How to Book a Nile Cruise in Egypt

How to Book a Nile Cruise in Egypt

Taking a Nile cruise trip may be among the most amazing ways to enjoy Egypt with all its temples, old cities, and magnificent Nile Valley view. However, with various routes, different cruise ships and their cabin types, trip duration, and other factors, the task of picking the right cruise may seem confusing. Therefore, if you have been thinking about taking a Luxor to Aswan Nile cruise or any other kind of a sailing holiday in Egypt, there are several things that should be checked beforehand.

Choose the Right Nile Cruise Route and Duration

The initial step in booking a Nile cruise in Egypt will be to consider which cruise route is appropriate for you. The best option for those who wish to discover some of the ancient attractions that are well-known in the country will be the route between Luxor and Aswan. In this case, it is possible to see such sites as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple and Philae Temple. The cruises either start in Luxor and end in Aswan or vice versa.

Another important aspect is the duration of the cruise. For people who have less time, there will be a shorter cruise and vice versa. It is also necessary to think about the type of vessel to use – the traditional Nile cruise ship or the Dahabiya Nile Cruise.

Before booking, it is better to study the cruise itinerary carefully and not choose a cruise depending on its cost. Pay attention to the number of nights of cruising, sightseeing points, starting port and the finishing point.

Compare Nile Cruise Ships, Cabins and Facilities

After you've narrowed down your route, it's time to take a look at the cruise ships. There is a wide range of cruise ships in Egypt-from mid-range to all-out luxury-so it's good to examine the cabin sizes, amenities, eating options and onboard entertainment before booking, because two ships with the same price can be worlds apart.

Begin by inquiring what is the cabin category your price includes. Do you have access to a Nile view, private bathroom, air-conditioning and plenty of storage space? If scenic views are a must for you, then a good location can really enhance your experience. It may also be advisable to look into what the ships swim pool, restaurants, lounge areas and other amenities are if you plan to spend much time on board.

Reading reviews can give you an idea of what previous customers thought of the cleanliness, cuisine, the service and the general atmosphere. Always remember to look for more recent reviews as ships are often refitted and management can change. Luxury travelers may want to choose the more luxurious ship with larger suites and more attentive service, while travelers who value sightseeing may choose to spend less on the ship and more on excursions in Luxor and Aswan.

Check What Is Included Before Booking Your Nile Cruise

While some of the Nile cruise offers can seem reasonable, there is a risk that some of the services will not be included. Before making a booking, it is vital to see the inclusion in a package because it might differ among different operators and itineraries.

First of all, see whether the guided excursions will be provided with the help of a licensed Egyptologist. Such trips can give a unique perspective on visiting ancient places and will explain the history, architecture, and stories connected to those monuments. Besides, see whether transfers from the airport/hotel, entrance tickets, and embarking services will be included in the deal.

At the same time, it is vital to understand which extra costs can be expected while using the package. Additional cost may include drinks, optional trips, tips, personal expenses and special activities. Some of the offers may provide several types of accommodation and meal plan for an additional price.

Thus, reading the booking conditions and the price policy will help to avoid unpleasant surprises. See the cancellation policies and payment procedures. Sometimes it is worth choosing a slightly more expensive cruise and see all the inclusions and extras in advance.

Select the Best Time to Book a Nile Cruise in Egypt

Selecting the right period for the booking can influence the availability and also experience of the trip. Egypt is known to have cooler months that range from autumn through spring and are perfect for sightseeing since temperatures tend to be more pleasant in Luxor, Aswan and on the archeological sites along the river Nile. The said period will thus be very appropriate for people looking forward to a Nile cruise.

During the peak seasons, early booking will provide more opportunities in terms of sailing, choice of cabin and category of cruises. It becomes even more helpful when the itinerary involves flights and hotels in Cairo or any other tours in Egypt. Last-minute booking of a cruise can make one miss out on the preferred ship or even cabin.

Summer months can be ideal for people who prefer quiet travel periods. The temperature however gets very high in upper Egypt. Whether it is winter or summer, it is important to take into consideration the program of sightseeing besides the weather because most excursions occur outdoor.