egypt cruise Review

Here’s a professional, balanced review of what an Egypt cruise (especially a Nile river cruise) is like — covering what’s great, what to watch out for, and how to pick one. If you like, I can also write a version more specific to a cruise you’re considering.

Table of Contents

(Especially river cruises on the Nile)

What Is a Nile Cruise Like?

A Nile cruise is a journey on the river, usually between Aswan and Luxor (or vice versa), stopping at historical and cultural sites along the way. These cruises can range from luxury liners to more rustic dahabiyas (traditional sailing boats). You stay on the boat, enjoy meals on board, relax on deck, and disembark for visits to temples, tombs, markets, and more. Tripidays Egypt Tours+4World of Cruising+4Cruise Mummy+4

What Works Well (Pros)

Smooth and Scenic Travel
Gliding along the Nile gives a unique perspective — lush riverbanks, small villages, fields, birds. It offers a more relaxed pace than driving between sites. Telegraph+3Condé Nast Traveler+3Audley Travel+3
Concentrated Access to Ancient Sites
Temples like Karnak and Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, Philae Temple, sometimes Kom Ombo and Edfu — many major antiquities are accessible. The boat stops allow daily exploration, so you maximize time ashore. Tripidays Egypt Tours+3Audley Travel+3Condé Nast Traveler+3
Comfort & Convenience
Many cruises provide all-in-one packages: accommodation, meals, guided tours. Luxury ones offer high-end cabins, spa services, good food and drink, live entertainment or lectures. Less logistics needed since the cruise handles a lot. Cruise Mummy+3World of Cruising+3Tripidays Egypt Tours+3
Cultural Immersion
Not just monuments: visits to local markets, Nubian villages, traditional boats (feluccas), and evening relaxation on deck give a more “in-situ” feel of Egyptian life. Also, expert guides or Egyptologists often give talks which deepen context. Condé Nast Traveler+1
Variety of Options
Choices range from ultra-luxury to modest; from large ships to intimate dahabiyas; from short 3-4 night cruises to longer stays (plus extensions to Cairo, Abu Simbel). You can pick according to your budget, comfort preference, time available. Cruise Mummy+3Tripidays Egypt Tours+3Vita Brevis Travel+3

What Can Be Less Good (Cons / Challenges)

Crowds & Tourist Traps
At major sites (Valley of the Kings, Giza, etc.), there are many visitors. Sometimes the cruise schedule forces early or late visits when light is less ideal. Also, souvenir sellers can be persistent. Reddit+2Tripadvisor+2
Variable Quality of Boats
High-end luxury boats are excellent. But in mid-range or budget options, cabins may be small, décor dated, bathrooms less deluxe. Maintenance/cleanliness can vary. Also, expected amenities (WiFi, water, AC) may not always be perfect. Cruise Mummy+2Tripadvisor+2
Extra Costs & Hidden Fees
Some things aren’t included: drinks (especially alcoholic), optional excursions, tipping, sometimes entrance fees. If not careful, these extras add up. Also, travel to/from the cruise start/end points often not included. Reddit+2World of Cruising+2
Weather & Timing
Egypt can be very hot, particularly mid-year. Sun exposure, heat fatigue can make long days at ancient sites difficult. Best months tend to be October-April. Also, water levels, river traffic or locks might affect schedule. Audley Travel+2Tripidays Egypt Tours+2
Expect to Move Often
Even though you stay on the boat, each day often involves disembarking, walking, travelling to sites — sometimes early mornings or long tours. If you prefer very slow travel or minimal movement, some days may feel busy. Reddit+1

What to Watch For When Booking

To get the best experience, these are key:

Boat type & size — Smaller boats or dahabiyas offer more intimacy; large liners more amenities but maybe less personality.
Included itinerary — Which temples/sites are included; how many guiding hours; whether entrance fees are included; whether any extension (Cairo or Abu Simbel etc).
Cabin category — Check what views, balcony vs window vs none, bathroom quality.
Food and drink — Is full board provided? Are drinks included (non-alcoholic and alcoholic)? What about special dietary needs?
Guides & excursions — Expert local guides make a big difference. Also, schedule of tours: number, length, how far from the boat.
Reviews and reputation — Look up recent guest reviews, talk to travel agents, see photos. Sometimes the company selling the cruise isn’t the same as the actual operator. Reddit+1
Value for cost — Sometimes paying more gives comfort, convenience and fewer surprises. Compare what you get for the money.

Examples of Cruises / Brands (with Recent Feedback)

Farah Nile Cruise — Generally very positive. Guests praise the meals, staff, modern decor. Some say cabins are smaller than expected but clean. Trustpilot
Viking Cruises — Luxury level, very high service, strong cultural/educational components. Often adults-only, great ambience. But cost is higher. World of Cruising+2Cruise Mummy+2
AmaWaterways, Oberoi, etc. — These give premium options: elegant cabins, good food, excellent guides. Tripidays Egypt Tours+1
Smaller Dahabiyas or private charters — More romantic or personalized experience. Evening calm, fewer guests. But may sacrifice some luxury or speed. Vita Brevis Travel

Our Summary: Is It Worth It?

A Nile cruise is highly recommended if:

You love history, archaeology, temples and ancient cultures.
You enjoy scenic, relaxing travel with time to unwind on board.
You prefer having many logistics taken care of.
You travel in cooler months.

It might be less ideal if:

You’re on a very tight budget.
You dislike crowds, plans with set schedules, or want maximum flexibility.
You travel in summer and don’t tolerate heat well.

FAQs

When is the best time to cruise the Nile?
The best months are October through April. During these months, temperatures are milder, days are nicer for exploring. Avoid midsummer if possible due to high heat.
How many nights should I cruise?
Usually 3-7 nights is good. Short cruises (3-4 nights) cover major sites between Luxor and Aswan. Longer cruises allow more relaxed pace, more sites, maybe Cairo or Abu Simbel extensions.
What standard of accommodation can I expect?
It depends on the category. Luxury boats have spacious cabins, private balconies, excellent food and service. Mid-range may have smaller cabins, simpler decor, fewer amenities. Always check photos and reviews.
Is everything included in the cruise package?
Not always. Meals usually are, as are many excursions, but drinks, tips, sometimes entrance fees, sometimes transfers to/from the boat may be extras. Read the fine print.
Is it safe, especially for solo travellers or women?
Generally yes. Many solo travellers report feeling safe on Nile cruises. Guides, staff are used to tourists. Basic precautions (being aware, following local customs, ensuring trust with tour operator) are important.

Conclusion & Call to Action

A cruise on the Nile offers a beautiful blend of relaxation, culture, and history. With the right choice of boat, itinerary, and season, it can be a highlight of any trip to Egypt. However, quality varies widely, so do your research to avoid disappointments.

If you tell me your budget, length of trip, and interests (luxury vs budget, how many sites, etc.), I can suggest exact cruise options for you.