cruise lake nasser abu simbel Review

Here’s a detailed review of Lake Nasser cruises to Abu Simbel — what to expect, pros & cons, tips, and whether it might be right for you. If you want, I can also pull in recent travellers’ photos or comparisons of different cruise lines.

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What Is a Lake Nasser Cruise to Abu Simbel

Lake Nasser is a huge reservoir in southern Egypt created by the Aswan High Dam. Cruises here typically run between Aswan and Abu Simbel, visiting several lesser-known Nubian temples along the way. They offer a slow, scenic alternative to overland/flight-only travel to Abu Simbel. maestroegypttours.com+3privatetoursinegypt.com+3Travel Joy Egypt+3

There are different styles:

• Luxury ship cruises (e.g. MS Nubian Sea, Prince Abbas, Omar El Khayam) with full facilities. pinklotustours.com+3Djed Egypt Travel+3Tripadvisor+3

• Smaller boat safaris / house-boat + mother-ship style journeys for a more intimate experience. lake-nasser.com+2lake-nasser.com+2

Typical itineraries are 3–5 nights, with stops at temples such as Kalabsha, Amada, Wadi El Seboua, Beit El Wali, and sometimes the relocated temple sites. The highlight is always Abu Simbel—especially at sunrise or sunset. privatetoursinegypt.com+2maestroegypttours.com+2

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What People Like

These are some of the strong positives from reviews:

1. Scenic & tranquil journey
   The cruise gives you peaceful views of deserts, lake shores, birdlife, stars, and desert sunsets. It’s less crowded than big tourist routes. Djed Egypt Travel+3lake-nasser.com+3Tripadvisor+3

2. Cultural & historical richness
   Along the way you visit a number of Nubian temples, some less visited. Abu Simbel from the water is often cited as especially dramatic. Cruise Critic Community+2privatetoursinegypt.com+2

3. Comfort and amenities (on the better ships)
   Ships like Prince Abbas and Omar El Khayam generally offer good standards: decent food, comfortable cabins, sun decks. Many travellers say the service is friendly. Djed Egypt Travel+3Tripadvisor+3pinklotustours.com+3

4. Unique experience
   Watching dawn light on Abu Simbel; staying overnight onboard; the remoteness; the feeling of travelling “off the beaten path,” all frequently praised. Tripadvisor+2lake-nasser.com+2

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What Some People Don’t Like / Drawbacks

Based on reviews, here are common complaints and things to watch out for:

1. Ship condition varies
   Some cruises are clearly dated. Issues include old cabins, poor sound insulation, bathrooms in need of refurbishment, showers not in best shape. Tripadvisor+2Cruise Critic Community+2

2. Weather can be extreme
   The lake region is desert: very hot in day, cold at night depending on season. In some months the sun is intense; others nights get chilly. Cruise Critic Community+2Dabuka+2

3. Logistics & mobility issues
   Getting aboard (tenders rather than docks), walking on uneven ground, climbing stairs at temples can be challenging for people with limited mobility. Cruise Critic Community

4. Food & variety sometimes poor
   Some reviewers find the food bland or repetitive, not up to luxury expectations. Drinks, WiFi, other “extras” often cost more or limited. Tripadvisor+1

5. Crowds / scheduling
   If many tour groups arrive together, the temple sites can get busy. Also, some parts of the journey may feel “idle” — sailing long stretches without much happening. Tripadvisor

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Tips to Get the Best Out of the Cruise

To maximize enjoyment and avoid disappointment, here are smart tips:

• Choose season carefully: Best months are roughly October to April when temperature is milder. Avoid the hottest months unless you’re okay with discomfort. Dabuka+1

• Pick a newer / higher-standard ship if budget allows. Check recent photos and reviews.

• Check what’s included (meals, entrance fees, transfers, WiFi, etc.). Ask about “single supplement,” cabins, and whether early boarding is possible.

• Don’t expect too much from upper-deck cabins at night if noise insulation is poor.

• Bring layers for cold mornings / evenings. Sun protection is essential.

• Book Abu Simbel sunrise or sunset visits if possible. The light makes a big difference.

• Bring insect repellent—some travellers report insects around decks. Cruise Critic Community

• Verify cancellation policy / backup plans especially in shoulder season or depending on current local conditions.

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Who It’s Best For

This cruise suits:

• Travellers interested in history, archaeology, and quiet reflection rather than fast-paced sightseeing.

• People who enjoy being on water, nature, stars, sunsets.

• Those who value comfort, but might not insist on luxury at every moment.

• Visitors okay with some rough edges if cost comes down.

It’s less ideal for:

• People with limited mobility.

• Those who need consistently high-end luxury or modern amenities.

• Travellers short on time who want to see Abu Simbel quickly. You might be better taking a direct flight or overland trip instead.

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Verdict

All things considered, a Lake Nasser cruise to Abu Simbel is a deeply memorable experience. It offers a combination of serenity, culture, and scenery you won’t get by just flying or driving in and out. Yes, there are trade-offs in terms of infrastructure, comfort, and logistics, but for many travellers the positives outweigh the negatives.

If your priorities are immersion, historical depth, relaxed pace, beautiful landscapes and off-the-grid temples, then this cruise is very much worth considering.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQs to round off things:

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If you like, I can pull together a side-by-side comparison of a few popular cruise ships (facilities, prices, and recent reviews). Do you want me to do that?