Here’s a detailed review of cheap Nile cruises from Aswan → Luxor, based on recent traveller feedback, costs, pros & cons, tips. If you like, I can also pull up some specific affordable cruise options Zahotours could offer.
What people mean by “cheap”
From what travellers report:
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Budget (standard) cruises cost around US$300-$650 per person for 3-4 nights, excluding some extras (entrance fees, drinks, optional tours). Adventures & Sunsets+2Tripadvisor+2
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The lowest deals may be US$240-350 for 2 nights or special offers, if you accept simpler boats, less luxury. Reddit+3Tripadvisor+3Tripadvisor+3
So “cheap” = compromising some amenities, using a standard / older boat, simpler room, group tour rather than private.
Highlights: What people like on cheap cruises
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Scenic route & temples
The journey along the Nile, stopping at Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna, Luxor East and West Banks (Karnak, Valley of the Kings) are consistent favourites. Even on cheaper boats, you still get many of the same temple visits. Reddit+3Adventures & Sunsets+3Tripadvisor+3 -
Good food (mostly)
Many reviewers say the meals are surprisingly good for the price. You get full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Some mention buffets with variety. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2 -
Relaxation & views
Travellers enjoy the calmness on deck, rooftop views, sunsets/sunrises, the change of pace from bustling cities. Nice chance to relax and absorb the landscape. Adventures & Sunsets+2Reddit+2
Downsides & what to watch out for
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Aged or poorly maintained boats
Boats in the “cheap” category are often older. Some cabins may feel dated; issues with cleanliness are mentioned (e.g. older carpets, bathrooms, leaks). Tripadvisor+2Reddit+2 -
Extras add up
Many “cheap” packages exclude:-
Entrance fees to temples & tombs. These can add up to $100+ depending on what you visit. Adventures & Sunsets+1
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Drinks, especially alcoholic, often not included. Bottled water may cost extra. Some boats prohibit bringing your own. Tripadvisor+2Reddit+2
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Optional activities (balloon rides, private guiding). If you want the extras, you pay more. Adventures & Sunsets+1
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Early mornings / tight schedules
To make all the stops, there’s a lot of early starts, sometimes long drives or transfers. Expect little downtime during touring days. If you want more rest, you might feel rushed. Adventures & Sunsets+2Reddit+2 -
Agent / booking issues
Some travellers report:-
Confusing or inconsistent pick-up / drop-off times. Tripadvisor+1
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Poor English speaking guides or mixed quality. Tripadvisor+1
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Sometimes boats are docked longer than expected or stay in port more than needed. Reddit
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Value for money: is it worth going cheap?
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Yes, if you’re okay with basic comfort and you care more about seeing the temples and experiencing the Nile rather than luxury.
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If your priority is comfort, private experience, or extra amenities (balloon rides, fine dining, luxury cabins), then spending more (mid-deluxe) is better.
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Also cheaper in off‐peak season (hot months, summer) or via local operators rather than big booking sites. Reddit+1
Tips for getting a good cheap cruise experience
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Check what’s included before booking: meals, entrance fees, guide, transfers.
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Read recent reviews with photos (last 12 months) to see boat condition.
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Ask about the room size, air conditioning, bathroom standard.
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Budget for extras: drinks, tips, optional tours.
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Try local agents in Egypt—they sometimes have better deals than online.
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Travel off-peak if possible to get lower rates.
Example real-experiences
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One traveller paid US$485 for a 4-day cruise on Royal Ruby 2 from Aswan to Luxor (for two people). Cabins were comfortable, service good; food “meh” but acceptable. Reddit
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Another found a price of about US$55 (very low!) by booking through an agent last minute in 2021. But this kind of price usually comes with many compromises. Reddit
Conclusion
A cheap Nile cruise Aswan→Luxor can be a very rewarding experience. If you accept moderate to basic comfort, are okay with tight schedules and limited luxuries, you get wonderful value: awe-inspiring ancient sites, relaxing river travel, good food, and memorable landscapes.
If you want, I can write a sample review for a specific cheap Nile cruise that Zahotours might promote, optimized for your website?