Here’s a review of what I found / what to expect for a Nile cruise from Alexandria to Aswan, combining existing feedback with what is realistic given current cruise offerings. Kindly note: cruises from Alexandria straight to Aswan are extremely rare or currently not standard; most cruises begin from Luxor or Aswan. I’ll highlight that too.
Overview
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There are few, if any, Nile cruises that start in Alexandria and go all the way to Aswan. The Nile is not navigable (for tourist cruise boats) from Alexandria in the same way as between Luxor / Aswan, due to geographical, infrastructural, and historical reasons.
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Most Nile cruises with strong reviews are on the stretch Luxor ↔ Aswan. These are with well‐established river cruise boats, dahabiyas, or deluxe vessels.
So in practice, a cruise you book should likely involve travelling first (by land, flight, or train) to Luxor or Aswan, then beginning the cruise from there.
What people like (Pros)
From reviews of Nile cruises (Luxor to Aswan, and reverse), here are the positives:
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Scenic & historic journey
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Visiting multiple important Pharaonic sites: Kom Ombo, Edfu, Philae, the Valley of the Kings etc. This gives a deep immersion in ancient Egyptian history. Tripadvisor+3Tripadvisor+3Tripadvisor+3
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The landscapes along the Nile—lush riverbanks, small villages, daily life—are beautiful and relaxing. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2
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Comfort & service (on good boats)
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On several cruises, travellers praise clean, well‐appointed cabins, attentive and friendly staff, and good food. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2
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There are luxury options that deliver high standard accommodation and amenities. Tripadvisor+1
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Value for money
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Many reviewers say that, given what is included (meals, guided tours, entrance fees in many cases), the price is reasonable for the richness of experience. Reddit+3Egypt Tours Portal+3Power Traveller+3
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Unique travel style
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Travelling slowly, seeing places off the beaten path, enjoying the evenings on deck under the stars. It’s a very different pace than usual city tourism. Reddit+2Tripadvisor+2
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What people complain about / Cautions (Cons)
Here are the commonly reported downsides:
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Old / poorly maintained boats
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Several travellers mention décor and furnishings being very outdated, carpets stained, bathrooms worn. Tripadvisor+1
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Some issues with cleanliness, especially common areas. Tripadvisor+1
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Amenities & extras cost more
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WiFi often only in certain areas (bar/reception), sometimes paid extra. Unreliable at times. Tripadvisor+1
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Drinks, some excursions, tips etc. are frequently not included. It adds up. Tripadvisor+1
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Heat / climate
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In certain times of year (late spring, summer) the heat can be intense. Cabins may not have strong air conditioning. Tripadvisor
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Crowds and selling pressure
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At popular sights, vendors can be pushy. Some travellers find the experience of being constantly approached to buy souvenirs to be tiring. Booking.com+1
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Boat may have many cabins; sometimes you may not know exactly which boat until late due to how operators assign clients. Reddit+1
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Safety / life‐saving equipment concerns
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A few reviews mention boats lacking proper life jackets or lifeboats, or these items being old / insecure. Tripadvisor
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Feasibility of Alexandria → Aswan Cruise
Because the user specifically asked about Alexandria to Aswan:
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Cruises from Alexandria: Very uncommon. Alexandria is on the Mediterranean coast; a Nile cruise route is along the Nile River which begins in Upper Egypt (southern Egypt) and flows northwards. Most cruise operators begin in Luxor (or Aswan) because the major temples, the Valley of the Kings, and landscapes are in Upper / Middle Egypt.
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If you want to start in Alexandria, you could combine coastal/tourism of Alexandria, then travel over to Luxor via flight / train / road, then board a Nile cruise to Aswan. That is the common approach.
Verdict / Recommendation
If we assume the cruise can be arranged from Alexandria (or that you begin in Alexandria and join a cruise from Luxor/Aswan), here’s what I would recommend:
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Choose a luxury or deluxe vessel if budget allows—it improves comfort, reduces the issues with old boats.
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Check exactly what is included: meals (which ones), entrance fees to temples, guide fees, transportation to/from boarding point, WiFi, drinks.
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Travel in the shoulder season (October-December, February-March) to avoid very high heat and also very large crowds.
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Read recent reviews (past 1-2 years) to see current service quality.
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Ensure safety standards: life jackets, reliable staff etc.
FAQ (Specific to “Alexandria to Aswan” Idea)
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Can you cruise directly from Alexandria to Aswan?
Very unlikely. Most Nile cruise operators do not offer a navigable route from Alexandria along the Nile to Aswan. The cruise part usually starts much further south (Luxor / Aswan). -
How do you include Alexandria in a Nile cruise trip?
You can visit Alexandria before or after the cruise as a separate leg of your trip. Travel from Alexandria to Luxor/Aswan by train/air/road, then start your Nile river cruise. -
How long is a typical Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan?
Usually 3-7 nights, depending on itinerary and optional stops. -
What level of comfort / price ranges are available?
From standard/basic to luxury. Prices vary a lot based on season, boat class, and what is included. Basic cruises are cheaper but may compromise on amenities. -
What are the must-see stops on a cruise Aswan ↔ Luxor?
Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, Karnak etc.
If you like, I can sketch a sample itinerary and cost estimate for doing a trip that starts in Alexandria and ends in Aswan (including the cruise section), tailored to different budgets. Would you prefer I do that?