Nile Excellence Nile Cruise
A five-star Nile cruiser with a sun deck, lounge bar, dining room, full-board meals, and cabins with panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies.
At a glance
- Length
- 8 days · 4 nights
- Embarks
- Mon, Fri
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-star
The short answer
Nile Excellence Nile Cruise is a five-star Nile cruise vessel arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt.
Snapshot
Good to know
- Destinations
- Luxor · Edfu · Kom Ombo · Aswan
02Overview
A first look
As the Nile slips past the sun deck, palm shadows move across the water and the lounge bar settles into the quiet rhythm of river sailing. From your cabin, a panoramic window or Nile-view balcony frames villages, farmland, and desert edges as the landscape changes between Luxor and Aswan.
Our Egyptologists give the shore excursions their context, from Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, and the Valley of the Kings. Nile Excellence sails weekly in both directions, with full board from embarkation lunch through disembarkation breakfast. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we select the vessel, arrange your cabin, and coordinate the program around your sailing schedule.
Background
The facts
Nile Excellence is a five-star Nile cruise vessel that sails on the Nile River between Luxor and Aswan. The route connects Upper Egypt’s main river ports and is commonly used for multi-night travel between temple sites rather than for point-to-point transport alone. Embarkation and disembarkation take place in Luxor or Aswan, depending on the sailing direction.
The vessel’s cabin inventory is graded into Standard, Deluxe, and Suite categories, with many cabins offering panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies. Public facilities typically include a sun deck, lounge bar, and dining room, which are standard social spaces on higher-category Nile cruisers. Full board applies from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day.
The shore-excursion program normally includes Karnak Temple on the east bank of Luxor, Luxor Temple in the city center, Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple near Aswan, and the West Bank sites associated with the Valley of the Kings. Weekly sailings operate in both directions, and the voyage alternates sailing time with guided visits at port calls. Standard entrance fees are generally included unless a specific premium site or interior access is listed separately.
This type of Nile cruise is used mainly for travelers who want accommodation and sightseeing combined in one itinerary. It is distinct from a land tour because the vessel functions as the moving hotel while the excursion program covers the archaeological stops along the river corridor.
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This cruise suits travelers who want a structured Nile journey with a five-star cabin, set mealtimes, and guided temple visits. It is a good fit for first-time visitors, couples, and adults who prefer organized river travel over independent logistics.
What lingers
- 01MS Nile Excellence: four-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Edfu, Kom Ombo, Karnak Temple.
- 02Overnight moorings in Aswan allow an early Philae visit before mid-morning tourist boat traffic.
- 03Standard site entrance fees are included; optional extras such as hot-air balloon or pyramid interior are excluded.
- 04Small-group guided excursions led by our Egyptologist, with flexible boarding times to avoid peak crowds.
- 05Unlike cruise-ship schedules, we stop at Esna Lock to transit and offer short commentary on the lock's operation.
The route
Luxor and Aswan
- EdfuThe Temple of Horus
- Kom OmboThe Temple of Sobek
Choose your direction
- Luxor → Aswan4 nightsupstream, against the current
- Aswan → Luxor3 nightsdownstream, with the current
- Round-trip7 nightsreturn to Luxor or Aswan
Both directions
Where this ship sails
This vessel works more than one stretch of the river. The direction changes the order of the temples, the number of nights and which city you fly out of.
At sea
Detailed itinerary
Based on embarkation from Luxor and disembarkation in Aswan.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
Cabin pricing
Pricing & seasonal rates
Per person in USD, based on cabin sharing. Single supplements apply. Holiday surcharges apply at Christmas, New Year & Easter.
8 Days / 7 Nights · Luxor to Luxor
| Cabin | Low | High | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Cabin | $3,857 | $4,266 | $4,676 |
| Triple Cabin | $1,188 | $1,263 | $1,339 |
| Double Cabin | $1,491 | $1,605 | $1,718 |
5 Days / 4 Nights · Luxor to Aswan
| Cabin | Low | High | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Cabin | $2,373 | $2,607 | $2,841 |
| Triple Cabin | $848 | $891 | $934 |
| Double Cabin | $1,021 | $1,086 | $1,151 |
4 Days / 3 Nights · Aswan to Luxor
| Cabin | Low | High | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Cabin | $1,878 | $2,053 | $2,229 |
| Triple Cabin | $734 | $766 | $799 |
| Double Cabin | $864 | $913 | $961 |
8 Days / 7 Nights · Aswan to Aswan
| Cabin | Low | High | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Cabin | $3,870 | $4,280 | $4,689 |
| Triple Cabin | $1,201 | $1,277 | $1,353 |
| Double Cabin | $1,504 | $1,618 | $1,732 |
Children 0–5.99 years free · 6–11.99 years pay 50% · 12+ pay full adult price. Children must share a cabin with parents (max 2 per cabin).
Indicative rates only – pricing and cabins fluctuate. Please enquire for live rates on your specific dates.
Bundled in
- Full board
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Accommodation aboard the Nile Excellence in the booked cabin class
- Full board meals: lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day
- Scheduled shore excursions as listed in the vessel's program
- Use of public facilities on board: sun deck, lounge bar and dining room
Not included
- Drinks beyond bottled water with meals, unless stated otherwise
- Optional or premium excursions
- Special-site entrance supplements (for example, pyramid interiors)
- Gratuities for cruise staff and Egyptologists unless explicitly requested
- International or domestic flights to embarkation/disembarkation ports
Accessibility
Who can join this
This Nile cruise requires moderate physical mobility. Boarding and disembarkation use a gangway with steps; some ports require climbing ramps or short stairways to reach the shore. Cabins and public areas on many Nile cruisers include one or two shallow steps; elevators are uncommon on smaller vessels. Shore excursions visit ancient sites with uneven stone, narrow tomb passages, steep steps (for example inside many tombs in the Valley of the Kings), and open sun exposure with limited shade. Wheelchairs can be used on the vessel in many public spaces, but shore access is often restricted by steps, sand, or cobbled surfaces. If you require wheelchair assistance, oxygen, or other mobility support, please tell us in advance so we can arrange appropriate help at airports and ports, and advise which shore visits may be impractical. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and will provide a named representative on arrival to discuss accessibility needs and coordinate alternatives where possible.
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport and any required visas
- Comfortable walking shoes with grip for uneven ancient stone
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen SPF30+
- Lightweight, layered clothing for hot days and cooler evenings
- Refillable water bottle (many vessels provide filtered water stations)
- Small daypack for shore excursions and camera equipment
- Any personal medications plus a copy of prescriptions
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for daytime on the Nile
- Covered shoulders and knees for temple and mosque visits
- A light sweater or long-sleeve for evenings on deck
- Stable, closed-toe walking shoes for archaeological sites
- Smart-casual outfit for evenings in the lounge or dining room
Children & families
Children 0 to 5.99 years travel free; children 6 to 11.99 years pay 50% of the adult price; children 12 years and older pay the full adult price. Children must share a cabin with their parents, maximum one child per cabin; two or more children require their own cabin. Strollers are usable on the vessel but are impractical at many shore sites because of steps, narrow tomb passages, and sandy approaches; bring a lightweight, foldable stroller if needed. High chairs and child meals can usually be provided on request; tell us at booking so we can confirm availability with the vessel.
Location
On the map
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange this Nile cruise with locally based suppliers and crew. The vessel uses diesel-powered river engines typical for Nile sailing; where possible operators use low-sulfur fuel and modern engine maintenance to reduce emissions. Excursion guides are local Egyptologists and boat crew are Egyptian, so tourism revenue remains in local communities along the Nile corridor. Onboard practices typically include recycling where facilities permit and reduced-plastic initiatives, such as encouraging refillable water bottles aboard. Shore visits buy food and services from local vendors and employ licensed site guides, which supports small businesses in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. If you want additional low-impact choices, ask us about vegetarian meal options, group transfers to reduce vehicle use, or booking excursions that work with registered community guides.
Licensed local Egyptologists
ETAA-credentialed, on payroll
Fair wages on the ground
Drivers + guides paid above market
Site preservation
We follow MoTA visitor caps and no-touch protocols
Carbon-aware itineraries
Domestic flights only when train/road is impractical
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
01What is the typical duration of a Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
The Nile Excellence typically offers 5-day sailings between Luxor and Aswan. These cruises include four nights aboard the vessel, providing a comprehensive experience of the Nile's historical sites.02What is included in the full board meal plan on the Nile Excellence?
The full board meal plan covers lunch on your embarkation day through breakfast on your disembarkation day. This includes all main meals served in the ship's dining room, with bottled water provided during meals.03Which historical sites are visited during the Nile Excellence shore excursions?
The Nile Excellence shore excursion program visits key sites such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu's Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. These excursions are led by our Egyptologists.04What are the cabin options available on the Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
The Nile Excellence offers Standard, Deluxe, and Suite grade cabins. Many cabins feature panoramic windows or Nile-view balconies, providing views of the river. All cabins are designed for comfort during your sailing.05Is the Nile Excellence Nile Cruise suitable for families with children?
Yes, the cruise is suitable for families. Children aged 0-5.99 years travel free, while those 6-11.99 years pay 50%. Children 12 and older pay the full adult price. One child maximum can share a cabin with parents; two or more children require their own cabin.06What should I wear or bring for a Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
We recommend bringing light, comfortable clothing for daytime excursions and slightly more formal attire for evenings. Essential items include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient sites. Modest dress is advised for religious sites.07What is the policy regarding gratuities for staff and Egyptologists on the cruise?
Gratuities for the cruise staff and your Egyptologists are not included in the standard cruise price. This allows you to tip based on your satisfaction with the service received. Specific guidance on customary amounts can be provided upon request.08Are there any additional costs or excluded items I should be aware of?
Yes, drinks beyond bottled water with meals are generally extra. Optional excursions, special-site entrance supplements like pyramid interiors, and international or domestic flights to the embarkation/disembarkation ports are also excluded from the cruise price.09What is the best time of year to take a Nile Excellence Nile Cruise?
The best time to take a Nile cruise is typically from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. Summer months, May to September, can be very hot, though the vessel is air-conditioned.10How does Discovery Tours Egypt arrange my Nile Excellence cruise?
Discovery Tours Egypt carefully selects and books the Nile Excellence cruise for you. We coordinate your accommodation, full board meals, and the vessel's scheduled shore excursions, ensuring a seamless experience on the Nile. The vessel itself is owned and operated by the cruise line.
If plans change
Cancellation
- More than 30 days
- Full refund less a £50 admin fee
- 15–30 days
- 50% refund
- Within 14 days
- No refund – date changes considered case by case
Product ID: CRU-NIL-580202
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