Akhnaton Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Five-star dahabiya with panoramic windows, shaded sun deck, lounge bar, full-board dining and licensed Egyptologist-led shore excursions, sails weekly between Luxor and Aswan.
At a glance
- Length
- 4 days · 3 nights
- Embarks
- Mon, Fri
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-star
Per cabin · Cabins are sold individually — book just your own cabin, sharing the boat with a handful of other guests.
The short answer
Akhnaton Dahabiya is a four-day Nile cruise covering Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan, arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt.
·In summary
The Akhnaton Dahabiya programme links Luxor and Aswan with visits to six named sites, including Karnak Temple and Philae. Unlike large Nile cruise ships, this dahabiya-style sailing uses guided shore excursions led by licensed Egyptologists.
- Luxury
- Cultural
- Archaeology & history
- Couples·
- Seniors
Snapshot
Good to know
- Accommodation
- 5-Star Dahabiya
- Destinations
- Esna · Edfu · Kom Ombo · Aswan
- Includes
- Accommodation aboard Akhnaton Dahabiya · Full board from embarkation lunch to disembarkation breakfast · Guided shore excursions with licensed Egyptologists · Use of the sun deck, lounge bar and dining room · Air-conditioning · WiFi where available · Room service · Spa access
- Best for
- Couples · Cultural travellers · Slow-paced travellers · Small groups
- Guide languages
- Arabic · English · French · German · Italian · Spanish
- Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator.
- The listed shore excursions are led by licensed Egyptologists.
- The supplied exclusions identify gratuities, visas and travel insurance as not included.
- The vessel amenities are described as vessel-provided, with WiFi available where offered.
What lingers
- 01Seven-day Akhnaton Dahabiya between Luxor and Aswan – gentle sailing on the Nile with deck cabins.
- 02Daily shore visits include Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae Temple at Aswan.
- 03We anchor overnight away from Aswan cruise terminals, allowing temple visits after day-boat crowds depart.
- 04Meals aboard include breakfast and dinner; lunch served ashore or on request per daily plan.
- 05We don't run coach group tours; the Akhnaton Dahabiya sails slower, giving extended temple time ashore.
02Overview
A first look
By dawn the Nile throws a pale light across the water, and the dahabiya's brass fittings catch and reflect it while the crew lowers the gangway. Panoramic windows frame reed-lined banks, the shaded sun deck offers a place to read between visits ashore, and low-deck cabins prioritise wide Nile views rather than cramped corridor space.
Our Egyptologists join the vessel for guided walks at temples and tombs, and we arrange embarkation assistance and luggage handling to make getting aboard straightforward. The vessel sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, and we favour dahabiyas for quieter, slower sailing days compared with larger ship timetables.
Background
The facts
Akhnaton Dahabiya is a dahabiya-style Nile cruise vessel used for sailing between Luxor and Aswan on the River Nile. Luxor is the embarkation and disembarkation point for many east-bank and west-bank excursions, while Aswan serves as the southern river port. The vessel’s programme alternates sailing days with guided shore excursions, so travellers spend part of the journey on board and part visiting historic sites along the river corridor.
The included excursion programme commonly covers Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, and the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of Luxor. Karnak and Luxor Temple date mainly to Egypt’s New Kingdom and later periods, while the Valley of the Kings contains royal tombs used from the 18th Dynasty onwards. These are visited as shore excursions rather than independent sightseeing stops.
The vessel offers cabins in Standard, Deluxe and Suite categories, with some accommodation featuring Nile-view windows or balconies. Public spaces include a sun deck, lounge bar and dining room, and full board is provided from lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. Discovery Tours Egypt arranges the cruise and the guided excursion programme, while the vessel itself is operated by a third-party cruise line.
Akhnaton Dahabiya sails weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, making it suitable for travellers who want a slower river journey with guided site visits and time on the Nile between ports. Pricing is typically per person sharing, with a single supplement often applied for solo occupancy.
Named in this entry
Akhnaton Dahabiya·Luxor·Aswan·Karnak Temple·Luxor Temple·Visit to the Valley of the Kings·Edfu·The Temple of Horus·Kom Ombo·Sobek·Philae Temple·Aswan High Dam
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This cruise suits adults and older children who want a quieter river journey with structured sightseeing and comfortable cabin accommodation. It is a strong fit for history-focused travellers, couples, and small groups who prefer a more intimate atmosphere than large coach-based touring.
Maybe not, if
- Choose a different option if you need step-free access, a stroller-friendly itinerary or a fast-paced schedule with little walking. The May to September heat can also make temple visits demanding for travellers who struggle with high temperatures.
Honest assessment
Real trade-offs from our experience managing this tour.
Highlights
- Guided visits include Karnak, Luxor Temple and the Valley of the Kings.
- A smaller dahabiya setting is quieter than a large cruise boat.
Things to Consider
- Uneven ancient stone, steps and ramps make site visits demanding.
- Strollers are impractical at many archaeological sites.
- May to September heat can make outdoor visits strenuous.
- Drinks beyond water with meals cost extra.
Worth knowing
How this compares
Most large Nile cruise ships follow a larger-vessel format; Akhnaton Dahabiya is a dahabiya-style sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Some visits are audio-only; the listed shore excursions here are led by licensed Egyptologists.
The route
Esna and Aswan
- EdfuThe Temple of Horus
- Kom OmboThe Temple of Sobek
Choose your direction
- Esna → Aswan4 nightsupstream, against the current
- Aswan → Esna3 nightsdownstream, with the current
The route
Where this ship sails
The stretch of river this vessel works, and what the sailing is like end to end.
On board
Detailed itinerary
Based on embarkation from Esna and disembarkation in Aswan.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
On property
What's here
- Air conditioning
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Spa
- Non-smoking rooms
- Wi-Fi
- Beach access
- Airport shuttle
Bundled in
- Full board
- Group Egyptologist
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Stay on board the Akhnaton Dahabiya
- Full board, from lunch on embarkation day to breakfast on disembarkation day
- Shore excursions in the vessel’s programme, led by licensed Egyptologists
- Use of the sun deck, lounge bar and dining room
- Use of vessel amenities: air-conditioning, WiFi where available, room service and spa access
Not included
- Flights between your home country and Egypt
- Visa fees, travel insurance and personal costs
- Tips for cabin crew, Egyptologists and local team members
- Premium alcoholic drinks and bottled drinks beyond water served with meals
- Optional extras, such as hot-air balloon flights or private transfers
Field notes
From our Egyptologists
- 01
Confirm which cabin class is available before booking; Standard, Deluxe and Suite categories are listed.
- 02
Check whether your preferred cabin has a Nile-view window or balcony, as cabin features vary.
- 03
Budget separately for gratuities and premium alcoholic or bottled drinks.
- 04
Ask whether optional private transfers are available if your flight times do not suit the vessel schedule.
Tailor it
Make it yours
We can arrange optional hot-air balloon flights and private transfers, which are not included. Ask us about extending your stay in Luxor or Aswan; any changes to the cruise programme depend on the vessel's schedule.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Where it fits
The 4-day Akhnaton Dahabiya fits between a Luxor stay and onward travel from Aswan, or as the Nile segment of a longer Cairo, Luxor and Aswan itinerary. Allow extra time in Luxor for Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings beyond the cruise programme.
Accessibility
Who can join this
The Akhnaton Dahabiya has stairs between decks, narrow cabin doorways, and gangways that can be steep when the vessel is alongside a riverbank, so passengers should expect limited step-free access. Public areas such as the sun deck and lounge are reached by steps, and there is no wheelchair lift aboard. Shore excursions include temple entrances with steps and uneven ancient stone, plus short stretches of sand at river landings. We arrange assistance during embarkation and disembarkation where possible, and we will assess specific cabin suitability and shore-excursion routes before you book. If you use a wheelchair or have reduced mobility, please contact us with full mobility details and any required equipment, so our licensed Egyptologists and local partners can advise which cabins and excursions are feasible. Medical or mobility equipment carriage may be restricted by gangway width and quayside access at some landings.
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
The Akhnaton Dahabiya is a small, traditionally styled Nile sailing craft that uses low-wake diesel engines for manoeuvring and river transits, so its fuel use is lower than larger motor cruise ships of comparable capacity. Shore transfers and excursions are provided by small, air-conditioned coaches or launches owned by local suppliers; we favour partners who employ local Egyptologists and crew recruited from surrounding communities. The vessel management follows local waste-segregation procedures and we work with them to minimise single-use plastics aboard. A portion of passenger tips and some shore-excursion income supports local boat crews and artisan sellers at scheduled stops, and we encourage guests to buy crafts directly from community makers. We prefer small dahabiyas for their lower noise, smaller guest numbers, and reduced wake effect compared with larger motor cruisers, which generally means a smaller environmental footprint per passenger on the river.
Licensed Egyptologist guides
State-licensed, and people we have worked with for years
Fair wages on the ground
Drivers + guides paid above market
Site preservation
We follow the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities' site rules: marked paths, no touching reliefs
Local teams, real help
Our own offices in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Marsa Alam and Sharm El Sheikh
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport and booking voucher
- Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Sunscreen SPF30 or higher and a wide-brimmed hat
- Light daypack and refillable water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Essential medication and prescriptions
- Camera, spare batteries or charger
What to wear
- Light, loose clothes suited to warm daytime weather
- Long sleeves or a light shawl for sun protection
- Trousers or a skirt covering the knees for temple visits
- A light layer for cooler mornings and air-conditioned interiors
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes for steps and uneven ground
Children & families
Children aged 0 to 5.99 years travel free; children aged 6 to 11.99 years pay 50% of the adult price, and those aged 12 or over pay the full adult price. Children must share a cabin with a parent, with a maximum of one child per cabin. Two or more children need their own cabin. Strollers can be awkward on gangways and shore visits; a carrier or compact folding stroller is more practical. Cot availability is limited, so request one when booking.
Cabin pricing
Pricing & seasonal rates
Per person, per cabin, in GBP. Each rate below covers the full sailing, the guided sightseeing programme along the route, and your arrival and departure transfers between the vessel and the local airport or railway station.
4 nights / 5 days · Esna to Aswan
| Cabin | Low seasonMay – September | High seasonOctober – April | Peak season18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single cabin | £1,710 | £1,819 | £2,236 |
| Double cabin | £1,118 | £1,184 | £1,425 |
3 nights / 4 days · Aswan to Esna
| Cabin | Low seasonMay – September | High seasonOctober – April | Peak season18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single cabin | £1,354 | £1,436 | £1,748 |
| Double cabin | £910 | £959 | £1,140 |
Cabin allocation
- Nile vessels do not have interconnecting cabins.
- Book early and we will ask the vessel to place your party together — usually adjacent, or directly opposite.
- Cabin numbers are confirmed by the vessel at check-in.
Indicative rates only – pricing and cabins fluctuate. Please enquire for live rates on your specific dates.
If plans change
Cancellation
- More than 30 days
- 75% back, or 100% kept as credit towards a future holiday
- 15–30 days
- 50% back, or 75% kept as credit
- 7–14 days
- 25% back, or 50% kept as credit
- 2–6 days
- Nothing back; 25% kept as credit
- Under 48 hours, or if you don't turn up
- No refund and no credit
Notice is counted from the day you arrive in Egypt. A few vessels have their own terms; where that's so, we'll let you know before any payment is taken.Read our full cancellation and refund policy
Location
On the map
While you're here
Worth pairing
- Luxor TempleRight here
- Luxor Museum20 min walk
- Karnak Temple3 km
- Visit to the Valley of the Kings8 km
Why book this with us
Three reasons, stated plainly
01
We arrange the cruise and its shore excursions together
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
01What is the typical duration of an Akhnaton Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
The Akhnaton Dahabiya typically offers 7-day cruises, alternating between sailing days and guided shore excursions. These cruises sail weekly in both directions between Luxor and Aswan, providing a comprehensive experience of the Nile.02What is included in the Akhnaton Dahabiya cruise fare?
Your cruise fare includes full board, from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. It also covers guided shore excursions led by our licensed Egyptologists at sites such as Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, and the Valley of the Kings.03What is the embarkation and disembarkation process for the Akhnaton Dahabiya?
We arrange embarkation assistance and luggage handling for your convenience. The vessel embarks and disembarks at Luxor and Aswan, with specific timings provided in your final travel documents. Our team ensures a smooth start and end to your journey.04What should I wear and bring for a Nile dahabiya cruise?
For shore excursions, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sun cream. Modest dress, covering shoulders and knees, is required for visiting religious sites like temples and mosques.05Is the Akhnaton Dahabiya suitable for travellers with mobility concerns?
Dahabiyas offer a more intimate setting, but access to the vessel and some shore excursions may involve gangways, steps, or uneven ancient terrain. We recommend discussing specific mobility needs with us during your enquiry so we can advise on suitability.06What is the dining experience like on board the Akhnaton Dahabiya?
The Akhnaton Dahabiya provides full-board dining, with all meals included from embarkation lunch to disembarkation breakfast. Meals are served in the onboard restaurant, offering a variety of local and international cuisine. Drinks beyond water with meals are typically extra.07What kind of cabins are available on the Akhnaton Dahabiya?
The Akhnaton Dahabiya offers comfortable cabin spaces with wide panoramic windows, allowing for excellent riverside views. Specific cabin grades, their square metreage, and views can be detailed upon enquiry, ensuring you select the best option for your comfort.08What is the best time of year to take an Akhnaton Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
The cooler months from October to April are generally considered the best time for a Nile cruise, offering pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. This period is ideal for enjoying the sun deck and shore excursions without excessive heat.09Are children welcome on the Akhnaton Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
Families with children are welcome on the Akhnaton Dahabiya. The dahabiya atmosphere is quieter and more intimate than larger cruise ships, which some families prefer. Please discuss your family's specific needs with our travel advisors when booking.10What is the photography policy for the sites visited during shore excursions?
Photography is generally permitted at most archaeological sites, though some tombs and museums may prohibit flash photography or require a separate photography ticket. Our Egyptologists will advise you on specific rules at each location to ensure compliance.
Last updated 8 March 2025Product ID: CRU-NIL-372244
You Might Also Like
Nile3 Nights
Amoura Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Amoura Dahabiya is a sail-powered dahabiya for a quieter journey on the Nile. Its route includes stops at places such as El Kab, Gebel Silsila and the Hagar Salsala quarry, which are accessible to dahabiyas. The pace differs from that of larger motor cruisers, with sailing shaped by wind conditions and time ashore at river sites. Full Board covers lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day. The captain and crew are on board, and guests can use the public areas and sun deck. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise; the vessel is operated by its supplier.
From £910
Nile3 Nights
Bens Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Bens Dahabiya is a sail-powered dahabiya cruise on the River Nile in Egypt. Dahabiyas offer a quieter, slower-paced alternative to larger Nile cruise ships, though sailing times can vary with wind conditions. Full-board meals are provided from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Standard sightseeing and site entrance fees are included only where listed in the confirmed cruise programme. Some visits involve walking over uneven ground. Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator, arranges the cruise; the vessel is operated by its cruise provider. Unlike larger cruise ships, a dahabiya offers a smaller-scale sailing experience, but the exact route and sightseeing stops depend on the confirmed booking.
From £912
Nile3 Nights
Queen Cleopatra Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Queen Cleopatra Dahabiya is a small sailing boat on the Nile, featuring four double cabins and room for up to eight guests. With its lateen sail and limited passenger capacity, it provides a more peaceful alternative to larger Nile cruise ships, although sailing times are dictated by the wind. Full Board covers lunch on the day you embark through to breakfast on the day you disembark; drinks other than water served with meals cost extra. The dahabiya can be chartered in full; the rate is available on request. At least two cabins must be booked to guarantee sailing, and a private charter supplement may be charged when fewer than all four cabins are booked. The booking is arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator; we do not operate the vessel.
From £808