
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.
Nile7 Nights
Lady Carol Nile Cruise
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.
From $1,029
Nile7 Nights
Nile Quest Nile Cruise
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. We select and book the cruise; the cruise line operates the vessel and runs on-board services.
From $1,029