egypt cruises 2023 Review

Here’s a 2023 review of Egypt cruises, with a focus on Nile and Red Sea cruises: what’s good, what to watch out for, plus practical tips. I’ve structured it so it’s easy to read and SEO-friendly. Keywords like Egypt cruises / Nile cruises Egypt are included from the start.

Egypt Cruises 2023: Overview

Egypt cruises, especially along the Nile, remain very popular in 2023. Many travellers choose them to combine history, culture, relaxation, and scenic river views. The main routes are between Luxor and Aswan, or in reverse. Some cruises also include extensions (Abu Simbel, Lake Nasser), or shore-based packages around Cairo. Egypt Tourist Information+2Reddit+2

Cruises vary widely by type:

Budget / Standard boats with fewer amenities. Family Travel in the Middle East+2Tripadvisor+2
Deluxe / Luxury boats with better cabins, more attentive service, and often additional perks. Family Travel in the Middle East+2Cruise & Ferry+2
Boutique and dahabiya-style boats (smaller, more intimate) for people wanting a quieter and more authentic feel. Egypt Tourist Information+1

What Stood Out in 2023: Highlights

New and Refurbished Ships
- TUI’s Al Horeya, launched late 2023 / early 2024, got attention for its modern design, pool deck, top-deck amenities, and branded offerings (Egyptologists, upgraded guest services). Cruise & Ferry+1
- Boutique ships like the Historia Nile Cruise are getting praise for elegance and solitude, especially among travellers preferring less crowded experiences. Nile Cruisers
Scenic & Cultural Richness Remains Strong
- Itineraries continue to cover the big temple sites: Luxor (Karnak, Luxor Temple), Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Philae, Aswan. Urban Splatter+2Egypt Tourist Information+2
- Greater focus on local experiences: Nubian villages, traditional culture, local food, sometimes smaller excursions. Egypt Tourist Information+1
Price & Value Variation
- Budget cruises remain an option. But many reviews warn that the lowest price often comes with trade-offs: older boats, basic service, minimal entertainment. Family Travel in the Middle East+2Tripadvisor+2
- Mid-to-luxury options offer much better comfort, better food, more reliable service, and nicer cabins. The premium for luxury is noticeable but for many travellers worth it. Cruise & Ferry+2Nile Cruisers+2

Challenges & Negative Feedback in 2023

Inconsistent Standards / Maintenance Issues
Some travellers reported that “luxury” or upgraded boats did not meet expectations. Complaints include stained carpets, poor hygiene, exposed wiring, cabins smelling musty or moldy, common areas in need of repair. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2
Service / Staff Issues
Issues with the onboard staff being inattentive, or delays in service. Some reviews mention poor communication before or during the cruise (e.g. with booking agents). Tripadvisor
Food Quality
Buffet style is almost universal. But in some cases, food variety, taste, or freshness comes under criticism—especially on more “standard” boats. Tripadvisor+1
Heat and Crowds
In high season (October-February) it’s busy. The sun can be intense, especially midday. Boats can dock in the same places, which makes some sites crowded. Some travellers prefer off-peak for more solitude. Traviio Tours+2Reddit+2
Internet and Connectivity
WiFi often patchy, especially when sailing between remote points. Some cabins get less signal. Nile Cruisers+1

Practical Advice for Anyone Considering Egypt Cruises (2023 & After)

Choose the right season
Best months are November-February for cooler weather and good sightseeing. Shoulder seasons (March-April, September) are often less crowded but still warm. Avoid mid summer if you are heat-sensitive. Traviio Tours
Check ship age, recent renovations, and reviews
Just because a cruise is labelled “5-star” doesn’t guarantee great condition. Ask when it was built, last renovated, see recent traveller photos. Family Travel in the Middle East+1
Read what’s included
Some cruises charge extra for drinks, excursions, Egyptologist guide, WiFi, etc. What seems “luxury” in name may omit some perks. Family Travel in the Middle East+1
Pick cabins thoughtfully
Cabins on upper decks generally offer better views, quieter environment, less motion. Lower or mid-decks may have noise or engine vibrations. Nile Cruisers+1
Respect local customs
Modest clothing needed for temple/mosque visits; cover shoulders and knees. Also, heat demands good sun protection (hat, sunscreen), light clothes for daytime, warm layer at night sometimes. World traveler guide+1
Be cautious with “budget” operators
Look for verified reviews, avoid deals that seem “too good to be true.” Especially for food hygiene, safety, and reliability. Reddit+1

Summary: Is an Egypt Cruise in 2023 Worth It?

Yes — for most travellers, an Egypt cruise is highly worthwhile. The river scenery, ancient monuments, cultural depth, and leisurely pace make it unique. However, you must pick well: your cruise company, ship standard, time of year and included features matter a lot. If you settle for a mid-range or luxury service, you get far better value, comfort, and satisfaction.

FAQs

1. What are typical durations for Nile cruises in Egypt?
Most Nile cruises run 3-5 nights (e.g. Luxor ↔ Aswan). Longer cruises (7 nights or more) may include extra sites (Abu Simbel, Lake Nasser) or start/end in Cairo. Egypt Tourist Information+1

2. How much does a Nile cruise cost in 2023?
Prices vary widely depending on standard vs luxury, duration, inclusions. Budget options may start moderate, while top-end luxury boats cost significantly more. For example, some quotes were US$400-900+ per person for shorter cruises. Reddit+1

3. When is the best time to go on an Egypt cruise?
Peak season: November to February. Shoulder seasons: March-April, September. Avoid the hottest months (May-August) if you are sensitive to heat. Traviio Tours

4. How good are food and amenities on board?
Depends on your category. Luxury boats usually offer better meals, diverse food, high-quality service. Standard boats may have good food but limited variety. Buffet style is common. Amenities vary: some boats have pools, entertainment, good views; others more basic. Family Travel in the Middle East+1

5. How to avoid disappointing experiences?

Read recent reviews and traveller photos.
Ask about ship renovation date, safety, hygiene.
Confirm what’s included (meals, excursions, WiFi, guides).
Choose cabins on higher decks if possible.
Travel during less crowded times.

If you like, I can put together a list of the best Nile cruises in 2024 (with good reviews) so you can compare. Would that help?