Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Nile with this budget-friendly 3-night cruise from Aswan to Luxor. Enjoy the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt, marveling at the colossal statues of Abu Simbel and exploring the dual temple of Kom Ombo. Relax in well-appointed cabins, savor satisfactory dining options, and experience the seamless transportation between cities. But that’s not all – this cruise also offers the opportunity to soar above the Valley of the Kings in a hot air balloon, providing a unique perspective on this remarkable region. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that await.
Key Points
- A 5-star cruise ship offers a 3-night stay with well-appointed cabins and budget-friendly accommodations from Aswan to Luxor.
- The package includes lunch on the first day, dinner for 3 nights, and breakfast every morning, with generally decent food quality.
- The guided tour highlights key ancient Egyptian sites, such as Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Valley of the Kings, and Philae Temple.
- Seamless transportation between Aswan and Luxor in air-conditioned vehicles, including convenient hotel and port pickups and drop-offs.
- The itinerary also includes a hot air balloon ride, providing a unique perspective of the stunning Nile River landscape.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Cruise Ship Amenities and Accommodations
The cruise ship boasts a comfortable 3-night stay with a well-appointed cabin featuring all necessary facilities, catering to the traveler’s needs on a budget-friendly itinerary.
Meals are included, with lunch on the first day, dinner for 3 nights, and breakfast every morning.
Although the ship is a bit older, it’s clean and comfortable. The staff is friendly, though the concierge may be more focused on tips.
It’s important to note that some guests have experienced food poisoning, so travelers should exercise caution.
Dining and Meal Offerings
Meals on the cruise include lunch on the first day, dinner for 3 nights, and breakfast every morning, providing a satisfying culinary experience for travelers on a budget. The meals are included in the package price, which helps keep costs down. The food is described as decent quality, though some guests reported experiencing food poisoning during the cruise.
| Meal | Details |
|---|---|
| Lunch (Day 1) | Buffet-style with a variety of local dishes |
| Dinner (3 Nights) | 3-course menu with Egyptian and international options |
| Breakfast (3 Mornings) | Buffet with continental and cooked items |
| Food Quality | Generally decent, though some food poisoning reported |
Staff Interactions and Feedback
Guests’ experiences with the cruise staff were a mixed bag, with the concierge team reportedly laser-focused on soliciting tips, while the rest of the crew maintained a generally friendly demeanor.
The Egyptology guide was knowledgeable and personable, though not always punctual.
The staff on the old but clean and comfortable cruise ship were accommodating, with the exception of the concierge, who seemed primarily concerned with earning extra gratuities.
Despite this, the overall service was satisfactory, and many guests appreciated the efforts of the crew in ensuring a pleasant and memorable experience.
Notable Guided Tour Highlights
Qualified Egyptology guides led guests through a series of fascinating historical sites, including the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel, the well-preserved ruins of Kom Ombo, and the legendary Valley of the Kings. The knowledgeable and friendly guides shared their expertise, bringing the ancient wonders to life. However, they weren’t always punctual, which occasionally caused minor inconveniences.
| Site | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Abu Simbel | Colossal statues of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari |
| Kom Ombo | Dual temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus |
| Valley of the Kings | Burial grounds of numerous pharaohs, including the famous King Tutankhamun |
| Philae Temple | Accessible by motorboat, this temple complex was dedicated to the goddess Isis |
Transportation and Logistics
For the cruise, travelers were seamlessly transported between Aswan and Luxor in air-conditioned vehicles, with convenient hotel and port pickups and drop-offs.
Plus, a horse-drawn carriage awaited guests in Edfu, providing a charming mode of local transportation.
The transportation arrangements ensured a hassle-free experience:
- Efficient transfers to and from the hotels and ports, saving time and energy
- Comfortable air-conditioning in the vehicles, ensuring a pleasant journey
- Unique horse-drawn carriage ride in Edfu, adding a touch of local flavor
- Reliable and punctual service, allowing participants to make the most of their excursions
The logistics were well-planned, allowing travelers to focus on soaking in the stunning sights and enjoying the cruise.
Additional Activity Experiences
Travelers enjoyed a thrilling hot air balloon ride over Luxor’s West Bank, soaring high above the ancient ruins and lush landscapes.
The hot air balloon excursion provided breathtaking aerial views of the Valley of the Kings and other iconic sites, giving guests a unique perspective of the region.
Plus, they boarded motorboats to reach the picturesque Philae Temple, an experience that added a delightful aquatic element to the journey.
The motorboat ride to Philae Temple was a tranquil and scenic way to explore the temple’s island setting, surrounded by the Nile River.
These optional activities added an extra layer of adventure and exploration to the already immersive cruise experience.
Pricing Details and Inclusions
At a reasonable price of $398 per person, the cruise package from Aswan to Luxor incorporates essential inclusions like a 3-night stay on a 5-star cruise ship, meals, and knowledgeable Egyptology guides to escort travelers through iconic sites like Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings.
While entrance fees to these historical wonders are an additional $7-10 per site, the convenience of pre-arranged transportation and the ability to enjoy activities like a hot air balloon ride over Luxor make this an attractive and budget-friendly option.
Cruise through the Nile in comfort and style.
Uncover the mysteries of ancient Egypt with expert guidance.
Witness breathtaking views from a hot air balloon.
Hassle-free transfers to and from hotels and ports.
Refund and Cancellation Policies
Fortunately, the cruise provider offers refunds if the hot air balloon or visit to Abu Simbel gets cancelled due to unfavorable weather conditions. This means you won’t lose out if Mother Nature interferes with your plans.
Plus, the company has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing you to receive a full refund up to 15 days before your departure date. This gives you peace of mind in case your travel plans change.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. All meals are included in the package price. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to consume in your cabin.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hot Air Balloon Ride?
The hot air balloon ride typically has no age restrictions, but passengers must meet minimum height requirements for safety. Travelers should check with the tour operator for specific details before booking.
Can I Request a Specific Cabin Location on the Cruise Ship?
Yes, you can request a specific cabin location on the cruise ship, though availability may be limited. The cruise line will make reasonable efforts to accommodate your preference, though it cannot guarantee a specific cabin assignment.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour Experience?
There is no option to upgrade to a private tour experience. The cruise package offers a shared group tour with a qualified Egyptology guide. Private tours may be available at an additional cost, but are not part of the standard $398 per person package.
Will I Be Able to Charge My Electronics on the Cruise Ship?
Yes, the cruise ship has electrical outlets in the cabins, allowing you to charge your electronics. The ship provides standard amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience during your cruise.
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Recap
The 3-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor offers a budget-friendly and immersive experience, with well-appointed cabins, satisfactory dining, and guided tours showcasing remarkable ancient Egyptian sites.
The transportation is seamless, and additional activities like a hot air balloon ride add to the overall experience.
Despite mixed staff interactions, this cruise provides a great value for travelers seeking an authentic Nile River journey.
