river cruises in egypt 2022 Review

Here’s a review of river cruises in Egypt based mainly on 2022 experiences. I cover what travellers liked, what was disappointing, and tips for anyone considering a Nile cruise. Keyword: river cruises in Egypt appears throughout to help with SEO.

Table of Contents

What people liked about river cruises in Egypt in 2022

1. Amazing historical & cultural sites

Cruises commonly stop at iconic landmarks: Luxor & Karnak Temples, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Philae, Aswan, and sometimes Abu Simbel. These are often the highlights travellers rave about. Condé Nast Traveler+3TourRadar+3Tripadvisor+3
Guides are often praised when experienced. Doing the cruise with Egyptologists or deeply knowledgeable local guides added a lot of value. Tripadvisor+1

2. Views & relaxing travel pace

Many appreciated the slow pace of river cruising: the chance to watch life along the Nile, to enjoy sun decks, quiet evenings, and scenery. Tripadvisor+2Reddit+2
Boats with clean, comfortable cabins, good communal areas (lounges, sundecks) got positive comments. Example: MS Hamees got praise for cleanliness, food, and the helpful staff. Tripadvisor

3. Friendly staff & good food (often)

When reviews are good, the onboard staff hospitality is almost always mentioned. Helpful, courteous staff make a difference. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2
Food is a highlight for many. There are mentions of fresh meals, variety (grilled items, salads, etc.), especially on better boats. Tripadvisor+1

What travellers disliked / were disappointed by

1. Standards of maintenance & cleanliness vary a lot

Older ships with dated interiors, stained furnishings, carpets or bathrooms were often criticized. Tripadvisor+1
Sometimes what is advertised as “5-star” or “luxury” feels much lower in reality. Tripadvisor+1

2. Health & safety concerns (especially COVID-19 in 2022)

Crowded dining areas, limited ventilation, and mixed vaccination status led to risks. Particularly during early 2022, several travellers contracted COVID during cruises. Tripadvisor
Hygiene lapses also mentioned: bathrooms, bedding, towels sometimes below expectations. Tripadvisor+1

3. Hidden costs & confusing services

Extras like tipping (“baksheesh”), shop stops, drink costs, and certain entrance fees sometimes were not clear up front. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2
Transfers, itinerary changes, or substitutions of boats sometimes happen, which can be frustrating. Tripadvisor+1

4. Aggressive vendors, tourism‐pressure

Many travellers felt that when docked, local vendors and hawkers can be very pushy, which reduced the enjoyment. Tripadvisor+1
Sometimes, multiple “mandatory” shop stops are built into cruise tour itineraries. Reviewers often dislike this. Tripadvisor+1

What changed / trends in 2022 vs earlier years

After COVID-19 waves, travellers were more cautious: hygiene, vaccination status, small groups. Boats that handled this well got higher praise. Tripadvisor+1
Luxury or standout boats (newer builds or refurbished) are being more favoured. Boutique vessels such as Historia Nile Cruise and ultra-luxury ones like Oberoi Zahra get attention. Nile Cruisers
Tours are increasingly offering “off the beaten track” stops to avoid the busiest sites or times, for a more peaceful experience. Condé Nast Traveler

Summary judgement

Overall, river cruises in Egypt in 2022 offer incredible historical value, beautiful scenery, and often very good service. But the quality is inconsistent. If you choose carefully — pick newer/refurbished boats, check recent reviews, understand included / excluded costs — you can have a memorable, excellent experience. However, expectations should be managed: “luxury” in Egypt may not match “luxury” in Europe or North America in all aspects.

Tips if you plan a river cruise in Egypt

Check recent reviews (2022/2023) for the specific boat you’ll use — cleanliness, staff, food.
Ask clearly what is included: tours, entrance fees, transfers, tipping, drinks.
Choose a smaller or higher tier ship if budget allows — less crowded, better service.
Travel outside peak heat months if possible (spring, autumn) for comfort.
Carry expectations about local quirks: aggressive vendors, delays, or substitution of some itinerary parts.

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best route for a river cruise in Egypt?
Most cruises travel between Luxor and Aswan, or include both directions. Some longer ones include Cairo and even Abu Simbel. This route hits the major temples and scenic highlights.
Are river cruises in Egypt safe?
Generally yes, especially with reputable operators. Security is high at tourist sites and on mainstream cruise lines. Health safety (cleanliness, COVID measures) varies, so check current policies.
What level of luxury can I expect?
It depends on the ship. Some cruises are very basic (older vessels, simpler décor, more rustic), others are high-end with luxury cabins, refined meals, and extras. Expect variation.
How much should I budget?
The cost depends on duration, class, and inclusions. For a 4- to 7-night cruise on a mid-range ship, expect moderate cost; luxury ships cost much more. Also budget extra for tips, optional tours, and drinks.
Is it better to use a local operator or international brand?
Local operators can offer good value and authentic experience. International brands often offer higher standards in luxury, service, and inclusions but at higher price. Check reviews whichever you pick.

Conclusion & Call to Action

River cruises in Egypt offer unmatched access to ancient history, beautiful scenery on the Nile, and a unique way to relax and explore. However, while 2022 saw many impressive cruises, there were also pitfalls in terms of cleanliness, clarity of costs, and service standards. If you plan ahead, choose well, and set realistic expectations, your river cruise can be unforgettable.