2025-07-03

Cruise ships aren’t for everyone, so it’s completely understandable if you feel apprehensive about spending four nights aboard a Nile cruise during your trip to Egypt. And if you're only interested in the temples and tombs of Ancient Egypt, couldn’t you just stay at hotels on land instead?
Yes, you could-in theory. But a Nile River cruise is a time-tested Egyptian experience and hands-down the most convenient, comfortable, and efficient way to visit all of Egypt’s most significant historical sites (aside from the Pyramids of Giza, of course). Whether it's the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Temple of Hatshepsut, Philae, or Abu Simbel, these must-see sites are most easily accessed from a Nile cruise. And that’s no coincidence - Ancient Egyptian civilization was built entirely along the banks of the Nile River.
Nile cruises operate year-round, typically sailing between Luxor and Aswan on three - or four - night itineraries. A good tour package includes daily guided excursions, and the tour guides are highly knowledgeable and love sharing Egypt’s history. All guides are licensed, and many hold degrees in Egyptology.
Sightseeing generally starts early to avoid the midday heat, and there's nothing better after a morning tour than relaxing by the sun deck pool in the afternoon. As you sail, you’ll enjoy the stunning landscapes of rural Egypt, with farming villages nestled beside the river and its canals. Lunch is served on board, and some days may include a second round of sightseeing in the late afternoon.
But what about the cruise itself for those of us not sold on the nautical lifestyle? Well, it’s all in the name: this is a river cruise. It has more in common with a boutique hotel than with a mega ocean liner. The river is calm, with no seasickness or choppy waters. In fact, the road between Luxor and Aswan might be bumpier than the river journey. Most travelers find Nile cruises to be quiet, intimate, and a perfect way to unwind during a packed sightseeing itinerary (plus, the local food on board is great!).
Entertainment is also included, from live music in the lounge to themed nights like Galabeya parties or belly dancing shows. The Nile River is an integral part of Egypt’s history and culture - skipping a Nile cruise while visiting Egypt would be missing out on something essential. Whether you're a seasoned cruise ship passenger or a total landlubber, we wouldn’t recommend it any other way.

What about sea-sickness?

River cruises are generally not prone to causing seasickness. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises take place on calm, inland waterways with minimal wave action, making them a smoother and more stable experience.

What Nile River Cruise Is Right for You?

Nile cruises offer a range of quality levels to suit all budgets. We recommend starting with at least a basic first-class level, which is roughly equivalent to a standard four-star hotel in the U.S. A typical cruise in this category features around 60 cabins with panoramic windows, a top deck with an outdoor swimming pool and sun loungers, as well as a restaurant and bar. Some ships also include a small gym and spa with massage services. Cabins are modern and comfortable, and the food is of good quality - usually served buffet style.
Luxury Nile cruises offer a more upscale experience, with 30–40 spacious and elegantly designed cabins, often including private balconies. Guests can expect gourmet dining and personalized service on board.
At the top tier are the ultra-luxury and boutique cruises, which focus on exclusive VIP experiences. These smaller vessels create an intimate atmosphere with fewer passengers, resulting in highly tailored service. Accommodations are beautifully appointed, and meals are typically served à la carte with gourmet options.
For those seeking a more traditional and serene journey, there are also Dahabiya sailboats - elegant mostly wooden boats with no engine, towed by a tugboat when needed. With an average of just 10 cabins, they offer a quiet, authentic experience. Dahabiyas also have the unique advantage of being able to dock at smaller, less accessible spots along the Nile, away from the main tourist routes.

Lake Nasser Cruises

For a longer cruise journey, you could add a cruise through Lake Nasser. Created in 1960 alongside the Aswan High Dam on the Nile River, it is one of the largest human-made lakes in the world.
A Lake Nasser cruise offers a relaxing way to explore the southern region of Egypt, focusing on the ancient monuments and landscapes of Nubia which are not typically included in popular Egypt Tour Packages.
These cruises typically run from Aswan to Abu Simbel, showcasing the vast beauty of the desert. Along the way, you’ll visit lesser-known but remarkable temples like Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, and Amada, many of which were relocated stone by stone to avoid submersion when the lake was formed.
Also note that cruising on Lake Nasser provides a different view of Abu Simbel, allowing you to approach the temples from the water and appreciate their scale and grandeur from a unique angle with fewer crowds and stunning views of open water and rugged cliffs, a Lake Nasser cruise provides a peaceful and immersive historical experience.