The River Nile is one of the richest destinations on our planet. It has long lured and seduced travellers, from pharaohs and prophets to modern-day adventurers. But experiencing the world’s longest river, which flows through 11 African countries before spilling out into the Mediterranean Sea, takes some careful planning. Most trips take in the Upper Nile — a section of the river in southern Egypt famed for the country’s most impressive and important ruins and archaeological discoveries, such as the fabled Valley of the Kings in Luxor — and end some 150 miles downstream in Aswan. But which is the right cruise for you? Whether you're looking for a contemporary riverboat, a restored paddle-steamer or a luxury dahabiya, we've rounded up the most luxurious cruises for you.
Ultimate Luxury - The Oberoi Al Zahra
Passengers 54
Private guides? Yes
Private access to historical sites? No
Children welcome? Yes (min 12 years)
Price +++
The plushest boat on the Nile, the modern and minimalist Oberoi Zahara enjoys prime position at its private mooring spot on the banks of the corniche in Aswan. Its elevated approach doesn’t end there. As well as offering trips to the temples of Edfu and the exotic island of El Nabatat on the bite-sized four-day trip from Luxor, the boat has plenty to keep guests entertained, from a library and games room to a gym and open-air pool. At night, astrology lectures reveal how the night sky influenced life in Egypt in the past. The 27 cabins are tasteful, and decorated in a natural colour palette; both of the suites have a private terrace and a hot tub.
Culturally Rich - Nour El Nil
Passengers Depends on boat
Private guides? Yes
Private access to historical sites? No
Children welcome? Yes
Price +++
The trio at the helm of Nour El Nil offer a culturally rich Nile cruise. Of all the different type of boats on the Nile, the boats offer the longest sailing time between Luxor and Aswan, allowing you more time to experience unique insights into both ancient and modern Egypt. The dahabieh begins its itinerary in Esna, where passengers can discover the temple of Khnum and its traditional market. Next on the agenda is El Kab, the capital of Ancient Egypt, where guests will find the temple of Horas in Edfu, Gebel Silsileh, and Kôm Ombo, an abundance of archaeological sites are to be expected before reaching Aswan. The rooms on board are proper and elegant, and the deck is lined with colourful banquettes from which to admire the beautiful Egyptian landscape.
Intimate - La Flâneuse du Nil
Passengers 14
Private guides? Yes
Private access to historical sites? No
Children welcome? Yes
Price +++
A stay on the Flâneuse du Nil is another way to discover the wonders of ancient Egypt, following the ancestral rhythm of the river. With its seven perfectly equipped cabins, its attentive and friendly crew and its cook, La Flâneuse guarantees a comfortable and peaceful setting. Thanks to its slender design, the boat passes easily through the narrow straits. The intimacy offered by the simple yet tasteful cruise boat means you can cruise Egypt with only your nearest and dearest.
Traditional - Steam Ship Sudan
Passengers 46
Private guides? Yes
Private access to historical sites? Yes
Children welcome? Yes
Price +++
Almost one hundred years old, the Steam Ship Sudan is the last witness to the Belle Epoque days of Nile cruising. In its wake floats the visionary spirit of Sir Thomas Cook and the history of cruises on the legendary river. In fact it was on board this historic vessel in 1933, when she was accompanying her husband on an archaeological mission, that the queen of suspense - Agatha Christie - found the insipiration for Death on the Nile.
Passengers 36
Private guides? Yes
Private access to historical sites? No
Children welcome? Yes (over ten)
Price +++
Evoking the heyday of Egypt’s past, the Sanctuary Sun Boat III has several times been voted among the top 100 most beautiful boats in the world by Condé Nast readers. Modelled on the opulent era of the 20s and 30s, this graceful cruiser has exquisite facilities from delicious gourmet dining in the restaurant to sipping refreshing cocktails around the pool area on the sun deck, or enjoying afternoon tea in the stunning lounge.
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