Embark on a journey of timeless elegance aboard our deluxe Nile cruises in Egypt, where ancient wonders meet modern luxury. Glide serenely between Luxor and Aswan on the legendary Nile River, witnessing millennia of history unfold before your eyes from the comfort of your floating boutique hotel. Egypt Planners, your trusted Egypt-based travel experts, curate these exceptional sailing experiences to showcase the country’s archaeological treasures while indulging you in refined comfort and personalized service.
What Is a Deluxe Nile Cruise?
A deluxe Nile cruise represents the perfect balance between standard and ultra-luxury options, offering an elevated experience without the premium price tag of top-tier luxury vessels. These meticulously appointed ships provide an intimate setting to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders, combining comfort, elegance, and authentic cultural immersion.
Spacious Cabins & Suites
Deluxe Nile cruise ships feature generously sized cabins and suites, typically ranging from 19-30 square meters. Each room offers panoramic Nile views through large windows or private balconies, allowing you to witness the timeless landscapes of Upper Egypt from your personal sanctuary. Tasteful décor blends contemporary comfort with subtle Egyptian motifs, while premium bedding and modern amenities ensure a restful retreat after days of exploration.
High-End Dining
Culinary excellence is a hallmark of deluxe Nile cruises. Talented chefs prepare both international favorites and authentic Egyptian specialties using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Most deluxe vessels offer full-board dining with buffet-style breakfast and lunch, followed by elegant à la carte dinners. Special dietary requirements are accommodated with advance notice, and the attentive service elevates each meal into a memorable experience as you dine with ever-changing scenic views.
Personalized Service
With typically 50-80 passengers per vessel, deluxe Nile cruises maintain an excellent staff-to-guest ratio. This ensures attentive, personalized service throughout your journey. From the knowledgeable Egyptologist guides who bring ancient sites to life, to the cabin stewards who provide twice-daily housekeeping, every staff member contributes to a seamless experience. The smaller passenger count also means less crowding at embarkation points and more intimate guided tours of the magnificent temples and tombs.
Quiet, Scenic Sailing Experience
Deluxe Nile river cruises are designed to provide a tranquil journey along the world’s longest river. Modern engines ensure quiet operation, while the leisurely pace allows ample time to absorb the timeless scenery of rural Egypt. Between excursions to ancient monuments, guests can relax on the spacious sun deck, enjoying the passing panorama of palm groves, traditional feluccas, and daily life along the riverbanks—scenes virtually unchanged since the time of the pharaohs.
Ready to Experience the Nile in Style?
Our deluxe Nile cruises offer the perfect balance of luxury, authenticity, and value. Let our Egypt-based experts help you select the ideal vessel for your journey.
Top Deluxe Nile Cruise Routes & Sailing Schedule
The classic Nile cruise route operates between Luxor and Aswan, covering approximately 200 kilometers of this legendary waterway. This stretch contains the highest concentration of ancient Egyptian monuments anywhere in the world, making it the perfect setting for your deluxe Nile cruise experience.
Main Sailing Routes
- Luxor to Aswan (Southbound): The most popular direction, offering a gradual introduction to ancient Egypt, starting with the magnificent temples of Luxor and culminating with the engineering marvel of Aswan High Dam.
- Aswan to Luxor (Northbound): This reverse itinerary begins with the tranquil beauty of Aswan before sailing downstream to the archaeological wonders of Luxor, often at a slightly lower price point.
Cruise Durations
- 3 Nights: Perfect for travelers with limited time, typically sailing from Aswan to Luxor and covering all major sites.
- 4 Nights: The most popular duration, usually sailing from Luxor to Aswan, allowing more leisurely exploration of key attractions.
- 5 Nights: Extended itineraries that include additional excursions or more relaxation time on board.
- 7 Nights: Comprehensive cruises that combine both directions, offering the most complete Nile experience with ample time at each site.
Weekly Sailing Schedule
| Departure Day | Route | Duration | Key Ports |
| Monday | Luxor to Aswan | 4 Nights | Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan |
| Wednesday | Aswan to Luxor | 3 Nights | Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor |
| Friday | Aswan to Luxor | 3 Nights | Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor |
| Saturday | Luxor to Aswan | 4 Nights | Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan |
Private & Flexible Options
For travelers seeking maximum flexibility, Egypt Planners can arrange private charters of deluxe Nile cruise vessels or customize departure dates to align with your broader Egypt itinerary. These bespoke arrangements are particularly popular for family reunions, milestone celebrations, or special interest groups wanting a more personalized experience on the Nile.
Must-See Attractions Along the Nile
Your deluxe Nile cruise will transport you to some of humanity’s greatest architectural achievements. Expert Egyptologist guides accompany all shore excursions, bringing these ancient wonders to life with fascinating insights into the history, mythology, and construction techniques of ancient Egypt.
Expert-Guided Experiences
All deluxe Nile cruises include guided excursions led by certified Egyptologists who provide fascinating context for each site. These knowledgeable guides help you navigate the complex mythology and historical significance of each temple and tomb, bringing ancient Egypt to life through engaging storytelling and expert interpretation of hieroglyphics and reliefs.
Benefits of Guided Tours on Deluxe Cruises
- Skip-the-line access at major attractions
- Small group sizes (typically 10-15 guests per guide)
- Wireless audio headsets for clear commentary
- Carefully timed visits to avoid crowds and heat
- Transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace after guided portions
What’s Not Included
- Entry to special tombs requiring additional tickets
- Photography passes at certain sites
- Optional excursions like hot air ballooning
- Personal shopping time at local markets
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Alcoholic beverages during excursions
Explore Ancient Wonders in Modern Comfort
Our deluxe Nile cruises include expert-guided excursions to all major attractions, with skip-the-line access and small group sizes for an intimate experience.
Best Time to Take a Deluxe Nile Cruise
The Nile Valley enjoys a desert climate with very little rainfall, making it a year-round destination. However, temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, and choosing the right season can greatly enhance your deluxe Nile cruise experience.
Peak Season (October–April)
The most comfortable and popular time to cruise the Nile is during Egypt’s winter months. Daytime temperatures typically range from 22-30°C (72-86°F), perfect for exploring ancient temples without excessive heat. Evenings can be cool, especially from December through February, making this an ideal time to enjoy the sun deck during the day and cozy cabin comforts at night.
Peak Season Highlights: December and January cruises offer the special experience of celebrating holidays on the Nile, with festive decorations and special menus. February and March bring perfect weather with warm days and pleasant evenings.
Shoulder & Low Season (May–September)
Summer brings significantly higher temperatures to Upper Egypt, with daytime highs often exceeding 40°C (104°F). While this intense heat can make midday excursions challenging, many deluxe cruises adjust their schedules with early morning visits to archaeological sites and afternoon sailing or relaxation. The advantage of summer cruising includes fewer crowds at major attractions and potential discounts on cruise rates.
Summer Considerations: If choosing a summer cruise, select vessels with well-maintained air conditioning systems, shaded sun decks, and swimming pools. Early morning and evening excursions will be more comfortable than midday outings.
Recommended Months for Luxury Travelers
| Month | Weather | Crowd Level | Pricing | Special Considerations |
| October | Warm days, mild evenings | Moderate | High | Excellent balance of weather and fewer crowds |
| November | Pleasant days, cool evenings | Moderate | High | Perfect photography conditions |
| December | Mild days, cool evenings | Very High | Premium | Holiday celebrations; book well in advance |
| February | Warm days, cool evenings | High | High | Ideal weather conditions |
| April | Warm to hot days, mild evenings | Moderate | Moderate | Good value before summer heat |
| September | Hot days, warm evenings | Low | Value | Heat beginning to subside; good deals available |
“For the ultimate deluxe Nile cruise experience, we recommend late October through early November or late February through March. These periods offer the perfect combination of comfortable temperatures, reasonable crowd levels, and beautiful light for photography.”
Life Onboard a Deluxe Nile Cruise
Your floating boutique hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and authentic Egyptian hospitality as you journey between ancient wonders. Deluxe Nile cruises are designed to provide a relaxing sanctuary after exciting days of exploration, with thoughtful amenities and attentive service throughout your voyage.
Cabins & Suites
Deluxe Nile cruise ships typically offer several cabin categories, from standard rooms to premium suites. All accommodations feature outside views, with many vessels offering French balconies or full verandas. Expect tasteful décor that blends contemporary comfort with subtle Egyptian influences, quality bedding, individual climate control, satellite TV, minibars, and well-appointed bathrooms with premium toiletries. Daily housekeeping ensures your space remains pristine throughout the journey.
Dining & Cuisine
Culinary experiences are a highlight of deluxe Nile cruises, with talented chefs preparing both international favorites and authentic Egyptian specialties. Most vessels offer buffet-style breakfast and lunch with live cooking stations, followed by elegant à la carte or themed buffet dinners. Expect fresh ingredients, artistic presentation, and attentive service. Special dietary requirements are easily accommodated with advance notice, and the bar service includes local and international wines, spirits, and cocktails.
Sun Deck & Pool
The spacious sun deck is the heart of social life aboard deluxe Nile cruises. Here you’ll find comfortable loungers, shaded seating areas, and a refreshing swimming pool—perfect for cooling off while still enjoying the passing scenery. Bar service ensures refreshments are always at hand as you witness timeless scenes of rural Egyptian life along the riverbanks. Many vessels also offer outdoor dining areas for special barbecue lunches or sunset cocktail receptions.
Evening Entertainment
Evenings aboard deluxe Nile cruises offer a variety of entertainment options. Highlights typically include a colorful Galabeya party where guests are encouraged to wear traditional Egyptian attire, a Nubian folklore show featuring authentic music and dance, and an Egyptian cooking demonstration. The lounge bar serves as a gathering place for pre-dinner cocktails and nightcaps, often featuring soft live music. Some vessels also offer educational lectures about Egyptian history and culture.
Spa & Relaxation
Many deluxe Nile cruise vessels feature wellness facilities to enhance your journey. These typically include a small spa offering massages and treatments incorporating Egyptian techniques and ingredients like lotus oil or Nile mud. Some ships also provide fitness centers, jacuzzis, or steam rooms. These amenities offer welcome relaxation after exploring ancient temples, allowing you to rejuvenate body and mind while sailing through one of the world’s most historic landscapes.
Daily Rhythm
Life aboard a deluxe Nile cruise follows a pleasant rhythm that balances exploration and relaxation. Mornings typically begin with early excursions to avoid the midday heat, followed by leisurely lunches as the ship sails. Afternoons might include another shore visit or free time to enjoy the sun deck and passing scenery. Evenings bring pre-dinner activities, elegant dining, and entertainment. Throughout, the ever-changing panorama of the Nile provides a captivating backdrop to your journey.
Experience the Timeless Elegance of Nile Cruising
Our deluxe vessels combine modern comfort with authentic Egyptian hospitality for an unforgettable journey through ancient history.
Sample Deluxe Nile Cruise Itineraries
These sample itineraries provide a glimpse of the experiences awaiting you on a deluxe Nile cruise. Each journey can be customized to suit your preferences, with optional extensions to Cairo, the Red Sea, or other Egyptian destinations.
4-Night Luxor to Aswan Deluxe Cruise
This classic southbound itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction to the wonders of ancient Egypt, with a perfect balance of guided exploration and leisure time.
Day 1: Luxor
- Morning: Embarkation and welcome reception
- Afternoon: Visit the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex
- Evening: Explore Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated after sunset
Day 2: Luxor to Esna
- Morning: Explore the Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut
- Afternoon: Sail to Esna and cross the lock
- Evening: Egyptian cooking demonstration and dinner
Day 3: Edfu to Kom Ombo
- Morning: Visit the remarkably preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu
- Afternoon: Scenic sailing to Kom Ombo
- Evening: Explore the unique double Temple of Kom Ombo, followed by a Galabeya party
Day 4: Aswan
- Morning: Visit the Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple
- Afternoon: Sail around Elephantine Island on a traditional felucca
- Evening: Nubian folklore show and farewell dinner
Day 5: Aswan
- Morning: Disembarkation after breakfast
- Optional: Early morning excursion to Abu Simbel temples
3-Night Aswan to Luxor Deluxe Cruise
This northbound journey offers a slightly faster-paced exploration of the Nile’s highlights, perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the majesty of ancient Egypt.
Day 1: Aswan
- Morning: Embarkation and welcome briefing
- Afternoon: Visit the Aswan High Dam and the Temple of Philae
- Evening: Welcome dinner and Nubian entertainment
Day 2: Kom Ombo to Edfu
- Morning: Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo
- Afternoon: Scenic sailing to Edfu with tea on the sun deck
- Evening: Egyptian-themed dinner and Galabeya party
Day 3: Edfu to Luxor
- Morning: Visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu
- Afternoon: Sail through the Esna lock to Luxor
- Evening: Visit Luxor Temple illuminated at night
Day 4: Luxor
- Morning: Explore the Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut
- Afternoon: Visit Karnak Temple followed by disembarkation
- Optional: Hot air balloon ride over Luxor at sunrise
Customize Your Journey: These sample itineraries can be tailored to your preferences with optional excursions such as visits to Abu Simbel, hot air balloon rides over Luxor, sound and light shows at temples, or extended stays in Cairo to visit the Pyramids and Egyptian Museum.
Why Book a Deluxe Nile Cruise with Egypt Planners
Choosing the right partner for your Nile cruise adventure ensures a seamless, memorable experience. Egypt Planners brings unparalleled expertise and personalized service to every journey we arrange.
Egypt-Based Travel Specialists
As an Egypt-based company, our team brings intimate knowledge of the Nile cruise experience. We personally inspect every vessel in our collection, ensuring they meet our exacting standards for comfort, service, and safety. Our local presence means we can resolve any issues quickly and efficiently, providing peace of mind throughout your journey.
Hand-Picked Deluxe Cruise Ships
We’ve carefully selected a portfolio of the finest deluxe Nile cruise vessels, each offering exceptional value and quality. Rather than overwhelming you with endless options, we focus on a curated selection of ships that consistently deliver outstanding experiences. Our firsthand knowledge helps match you with the perfect vessel for your preferences and budget.
Transparent Pricing
Our pricing philosophy is simple: complete transparency with no hidden costs. Every quote clearly details what’s included and any optional extras. We offer competitive rates through direct relationships with cruise operators, often securing preferential pricing and special amenities for our clients. Value is about more than just price—it’s about the complete experience.
Custom Itineraries
Your Nile cruise can be tailored to your specific interests and schedule. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient Egyptian art, architecture, mythology, or simply seeking a relaxing journey through spectacular landscapes, we’ll customize your experience accordingly. We can also seamlessly combine your cruise with extensions to Cairo, Alexandria, the Red Sea, or Jordan.
24/7 Local Support
Throughout your journey, our local team remains available around the clock to address any questions or concerns. From the moment you arrive in Egypt until your departure, you’ll have a dedicated contact person ensuring every aspect of your experience exceeds expectations. This personalized support is particularly valued by our guests sailing the Nile for the first time.
Exceptional Guest Satisfaction
Our approach has earned us outstanding reviews and a high rate of repeat clients and referrals. We measure our success by your satisfaction, and our team takes pride in creating memorable, seamless experiences that showcase the best of Egypt’s ancient wonders and legendary hospitality. Your deluxe Nile cruise is not just a vacation—it’s a journey into history.
“What sets Egypt Planners apart is their genuine passion for sharing Egypt’s wonders and their commitment to personalized service. From our first inquiry to our final departure, every detail was handled with professionalism and care. Our deluxe Nile cruise exceeded all expectations.”
Ready to Plan Your Deluxe Nile Cruise?
Our Egypt-based experts are ready to craft your perfect journey through ancient wonders and timeless landscapes.
How to Book Your Deluxe Nile Cruise
Booking your deluxe Nile cruise with Egypt Planners is a straightforward process designed to create a personalized journey that perfectly matches your preferences, schedule, and budget.
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Initial Consultation
Contact us through our online form, email, or phone to share your travel dates, preferences, and any special requirements. Our Egypt specialists will respond within 24 hours to begin the conversation about your Nile cruise adventure.
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Personalized Proposal
Based on your input, we’ll prepare a customized proposal featuring recommended deluxe Nile cruise vessels, itineraries, and optional extensions. This detailed proposal includes transparent pricing, cabin options, and available departure dates.
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Refinement & Customization
We’ll work with you to refine the proposal until it perfectly matches your vision. This might include adjusting the cruise duration, adding special experiences, or incorporating extensions to other Egyptian destinations.
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Secure Booking
Once you’re satisfied with your customized itinerary, a 25% deposit secures your reservation. We accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and other secure payment methods. The remaining balance is due 45 days before departure.
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Pre-Trip Preparation
After booking, you’ll receive comprehensive pre-departure information, including visa requirements, packing suggestions, health recommendations, and cultural insights to help you prepare for your journey.
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Personalized Welcome
Upon arrival in Egypt, our representative will greet you, assist with any formalities, and ensure a smooth transfer to your cruise embarkation point. Your deluxe Nile adventure begins with a warm Egyptian welcome!
Prefer to speak with a Nile cruise specialist directly?
Frequently Asked Questions About Deluxe Nile Cruises
Find answers to common questions about deluxe Nile cruises in Egypt. If you have additional questions, our specialists are always available to provide personalized information.
What is the difference between deluxe and luxury Nile cruises?
Deluxe Nile cruises offer an elevated experience with spacious cabins, quality dining, and excellent service at a more accessible price point than ultra-luxury vessels. The main differences include:
- Ship Size: Deluxe ships typically accommodate 50-80 passengers, while luxury vessels may host as few as 20-40 guests.
- Cabin Size: Deluxe cabins average 19-30 square meters, whereas luxury suites can exceed 40 square meters.
- Staff Ratio: Luxury cruises offer a higher staff-to-guest ratio for more personalized service.
- Exclusivity: Luxury cruises often include private docking areas and exclusive access to certain sites.
- Price Point: Deluxe cruises typically cost 30-50% less than ultra-luxury options while still providing an excellent experience.
Are deluxe Nile cruises worth it?
Deluxe Nile cruises offer exceptional value for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and quality. They’re worth the investment for several reasons:
- You unpack once while visiting multiple ancient sites
- All major expenses (accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided tours) are included
- Expert Egyptologists enhance your understanding of the sites
- The scenic journey between destinations becomes part of the experience
- Evening entertainment and cultural programs add depth to your Egyptian experience
For most travelers, the convenience, comfort, and comprehensive nature of a deluxe cruise justifies the cost compared to arranging separate hotels, meals, transportation, and guides independently.
What’s included in a deluxe Nile cruise?
A typical deluxe Nile cruise package includes:
- Accommodation in an outside cabin or suite
- Full board dining (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Guided excursions to temples and tombs with certified Egyptologists
- Entrance fees to sites included in the standard itinerary
- On-board entertainment and cultural programs
- Airport/hotel transfers at the beginning and end of the cruise
- Port charges and service fees
Items typically not included are alcoholic beverages, optional excursions (like Abu Simbel or hot air ballooning), gratuities, and personal expenses.
How much does a deluxe Nile cruise cost?
Deluxe Nile cruise pricing varies based on season, duration, and cabin category. As a general guideline:
- 3-night cruises: 0-0 per person
- 4-night cruises: 0-0 per person
- 7-night cruises: 0-
Frequently Asked Questions About Deluxe Nile Cruises
Find answers to common questions about deluxe Nile cruises in Egypt. If you have additional questions, our specialists are always available to provide personalized information.
What is the difference between deluxe and luxury Nile cruises?
Deluxe Nile cruises offer an elevated experience with spacious cabins, quality dining, and excellent service at a more accessible price point than ultra-luxury vessels. The main differences include:
- Ship Size: Deluxe ships typically accommodate 50-80 passengers, while luxury vessels may host as few as 20-40 guests.
- Cabin Size: Deluxe cabins average 19-30 square meters, whereas luxury suites can exceed 40 square meters.
- Staff Ratio: Luxury cruises offer a higher staff-to-guest ratio for more personalized service.
- Exclusivity: Luxury cruises often include private docking areas and exclusive access to certain sites.
- Price Point: Deluxe cruises typically cost 30-50% less than ultra-luxury options while still providing an excellent experience.
Are deluxe Nile cruises worth it?
Deluxe Nile cruises offer exceptional value for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and quality. They’re worth the investment for several reasons:
- You unpack once while visiting multiple ancient sites
- All major expenses (accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided tours) are included
- Expert Egyptologists enhance your understanding of the sites
- The scenic journey between destinations becomes part of the experience
- Evening entertainment and cultural programs add depth to your Egyptian experience
For most travelers, the convenience, comfort, and comprehensive nature of a deluxe cruise justifies the cost compared to arranging separate hotels, meals, transportation, and guides independently.
What’s included in a deluxe Nile cruise?
A typical deluxe Nile cruise package includes:
- Accommodation in an outside cabin or suite
- Full board dining (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Guided excursions to temples and tombs with certified Egyptologists
- Entrance fees to sites included in the standard itinerary
- On-board entertainment and cultural programs
- Airport/hotel transfers at the beginning and end of the cruise
- Port charges and service fees
Items typically not included are alcoholic beverages, optional excursions (like Abu Simbel or hot air ballooning), gratuities, and personal expenses.
How much does a deluxe Nile cruise cost?
Deluxe Nile cruise pricing varies based on season, duration, and cabin category. As a general guideline:
- 3-night cruises: $450-$750 per person
- 4-night cruises: $600-$950 per person
- 7-night cruises: $950-$1,500 per person
These rates are based on double occupancy and include full board meals and standard excursions. Peak season (December-January) and holiday periods command premium prices, while summer months (June-August) often offer lower rates. Booking 6-9 months in advance typically secures the best combination of availability and pricing.
Is a Nile cruise safe?
Nile cruises operate with high safety standards and have an excellent safety record. Several factors contribute to their safety:
- Vessels are regularly inspected and certified for navigation safety
- Cruise routes between Luxor and Aswan are well-established and monitored
- Ships have modern navigation equipment and professional crews
- Tourist areas in Egypt receive enhanced security attention
- Reputable cruise operators maintain strict health and hygiene protocols
Egypt Planners works exclusively with operators who maintain the highest safety standards. We continuously monitor conditions in Egypt and provide current information to our travelers. As with any international travel, we recommend comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind.
,500 per person
These rates are based on double occupancy and include full board meals and standard excursions. Peak season (December-January) and holiday periods command premium prices, while summer months (June-August) often offer lower rates. Booking 6-9 months in advance typically secures the best combination of availability and pricing.
Is a Nile cruise safe?
Nile cruises operate with high safety standards and have an excellent safety record. Several factors contribute to their safety:
- Vessels are regularly inspected and certified for navigation safety
- Cruise routes between Luxor and Aswan are well-established and monitored
- Ships have modern navigation equipment and professional crews
- Tourist areas in Egypt receive enhanced security attention
- Reputable cruise operators maintain strict health and hygiene protocols
Egypt Planners works exclusively with operators who maintain the highest safety standards. We continuously monitor conditions in Egypt and provide current information to our travelers. As with any international travel, we recommend comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind.
Experience the Timeless Majesty of Egypt on a Deluxe Nile Cruise
A deluxe Nile cruise offers the perfect balance of comfort, cultural immersion, and value as you journey through the heart of ancient Egypt. From the magnificent temples of Luxor to the engineering marvels of Aswan, you’ll witness thousands of years of history unfold before your eyes, all while enjoying the attentive service and refined amenities of your floating boutique hotel.
Egypt Planners is dedicated to creating seamless, memorable Nile cruise experiences that exceed expectations. Our local expertise, personalized approach, and carefully selected vessels ensure your journey through this timeless landscape will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Begin Your Journey Through Ancient Egypt
Contact our specialists today to start planning your deluxe Nile cruise adventure.