Embark on a magical Christmas Nile cruise where festive cheer meets ancient splendor. Experience the joy of the holiday season while gliding along the legendary river that cradled one of history’s greatest civilizations. Our specially curated Christmas voyages combine traditional holiday celebrations with extraordinary cultural discoveries, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Unwrap the gift of travel this season with a unique yuletide adventure through the heart of Egypt.
Experience the enchantment of Christmas celebrations aboard our festively decorated Nile vessels
Why Choose a Christmas Nile Cruise: Festive Magic on Ancient Waters
Festive Experiences
- Traditional Christmas Eve gala dinner with Egyptian and international specialties
- Festive decorations throughout the vessel creating a holiday atmosphere
- Special Christmas Day celebrations with gift exchanges and carols
- New Year’s Eve countdown party with live entertainment (on select departures)
- Holiday-themed activities for travelers of all ages
Seasonal Advantages
- Perfect winter weather with comfortable daytime temperatures (70-75°F/21-24°C)
- Spectacular sunrises and sunsets creating magical photo opportunities
- Less crowded ancient sites compared to spring peak season
- Unique cultural perspective on holiday celebrations in Egypt
- Special access to illuminated temples with festive lighting
Limited Christmas Availability
Our Christmas Nile cruises for 2024 are filling quickly. Secure your cabin now to experience the magic of the holidays on the Nile with our special festive package including complimentary Christmas Eve gala dinner.
The Ultimate Christmas Nile Cruise Experience
Elegant accommodations with festive touches and panoramic Nile views
Festive Accommodations
During the Christmas season, our cabins are enhanced with subtle holiday decorations while maintaining their elegant Egyptian character. Enjoy spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, private bathrooms with premium amenities, and individually controlled climate systems to ensure perfect comfort during winter cruising.
Holiday Dining
Celebrate the season with special Christmas menus featuring both traditional holiday favorites and Egyptian delicacies. Our Christmas Eve gala dinner and Christmas Day brunch are highlights of the journey, with festive decorations, special entertainment, and complimentary wine to toast the holidays.
Seasonal Entertainment
Enjoy special holiday-themed activities including carol singing, festive cocktail receptions, and cultural performances that blend Christmas traditions with Egyptian heritage. Our Christmas cruises feature enhanced evening entertainment programs with special guest performers and holiday celebrations.
Festive dining experiences with special Christmas menus and decorations
Christmas Cultural Discoveries Along the Nile
Discover ancient winter solstice traditions with our expert Egyptologists during the Christmas season
Our Christmas Nile cruises offer a unique cultural dimension to your holiday celebrations. Expert Egyptologists guide you through magnificent ancient sites while sharing insights about historical winter celebrations in ancient Egypt, including solstice traditions that predate Christmas by millennia.
Festive Season Excursions
- Luxor’s East Bank: Experience Karnak and Luxor Temples illuminated with special evening lighting during the holiday season
- Valley of the Kings: Explore the royal tombs with fewer crowds than usual during this magical time of year
- Edfu Temple: Learn about ancient Egyptian winter celebrations at this exceptionally preserved temple
- Kom Ombo: Discover how ancient Egyptians tracked the winter solstice at this unique astronomical temple
- Aswan: Visit the High Dam and enjoy a special Christmas sailing aboard a traditional felucca
Holiday Special Activities
- Christmas Market Visit: Explore local holiday markets in Luxor or Aswan (where available)
- Coptic Christmas Insights: Learn about Egypt’s Christian minority and their January 7th Christmas traditions
- Festive Sound & Light: Special holiday-themed sound and light shows at major temples
- Christmas Day Sunrise Balloon: Experience the magic of Christmas morning from above
- New Year’s Nubian Celebration: Participate in unique local New Year traditions (on cruises spanning December 31st)
Experience the majesty of Abu Simbel with special holiday illuminations, available as an optional excursion
Christmas & New Year Nile Cruise Itineraries
5-Night Christmas Celebration Cruise
Most Popular
Departing December 22nd, this perfect Christmas getaway includes Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on board with special festive celebrations. Journey from Luxor to Aswan with all major sites and a gala dinner on December 24th. Ideal for those wanting to experience Christmas Day on the Nile.
From $1,199 per person including all Christmas festivities
7-Night Christmas & Karnak Special
Departing December 20th, this extended cruise includes the special Christmas Eve Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple, Christmas Day celebrations on board, and a more leisurely pace with additional time in both Luxor and Aswan to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere.
From $1,599 per person including Christmas gala events
8-Night Christmas to New Year Celebration
Best Value
Experience both Christmas and New Year on the Nile with this comprehensive cruise departing December 24th. Enjoy Christmas Day in Luxor, a week of exploration, and a spectacular New Year’s Eve gala celebration in Aswan with fireworks over the Nile.
From $1,899 per person including both holiday celebrations
Christmas Nile cruise routes with special holiday celebration points highlighted
Christmas Nile Cruise Vessel Categories
| Category | Holiday Accommodations | Christmas Dining | Festive Amenities | Group Size | Christmas Price |
| Standard Christmas | Comfortable cabins with holiday touches, Nile views | Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas brunch included | Decorated sun deck, holiday lounge, caroling | Up to 100 passengers | From $1,199 |
| Superior Christmas | Spacious cabins with balconies, festive welcome gift | Gala Christmas dinner with wine, special holiday menus | Christmas cocktail reception, Egyptian Santa visit | 70-90 passengers | From $1,499 |
| Deluxe Christmas | Large cabins with private balconies, Christmas amenity kit | Premium Christmas menu, champagne toast, festive tea time | Special holiday entertainment, gift exchange, premium decorations | 50-70 passengers | From $1,899 |
| Premium Christmas | Suites with panoramic views, personalized Christmas gifts | Private dining options, unlimited beverages, chef’s special menu | Private Christmas cocktail party, exclusive holiday excursions | 30-50 passengers | From $2,399 |
| Christmas Dahabiya | Intimate boutique cabins on traditional sailing vessel | Family-style Christmas feast, personalized holiday menus | Private Christmas celebrations, authentic local holiday traditions | 8-16 passengers | From $2,899 |
Premium vessels offer exceptional Christmas decorations and festive atmosphere
Perfect Weather for a Christmas Nile Cruise
December offers ideal cruising conditions with comfortable temperatures and clear blue skies
December Climate Benefits
Christmas season provides some of the most pleasant cruising conditions on the Nile. The December climate offers numerous advantages for travelers:
- Comfortable Temperatures: Daytime averages of 70-75°F (21-24°C) perfect for sightseeing
- Cool Evenings: Temperatures drop to around 50°F (10°C), ideal for enjoying festive deck activities
- Minimal Rainfall: December is part of Egypt’s dry season with very rare precipitation
- Gentle Breezes: Light winds create perfect sailing conditions on the Nile
- Clear Skies: Excellent visibility for photography and stargazing during holiday evenings
Christmas Packing Recommendations
For your Christmas Nile cruise, we recommend bringing appropriate attire for the pleasant winter conditions:
- Daytime Attire: Light clothing with a sweater or light jacket for morning excursions
- Evening Wear: Warmer layers for deck activities and cooler nights
- Festive Clothing: One or two smart outfits for Christmas Eve gala and holiday celebrations
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen still essential despite milder temperatures
- Comfortable Footwear: Walking shoes for excursions to ancient sites
Christmas Traveler Tip: December is part of Egypt’s high season due to the excellent weather conditions and holiday period. While prices are higher than summer months, the perfect climate, festive atmosphere, and special Christmas activities make this time well worth the premium. Book early as Christmas cruises typically sell out months in advance.
Reserve Your Christmas Nile Cruise Experience
Create unforgettable Christmas memories with loved ones on a festive Nile adventure
Our Christmas Nile cruise packages offer a truly unique way to celebrate the holiday season. Combining the magic of Christmas with the wonder of ancient Egypt creates an unforgettable experience for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. With limited availability during this popular season, we recommend securing your preferred departure date and cabin category well in advance.
Christmas 2024 Cruise Package
Book now for Christmas 2024 and receive:
- Complimentary upgrade to next cabin category (subject to availability)
- Special Christmas Eve gala dinner with wine included
- Festive welcome package with Egyptian Christmas ornament
- Christmas Day excursion to Valley of the Kings
- $100 onboard credit per cabin for holiday shopping
Christmas & New Year 2024 Special
Experience both holidays on the Nile with our extended cruise package:
- 8-night cruise covering Christmas and New Year celebrations
- Both holiday gala dinners with premium beverage packages
- Exclusive New Year’s Eve party with Egyptian entertainment
- Complimentary Abu Simbel excursion (value $150)
- Special holiday photography package
Christmas Nile Cruise Memories
“Celebrating Christmas on the Nile was magical beyond words. The contrast of festive decorations against ancient temples created an atmosphere unlike any holiday we’ve experienced. The Christmas Eve dinner under the stars was the highlight of our year!”
“I was hesitant about spending Christmas away from home, but this cruise exceeded all expectations. The staff created such a warm festive atmosphere, and experiencing Christmas sunrise at Karnak Temple is a memory I’ll cherish forever.”
“As a solo traveler, I worried about feeling lonely during the holidays. Instead, I found a wonderful community on board. The cruise created a perfect balance of festive celebrations and fascinating cultural experiences.”
Our Christmas Eve gala dinners create unforgettable holiday memories
Special Christmas Activities on Your Nile Cruise
Our cruises blend traditional Christmas celebrations with Egyptian cultural elements
Christmas Eve Celebrations
Begin your holiday festivities with our special Christmas Eve program featuring a welcome cocktail reception with Egyptian-inspired Christmas canapés. As evening falls, join fellow travelers for our gala dinner under the stars with traditional carols, festive decorations, and a visit from Egyptian Santa bearing small gifts for children and adults alike.
Christmas Day Traditions
Wake to a special Christmas morning with a champagne breakfast and gift exchange in our festively decorated lounge. Later, enjoy our Christmas Day brunch featuring both international holiday favorites and Egyptian specialties. The afternoon includes a special Christmas excursion followed by evening entertainment blending Western carols with traditional Egyptian music.
Festive Cultural Activities
Throughout your Christmas cruise, participate in special holiday-themed activities including gingerbread pyramid decorating, Egyptian ornament making workshops, holiday cooking demonstrations, and festive cocktail classes. Our crew presents a special Christmas performance combining Western holiday traditions with Egyptian cultural elements.
Family Christmas Note: Our Christmas cruises are particularly popular with families seeking a unique holiday experience. We offer special children’s activities including Egyptian Christmas crafts, holiday treasure hunts at select archaeological sites, and age-appropriate festive entertainment. Children receive special attention from our Egyptian Santa during the Christmas Eve celebrations.
Festive Culinary Delights on Your Christmas Nile Cruise
Our Christmas dinner buffets feature both international holiday favorites and Egyptian specialties
Christmas Eve Gala Menu
Our Christmas Eve celebration features a special multi-course dinner prepared by our executive chef:
- Welcome Aperitif: Egyptian hibiscus champagne cocktail with festive canapés
- Appetizers: Smoked salmon with dill, traditional Egyptian mezze selection
- Soup Course: Creamy chestnut soup or traditional Egyptian lentil soup
- Main Course Options: Roast turkey with cranberry sauce, beef Wellington, or Egyptian stuffed pigeon
- Dessert Finale: Christmas pudding with brandy sauce, Egyptian baklava, and petit fours
- Beverages: Selected wines, after-dinner liqueurs, and Egyptian mint tea
Holiday Season Culinary Program
Throughout your Christmas cruise, enjoy special festive culinary experiences:
- Christmas Morning: Champagne breakfast with smoked salmon and festive pastries
- Christmas Brunch: Extended buffet with carving station and holiday specialties
- Afternoon Tea: Special Christmas edition with holiday cookies and stollen
- Egyptian Christmas: Learn about Coptic Christmas food traditions (celebrated January 7)
- New Year’s Eve: Seven-course gala dinner with midnight champagne toast (on applicable sailings)
Our chefs create unique Christmas desserts blending European traditions with Egyptian flavors
Holiday Shopping During Your Christmas Nile Cruise
Discover unique Egyptian treasures and holiday gifts in local markets during your Christmas cruise
Onboard Christmas Boutique
During the holiday season, our onboard gift shop transforms into a Christmas boutique featuring unique Egyptian-themed holiday decorations, handcrafted ornaments, festive papyrus cards, and special gift items. Find perfect souvenirs to remember your Christmas on the Nile or unique presents for loved ones back home. The boutique offers gift wrapping services and can arrange international shipping.
Market Excursions
Our Christmas cruises include special shopping excursions to local markets in Luxor, Edfu, and Aswan where you can find unique holiday gifts with authentic Egyptian character. Your guide will help navigate the colorful bazaars and assist with bargaining. During December, many markets feature special holiday sections with Christmas-themed Egyptian crafts and decorations.
Artisan Demonstrations
Enjoy special onboard demonstrations from local artisans creating Egyptian Christmas ornaments, festive papyrus paintings, and holiday-themed alabaster carvings. These unique sessions allow you to purchase directly from the creators and even commission personalized holiday gifts. Many artisans offer special Christmas-themed designs only available during the holiday season.
Shopping Tip: The Christmas season is an excellent time to purchase Egyptian crafts as many artisans create special holiday-themed items that blend Egyptian motifs with Christmas traditions. Look for Christmas ornaments featuring pyramids, sphinxes, and pharaonic symbols, or nativity scenes carved from Egyptian alabaster – these make unique holiday keepsakes or gifts.
Capturing Christmas Magic on the Nile
December offers spectacular lighting conditions for unforgettable holiday photographs
Holiday Photo Opportunities
A Christmas Nile cruise offers extraordinary photography opportunities that combine festive elements with ancient wonders:
- Temples at Sunset: December’s clear skies create perfect golden hour lighting at archaeological sites
- Festive Ship Portraits: Our vessels’ Christmas decorations provide beautiful backdrops
- Christmas in the Desert: The contrast of holiday celebrations against Egypt’s timeless landscapes
- Night Photography: Capture the magic of Christmas lights reflecting on the Nile waters
- Cultural Contrasts: Document the unique blend of Western Christmas traditions in an Egyptian setting
Christmas Photography Services
Enhance your holiday memories with our special Christmas photography services:
- Professional Photographer: Available for family portraits against festive or Egyptian backdrops
- Christmas Day Package: Documentation of your holiday celebrations from morning through evening
- Photo Workshops: Special sessions on capturing night scenes and Christmas lighting
- Drone Services: Aerial photography of your cruise ship with Christmas decorations on the Nile
- Holiday Album: Custom-designed photo book of your Christmas Nile adventure
Create unique holiday family portraits with ancient Egyptian backdrops
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Nile Cruises
Is Christmas widely celebrated in Egypt?
While Egypt is predominantly Muslim, Christmas is celebrated by the country’s Coptic Christian minority (about 10% of the population) on January 7th. Tourist areas and international hotels embrace Western Christmas traditions on December 25th with decorations and special events. Our Nile cruises create a festive Christmas atmosphere with traditional decorations, special meals, and holiday activities while respecting local customs and traditions.
What is the weather like during Christmas on the Nile?
December offers ideal weather conditions for Nile cruising with comfortable daytime temperatures averaging 70-75°F (21-24°C) and cooler evenings around 50°F (10°C). This pleasant climate is perfect for exploring ancient sites without the extreme heat of summer months. The season also brings clear skies and beautiful sunsets, creating magical lighting conditions for your Christmas holiday photos and a comfortable atmosphere for festive deck celebrations.
How far in advance should I book a Christmas Nile cruise?
Christmas is one of the most popular periods for Nile cruises, and vessels typically sell out 6-9 months in advance. For the best selection of cabins and itineraries, we recommend booking your Christmas Nile cruise 9-12 months ahead. Early booking also often secures better rates and special holiday promotions. Last-minute availability is extremely limited during the Christmas season and typically only available for standard cabins if there are cancellations.
What special Christmas activities are included on the cruise?
Our Christmas Nile cruises include a variety of festive activities at no additional cost: Christmas Eve gala dinner with special menu and entertainment, Christmas morning celebrations, holiday-themed afternoon tea, festive cocktail receptions, carol singing, and special Christmas Day excursions. Many vessels also offer Egyptian Christmas craft workshops, holiday cooking demonstrations, and visits from Egyptian Santa for children. Additional premium experiences like Christmas sound and light shows may be available as optional extras.
Are Christmas Nile cruises suitable for families with children?
Christmas Nile cruises are excellent for families, offering a unique holiday experience that combines education with festive fun. During the Christmas season, most vessels offer special children’s activities including Egyptian Christmas crafts, holiday treasure hunts, kid-friendly excursions, and special attention from Egyptian Santa. Many ships provide family cabins or connecting rooms, children’s menus, and early dining options. The pleasant December weather makes this an ideal time for families to explore Egypt comfortably.
Experience the magic of Christmas lights reflecting on the Nile with ancient temples as your backdrop
Extend Your Christmas Journey: Cairo & Pyramids
Combine your Christmas Nile cruise with a festive visit to the Pyramids of Giza
Christmas in Cairo Package
Enhance your holiday Nile cruise with our 3-night Cairo extension. Stay in a luxury hotel decorated for the season and enjoy special Christmas activities in the capital. Visit the Pyramids of Giza with fewer crowds than usual, explore the Egyptian Museum, and experience the festive atmosphere of Coptic Cairo with its beautiful churches decorated for the holiday season.
From $799 per person including luxury accommodation and private tours
New Grand Egyptian Museum
Be among the first to experience the spectacular new Grand Egyptian Museum during the holiday season. Our Christmas packages include priority tickets to this magnificent new facility housing the treasures of Tutankhamun and countless other pharaonic masterpieces. The museum features special holiday programming during December with extended evening hours.
Grand Egyptian Museum tour included in all Cairo extensions
Festive Desert Experience
Add a unique dimension to your Christmas holiday with our special desert dinner experience. Journey into the desert near the pyramids for a traditional Bedouin feast with a holiday twist. Enjoy Christmas carols under the stars, festive decorations in desert tents, and the magical experience of celebrating the holiday season in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.
Optional add-on experience to any Cairo extension package
Complete Christmas in Egypt Experience
Create the ultimate holiday memory by combining your Christmas Nile cruise with our Cairo extension package. Experience both ancient capitals of Egypt during the festive season with seamless transfers, luxury accommodations, and special holiday activities throughout your journey.
Essential Tips for Your Christmas Nile Cruise
Prepare for your festive Nile adventure with our essential Christmas travel tips
Holiday Packing Essentials
- Festive Attire: Pack one or two dressy outfits for Christmas Eve gala and holiday celebrations
- Layered Clothing: Comfortable daytime wear plus light jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings
- Comfortable Footwear: Essential for exploring ancient sites during excursions
- Small Holiday Touches: Consider bringing compact decorations for your cabin if desired
- Gift Exchange Items: Small, lightweight gifts if traveling with family or joining ship gift exchanges
Christmas Travel Planning
- Book Flights Early: December is peak travel season with higher airfares and limited availability
- Consider Buffer Days: Arrive 1-2 days before cruise departure to adjust and avoid holiday travel delays
- Pre-book Special Excursions: Holiday-specific tours like Christmas sound & light shows sell out quickly
- Notify of Special Needs: Inform us of dietary requirements for Christmas meals well in advance
- Check Documentation: Ensure passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates
Christmas Gift Tip: If you’re celebrating Christmas with gift exchanges during your cruise, consider purchasing some gifts in Egypt at the beginning of your journey. Local crafts, personalized cartouches, and Egyptian-made items make memorable Christmas presents and save you from having to pack gifts from home. Our Cairo pre-cruise packages include time for Christmas shopping in Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Experience the Magic of Christmas on the Nile
Create unforgettable holiday memories with a magical Christmas celebration on the Nile
A Christmas Nile cruise offers a truly extraordinary way to celebrate the holiday season. Imagine unwrapping the gift of ancient wonders while enjoying festive celebrations in a comfortable climate. Experience the magic of Christmas Eve under the stars, Christmas morning with views of temples that have stood for millennia, and holiday meals that blend international traditions with Egyptian flavors. This unique celebration combines the joy of the season with the adventure of exploring one of the world’s most fascinating civilizations.
Limited Christmas 2024 Availability
Our Christmas Nile cruise departures are filling quickly. Secure your cabin now to guarantee your place on this unforgettable holiday journey through ancient Egypt. Special early booking offers are available for a limited time.
Prefer to speak with a Christmas cruise specialist?