Nile cruise packages, sailed at the river’s pace

Both directions cover the same major sites between Luxor and Aswan. Luxor to Aswan usually sails over four days and three nights; Aswan to Luxor is often shorter. The better choice usually comes down to which city your flights work best with, and whether you want to finish near the Valley of the Kings or near Abu Simbel.

It is a difference of standard rather than route — both sail the same stretch of river and visit the same temples. Luxury ships generally offer larger cabins, more onboard facilities and a higher level of service, which is reflected in the fare. Exact specifications vary by vessel, so compare the individual cruise pages.

Most cruises in this catalogue run three or four nights, which is enough to see Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae at a steady pace. Longer journeys exist and suit travellers who want more time ashore or a slower dahabiya sailing.

Cruise fares generally cover your cabin, full-board meals aboard and the sightseeing stops set out in that cruise’s own itinerary. Inclusions are not identical across ships — entrance fees, drinks, tipping and optional excursions vary — so check the inclusions listed on the individual cruise page.

No. Ships sail on fixed weekly departure days, and the day depends on the vessel and the direction of travel. Schedules also shift with season and river conditions, so we confirm exact sailing dates when you enquire.

Abu Simbel sits well south of Aswan and is normally arranged as a separate excursion rather than part of the cruise itself. It can be added before or after your sailing — ask us and we will build it into your plan.

A Nile cruise ship is a larger motor vessel carrying many cabins, with pools, restaurants and lounges. A dahabiya is a small traditional sailing boat with only a handful of cabins, often chartered privately. Dahabiyas move more slowly and reach quieter moorings; cruise ships offer more onboard facilities and more frequent departures.