lake nasser cruise 2022 Review

Here’s a detailed review of Lake Nasser cruises as of around 2022, drawing on traveller reports, tour-operators, and recent feedback. If you like, I can also pull in more recent (2024–25) comparisons.

What is a Lake Nasser Cruise

Lake Nasser is a large artificial lake in southern Egypt formed by the Aswan High Dam. A cruise on Lake Nasser usually sails between Aswan and Abu Simbel, stopping at remote Nubian temples, archaeological sites, islands, and offering desert and lakeside scenery. corinthiantravel.co.uk+2bestdestinationtours.com+2

These cruises are often 4-5 days in length, though shorter/longer options exist. Reddit+2Egypt Escapes+2

What Travellers Loved in 2022

Here are some of the strong positives many people mention:

1. Unique, remote sites & temples
   Many remote Nubian and Egyptian antiquities that are less crowded than those along the Nile. Examples: Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Kalabsha, Kasr Ibrim. bestdestinationtours.com+2experienceegypt.eg+2

2. Scenic beauty & desert landscapes
   Travellers often say the combination of wide lake views, sand, hills, and the dramatic approach to Abu Simbel (by water) was very memorable. Tripadvisor+2corinthiantravel.co.uk+2

3. Good on-board amenities (on more premium boats)
   On certain ships like the Steigenberger Omar El Khayam, MS Nubian Sea, or Prince Abbas, travellers have reported nice lounge/yacht-style décor, comfortable cabins, sun decks, swimming pools, and entertainment. World Tour Advice+1

4. Less crowded experience
   Many reviews note that the shore excursions are often peaceful, not overrun with tourists. Temples sometimes visited with very few other people. Tripadvisor

5. Good service & food (in many cases)
   For many who booked higher-quality cruises, the meals are varied, and staff friendly and responsive. Tripadvisor+2Egypt Escapes+2

What Travellers Complained About in 2022

Even with the positives, there were drawbacks. These are things people frequently mention:

1. Aging boats / maintenance issues
   Some ships are described as looking old, furniture worn, bathrooms showing wear, fittings obsolete or in need of refurbishment. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2

2. Inconsistent cabin quality
   Sometimes cabins are excellent; other times, those on lower decks or without balconies have poorer views or smaller/less well-maintained facilities. Sound insulation issues also come up. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2

3. Food & diversity issues
   Some found the food offerings bland or repetitive. Coffee quality, variety of local vs international options, etc., are sometimes criticised. Tripadvisor+1

4. Weather and rough sailing
   The lake can get rough winds. Some report uncomfortable nights when weather is bad, especially near rocks or in less sheltered anchorages. Transfers (e.g. speedboat to shore) sometimes bumpy. Tripadvisor

5. Added costs and travel logistics
   Some excursions or upper deck cabins cost extra. Flight or road transfers to Aswan or to/from Abu Simbel can add to overall time and fatigue. Also occasional issues with scheduling. Tripadvisor+1

Tips if You Plan One

Based on what people said, here are suggestions to get the best out of a Lake Nasser cruise:

• Pick a boat with good reviews for maintenance and service (don’t go purely by star rating).

• Try to choose a cabin with a balcony or at least large windows if view and comfort matter.

• Check if your cruise includes all excursions and entry fees ahead of time.

• Travel light but bring layers: evenings and early mornings can be colder. Also a sun hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes.

• Be prepared for slower pace: remote sites often mean less infrastructure, so expect simple facilities.

• Consider timing: calmer weather months will give smoother sailing and better visibility.

Overall Verdict (2022)

A Lake Nasser cruise in 2022 is well worth doing, especially if you enjoy archaeological history, remote landscapes, fewer tourists, and a slower, more relaxed journey. If you pick a good quality cruise ship and plan properly, many people come away deeply impressed.

However, it is not a luxury cruise in every case. Some aspects (boat condition, food, insulation, cabins) can fall short, especially in middle or lower-priced options.

FAQs (Based on 2022 Experiences)

Q1: Are Lake Nasser cruises safe?
A: Generally yes. Boats are operated by reputable companies. There is security (escorts, guides). Some parts of the lake are remote, but tours usually include necessary safety precautions. Tripadvisor+1

Q2: Will I get seasickness or discomfort?
A: Usually not severe. The lake is large, but weather can make some sections choppy. Booking a well-built boat, avoiding lower cabins near waterline, taking seasickness remedies help. Some travellers mention rough nights near Abu Simbel anchorage. Tripadvisor

Q3: What is included vs extra cost?
A: Excursions to temples, meals, and guide fees are often included. But upper-deck cabins, special cabins (balcony, suite), drinks, tips, and sometimes transfers to/from hotels or airports may cost extra. Egypt Escapes+1

Q4: Best time of year?
A: Cooler months (October to April) are better. Avoid peak heat (summer) for comfort on excursions. Also visibility, wind conditions better outside hottest or windiest times.

Q5: Is flying to Abu Simbel vs cruising there better?
A: Flying is faster and avoids some rough travel, but cruising gives scenic value, the sense of journey, desert lake views, more temples along the way. Many travellers prefer the cruise for experience rather than speed.

Summary

If your priorities are history, peace, off-the-beaten-track temples, slow travel and scenery, a Lake Nasser cruise is excellent. If you want ultra-luxury, perfect cabins, and zero compromises, you’ll need to pick your cruise carefully (sometimes pay more) to avoid disappointment.

If you like, I can write you a Lake Nasser Cruise 2024/2025 updated review so you can compare what has improved since 2022. Do you want that?