Cruising the Nile River
Cruising down the Nile River is an exceptional and unique experience, allowing you to explore the immense beauty of this historic river and the incredible wonders of ancient Egypt. With professional crew and luxury amenities, a Nile River cruise is the perfect way to relax in comfortable surroundings while being captivated by the compelling scenery and culture of this ancient region.
The Nile River is the longest river in the world, and it runs through nine countries in North Africa. Cruising along the longest river gives you the opportunity to experience the wonders of this diverse region. As you sail, you can admire the lush vegetation, ancient monuments, and the spectacular desert landscapes. The Nile River was the lifeblood of the ancient Egyptians and is still an integral part of the cultural and economic life of the country. On a Nile River cruise, you can take in the unique sights, sounds, and smells of this ancient land, while traveling in style.
Nile River cruises typically run for a week or two, starting and ending at Luxor, Egypt. Luxor is the major port for river cruises and is the gateway for exploring the major ancient sites of the region. The journey takes you along lush greenery, breathtaking temples, archaeological ruins, and spectacular views of the desert. During a Nile River cruise, you will visit ancient cities like Luxor and Aswan, take a look at the dramatic landscapes of the Valley of the Kings, and witness the powerful monuments of Karnak and Abu Simbel.
Not only are Nile River cruises leisurely, but they also offer remarkable comfort and amenities. As well as cruising the Nile River in style, guests can enjoy the exceptional standards of international cuisine, with regional delicacies and freshly-made dishes. On board, there is a luxurious spa, fitness centre, pool and a range of activities and entertainment, making it easy to relax and enjoy your holiday.
One of the most attractive aspects of Nile River cruising is the rich culture of the place. During your journey on the Nile, you can learn about the traditional life of the people, their customs, and even try some of their delicacies. Along the way, you can also purchase unique souvenirs and handmade artifacts that can serve as souvenirs and mementos from your cruise.
The best time to cruise the Nile River is between April and October as this is when the water level is at its highest and the temperatures are cooler. Plus, it’s during this time when the ancient sites and monuments are at their most beautiful. However, the Nile River is a popular tourist route, so it’s best to book in advance to guarantee a spot.
Cruising Amenities
Nile River cruise agency usually offer highly equipped Nile cruise ships with state-of-the-art amenities, such as an international staff, sophisticated decks, extravagant restaurants and buffets, unique sun lounges, luxurious spa and cabins and even a state of the art swimming pool. Cruise ships on the Nile River also offer a range of onboard activities such as shows, lectures, karaoke bars, discos, casinos and souvenir shops. You can explore different decks and enjoy the amazing sights of the river while taking advantage of all the fantastic amenities.
There are several types of cruise ships that are used on the Nile River, such as luxury vessels, medium-size boats, and budget cruisers. Luxury ships have the highest levels of comfort, amenities, and services, and will usually accommodate approximately 150 passengers. The medium-size boats are ideal for those who are looking for a more economical option, while also enjoying quality accommodations, and usually accommodate between 25 and 50 people. The budget cruisers are usually packed with basic amenities and are ideal for a more basic Nile river cruise experience.
When considering a Nile River cruise, you should also consider the main ports you will be stopping at. Some of the most popular ports for Nile river cruises include Luxor, Aswan and Cairo. Luxor is the major port for river cruises and is the gateway for exploring the major ancient sites of the region. Aswan is a major trading port, home to stunning temples and famous markets. Cairo is another port which offers stunning sights and insight into the ancient culture of Egypt.
Before booking your Nile river cruise, you should research the different cruise lines that offer the itineraries and ships that you are interested in. Select a cruise and make sure to book with a reputable company that offers a high level of service. With a little bit of research, you will be able to enjoy the best possible experience throughout your trip.
Things to Do While Cruising
As you cruise along the longest river in the world, there are plenty of activities and places to explore. Guests on a Nile river cruise can expect to stop off at some of the most incredible ancient sites and monuments, such as the magnificent temples of the Valley of the Kings, the majestic temples of Karnak and Abu Simbel, and the stunning tombs of Luxor. As well as historical and archaeological sites, riverside activities vary from port to port and range from horse riding to fishing from the shore.
You can also take different kinds of tours while cruising down the Nile. One of the most popular tours is the first-class Pyramid tours. These tours provide you with an unparalleled experience that allows you to explore the ancient pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and Saqqara. You can also take in other sights such as the legendary Coptic Museum of Cairo and the mysterious alleys of the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
If you’re looking to relax during your cruise, many ships offer onboard spa and massage services that can give you the ultimate pampering experience. Cruise vessels also provide an innovative swimming pool and plenty of sun lounges to satisfy your relaxation needs, as well as plenty of recreational and sporting activities.
When it’s time to eat, you will be spoiled for choice. Most Nile river cruises provide guests with a full-service buffet which offers a variety of culinary delights using freshly-sourced, locally grown produce. You will find great local delicacies such as kushari, a traditional dish that is made of lentils, macaroni and rice, as well as a selection of modern Mediterranean and international cuisine. Additionally, ships usually offer themed nights filled with live entertainment and traditional music.
The Final Hours of the Voyage
As your cruise begins to come to an end, you can make the most of the last few hours by having a memorable dinner, attending a night show or event, or having a pre-departure cruise cocktail party. Many cruises also offer on board entertainment such as themed nights, live performances and cultural activities. Before you disembark, treat yourself to a private dinner on the deck, or enjoy a desert safari excursion or other shore excursion.
For guests wanting to make the most of their last moments on board, the onboard venues provide a range of amenities and activities to occupy their time. From spa treatments, entertaining games, shopping, fine dining, and live music performances, you will find plenty of activities to make the most of.
At the end of your Nile river cruise, you will no doubt be left with some fond memories and lasting impressions of this incredible region. While cruising the Nile River is an unforgettable experience, the best part of it is the chance to appreciate and experience its ancient culture, mingle with local people, and explore its stunning beauty.
Dining and Shopping While Cruising
When it comes to dining on a Nile River cruise, you can expect to enjoy a variety of fantastic dishes. Most ships offer everything from fine dining to traditional cuisine, and buffet-style meals, with menus that feature a variety of international dishes, meat and fish, vegetables and of course, local delicacies. Dining options aboard the boat are usually excellent, with exquisite ambiances and settings for your ultimate indulgence.
When you arrive in port, there are plenty of opportunities to purchase handmade artifacts, souvenirs, and clothing at local markets. Plus, while cruising along the Nile River, you will be able to visit the famous markets of the major ports, such as the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo, or the unique craft shops of Aswan. In these markets, you will find endless opportunities to take home unique memories and reminders of your Nile River cruise.
As currencies vary depending on the country, it’s best to bring a variety of payment methods, including USD (or your own currency), credit cards and traveler’s cheques. Remember to also bring cash for smaller purchases, as some markets and shops do not accept card payments.
Exploring the Sights
During your Nile River cruise, you will be invited to explore some of the most amazing places on earth. To do this, you should ensure that you book a range of excursions before your embark, including basic excursions such as city sightseeing, museum and gallery visits, and guided tours of ancient monuments. Most cruise lines will also offer enhanced excursions to the pyramids, Saqqara and the Valley of the Kings.
For guests wanting to go deep into the culture and history of Egypt, it’s highly recommended to book a combination of tours. Explorer tours offer a great way to explore the most famous sites, including Medinet Habu, the Temple of Kom-Ombo and Hatshepsut’s Temple in Luxor, as well as Horus Temple and the Temple of Isis at Aswan.
For security reasons, it’s important to take precautions when exploring the ancient sites, such as staying with tour groups, avoiding carrying cash or jewelry, and continuing to remain vigilant when snapping photos. Most tour companies will provide a certified guide to ensure the safety of their guests and keep an eye on all their belongings.
Throughout your cruise, you will have the chance to learn more about the ancient sites and explore the impressive culture and rich history of Egypt and the Middle East. From exploring the temples to the endless opportunities to purchase unique souvenirs, this unique region will undoubtedly leave you with remarkable memories.
