By: Ashraf H. Michael

Egypt Tours and Travel Office, Chicago

Our clientele base is split down the middle 50/50 when it comes to that question. Also, a large chunk of western travelers don't really understand how Nile cruises work, so it's very hard of them to take an educated decision if they should utilize a cruise down the Nile, up the Nile or not. Or if they should do the portion or segment between Aswan and up north to Luxor, or Luxor going further south to Aswan by land.

Several factors to consider when taking the yes or no factor for cruising the River Nile. Do you like entertainment? Do you like to be joined with other English speaking tourists that can be other Americans, Canadians, British, English speaking Europeans, Indian nationals, South Africans, etc.,

Nile cruises might be fun, sailing the Nile River might also be fun, as you see mud-brick homes, waterwheels, farmland, children swimming in the Nile River, women washing their family clothing by the river Nile side, donkey carts moving trade and merchandise up and down the Nile river, ancient old temples, in Luxor, Edfu, Kom-Ombo, Aswan, or on a Nubian Nile cruise, seeing temples like Temple of Amada of the XVIIIth Dynasty, Temple of Wadi El Seboua, Temple of Dakka, Temple of Meharakka, Kalabsha Temple, Beit el Wali.

Since Egypt Tours and Travel operates all of its Egypt Tour packages by private cars, with a driver and an Egyptologist with you, that might be a factor to consider, when making the decision, since if you opt to do a Nile cruise, then the ship takes control of all shore excursions, meaning the sightseeing and the touring portion, and you'll be using their own tour guides. In addition, you'll be joined with all English speaking passengers on board the Nile cruise ship, and that can be anywhere between 15 to 25 other passengers. The way Nile cruise boats work this is by dividing Nile boat passengers into small groups based on language. Majority of Nile cruise boats accommodate between 120 to 150 passengers on board, depending on how Nile cruise ship is sold (single, double and triple occupancy) and during shore excursions they are broken-down based on language spoken, so you'll see French, Spanish, Italian, Germans and possibly other groups on the Nile cruise, each joining or teaming up with their guide, who speaks their own language, once Nile shore excursions are ready to start. This usually tends to happen on Nile cruise ships in the early morning, as well as in the afternoon. Allowing you to go back to your Nile cruiser for lunch, then continue or start the afternoon excursion.

On Nile cruises, you get to see too many things, but in some cases, not as in-depth as when the tour is private, and you and your guide are in charge of your own pace and time.

Having said all the above, 50 to 60% of our clients tend to go with a Nile cruise selection, since you do more temples, although much smaller than Luxor and Karnak temples, however, are unique in their own way.

The second question that usually arises. If I take a Nile cruise, which ship should I use?

This is the trickiest question of all, why?

There are more than 400 plus ships that sail up and down that busy Nile River. At Egypt Tours and Travel, we have our own rating system. Although the Egyptian government has more than 250 of these Nile cruise boats rated as 5-stars,  we totally disagree on their method of rating. So the term 5-stars is a generic term that is commonly used in Egypt, particularly when it comes to Nile cruise boats and how they are ranked and rated.

Egypt Tours and Travel inspects the Nile cruises that we contract with. Either our Cairo office or someone from our U.S. offices flies down to Luxor or Aswan and get to see Nile ships that we are planning to use or new ones that we are considering to contract with, and as previously mentioned, although the Egyptian government has rated about 200 plus Nile ships as 5-stars. We would downgrade that number by saying, actual 5-star Nile cruises in Egypt, by no means, would not exceed 40-Nile cruise ships.

We tend to get a lot of calls from confused clients saying "another operator is selling us the Nile Cruise boat cheaper, and they are using a 5-star Nile cruise". That's when experience and the Egypt Tours and Travel expertise comes into play. We start to explain and educate the client, that the Egyptian system of rating, is very much different from the Western way of rating properties. Although part of their claim is correct, and that a particular Nile boat is unfortunately rated as 5-star Nile cruise by the Egyptian government, but we, as a private company (Egypt Tours and Travel) have it rated as 3-stars or less. Does Egypt Tours and Travel have anything to gain, by downgrading certain Nile ships from that 5-stars category? Absolutely not, since Egypt Tours and Travel does not own any ships. All that Egypt Tours and Travel cares about is the comfort and safety of its clients.

What are some of the disastrous consequences of traveling on a Nile cruise that is not genuinely ranked as 5-stars?

Nile cruises that are not up to the American rating system, are a true nightmare. We hear horror post-trip stories from clients that didn't listen or adhere to our advice, and opted to save a few hundred dollars to go on a cheaper Nile trip.

People tend to get food poisoning, also sick from Nile cruise ship water, water that you don't, and are not supposed to drink. Some of these Nile boats, don't often replace the water filters that they use to wash their dishes, pots, glasses, mugs, etc., and that tend to translate into tourists getting sick, missing tour excursions, and in some cases having to be seen by a local doctor, and once the ship docked, in next port and in most cases, tourists have to be transported of the Nile cruise boat to a local hospital due to severe diarrhea, fever, etc., due to contaminated water or food, salad or fruits that weren’t washed or prepared right, or handled properly. Clients are advised to listen to their Egypt Tours and Travel professionals when it comes to selecting a Nile cruise boat. You are still traveling to a third world country, and in a lot of cases, things don’t measure up to the American standard.

Which Nile Cruise ships do Egypt Tours and Travel recommend?

Egypt Tours breaks Nile cruise ships, in our own 3-categories, since we don't abide by the Egyptian government rating or categorization.

1) Standard 5-stars Nile cruises

2) 5-star deluxe Nile cruises

3) 5-stars super deluxe Nile cruise

A sample of our Standard 5-stars Nile Cruise Ships, by Egypt Tours and Travel

Movenpick boats:

Movenpick Nile cruise ships are nice, a reputable Nile cruise chain. Their Nile cruises combine very good facilities, good service and fantastic shore excursions from Luxor and Aswan or on the Lake Nasser. You can choose one of their 8 cruise ships with Nile river journeys from four to a maximum of twelve days. 

One of their flagships is Moevenpick MS Royal Lotus offers spacious accommodation and public areas the enable you to enjoy perfect relaxation. 60 luxuriously furnished cabins and 2 Royal Suites.

The Movenpick, MS Royal Lotus. This flagship cruiser comprises of 60-cabins, approximately 240 square feet each cabin, plus 2-Royal Suites onboard. Embarking from Luxor or Aswan, or the opposite direction Aswan to Luxor.

5-star Cabins, tastefully furnished, the cabins have an en-suite shower room, individually controlled air-conditioning, TV, minibar, climate control and telephones that enable international calls via GSM lines.

4 Nights ‐ 5 Days Nile Cruise Embarkation:

Luxor to Aswan

Day 1

Starts on a Monday

Check‐In. 12:30 in the afternoon. Lunch on board.

2:00 P.M. Visit East Bank. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 2  

Tuesday

07:30 A.M. Visit West Bank.

1:00 A.M. Sail to Edfu via Esna.

4:30 P.M. Afternoon tea.

7:00 P.M. Welcome Reception Cocktail.

Overnight in Edfu, onboard Nile cruise.

 Day 3

Visit Edfu Temple.

Sail to Kom-Ombo

4:00 P.M. Afternoon tea

5:00 P.M. Visit Kom-Ombo Temple

9:30 P.M. Oriental Show "Galabia Party" Overnight in Aswan.

Day 4

Visit the High Dam, the Temple of Philae & unfinished Obelisk.

4:00 P.M. Felucca on the Nile around Kitchener Island.

9:30 P.M. Nubian Show.

Day 5

Disembarkation after breakfast

An example of Nile Cruise Ships that are 5-stars deluxe boats, by Egypt Tours and Travel

The Sonesta Moon Goddess

Nile cruise ships overview:

Lounge

Serving light meals for lunch and dinner plus a wide range of cocktails and beverages.

Sun Deck Bar

Overlooking the Nile, offering refreshing cocktails all day until sunset.

Entertainment

Discotheque, Belly Dance Show, Captain's Welcome Cocktail Party, fancy Galabia Party, and Nubian Folkloric Show.

Features & Services

•        In-room dining available until midnight

•        Main dining room, lounge, sun deck bar

•        Wireless internet access is available throughout the ship and in all cabins for  a charge

•        Nightly entertainment

•        Fully-purified water, filtered and softened before distribution

•        Barbecue area on deck

•        Fitness and recreation areas

•        Outdoor swimming pool with bar service

•        Jogging track

•        Spacious gym

•        Guided sightseeing excursions

•        Doctor available onboard and on-call for a charge if needed.

Cruising on the Sonesta Nile River between Luxor and Aswan, or Aswan to Luxor on this 5-stars Deluxe Ship.

Sonesta fleet of Nile River cruises offers 3-, 4-, and 7-nights Nile sailings, between Aswan and Luxor, exploring the temples, villages, tombs and ruins. Guided excursions with Egyptologists on the Nile Cruise ships.

A Sample of the 5-Days / 4-Nights Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile cruise ship itinerary.

5-Days / 4-Nights Nile cruise

Tuesday

Embarkation before lunch

1:00 P.M. Lunch on board

3:30 P.M. Sail on the Nile by Felucca around Kitchener's Island & Agha Khan

5:30 P.M. Afternoon Tea

7:30 P.M. Nubian Folkloric Show8

8:00 P.M. Dinner on board

Wednesday

6:00   Breakfast on board

7:00   Visit the High Dam, the Granite Quarries and the Temple of Philae

12:00 Sail to Kom-Ombo

12:30 Lunch on board

15:00 Visit the Temple shared by two gods Sobek and Haeroris in Kom-Ombo

16:30 Sail to Edfu

17:30 Afternoon Tea

19:30 Captain’s Welcome Cocktail

20:00 Dinner on board

22:00 Enjoy music in the lounge

Thursday

8:00   Breakfast on board

9:00   Visit Horus Temple in Edfu

11:00 Sail to Luxor

13:00 Lunch on board

17:30 Afternoon Tea

20:00 Dinner on board

21:00 Galabia Party

Friday

6:00   Breakfast on board

7:00   Visit West Bank, Valley of the Kings & Queens, and Hatshepsut Temple

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Visit East Bank, Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple

17:30 Afternoon Tea

20:00 Dinner on board

22:00 Enjoy music in the lounge

Saturday

7:00   Breakfast on board

8:00   Disembarkation

A Sample of the 8-Days / 7-Nights Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile cruise

7-Nights Luxor/Luxor

Saturday

Embarkation before lunch

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Visit Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple

17:30 Afternoon Tea

19:30 Belly Dance Show

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Enjoy music in the lounge

Sunday

8:00   Breakfast on board & Free Morning

12:00 Sail to Edfu

13:00 Lunch on board

17:30 Afternoon Tea

19:30 Captain's Welcome Cocktail Party

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Enjoy music in the lounge

Monday

8:00   Breakfast on board

10:00 Sail to Kom-Ombo

13:00 Lunch on board

16:00 Visit Kom-Ombo Temple

17:30 Sail to Aswan

17:30 Afternoon Tea

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Galabia Party

Tuesday

8:00   Breakfast on board & Free Morning

13:00 Lunch on board

15:30 Sail on the Nile by Felucca around Kitchener's Island & Agha Khan

17:30 Afternoon Tea

19:30 Nubian Folkloric Show

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Enjoy music in the lounge

Wednesday

6:00   Breakfast on board

7:00   Visit the High Dam, the Granite Quarries and the Temple of Philae

12:00 Sail to Kom-Ombo

12:30 Lunch on board

16:30 Sail to Edfu

17:30 Afternoon Tea

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Enjoy music in Disco

Thursday

8:00   Breakfast on board

9:00   Visit Edfu Temple

11:00 Sail to Luxor

13:00 Lunch on board

17:30 Afternoon Tea

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Enjoy music in the lounge

Friday

6:00   Breakfast on board

7:00   Visit the West Bank, Valley of the Kings & Queens, Hatshepsut.

13:00 Lunch on board

17:30 Afternoon Tea

20:00 Dinner on board

21:30 Enjoy music in the lounge

Saturday

7:00   Breakfast on board

8:00   Disembarkation

The Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise Ship, an example of the Super Deluxe Nile cruise flagship, by Egypt Tours and Travel of Chicago

Four and six day on board a spacious Luxury Nile Cruiser, the Oberoi Philae.

Oberoi Philae / 5-Days / 4-Nights Nile cruise itinerary

Embarkation: Aswan to Luxor

Day 1

Noon Embarkation. Visit Nubian Museum. In the early 1960’s, when Egypt built the High Dam at Aswan, Egyptologists and archaeologists the world over heeded UNESCO’s appeal to salvage the monuments of Egyptian Nubia before the rising waters of Lake Nasser submerged them forever. More than sixty expeditions ultimately joined the “Nubian Rescue Campaign”, which resulted in the excavation and recording of hundreds of sites, the recovery of thousands of objects, and the salvage and translocation of a number of important temples to higher ground. In the evening, tea at club lounge followed by a cocktail reception. Overnight in Aswan.

Day 2

07:00 Visit Philae temple and High Dam. High Dam Built between 1960 and 1971, the immense High Dam is 12,562 feet across, 364 feet high and 3,214 feet wide at its base. At the eastern end of the dam there is a visitors’ pavilion detailing the construction of the dam and at the western end there is a lotus-shaped tower, built to commemorate the Soviet Union’s support in the building of the dam. The Philae Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Isis and was built in Ptolemaic times. The oldest parts of the temple were built by Nectanebo I (380 - 362 B.C.) and a large portion of the temple was constructed during the regime of Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285 – 246 B.C.). With the building of the High Dam this monument was relocated to the nearby island of Agilika. The UNESCO led project took eight years to complete during which Agilikawas landscaped to look like Philae. At noon sail to Kom-Ombo. Visit the twin temple of Kom-Ombo. One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. The construction of the Temple of Kom-Ombo began in the 2nd century and completed in the 1st century BC. The temple is built in imposing Greco – Roman style and is in a particularly beautiful setting overlooking the Nile. The Chapel of Hathor to the south of the temple now houses a few crocodile mummies from the nearby crocodile necropolis.  Late afternoon, sail to Edfu. Tea at club lounge. Overnight in Edfu.

Day 3

Visit the Temple of Edfu, the Temple of Horus at Edfu was buried under sand and silt for nearly two thousand years. It is the largest and best-preserved Ptolemaic temple in Egypt. Construction of the temple began in 237 B.C. and the main temple complex took 25 years to complete. Sail to Esna, cross the Esna Lock, sail to Luxor. Tea at club lounge. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 4

Visit the West Bank of ancient Thebes. Visit Valley of the Kings, with its royal tombs, King Tut’s tomb, Ramesses the 6th. This is followed by a visit to Temple of Medinet Habu, Dier El Madina. On the way back stop at the Colossi of Memnon. The remote barren Valley of the Kings was the necropolis of the New Kingdom pharaohs. Digging their tombs deep into the Theban Hills pharaohs from 1500 BC had hoped to stop robbers stealing the priceless possessions buried with them. Sixty two tombs have been found in the Valley of the Kings.

Including Tomb of Ramesses VI, Tomb of Tutankhamen and Tomb of Seti. The beautiful temple of Medinet Habu, second only to Karnak temple in size and detail. Soaring 18 meter (60 feet) into the sky, the two enthroned statues are the first monuments most visitors see on arriving in the West Bank. All that remains today are the two faceless colossi called the Colossi of Memnon, which, despite the ravages of time, are an impressive site. Visit Luxor and Karnak temples spread out on the East Bank of the Nile and built on the site of the New Kingdom capital city of Thebes, Luxor is the tourist Mecca of the Nile Valley. The exciting excavations in the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s tomb, aroused international interest in the town. The bustling town is centered on the magnificent Luxor Temple, an enduring symbol of its glorious past. Located at the northern end of the town of Luxor, Karnak Temple is the country’s most important temple. It covers five acres of land. The temple lay buried under sand for more than 1,000 years before excavation work began in the mid-19th century. Today, the huge task of restoration continues.  Back to Nile Cruise, tea at club lounge. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 5

Disembarkation your Nile Cruise Boat

Super Deluxe Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise Ship

Oberoi Philae / 7-Days / 6-Nights Nile cruise itinerary

Aswan to Luxor

Day 1

Wednesday

Embarkation at noon. Visit Nubian Museum. In the early 1960’s, when Egypt built the High Dam at Aswan, Egyptologists and archaeologists the world over heeded UNESCO’s appeal to salvage the monuments of Egyptian Nubia before the rising waters of Lake Nasser submerged them forever. More than sixty expeditions ultimately joined the “Nubian Rescue Campaign”, which resulted in the excavation and recording of hundreds of sites, the recovery of thousands of objects, and the salvage and translocation of a number of important temples to higher ground. 17.00 Tea at the club lounge. 19:00 cocktail reception. 19:30 Dinner Overnight in Aswan.

Day 2

Thursday

Visit Philae temple and High Dam. High Dam Built between 1960 and 1971, the immense High Dam is 3,830 meters(12,562 feet) across, 111 meters (364 feet) high and 980 meters (3,214 feet) wide at its base. At the eastern end of the dam, there is a visitors’ pavilion detailing the construction of the dam and at the western end, there is a lotus-shaped tower, built to commemorate the Soviet Union’s support in the building of the dam. The Philae Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Isis and was built in Ptolemaic times. The oldest parts of the temple were built by Nectanebo I (380 - 362 B.C.) and a large portion of the temple was constructed during the regime of Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285 – 246 B.C.). With the building of the High Dam, this monument was relocated to the nearby island of Agilika. The UNESCO led project took eight years to complete during which Agilikawas landscaped to look like Philae. Sail to Kom-Ombo. Visit the twin temple of Kom-Ombo.

One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. The construction of the Temple of Kom-Ombo began in the 2nd century and completed in the 1st century BC. The temple is built in imposing Greco – Roman style and is in a particularly beautiful setting overlooking the Nile. The Chapel of Hathor to the south of the temple now houses a few crocodile mummies from the nearby crocodile necropolis. Sail to Edfu. Tea at the club lounge. Overnight in Edfu.

Day 3  

Friday

Visit the Temple of Edfu, the Temple of Horus at Edfu was buried under sand and silt for nearly two thousand years. It is the largest and best-preserved Ptolemaic temple in Egypt. Construction of the temple began in 237 B.C. and the main temple complex took 25 years to complete. Sail to Esna, cross the Esna Lock and continue sailing to Luxor, tea at the club lounge. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 4

Saturday

Visit West Bank, the Valley of the Kings, with its royal tombs, King Tut’s tomb, Ramesses the 6th. This is followed by a visit to Temple of Medinet Habu, Dier El Medina. On the way back stop at the Colossi of Memnon. The remote barren Valley of the Kings was the necropolis of the New Kingdom pharaohs. By digging their tombs deep into the Theban Hills pharaohs from 1500 BC had hoped to stop robbers stealing the priceless possessions buried with them. 62-tombs have been found in the Valley of the Kings including Tomb of Ramesses VI, Tomb of Tutankhamen and Tomb of Seti. The beautiful temple of Medinet Habuis second only to Karnak in size and detail. Soaring 60 feet into the sky, the two enthroned statues are the first monuments most visitors see on arriving in the West Bank. All that remains today are the two faceless colossi called the Colossi of Memnon, which, despite the ravages of time, are an impressive site. In the afternoon, visit Luxor and Karnak temples spread out on the East Bank of the Nile and built on the site of the New Kingdom capital city of Thebes, Luxor is the tourist Mecca of the Nile Valley. The exciting excavations in the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s tomb, aroused international interest in the town. The bustling town is centered on the magnificent Luxor Temple, an enduring symbol of its glorious past. Located at the northern end of the town of Luxor, Karnak Temple is the country’s most important temple. It covers five acres of land. The temple lay buried under sand for more than 1,000 years before excavation work began in the mid-19th century. Today, the huge task of restoration continues.  Tea at club lounge. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 5

Sunday

Sail to Quina. Visit the Temple of Dendara, dedicated to Hathor, Goddess of Music, Love, and Joy. Buried under sand until the 19th century, the vast Temple of Hathor remains remarkably intact. The current temple is of Greco-Roman style but its design imitates typical Pharaonic temple architecture. Tea at the club lounge. Overnight in Quina.

Day 6  

Monday

Visit the Temple of Abydos. Abydos was one of the holiest sites in the world. As the cult center of the god Osiris and gateway to the underworld (believed to lie under the nearby hills), it was a popular place of pilgrimage and burial. The main monument at Abydos is the Temple of Seti I, built around 1300 BC by Seti and his son Ramesses II. Sail to Luxor. Tea at the club lounge, then visit Luxor Museum. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 7

Tuesday

Disembarkation

Overview of the Oberoi Philae Nile cruise ship.

Dress Code: Recommend elegant casuals (jacket not essential) for dinner and convenient clothes during the day.

“The exterior of The Oberoi Philae rings of nostalgia, with the handsome feel of a 20th-century steamship.”

The Oberoi Philae, is a luxurious 22-room cruiser that reopened in 2016 after an extensive refurbishment. A graceful chandelier hung overhead. Marble floors gleamed under sleek leather benches. Chrome glimmered alongside dark wood. With windows at every turn.

There is a chic bar, cozy cigar lounge, sun-filled gym and serene spa with floor-to-ceiling windows. The ship is crowned with a fabulous roof deck, a sunny expanse of rich wooden floors with lounge chairs that curve around the perimeter.

The Oberoi Philae and Oberoi chain in general works with the finest guides, who lead tours in small groups. The temple of Philae, set on its own island. The temple is made of gold-colored stone with soaring colonnades, pylons and figures etched into the surface. Surrounded by sparkling water and leafy plants, the approach by boat is positively cinematic.

Super Deluxe Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise Ship

Oberoi Philae / 7-Days / 6-Nights Nile cruise itinerary

Aswan to Luxor

Day 1

Wednesday

Embarkation at noon. Visit the Nubian Museum.  In the early 1960s, when Egypt built the High Dam at Aswan, Egyptologists and archaeologists the world over heeded UNESCO’s appeal to salvage the monuments of Egyptian Nubia before the rising waters of Lake Nasser submerged them forever. More than sixty expeditions ultimately joined the “Nubian Rescue Campaign”, which resulted in the excavation and recording of hundreds of sites, the recovery of thousands of objects, and the salvage and translocation of a number of important temples to higher ground. 17.00 Tea at the club lounge. 7:00 P..M. cocktail reception. 7:30 P.M. Dinner Overnight in Aswan.

Day 2

Thursday

Visit Philae temple and High Dam High Dam Built between 1960 and 1971, the immense High Dam is 3,830 meters(12,562 feet) across, 111 meters (364 feet) high and (3,214 feet) wide at its base. At the eastern end of the dam, there is a visitors’ pavilion detailing the construction of the dam and at the western end, there is a lotus-shaped tower, built to commemorate the Soviet Union’s support in the building of the dam. The Philae Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Isis and was built in Ptolemaic times. The oldest parts of the temple were built by Nectanebo I (380 - 362 B.C.) and a large portion of the temple was constructed during the regime of Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285 – 246 B.C.). With the building of the High Dam, this monument was relocated to the nearby island of Agilika. The UNESCO led project took eight years to complete during which Agilikawas landscaped to look like Philae. Sail to Kom-Ombo. Visit the twin temple of Kom-Ombo.

One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. The construction of the Temple of Kom-Ombo began in the 2nd century and completed in the 1st century BC. The temple is built in imposing Greco – Roman style and is in a particularly beautiful setting overlooking the Nile. The Chapel of Hathor to the south of the temple now houses a few crocodile mummies from the nearby crocodile necropolis. Sail to Edfu. Tea at the club lounge. Overnight in Edfu.

Day 3  

Friday

Visit the Temple of Edfu, the Temple of Horus at Edfu was buried under sand and silt for nearly two thousand years. It is the largest and best-preserved Ptolemaic temple in Egypt. Construction of the temple began in 237 B.C. and the main temple complex took 25 years to complete. Sail to Esna, cross the Esna Lock Sail to Luxor, tea at the club lounge. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 4

Saturday

Visit West Bank, the Valley of the Kings, with its royal tombs, King Tut’s tomb, Ramesses the 6th. This is followed by a visit to Temple of Medinet Habu, Dier El Medina. On the way back stop at the Colossi of Memnon. The remote barren Valley of the Kings was the necropolis of the New Kingdom pharaohs. By digging their tombs deep into the Theban Hills pharaohs from 1500 BC had hoped to stop robbers stealing the priceless possessions buried with them. 62-tombs have been found in the Valley of the Kings including Tomb of Ramesses VI, Tomb of Tutankhamen and Tomb of Seti. The beautiful temple of Medinet Habu second only to Karnak in size and detail. Soaring 60 feet into the sky, the two enthroned statues are the first monuments most visitors see on arriving in the West Bank. All that remains today are the two faceless colossi called the Colossi of Memnon, which, despite the ravages of time, are an impressive site. In the afternoon, visit Luxor and Karnak temples spread out on the East Bank of the Nile and built on the site of the New Kingdom capital city of Thebes, Luxor is the tourist Mecca of the Nile Valley. The exciting excavations in the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s tomb, aroused international interest in the town. The bustling town is centered on the magnificent Luxor Temple, an enduring symbol of its glorious past. Located at the northern end of the town of Luxor, Karnak Temple is the country’s most important temple. It covers five acres of land. The temple lay buried under sand for more than 1,000 years before excavation work began in the mid-19th century. Today, the huge task of restoration continues.  Tea at the club lounge. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 5

Sunday

Sail to Quina. Visit the Temple of Dendara, dedicated to Hathor, Goddess of Music, Love and Joy. Buried under sand until the 19th century, the vast Temple of Hathor remains remarkably intact. The current temple is of Graeco-Roman style but its design imitates typical Pharaonic temple architecture. Tea at club lounge. Overnight in Quina.

Day 6  

Monday

Visit the Temple of Abydos. Abydos was one of the holiest sites in the world. As the cult center of the god Osiris and gateway to the underworld (believed to lie under the nearby hills), it was a popular place of pilgrimage and burial. The main monument at Abydos is the Temple of Seti I, built around 1300 BC by Seti and his son Ramesses II. Sail to Luxor. Tea at club lounge, then visit Luxor Museum. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 7

Tuesday

Disembarkation

Oberoi Philae Nile cruise ship, decorated in a natural palette, with natural lighting and River Nile views during the day, the Main Restaurant is transformed into a softly lit, ambient fine dining space in the evening. The menu spans fine Western, Indian, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, freshly prepared on board by Oberoi chefs. The Main Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Dress Code on Nile cruise boat: Recommend elegant casuals (jacket not essential) for dinner, and convenient clothes during the day.

The top deck Poolside Restaurant offers panoramic vistas up and down the River Nile. For your comfort, it is shaded by a large canopy in the daytime. After dark, it exudes romance by the light of glowing lamps and underfoot spotlights. The Poolside Restaurant serves light meals, snacks and also offers a special barbecue lunch menu. The attached cocktail bar is open from morning until evening.

Super Deluxe Star Goddess Nile Cruise Ship

Sun Deck Bar & Barbecue

Overlooking panoramic view of the Nile, the Sun Deck on this Nile cruiser serves refreshing cocktails and beverages until sunset, as well as barbecue specialties.

Lounge 

Adjacent to the lobby, the Lounge, which features a dance floor, serves light meals and a wide range of cocktails and beverages in a comfortable and stylish ambiance.

Features & Services

• Main dining room, sun deck bar & barbecue lounge

• Wireless internet access is available throughout the ship and in all cabins for a charge

• Spa & fitness center, with gym, massage services, sauna and steam bath

• Nightly entertainment

• Plasma TV with DVD, satellite channels and in-house movie programs

• Panoramic windows

• Private terrace

• Direct-line telephone

• International telephone line and Internet access

• Individual climate control

• Hairdryer

• Mini-bar  

• Safe

• Bathrooms equipped with full-size bathtub

• Fully-purified water, filtered and softened before distribution

• Guided sightseeing excursion

• Doctor available on Nile cruise ship, and on call for a charge

A sample itinerary for sailing the Super Deluxe Star Goddess Nile Cruise Ship

5-Days / 4 Nights Nile Cruise

Monday

Embarkation before lunch. Visit Karnak & Luxor Temple. Afternoon tea. Belly Dance show. Disco. Overnight in Luxor.

Tuesday

Visit the west bank, Valley of Kings and Queens, Hatshepsut. Sail to Esna. Afternoon Tea. Captain's Welcome Cocktail Party. Disco time. Overnight in Esna.

Wednesday

Visit Edfu Temple. Sail to Kom-Ombo. Afternoon Tea and visit Kom-Ombo temple. In the evening, Galabia Party. Overnight in Kom-Ombo.

Thursday

Sail to Aswan. Visit the high dam, the granite quarries and the temple of Philae. Sail the Nile by felucca around Kitchener’s island. Afternoon Tea. At night, Nubian Folkloric Show. Overnight in Aswan.

Friday

8:00   Disembark your Nile Cruise Boat.

EXCURSIONS ON NILE CRUISE / What do you get to explore:

Luxor

Luxor stands where ancient Thebes, the "City of the Thousand Gates," once stood. Luxor, which means "the Palaces" in Arabic, is true to its name with a great number of magnificent temples and tombs.

The East Bank

In an unforgettable excursion, you will visit the Luxor Temple, which was built by the two great pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramses II. After touring the temple, you will travel along an avenue of ram-headed Sphinxes, extending for about two miles, which link Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple, the center of worship in ancient Egypt. No site in the world makes a more overwhelming and lasting impression than this "Temple of all Temples."

The West Bank

Cross the Nile from Luxor where you will visit the Valley of the Kings which includes the tombs of the Thebian rulers. Next, tour the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman pharaoh to reign in ancient Egypt (in the new Kingdom). Her temple, with its impressive architecture, is traditionally associated with Hathor, the goddess of love and joy. It was formerly surrounded by tropical gardens with plants imported from Somali land.

Later, tour the Valley of The Queens and the famous Colossi of Memnon, which once guarded the entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III. The temple was destroyed by an earthquake but the Colossi still remain.

Edfu

Edfu lies 100 kilometers south of Luxor and is the site of one of the greatest and best preserved temples of ancient Egypt. The temple, completed during the Ptolemaic age (305-30 B.C.), was dedicated to Horus and provides a wealth of information through its inscriptions, which describe the founding and construction methods of similar temples, as well as daily rituals and myths of ancient times.

Kom-Ombo

Kom-Ombo is 25-Miles north of Aswan and since earliest times, has received visitors who have traveled through the Libyan and Arabian deserts from Sudan caravan routes. The town of Kom-Ombo gained administrative importance during the Ptolemaic age as it protected the southern border of Egypt and in the Roman period was a military station. The temple has a double sanctuary and is dedicated to two divinities: Haroeris (Horus the Elder) and Sobek (the Crocodile God).

Aswan

Aswan, Egypt's smallest governorate, was the country's premier winter resort from 910 to 24 BC, offering natural beauty, a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere and a warm, dry climate.

The Aswan High Dam

The old dam was built by Sir W. Wilcock on behalf of the British authorities in 1898. It was constructed from granite quarried in the Aswan area and the official opening took place in 1902. In the 1960's, a new dam was built by the Egyptian government.

The Unfinished Obelisk

Also in Aswan, the Unfinished Obelisk gives us a great deal of information about how granite obelisks were carved in ancient times. The existence of granite in the Aswan area was of particular interest to the ancient pharaohs since it provided them with a ready source of material for their building projects.

The Island Tour and Philae Temple

For this delightful excursion, you will sail by felucca (Egyptian-style sail boat), to the small granite island called Kitchener of the Botanical island. You will also visit Elephantine Island.

The Sonesta St George Super Deluxe Nile Cruise

Main Dining Room

Located on the lower deck, our Main Dining Room, designed with sophistication and style, serves breakfast and lunch buffets as well as A la carte dinners. Dress code for dinner is smart casual.

Sun Deck Bar

Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Nile, the Sun Deck serves refreshing cocktails and beverages.

Lounge 

Unique classical motifs decorate the walls and ceiling of the Lounge, which features a dance floor and stages nightly entertainment. A full-service bar serves a wide range of cocktails and beverages.

Panoramic Lounge

Adorned with elegant decor, the Panoramic Lounge, located on Deck 4, offers panoramic views of the Nile and is available for special functions and meetings.

Piano Bar

Elegant and sophisticated, the Piano Bar is lit by a dramatic, handmade chandelier and serves a variety of cocktails and beverages.  

Features & Services

• Main dining room, sun deck bar, lounge, panoramic lounge, piano bar, Sundeck

• Oversize pool with shallow water extension and Jacuzzi

• Spa & wellness center with gym, massage services, sauna and steam bath

• Daily guided sightseeing excursions

• Dry cleaning service
  

Sample itineraries for St George Nile Cruise ship

4-Days / 3-Night Nile Cruise Sailing from Aswan to Luxor

Friday

Embarkation before lunch

Visit the High Dam and the Temple of Philae temple and sail on the Nile by motor boat. Captain's welcome cocktail. Nubian Show. Overnight in Aswan.

Saturday

Sail to Kom-Ombo

Visit the Temple shared by two gods Sobek and Haeroris in Kom-Ombo

Sail to Edfu. Visit Edfu Temple. Sail to Esna. Egyptian Galabia Party. Overnight in Esna.

Sunday

Early morning sail to Luxor. Visit the West Bank - the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the temple of Queen Hatshepsut at El-Deir El Bahari and the Colossi Memnon. Afternoon Tea. Belly Dancer show. Overnight Luxor.

Monday

8:00 A.M. Disembarkation Cruise Ship. Visit the East Bank, Karnak and Luxor Temples.

5-Days / 4-Nights Nile cruise itinerary, St George Nile Cruise ship

Monday

Embarkation before lunch. Visit East Bank, Karnak and Luxor Temple. Afternoon tea. Belly dancing and Egyptian folkloric show. Overnight in Luxor.

Tuesday

Visit the West Bank, Valley of Kings & Queens, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at El-Deir El-Bahari and the colossi Memnon. Sail to Esna. Afternoon tea. Captain's welcome cocktail. Disco & music in the evening. Overnight in Esna.

Wednesday

Sail to Edfu. Visit Horus Temple in Edfu. Sail to Kom-Ombo. Afternoon tea. Visit the temple shared by two gods Sobek & Haeroris in Kom-Ombo. Egyptian Galabia party. Overnight in Kom-Ombo.

Thursday

Sail to Aswan. Visit the High Dam, Philae Temple. Sail on the Nile by motor boat and visit botanical garden. Afternoon tea. Nubian Show. Overnight in Aswan.

Friday

8:00 A.M. Disembark Nile Cruise Ship.

 8-Days / 7-Nights Nile cruise itinerary, St George Nile Cruise ship

By: Egypt Tours and Travel, private custom-tailor made tours to Egypt

Aswan / Aswan

Friday

Embarkation before lunch. Afternoon tea. Captain's welcome cocktail. Nubian Show. Overnight in Aswan.

Saturday

Sail to Kom-Ombo. Visit the Temple shared by two gods Sobek and Haeroris in Kom-Ombo. Sail to Edfu. Afternoon tea. Sail to Esna. Egyptian Galabia Party. Overnight in Esna.

Sunday

Sail to Luxor. Visit the West Bank - the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the temple of the queen Hatshepsut at El Deir El Bahari and the colossi Memnon. Afternoon Tea. Belly Dancer. Overnight in Luxor.

Monday

Visit East Bank, Karnak and Luxor Temples. Afternoon Tea. Dinner on board. Belly dance and Egyptian folkloric show. Overnight in Luxor.

Tuesday

Sail to Esna. Captain's Welcome Party. Disco & music in the evening. Overnight in Esna.

Wednesday

Sail to Edfu. Visit Horus Temple in Edfu. Sail to Kom-Ombo. Afternoon Tea. Egyptian Galabia Party. Overnight in Kom-Ombo.

Thursday

Sail to Aswan. Visit the High Dam, Philae Temple. Sail on the Nile by motorboat and visit the botanical garden. Afternoon Tea. Nubian Show. Overnight in Aswan.

Friday

8:00   Disembarkation

Super Deluxe Sonesta Star Goddess Nile Cruise Ship

By: Egypt Tours and Travel, Chicago Office

Sun Deck Bar & Barbecue

Overlooking panoramic view of the Nile, the Sun Deck on this Nile cruiser serves refreshing cocktails and beverages until sunset, as well as barbecue specialties.

Lounge 

Adjacent to the lobby, the Lounge, which features a dance floor, serves light meals and a wide range of cocktails and beverages in a comfortable and stylish ambiance.

Features & Services

• Main dining room, sun deck bar & barbecue lounge

• Wireless internet access is available throughout the ship and in all cabins for a charge

• Spa & fitness center, with gym, massage services, sauna and steam bath

• Nightly entertainment

• Plasma TV with DVD, satellite channels and in-house movie programs

• Panoramic windows

• Private terrace

• Direct-line telephone

• International telephone line and Internet access

• Individual climate control

• Hairdryer

• Mini-bar  

• Safe

• Bathrooms equipped with full-size bathtub

• Fully-purified water, filtered and softened before distribution

• Guided sightseeing excursion

• Doctor available on Nile cruise ship, and on call for a charge

 A sample itinerary for sailing the Super Deluxe Star Goddess Nile Cruise Ship

5-Days / 4 Nights Nile Cruise

Monday

Embarkation before lunch. Visit Karnak & Luxor Temple. Afternoon tea. Belly Dance show. Disco. Overnight in Luxor.

Tuesday

Visit the west bank, Valley of Kings and Queens, Hatshepsut. Sail to Esna. Afternoon Tea. Captain's Welcome Cocktail Party. Disco. Overnight in Esna.

Wednesday

Visit Edfu Temple. Sail to Kom-Ombo. Afternoon Tea and visit Kom-Ombo temple. In the evening, Galabia Party. Overnight in Kom-Ombo.

Thursday

Sail to Aswan. Visit the high dam, the granite quarries and the temple of Philae. Sail the Nile by felucca around Kitchener’s island. Afternoon Tea. At night, Nubian Folkloric Show. Overnight in Aswan

Friday

8:00   Disembark your Luxury Nile Cruise Boat.

EXCURSIONS ON NILE CRUISE / What do you get to explore:

Luxor

Luxor stands where ancient Thebes, the "City of the Thousand Gates," once stood. Luxor, which means "the Palaces" in Arabic, is true to its name with a great number of magnificent temples and tombs.

The East Bank

In an unforgettable excursion, you will visit the Luxor Temple, which was built by the two great pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramses II. After touring the temple, you will travel along an avenue of ram-headed Sphinxes, extending for about two miles, which link Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple, the center of worship in ancient Egypt. No site in the world makes a more overwhelming and lasting impression than this "Temple of all Temples."

The West Bank

Cross the Nile from Luxor where you will visit the Valley of the Kings which includes the tombs of the Thebian rulers. Next, tour the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman pharaoh to reign in ancient Egypt (in the new Kingdom). Her temple, with its impressive architecture, is traditionally associated with Hathor, the goddess of love and joy. It was formerly surrounded by tropical gardens with plants imported from Somali land.

Later, tour the Valley of The Queens and the famous Colossi of Memnon, which once guarded the entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III. The temple was destroyed by an earthquake but the Colossi still remain.

Edfu

Edfu lies 100 kilometers south of Luxor and is the site of one of the greatest and best preserved temples of ancient Egypt. The temple, completed during the Ptolemaic age (305-30 B.C.), was dedicated to Horus and provides a wealth of information through its inscriptions, which describe the founding and construction methods of similar temples, as well as daily rituals and myths of ancient times.

Kom-Ombo

Kom-Ombo is 25-Miles north of Aswan and since earliest times, has received visitors who have traveled through the Libyan and Arabian deserts from Sudan caravan routes. The town of Kom-Ombo gained administrative importance during the Ptolemaic age as it protected the southern border of Egypt and in the Roman period was a military station. The temple has a double sanctuary and is dedicated to two divinities: Haroeris (Horus the Elder) and Sobek (the Crocodile God).

Aswan

Aswan, Egypt's smallest governorate, was the country's premier winter resort from 910 to 24 BC, offering natural beauty, a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere and a warm, dry climate.

The Aswan High Dam

The old dam was built by Sir W. Wilcock on behalf of the British authorities in 1898. It was constructed from granite quarried in the Aswan area and the official opening took place in 1902. In the 1960's, a new dam was built by the Egyptian government.

The Unfinished Obelisk

Also in Aswan, the Unfinished Obelisk gives us a great deal of information about how granite obelisks were carved in ancient times. The existence of granite in the Aswan area was of particular interest to the ancient pharaohs since it provided them with a ready source of material for their building projects.

The Island Tour and Philae Temple

For this delightful excursion, you will sail by felucca (Egyptian-style sail boat), to the small granite island called Kitchener of the Botanical island. You will also visit Elephantine Island.

Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise Ship Overview, by Egypt Tours and Travel

ONLY 27-luxury cabins and suites on board this impressive ship, an outdoor, temperature-controlled swimming pool and offers a seven night cruise between Luxor to Aswan, or Aswan up to Luxor. While on board the cruiser, guests can also enjoy traditional dance and music performances.

 Oberoi Zahra Ships

Cruising the Nile River in Style, Luxury, and Elegance. The Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruiser has a delightful mix of luxury and history built in one.

The beautiful Nile Valley offers stunning panoramas as you sail between the ancient cities of Luxor and Aswan, the most scenic way to travel between the two cities. The world’s longest river has been offering a quiet, meditative, mode of transport to travelers from all across the world for decades now. The Oberoi Group added a mix of luxury to this by launching the Super Luxury Nile cruise ship The Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruiser.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser offers luxury as a unique, memorable and personal experience. A palette of beige, champagne and caramel imbues the spaces with a sense of calm, with the striking artwork and floral arrangement lending the only pop of color. The elegant interiors of these spaces are specifically designed to showcase the river – expansive views of the Nile are framed by large windows within the cabins. The suites come with a separate living room and an attached terrace with a Jacuzzi, perhaps the most luxurious way to travel across time.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser has a full-service spa. All of its four massage suites include a private shower and steam room. When you are not luxuriating in your cabin, looking out at the Nile, or getting pampered at the Oberoi Zahra Spa, you can enjoy the cruiser’s common spaces such as the theater, library, cigar lounge, outdoor swimming pool or the Gym.

Views of the river keep you company at meals too, as you enjoy local and international delicacies at the restaurant onboard, which offers a new menu every day and an elaborate A la carte service.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser sails on a seven-day itinerary from Luxor to Aswan and vice versa, allowing guests the opportunity to leisurely discover 5,000-years of Egyptian culture. The cruiser also enjoys private docking facilities in most ports, allowing guests an almost private viewing of the historical sites, without being blocked by other Nile cruise ships tied alongside it.

The Egyptian history is worth traveling across the world for it, but when mixed with this kind of unmatched luxury, it is an absolutely irresistible attraction.

The Super Luxurious Oberoi Zahara Nile cruise itinerary

By: Egypt Tours and Travel of Chicago

6 Days – 5 Nights Nile Cruise Embarkation

Aswan to Luxor

Day 1 – Tuesday

12:00 p.m. Embarkation

12:30 p.m. Lunch

2:30 p.m. Visit the High Dam and the Philae Temple

7:30 p.m. Dinner Overnight in Aswan

Day 2 - Wednesday

8:00 to 9:30 a.m. - Breakfast

Sound and light show at the Philae Temple

7:30 p.m. Dinner Overnight in Aswan

Day 3 - Thursday

Sail to Kom-Ombo

Visit the twin temple of Kom-Ombo. One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. 11:00 a.m. - Sail back to Aswan 1:00 p.m.

3:00 p.m. Visit to Botanical Garden by felucca

7:00 p.m. Cocktail reception with entertainment 7:30 p.m. Dinner Overnight in Aswan

Day 4 – Friday

Sail to Edfu 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.

1:00 p.m. - Lunch 3:00 p.m. Visit the Temple of Edfu, the best-preserved temple of the ancient world, dedicated to Horus the Falcon God.

7:30 - Dinner Overnight in Edfu

Day 5 - Saturday

Sail to Luxor

Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Museum. Dinner Overnight in Luxor

Day 6 – Sunday

Disembarkation

The Super Luxurious Oberoi Zahara Nile cruise itinerary samples, by Egypt Tours and Travel

8-Days – 7-Nights Nile Cruise Embarkation

Aswan to Luxor

Day 1 - Tuesday 

12:00 p.m.  Embarkation

12:30 p.m.  Lunch 2:30 p.m.   

Visit the High Dam and the Philae Temple       

7:30 p.m.    Dinner Overnight in Aswan

Day 2 - Wednesday 

Sound and light show at the Philae Temple 7:30 p.m.

Dinner. Overnight in Aswan.

Day 3 - Thursday 

6:30 a.m. - Sail to Kom-Ombo

Visit the twin temple of Kom-Ombo. One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. Sail back to Aswan. Visit Botanical Garden by felucca. 7:00 P.M. Cocktail reception with entertainment. Dinner. Overnight in Aswan.

Day 4 – Friday

Sail to Edfu. Visit the Temple of Edfu, the best-preserved temple of the ancient world, dedicated to Horus the Falcon God. Dinner and Overnight in Edfu.

Day 5 - Saturday 

Sail to Luxor. Visit Karnak temple and Luxor. Dinner Overnight in Luxor.

Day 6 – Sunday  

Cross to the West Bank of the Nile, explore the West Bank of ancient Thebes. Visit Valley of the Kings, with its royal tombs, King Tut's tomb, Ramses "the Six". This is followed by a visit to the temple of Madinet Habu and on the way back stop at the Colossus of Memnon. Sail to Quina. Visit the Temple of Dendara, dedicated to Hathor, Goddess of Music, Love, and Joy. Dinner and overnight in Quina.

Day 7 – Monday

Sail to Luxor. Visit, Valley of the Noble’s, Dier El Madina, the site of a very special workman’s village, whose craftsmen built and decorated the tombs of the Pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings & the Temple of Hatshepsut. In the afternoon, visit Luxor Temple. Farewell Reception with live music at the club lounge. 8:00 p.m. - Dinner Overnight in Luxor.

Day 8 – Tuesday

Disembark your Nile Cruise Ship.

 Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise

By: Egypt Tours and Travel, Chicago

Cruising the Nile River in Style and Luxury

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser for a delightful mix of luxury and history

The beautiful Nile Valley offers stunning panoramas as you sail between the ancient cities of Luxor and Aswan, the most scenic way to travel between the two cities. The world’s longest river has been offering a quiet, meditative, mode of transport to travelers from all across the world for decades now. In 2007, The Oberoi Group added a mix of luxury to this by launching the Super Luxury Nile cruise ship The Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruiser.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser offers luxury as a unique, memorable and personal experience. A palette of beige, champagne and caramel imbues the spaces with a sense of calm, with the striking artwork and floral arrangement lending the only pop of color. The elegant interiors of these spaces are specifically designed to showcase the river – expansive views of the Nile are framed by large windows within the cabins. The suites come with a separate living room and an attached terrace with a Jacuzzi, perhaps the most luxurious way to travel across time.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser has a full-service spa. All of its four massage suites include a private shower and steam room. When you are not luxuriating in your cabin, looking out at the Nile, or getting pampered at the Oberoi Zahra Spa, you can enjoy the cruiser’s common spaces such as the theater, library, cigar lounge, outdoor swimming pool or the Gym.

Views of the river keep you company at meals too, as you enjoy local and international delicacies at the restaurant onboard, which offers a new menu every day and an elaborate A la carte service.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser sails on a seven-day itinerary from Luxor to Aswan and vice versa, allowing guests the opportunity to leisurely discover 5,000-years of Egyptian culture. The cruiser also enjoys private docking facilities in most ports, allowing guests an almost private viewing of the historical sites, without being blocked by other Nile cruise ships tied alongside it.

The Egyptian history is worth traveling across the world for it, but when mixed with this kind of unmatched luxury, it is an absolutely irresistible attraction.

The Super Luxurious Oberoi Zahara Nile cruise itinerary, by Egypt Tours and Travel

6 Days – 5 Nights Nile Cruise Embarkation

Aswan to Luxor

Day 1 – Tuesday

12:00 p.m. Embarkation

12:30 p.m. Lunch

2:30 p.m. Visit the High Dam and the Philae Temple

7:30 p.m. Dinner Overnight in Aswan

Day 2 - Wednesday

8:00 to 9:30 a.m. - Breakfast

Sound and light show at the Philae Temple

7:30 p.m. Dinner Overnight in Aswan

Day 3 - Thursday

Sail to Kom-Ombo

Visit the twin temple of Kom-Ombo. One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. 11:00 A.M. Sail back to Aswan 1:00 p.m.

3:00 p.m. Visit to Botanical Garden by felucca

7:00 p.m. Cocktail reception with entertainment 7:30 P.M. Dinner Overnight in Aswan.

Day 4 – Friday

Sail to Edfu 8:00 to 9:30 A.M.

1:00 p.m. - Lunch 3:00 p.m. Visit the Temple of Edfu, the best-preserved temple of the ancient world, dedicated to Horus the Falcon God.

7:30 - Dinner. Overnight in Edfu.

Day 5 - Saturday

Sail to Luxor

Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Museum. Dinner. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 6 – Sunday

Disembarkation

4 Nights ‐ 5 Days Nile Cruise Embarkation, by Egypt Tours and Travel

Luxor to Aswan

Day 1

Start on Monday

Check‐In. 12:30 in the afternoon. Lunch on board.

2:00 P.M. Visit East Bank. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 2  

Tuesday

07:30 A.M. Visit West Bank.

1:00 A.M. Sail to Edfu via Esna.

4:30 P.M. Afternoon tea.

7:00 P.M. Welcome Reception Cocktail.

Overnight in Edfu, onboard Nile cruise.

 Day 3

Visit Edfu Temple.

Sail to Kom Ombo

4:00 P.M. Afternoon tea

5:00 P.M. Visit Kom Ombo Temple

9:30 P.M. Oriental Show "Galabia Party" Overnight in Aswan.

Day 4

Visit the High Dam, the Temple of Philae & unfinished Obelisk.

4:00 P.M. Felucca on the Nile around Kitchener Island.

9:30 P.M. Nubian Show.

Day 5

Disembarkation after breakfast

Features & Services

• Main dining room, sun deck bar & barbecue lounge

• Wireless internet access is available throughout the ship and in all cabins for a charge

• Spa & fitness center, with gym, massage services, sauna, and steam bath

• Nightly entertainment

• Plasma TV with DVD, satellite channels and in-house movie programs

• Panoramic windows

• Private terrace

• Direct-line telephone

• International telephone line and Internet access

• Individual climate control

• Hairdryer

• Mini-bar  

• Safe

• Bathrooms equipped with full-size bathtub

• Fully-purified water, filtered and softened before distribution

• Guided sightseeing excursion

• Doctor available on Nile cruise ship, and on-call for a charge

EXCURSIONS ON NILE CRUISE / What do you get to explore:

Luxor

Luxor stands where ancient Thebes, the "City of the Thousand Gates," once stood. Luxor, which means "the Palaces" in Arabic, is true to its name with a great number of magnificent temples and tombs.

The East Bank

In an unforgettable excursion, you will visit the Luxor Temple, which was built by the two great pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramses II. After touring the temple, you will travel along an avenue of ram-headed Sphinxes, extending for about two miles, which links Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple, the center of worship in ancient Egypt. No site in the world makes a more overwhelming and lasting impression than this "Temple of all Temples."

The West Bank

Cross the Nile from Luxor where you will visit the Valley of the Kings which includes the tombs of the Thebian rulers. Next, tour the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman pharaoh to reign in ancient Egypt (in the new Kingdom). Her temple, with its impressive architecture, is traditionally associated with Hathor, the goddess of love and joy. It was formerly surrounded by tropical gardens with plants imported from Somali land.

Later, tour the Valley of The Queens and the famous Colossi of Memnon, which once guarded the entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III. The temple was destroyed by an earthquake but the Colossi still remain.

Edfu

Edfu lies 100 kilometers south of Luxor and is the site of one of the greatest and best-preserved temples of ancient Egypt. The temple, completed during the Ptolemaic age (305-30 B.C.), was dedicated to Horus and provides a wealth of information through its inscriptions, which describe the founding and construction methods of similar temples, as well as daily rituals and myths of ancient times.

Kom-Ombo

Kom-Ombo is 25-Miles north of Aswan and since the earliest times, has received visitors who have traveled through the Libyan and Arabian deserts from Sudan caravan routes. The town of Kom-Ombo gained administrative importance during the Ptolemaic age as it protected the southern border of Egypt and in the Roman period was a military station. The temple has a double sanctuary and is dedicated to two divinities: Haroeris (Horus the Elder) and Sobek (the Crocodile God).

Aswan

Aswan, Egypt's smallest governorate, was the country's premier winter resort from 910 to 24 BC, offering natural beauty, a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere, and a warm, dry climate.

The Aswan High Dam

The old dam was built by Sir W. Wilcock on behalf of the British authorities in 1898. It was constructed from granite quarried in the Aswan area and the official opening took place in 1902. In the 1960s, a new dam was built by the Egyptian government.

The Unfinished Obelisk

Also in Aswan, the Unfinished Obelisk gives us a great deal of information about how granite obelisks were carved in ancient times. The existence of granite in the Aswan area was of particular interest to the ancient pharaohs since it provided them with a ready source of material for their building projects.

The Island Tour and Philae Temple

For this delightful excursion, you will sail by felucca (Egyptian-style sailboat), to the small granite island called Kitchener of the Botanical Island. You will also visit Elephantine Island. 

 Oberoi Zahra Ships

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser for a delightful mix of luxury and history

The beautiful Nile Valley offers stunning panoramas as you sail between the ancient cities of Luxor and Aswan, the most scenic way to travel between the two cities. The world’s longest river has been offering a quiet, meditative, mode of transport to travelers from all across the world for decades now. In 2007, The Oberoi Group added a mix of luxury to this by launching the Super Luxury Nile cruise ship The Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruiser.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser offers luxury as a unique, memorable and personal experience. A palette of beige, champagne, and caramel imbues the spaces with a sense of calm, with the striking artwork and floral arrangement lending the only pop of color. The elegant interiors of these spaces are specifically designed to showcase the river – expansive views of the Nile are framed by large windows within the cabins. The suites come with a separate living room and an attached terrace with a Jacuzzi, perhaps the most luxurious way to travel across time.

The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser has a full-service spa. All of its four massage suites include a private shower and steam room. When you are not luxuriating in your cabin, looking out at the Nile, or getting pampered at the Oberoi Zahra Spa, you can enjoy the cruiser’s common spaces such as the theater, library, cigar lounge, outdoor swimming pool or the Gym.

Views of the river keep you company at meals too, as you enjoy local and international delicacies at the restaurant onboard, which offers a new menu every day and an elaborate A la carte service.

Luxury Tours of Egypt With Deluxe Nile Cruise

Different Luxury Nile Cruises, Which to Take?