Sonesta Amirat Sail

Aswan - Luxor - Aswan

( reviews)
duration icon

Duration

7 Nights / 8 Days

start location

Start Location

Aswan

tour schedule

Tour Schedule

Every Saturday

Overview

Set sail on a luxurious 7-night roundtrip Nile journey from Aswan aboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya, where timeless elegance meets modern comfort. This intimate river experience captures the romance of ancient Egypt with visits to iconic temples and tranquil Nile islands. From the mystical Philae Temple and the twin sanctuaries of Kom Ombo, to the sacred Temple of Horus at Edfu and the legendary tombs of Luxor, each day reveals new layers of Egypt’s grandeur. The roundtrip design allows guests to savor the journey at a gentle pace—sailing both ways along the Nile for a complete and unhurried exploration.

Onboard Experience
Designed for ultimate comfort and intimacy, the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya combines classic décor with five-star service. Guests enjoy gourmet dining, spacious decks, and an attentive crew. Sailing with wind power creates a serene, eco-friendly experience free from engine noise, letting you hear only the soft lapping of the Nile. Each evening, the boat anchors in a quiet riverside spot, offering a peaceful night under the Egyptian stars.

Rooms & Suites

  • 5 Deluxe Cabins with panoramic Nile views

  • 2 Elegant Suites with private terrace and seating area

  • All cabins feature air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and luxury amenities

  • Daily housekeeping, room service, and personalized hospitality

Features & Highlights

  • 7-night roundtrip cruise from Aswan aboard a luxury Dahabiya

  • Visit Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor’s East and West Banks, and return via the scenic Nile route

  • All-inclusive meals prepared fresh daily

  • Expert Egyptologist-guided tours throughout

  • Private moorings away from large cruise ships for a serene experience

Itinerary

  • Meet and assist upon arrival in Aswan.

  • Transfer to the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya.

  • Enjoy a warm welcome, refreshing drinks, and settle into your private cabin.

  • Lunch served on board.

  • Begin with a soft cruise toward El-Sheikh Fadl Island or a similar quiet anchorage.

  • Dinner on board under the Aswan twilight.

  • Overnight on the Dahabiya.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Visit the enchanting Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis.

  • Optional visit to the High Dam or Unfinished Obelisk if desired.

  • Return to the dahabiya and begin sailing toward Kom Ombo.

  • Leisure time on deck as the Nile breezes guide your journey.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard near Kom Ombo.

  • Breakfast onboard.

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

  • Continue sailing toward Edfu, enjoying village views and timeless farmlands.

  • Lunch on deck while drifting along ancient riverbanks.

  • Anchor near a peaceful island or village for the night.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard.

  • Visit the Temple of Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved shrines.

  • Return to the dahabiya and start cruising toward Luxor.

  • Enjoy slow sailing, local landscapes, and the golden glow of the Nile Valley.

  • Traditional Egyptian dinner served on board.

  • Overnight onboard near Esna or a quiet mid-river location.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Disembark for visits to:

    • Valley of the Kings

    • Hatshepsut Temple

    • Colossi of Memnon

  • Optional: visit to artisans’ village or additional tombs.

  • Return to the ship for lunch and relaxation.

  • Evening free time on deck under Luxor’s desert-starlit sky.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard in Luxor.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Visit the majestic Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple.

  • Return to the dahabiya for lunch.

  • Begin the return sailing journey toward Aswan.

  • Sunset tea on deck as the boat glides into the quiet southbound waters.

  • Dinner & overnight onboard near Edfu or a nearby island.

  • Enjoy a slow full-day sail back toward Aswan.

  • Relax on deck, read, journal, or simply take in the shifting landscape.

  • Optional village walk or island stop depending on wind and timing.

  • Festive Egyptian-style farewell dinner.

  • Overnight onboard near Aswan.

  • Breakfast onboard.

  • Final sail into Aswan.

  • Check-out and transfer to the airport/hotel.

  • End of the 7-Night Dahabiya journey.

Included/Excluded

Included:

  • Entrance fees to sites
  • 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
  • Sightseeing Package
  • Modern Air-conditioned transportation
  • English speaking guide (another language available with extra cost)
  • Nightly Entertainment

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
  • Room services
  • Minibar
  • Cabins are fully air conditioned
  • Private-bath/shower with hair dryer
  • Telephone system with international calls.
  • Wi-Fi in public areas
  • In room dining service

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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