Here is a full review of the MS Eugenie Lake Nasser Cruise—what to expect, highlights, issues, plus tips. I hope this helps if you are considering booking.
Overview
MS Eugenie is a deluxe cruise ship sailing Lake Nasser in southern Egypt. Hadeda Travel+3Egypt Online Tours+3World Tour Advice+3
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Built in 1993, styled after a turn-of-the-century Nile steamship. Hadeda Travel+3home+3Egypt Online Tours+3
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Length approx 72-74 meters. home+3Oriental Tours Egypt+3Egypt Online Tours+3
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52 cabins plus 2 luxury suites. World Tour Advice+3Egypt Online Tours+3Hadeda Travel+3
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A-class amenities: private balconies in many cabins, en suite bath/shower, air conditioning, water filtration etc. home+3Egypt Online Tours+3suneasttravel.com+3
Itinerary & Experience
Typical itinerary options:
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4 days / 3 nights from Aswan to Abu Simbel (Friday departure) Egypt Online Tours+2suneasttravel.com+2
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5 days / 4 nights from Abu Simbel to Aswan (Monday departure) Egypt Online Tours+2Tour Egypt Club+2
Sites visited often include Kalabsha Temple, Beit El Wali, Kertassi, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Derr, Kasr Ibrim (view from ship), and of course Abu Simbel. Tour Egypt Club+3Egypt Online Tours+3suneasttravel.com+3
Guests often praise:
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The luxury and aesthetics of the ship (wood panelling, antique furnishing etc.) giving a timeless feel. nile-cruises.co.uk+2tripadvisor.com+2
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The calm pace: time to relax aboard, enjoy views, sunsets, starry nights. tripadvisor.com+2Cruise Critic Community+2
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The staff are often described as attentive, friendly and helpful. tripadvisor.com+1
What People Criticise
While many aspects are praised, there are also recurring criticisms:
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Aging infrastructure
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Some reviewers say the ship shows wear: decor, carpets, fixtures are in places “tired” or “in need of updating.” Tripadvisor+1
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Showers or cabins in certain decks may have less glamorous fittings. Lower decks sometimes have no balconies. Egypt Online Tours+2suneasttravel.com+2
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Amenities & connectivity
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Very limited or no internet, weak or non-existent WiFi in many cases. Tripadvisor+1
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TV options are minimal. tripadvisor.com+1
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Shade & comfort on decks
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Although there is a sun deck, shade is limited; at busy times people compete for shaded spots. Tripadvisor+1
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Pricing vs what is included
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Some guests feel the price for drinks, extras, premium services are high. Tripadvisor+1
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Also, some think that certain temple visits or photo time is short, or that time at sites could be better allocated. Tripadvisor+1
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Pros & Cons (Summary)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very scenic route, including remote temples not always included in standard Nile cruises. | Ship is pleasant but some parts feel dated; not cutting-edge luxury. |
| Good level of comfort, especially in upper / main deck cabins with balconies. | Connectivity may be poor; modern amenities may be lacking. |
| Friendly and attentive crew; good food. | Shade & space on deck can be limited; lower decks less desirable. |
| Relaxing pace, great for those wanting both culture & downtime. | Extras (drinks, tips etc.) can add up; some costs not always clear upfront. |
Best For / Who Should Go
The MS Eugenie cruise is especially good if you:
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Appreciate history and remote archaeological sites.
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Like relaxing, slower travel rather than being rushed.
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Don’t mind rustic elements, and are okay with older style ship.
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Want something more intimate and charming than large cruise liners.
It might be less ideal for those who:
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Need strong internet or expecting very modern luxury.
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Hate heat or strong sun without shaded outdoor space.
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Want maximum variety in super-modern onboard entertainment.
My Rating Estimate (out of 5)
These are my own impressions based on multiple recent reviews:
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Comfort / Cabins: 3.5–4 ★
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Food & Service: 4 ★
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Itinerary & Scenery: 5 ★
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Value for money: 3.5–4 ★
Tips To Get The Best Out of It
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Try to book an upper deck cabin with balcony if possible. The views & ventilation are much better.
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Travel in shoulder season (just before or after peak) to avoid crowds and get better shade on decks.
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Bring essentials: sunscreen, hat, maybe something to cover upper decks; expect limited WiFi.
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Confirm what is included (meals, drinks, tips, excursions) to avoid surprises.
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Ask about the condition of the ship before you travel—some newer refurbishment may be underway but may not apply to all cabins.
Conclusion
Overall, the MS Eugenie Lake Nasser Cruise offers a memorable mix of culture, scenery, and relaxed travel in a classic, somewhat nostalgic style. If you value the experience of sailing across Lake Nasser, seeing grand temples like Abu Simbel, and being in a luxury-deluxe rather than ultra-modern vessel, then this is an excellent choice. It may not be perfect in every modern amenity, but for many travellers the charm, views, staff and itinerary more than compensate.
FAQs
1. Is the MS Eugenie truly a 5-star cruise?
It is often sold as “5-star deluxe,” and many features match that standard—luxury décor, suites, excursions, service. However, some onboard facilities are less modern; star rating depends partly on expectations.
2. When is the best time to go?
The cooler months (October-April) are better weather-wise. Also, off-peak times will mean fewer crowds and perhaps better availability of shaded deck areas.
3. Are meals good and varied?
Yes—most reviews say the food is good and diverse. There are buffet and à la carte options, with local and international dishes. But don’t expect gourmet modern gastronomy; it serves well for its style.
4. Is this cruise suitable for first-time visitors to Egypt?
It can be, especially if you have already done the main sites like Cairo or Luxor. But keep in mind that some remoter sites may have less infrastructure, and the cruise itself is part of the adventure.
5. What is the difference between cabins / decks?
Upper deck cabins are best: with balconies, better views, more fresh air. Main deck is good too. Lower deck cabins often do not have balconies, and may be less preferred by those sensitive to closed spaces or wanting views.
If you like, I can write you a more personal “would I recommend it” review with cost breakdowns (in GBP) and comparison vs other Lake Nasser cruises. Do you want that?

