Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya

Luxor - Aswan - Luxor

( reviews)
duration icon

Duration

7 Nights / 8 Days

start location

Start Location

Luxor

tour schedule

Tour Schedule

Every Saturday

Overview

Set sail on a 7-night roundtrip cruise from Luxor aboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya, and uncover the heart of ancient Egypt in comfort and style. Blending traditional sailing charm with modern luxury, this elegant voyage brings you from Luxor’s grand temples to the serene landscapes of Aswan, before gracefully returning to Luxor. Guests explore Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple, with plenty of time to relax on deck and watch the Nile’s timeless rhythm unfold. This roundtrip journey ensures you experience both the majesty and tranquility of Egypt’s most legendary river.

Onboard Experience
Life aboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya feels like a floating boutique hotel. The peaceful pace of sailing allows guests to soak in Egypt’s landscapes and villages far from the crowds. Each evening, enjoy fine dining on the deck or under the stars, as the Dahabiya anchors in quiet coves along the riverbanks.

Rooms & Suites

  • 5 Stylish Deluxe Cabins with Nile-view windows

  • 2 Lavish Suites with private terraces

  • En-suite bathrooms, climate control, and fine linens

  • Personalized service and daily housekeeping

Features & Highlights

  • 7-night roundtrip sailing from Luxor to Aswan and back

  • Visits to Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple

  • Gourmet dining and small-group guided excursions

  • Elegant Dahabiya ambiance for a serene and exclusive experience

  • Return to Luxor with smooth transfers and optional extensions

Itinerary

  • Pick-up and Greeting
  • Meet and assist upon arrival in Luxor.

  • Transfer to the elegant Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya.

  • Welcome drink, cabin check-in, and time to settle.

  • Lunch is served onboard as the boat anchors peacefully near the East Bank.

  • Optional: gentle evening stroll or rest onboard.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard in Luxor.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Visit:

    • Karnak Temple Complex, the grand ceremonial center of Amun.

    • Luxor Temple, aligned with the rising sun and royal processions.

  • Return to the boat for lunch.

  • Begin the first stretch of southbound sailing toward Esna.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard near Esna.

  • Breakfast on board.

  • Glide through the Esna Lock, a classic dahabiya experience.

  • Continue sailing to Edfu.

  • Visit the powerful Temple of Edfu, dedicated to Horus, impeccably preserved.

  • Afternoon sailing deeper into the Nile Valley.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard near a quiet island.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, honoring both Sobek and Horus the Elder.

  • Lunch during a gentle sail toward Aswan.

  • Afternoon tea on deck with Nubian landscapes emerging.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard approaching Aswan.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Visit the sacred Temple of Philae, home of Isis.

  • Optional visits:

    • High Dam

    • Unfinished Obelisk

  • Return for lunch.

  • Free afternoon to relax or explore Aswan.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard in Aswan.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Begin retracing the Nile northward, drifting with calm breezes.

  • Optional stop at a Nubian village or riverside farm (time/conditions permitting).

  • Lunch while sailing.

  • Anchor near Kom Ombo or Edfu for the night.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard.

  • A long, beautiful day of sailing back toward Luxor.

  • Breakfast, lunch, and tea served as the dahabiya glides through timeless scenery.

  • Opportunity for:

    • Deck lounging

    • Journaling

    • Photography

    • Optional island walks

  • Evening Egyptian-style farewell dinner.

  • Overnight onboard near Luxor.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Final sail-in to Luxor.

  • Assisted disembarkation and transfer to airport/hotel.

  • End of the 7-night dahabiya journey.

Included/Excluded

Included:

  • Qualified English-speaking Egyptologist guide
  • Horse carriage use as the transport for Edfu temple.
  • Motorboat use as a ferry for Philae temple.
  • Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Teatime
  • Nightly Entertainment
  • English speaking guide (another language available with extra cost)
  • Sightseeing Package
  • Entrance fees to sites
  • Modern Air-conditioned transportation

Excluded:

  • Tipping, beverages, extra activities, and Personal spending
  • Any optional tours mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entry visa to Egypt
  • Optional activities
  • International airfare
  • Tutankhamun Tomb

Facilities

  • Safety deposit box
  • Nightly Entertainment
  • Fitness center
  • Free toiletries
  • Laundry service and housekeeping
  • Cabins are fully air conditioned
  • Telephone system with international calls.
  • Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Full board ( Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner )

Policies

Check-in :               Check-out : 
12:00 PM                 8:00 AM

Children Policy :

  • Children 5 years and under are free of charge.
  • Maximum one child allowed in cabins.

Map

Question & Answers

  • The best time for a Nile cruise is during the cooler months from October to April. Temperatures are more comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

    If you prefer hot, dry desert weather, then all other months may suit you. Most ships have pools to keep cool.

Pack light and include:

  • Comfortable clothing for daytime excursions
  • A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
  • Casual evening wear for onboard dinners
  • Comfortable shoes for walking tours
  • A light jacket for cooler evenings during the winter months


Cancellation policies may vary depending on the specific package and timing. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions provided during the booking process or contact their customer service for detailed information. Click here to Review Terms and Conditions

Nile cruises typically range from 3 to 7 nights, depending on the itinerary. A popular option is the 4-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, which covers major attractions like the Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Philae Temple.

For those seeking a more unique experience, consider a Lake Nasser cruise, which explores the Nubian region and visits remarkable sites like the Abu Simbel Temples.

Alternatively, a Cairo to Luxor cruise offers an extended journey through Egypt, combining historical landmarks along the Nile with stunning views of rural life.

For a more intimate and traditional experience, the Dahabiya sailboat cruise provides a luxurious and relaxed way to explore the Nile, often stopping at smaller, less-visited sites.

Nile cruises are generally very safe. Operators adhere to strict safety and hygiene standards. Professional guides accompany passengers on excursions, and the onboard staff ensures a secure and comfortable experience throughout the journey.



  • Most Nile cruise packages include:
  • Accommodation in a comfortable cabin
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Guided tours to historical sites
  • Onboard entertainment. Some packages may also include airport transfers or optional excursions.

Nile cruises are generally suitable for families with children, offering activities and entertainment tailored for younger travelers.

Additionally, most operators accommodate dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Inform the cruise company of any specific requirements in advance.

Most Nile cruise operators accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. It’s advisable to inform the cruise company of your requirements in advance. 

Nile cruises typically offer a variety of cabin options, including:

  • Standard cabins with river views
  • Luxury suites with additional amenities and river views
  • Family-sized cabins for larger groups. 

Each cabin is equipped with modern comforts like air conditioning, private bathrooms, and storage space.

Lake Nasser cruises offer a tranquil and less crowded alternative to traditional Nile cruises. These cruises explore Nubian heritage and visit unique sites such as Abu Simbel Temples, Amada Temple, and the Temple of Kalabsha. Passengers enjoy stunning views of the desert landscape meeting the expansive lake.

Click here to check available Lake Nasser cruises.

A Dahabiya is a traditional Egyptian sailing boat offering a more intimate and luxurious cruise experience. Unlike large cruise ships, Dahabiyas accommodate fewer passengers and sail at a relaxed pace, allowing guests to explore hidden gems and less-visited sites along the Nile.

These cruises are perfect for those seeking privacy, personalized service, and an authentic connection to the river's timeless beauty.

Cancellation policies may vary depending on the specific package and timing. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions provided during the booking process or contact their customer service for detailed information. Click here to review Terms and Conditions

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