Dreaming of a Nile cruise to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt? In this article, discover our tips for planning your river boat journey on this mythical sacred waterway.

Nile Cruise: Which Boat Should You Choose?

Several vessel options are available for exploring the Nile: the felucca, the large felucca, the dahabeya, or the motorized boat. The market offers a fairly wide range, especially for these last two options, where the condition of the boat and onboard amenities make all the difference.

The Felucca

The felucca is the traditional vessel of the Nile, a small sailboat with a triangular sail and no motor. Navigation flows with the wind and currents. The felucca has no individual cabin and lacks bathroom facilities. It consists simply of a wooden pontoon covered with mattresses, cushions and duvets. Cruise times are longer, but the experience is truly authentic.

The Large Felucca

Large feluccas exist, equipped with a toilet cabin and sink. They are more spacious than traditional feluccas. Large feluccas have a solid roof where you can relax. This guarantees a Nile cruise with added comfort, while still aboard an authentic and intimate vessel.

The Dahabeya

The dahabeya sits halfway between a felucca and a ferry. These sailing vessels typically have around ten individual cabins plus a terrace and shaded deck where you can lounge on sun beds. The dahabeya offers numerous amenities, ideal for sailing the Nile with all necessary comfort.

The Cruise Ship

The motorized cruise ship is the most widespread vessel, typically used by travel agencies for all-inclusive stays. The ship is very large and extremely comfortable. Onboard services are plentiful and evening entertainment is frequent. This is the most expensive option and arguably the least authentic.

Which Itinerary Should You Choose for a Nile Cruise?

The Classic Itinerary 

The itinerary of a classic Nile cruise typically runs Luxor to Aswan, with a return to Luxor at the end of your stay. Navigation on the sacred river is punctuated by stops at remarkable archaeological sites from ancient Egypt. Along the way, you can visit notably:

• Luxor, the cruise's departure point

• The Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon

• The Temple of Edfu, the largest temple dedicated to Horus, the falcon god

• The Temple of Kom Ombo, along the Nile's edge, a magnificent heritage site from Egypt's Greco-Roman period

• The Temple of Philae, near Aswan, dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis

• The Temples of Abu Simbel (certain cruises include a bus excursion to the temples from Aswan)

Custom Cruise 

Most cruise itineraries take place in the country's south and therefore exclude Cairo, which sits 700 kilometers north of Luxor.

If you wish to combine your Nile cruise with a visit to the famous pyramids of Giza, you can opt for a custom cruise departing from Cairo, which allows this unmissable visit to be combined. Travel agencies offer capital city visits at the beginning or end of your cruise, with transportation by train, bus or plane.

What is the Best Season for a Nile Cruise?

Egypt's climate is semi-desert type—hot and dry across most of the country. Temperatures vary by season, but climate differences are minimal between regions.

However, we advise against choosing a Nile cruise in summer. This is the hottest season, from May to September, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius daily.

The best time for a Nile cruise extends from November through March. Temperatures remain mild and allow you to visit historical sites without suffering from the stifling summer heat.

Good to Know Before Departing on a Nile Cruise 

• A visa is required to travel to Égypte.

• Plan to bring cash for tips.

• On a Nile cruise with a tour operator, freedom is limited as everything is organized.

• Drink only bottled water to avoid stomach upset.

• Some visit fees are not included in cruise pricing, so carefully review the offer before booking to avoid surprises upon arrival.

• Pack loose-fitting clothing and sun protection.