Best Luxury Nile Cruise Egypt : Top Nile Cruise Packages Egypt Prices 2025-2026

 The ideal time is during the cooler months, from October to April,  when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. The peak  season is December through February, so book early to guarantee  availability and better rates. The summer months (June to August) offer  fewer crowds and cheaper prices, but the heat can be intense.  

 Most standard itineraries between Luxor and Aswan last three to seven nights.  Shorter, 2-night itineraries are also available, while longer, more  comprehensive journeys can last up to 12 days and may include domestic  flights.  

 You will need a valid passport and an entry visa for Egypt. Many  nationalities, including US, UK, EU, and Australian citizens, can obtain  a visa on arrival at major airports like Cairo, Luxor, or Aswan. Check  current visa requirements with the Egyptian consulate or embassy for your specific nationality.  

 Most Nile cruise packages are full-board,  including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guided shore excursions to  major historical sites (like the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, and Philae  Temples) led by an Egyptologist are typically part of the package.  However, beverages (other than coffee/tea at breakfast) and optional  excursions (like the Abu Simbel trip or a hot air balloon ride) usually  cost extra.  

 Cruises offer a wide variety of food, generally a mix of international  and local Egyptian cuisine, often served buffet-style. Most ships can  accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, celiac, etc.) if  notified in advance.  

 Most modern cruise ships have Wi-Fi, but the service often costs extra  and the connection can be slow or unreliable, especially in remote  areas. Purchasing a local SIM card with an internet plan upon arrival in  Egypt is a more reliable and affordable option.  

 Onboard the ship, casual and comfortable clothing is fine. However, a modest dress code is required for visiting religious sites like temples and mosques  (covering shoulders and knees). Comfortable walking shoes are essential  for exploring the historical sites, which often involve a lot of  walking.  

 The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (LE). While major credit  cards are accepted on board most ships (often with a surcharge), you'll  need local currency or small US dollar/Euro denominations for tipping,  small purchases, and local markets.  

 It depends on the package type. Many comprehensive tour packages that  combine a Nile cruise with a stay in Cairo include round-trip domestic  flights (e.g., Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo). Packages that only  cover the cruise portion between Luxor and Aswan usually do not include  flights. Always confirm flight inclusions with your tour operator.  

 Similar to domestic flights, combined "all of Egypt" packages often  include hotel accommodation in Cairo, Luxor, or other cities before or  after the cruise. Cruise-only packages do not.  

 Most reputable Nile cruise packages include standard sightseeing tours  and the associated entry fees to major historical sites like the Valley  of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Philae Temple. However, optional excursions, such as a hot air balloon ride over Luxor or a visit to the Abu Simbel temples, typically incur an additional cost.  

 Nearly all Nile cruises operate on a full-board basis,  meaning breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. However, beverages  (other than basic tea, coffee, and juice at breakfast) and alcoholic  drinks are usually an extra expense. A few high-end or specific  "all-inclusive" luxury lines offer drink packages, but these are less  common and more expensive.  

 Transfers between the airport/hotel and the cruise ship are generally  included in the package, especially if you book a combined tour that  also features flights or hotel stays. This provides convenience and  peace of mind upon arrival in Egypt.  

 Be prepared for potential extra expenses not covered in the base price, including:

• Optional excursions
• Beverages (soft drinks, alcohol, bottled water outside of meal times)
• Gratuities for the crew, guides, and drivers
• Laundry and spa services
• Wi-Fi access (if not complimentary)
• Visa fees and travel insurance

 Yes, most tour operators offer a degree of customization. You can often  tailor your itinerary to include specific optional excursions, upgrade  your cabin category, or add extra hotel nights to suit your preferences.  

 Prices vary widely based on the duration, cruise ship category (budget,  5-star standard, luxury), time of year, and included amenities. A  3-night, 5-star standard cruise can start from around $500 per person,  while ultra-luxury or longer itineraries can cost several thousand  dollars.  

 It is recommended to book as far in advance as possible to ensure  availability, especially if you plan to travel during the peak season  (October to April) or around holidays like Christmas and Easter, when  demand is highest and prices are higher.  

 Typical price ranges by category (2025/2026)

• Budget/Standard Cruise: A 4-night cruise in a standard cabin can start from around $400–$600 per person.
• Mid-range/Deluxe Cruise: For a 4- to 5-night trip, prices can range from $600 to $900 per person, offering a solid 5-star experience.
• Luxury Cruise: Expect to pay over $1,000 for a 4- to 5-night cruise, with prices  exceeding $2,000 for more opulent ships and amenities. A 7-night luxury  cruise can cost between $2,500 and $3,500 per person.
• Dahabiya (Traditional Sailboat): The most intimate and personalized option. A 4-day trip on a standard dahabiya is around $750–$1,200 per person, while luxury options start at $1,200. Private charters can reach $7,000–$15,000 for the full boat. 

 Key factors that influence price

• Time of Year: The highest prices are found during the peak winter season (November to  February) due to increased demand and holidays. The lowest prices are  available during the off-peak summer season (May to September), when the  weather is hottest.
• Duration and Itinerary: Standard 3- and 4-night trips between Luxor and Aswan are the most  common and affordable. Longer cruises, or specialized routes like Lake  Nasser or Cairo to Aswan, will have a higher total cost.
• Vessel Type and Amenities: The ship's class—from basic to 5-star luxury—is the largest factor  affecting cost. Luxury vessels feature more spacious cabins, finer  dining, and exclusive amenities like spas.
• Package Inclusions: Prices typically cover accommodation, meals, and guided sightseeing.  However, costs can differ based on whether domestic flights, airport  transfers, and beverages are included. Optional excursions and  gratuities are almost always extra.