Nile Serenity Nile Cruise
A 5-star Nile cruiser with panoramic windows, Nile-view balconies, a sun deck, pool, lounge bar, full-board dining and Wi-Fi.
At a glance
- Length
- 8 days · 7 nights
- Embarks
- Wed, Sat
- Board
- Full Board
- Class
- 5-star
The short answer
Nile Serenity Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star Nile cruise sailing between Luxor and Aswan, arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt.
Snapshot
Good to know
- Accommodation
- 5-Star Nile Cruiser
- Destinations
- Luxor · Aswan · Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Valley of the Kings · Edfu Temple of Horus · Kom Ombo · Philae
- Includes
- Selected Standard, Deluxe or Suite cabin · Full-board meals from embarkation lunch through disembarkation breakfast · Guided shore excursions · Local Egyptologist services · Pool and sun deck access · Lounge bar, restaurant and Wi-Fi
- Best for
- First-time Egypt visitors · History enthusiasts · Couples · Families with older children · Travellers seeking guided sightseeing with river sailing
- Guide languages
- English
- Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator
- Class-A licensed by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism
- Member of the Egyptian Travel Agents Association (ETAA #718)
- Local Egyptologist-guided shore excursions
- On-the-ground assistance for cruise arrangements and transfers
02Overview
A first look
By mid-morning, the Nile slips past the sun deck in broad green and ochre bands, while the lounge bar settles into the quiet rhythm of river travel. Between meals, choose the pool, a shaded seat or the view through a panoramic cabin window; selected cabins also open onto Nile-facing balconies.
Shore excursions bring the contrast ashore: carved columns at Karnak Temple, painted chambers in the Valley of the Kings and the riverside temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo. Weekly sailings run in both directions between Luxor and Aswan. We arrange your cabin, embarkation details and local Egyptologists, with practical support from a licensed Egyptian tour operator throughout.
Background
The facts
Nile Serenity Nile Cruise is a deluxe 5-star river cruise arranged between Luxor and Aswan, with embarkation and disembarkation available at either port. The cruise programme combines sailing on the Nile with guided shore excursions to major ancient sites, including Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo and Philae. Weekly sailings operate in both directions between Luxor and Aswan.
In Luxor, Karnak Temple developed over many centuries, beginning during the Middle Kingdom and expanding significantly during the New Kingdom. Luxor Temple lies approximately 3 kilometres south of Karnak along the Nile, while the Valley of the Kings is on the west bank, roughly 7 kilometres from central Luxor by road. The Valley contains royal tombs mainly dating from Egypt’s New Kingdom, including the tomb of Tutankhamun, whose premium entry is generally excluded unless requested.
The vessel provides Standard, Deluxe and Suite cabin classes, with selected cabins featuring Nile-view balconies or large panoramic windows. Full-board dining runs from lunch on the embarkation day through breakfast on the disembarkation day. Onboard facilities include a pool, sun deck, lounge bar, restaurant and Wi-Fi; drinks beyond water with meals and gratuities are extra. Standard entrance fees for the listed shore excursions are included, while premium tomb entries, optional hot-air balloon flights and private transfers are additional.
Named in this entry
Luxor·Aswan·Nile River·Karnak Temple·Luxor Temple·Valley of the Kings·Edfu Temple of Horus·Kom Ombo Temple·Philae Temple·Tutankhamun·New Kingdom of Egypt
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This cruise suits first-time Egypt visitors, couples and families who want to combine guided archaeology with relaxed river travel. It is particularly appropriate for travellers interested in ancient Egyptian history who can manage uneven temple surfaces, steps and moderate walking during shore excursions.
What lingers
- 01Four-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, includes guided visits to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple.
- 02Two-hour guided West Bank excursion: Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple with our Egyptologist.
- 03We schedule Edfu visit after morning tourist boats depart, reducing crowds compared with standard cruise timetables.
- 04Sail Kom Ombo; onshore visit examines crocodile-cult archaeology and Greco-Roman reliefs with our Egyptologist.
- 05All meals on board and daily guided excursions included; premium pyramid interiors and gratuities excluded by default.
Worth knowing
How this compares
Unlike a land-based Egypt sightseeing programme, this cruise places sailing time between guided visits to temples and archaeological sites along the Nile. Unlike a basic river package, it offers several cabin classes, full-board dining and onboard facilities, while drinks beyond water, gratuities and optional premium experiences remain extra.
The route
Luxor and Aswan
- EdfuThe Temple of Horus
- Kom OmboThe Temple of Sobek
Choose your direction
- Luxor → Aswan4 nightsupstream, against the current
- Aswan → Luxor3 nightsdownstream, with the current
- Round-trip7 nightsreturn to Luxor or Aswan
Both directions
Where this ship sails
This vessel works more than one stretch of the river. The direction changes the order of the temples, the number of nights and which city you fly out of.
At sea
Detailed itinerary
Based on embarkation from Luxor and disembarkation in Aswan.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
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.
7 nights / 8 days · Luxor to Luxor
| Cabin | Low seasonMay – September | High seasonOctober – April | Peak season18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single cabin | £2,234 | £2,806 | £3,411 |
| Double cabin | £1,393 | £1,729 | £2,066 |
| Triple cabin | £1,393 | £1,729 | £2,066 |
4 nights / 5 days · Luxor to Aswan
| Cabin | Low seasonMay – September | High seasonOctober – April | Peak season18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single cabin | £1,390 | £1,716 | £2,062 |
| Double cabin | £909 | £1,101 | £1,293 |
| Triple cabin | £909 | £1,101 | £1,293 |
3 nights / 4 days · Aswan to Luxor
| Cabin | Low seasonMay – September | High seasonOctober – April | Peak season18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single cabin | £1,109 | £1,354 | £1,614 |
| Double cabin | £749 | £893 | £1,037 |
| Triple cabin | £749 | £893 | £1,037 |
7 nights / 8 days · Aswan to Aswan
| Cabin | Low seasonMay – September | High seasonOctober – April | Peak season18 Dec – 6 Jan, 21 Mar – 4 Apr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single cabin | £2,240 | £2,812 | £3,417 |
| Double cabin | £1,399 | £1,736 | £2,072 |
| Triple cabin | £1,399 | £1,736 | £2,072 |
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.
On property
What's here
- Pool
- Sun Deck
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Lounge
- Wi-Fi
Bundled in
- Full board
- Group Egyptologist
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Accommodation in your selected cabin category aboard Nile Serenity
- Full-board meals from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- The shore excursions included in the vessel’s published programme
- Guided visits led by local Egyptologists
Not included
- Drinks other than water served with meals
- International flights to Egypt and domestic flights
- Gratuities for the crew, cruise staff and guides unless otherwise stated
- Egyptian visas and personal travel insurance
- Optional extras, including hot-air balloon flights, premium tomb entries and private transfers
Tailor it
Make it yours
Travellers can select from Standard, Deluxe and Suite cabin classes, subject to availability, with selected cabins offering balconies or panoramic windows. The cruise may be combined with private pre- or post-cruise transfers, additional hotel nights, premium tomb visits or a hot-air balloon flight in Luxor. Pricing is normally per person sharing, and a single supplement typically applies to solo travellers.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Accessibility
Who can join this
Access varies according to the assigned Nile cruiser and the Luxor or Aswan berth. Boarding usually involves a gangway, which can become steep depending on the river level. Cabins, the restaurant, lounge bar, pool and sun deck may be connected by stairs, and lifts are not guaranteed. Shore excursions include uneven paving, sand, steps and exposed archaeological ground at Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings. Wheelchair users may need assistance and may not reach every deck or site area. Please share mobility requirements before booking so our licensed Egyptian tour operator can check the assigned vessel and arrangements.
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport
- Booking confirmation and travel documents
- Comfortable walking shoes with firm soles
- Sunscreen SPF50+
- Refillable water bottle
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Personal medication
- Small day bag for shore excursions
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Breathable layers for changing temperatures
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
- Covered shoulders and knees for temples
- Modest clothing for religious sites
- Swimwear with a cover-up for the pool and sun deck
Children & families
Children aged 0 to 5.99 years travel free. Children aged 6 to 11.99 years pay 50%, while children aged 12 or older pay the full adult price. Children must share a cabin with their parents, with a maximum of one child per cabin. Two or more children require their own cabin. Strollers can be awkward on gangways, decks, steps and uneven archaeological ground, so a compact stroller or child carrier is more practical. No separate minimum age is stated, but families should consider the early starts and heat.
Location
On the map
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
The vessel carries guests between Luxor and Aswan, reducing the need for separate road journeys between the principal Nile Valley sites. Shore transport is arranged with local suppliers, typically using licensed vehicles and Egyptian drivers. Our Egyptologists and excursion teams are Egyptian professionals, while the cruise arrangements support businesses in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. Waste, water and energy procedures vary by the assigned cruise operator, so we do not make unsupported environmental claims. You can reduce waste by carrying a refillable bottle, declining unnecessary single-use items and following site rules near ancient monuments.
Licensed local Egyptologists
ETAA-credentialed, on payroll
Fair wages on the ground
Drivers + guides paid above market
Site preservation
We follow MoTA visitor caps and no-touch protocols
Carbon-aware itineraries
Domestic flights only when train/road is impractical
·In summary
The cruise includes accommodation in the selected cabin class, full-board meals from lunch on embarkation through breakfast on disembarkation, and guided shore excursions with local Egyptologists. The programme visits Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo and Philae, with access to onboard facilities including a pool, sun deck, lounge bar, restaurant and Wi-Fi.
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
01What is the typical duration of a Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
The Nile Serenity Nile Cruise typically offers sailings of either three or four nights between Luxor and Aswan. These weekly departures allow for comprehensive visits to the major ancient sites along the Nile River.02What dining is included on board the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
Full-board dining is included on the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise, covering all meals from lunch on your embarkation day through breakfast on your disembarkation day. This means breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the onboard restaurant. Drinks other than water with meals are usually an additional cost.03Which shore excursions are part of the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise programme?
The Nile Serenity Nile Cruise programme includes guided shore excursions to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, and Philae. These visits are led by local Egyptologists who provide historical context at each site.04What cabin options are available on the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
The Nile Serenity Nile Cruise provides various cabin classes, including Standard and Suite options. Selected cabins feature Nile-view balconies or large panoramic windows, offering different perspectives of the river scenery. Pricing is typically per person sharing a cabin.05What amenities can I expect on board the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
On board the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise, guests have access to a pool, a sun deck, a lounge bar, a restaurant, and Wi-Fi. These amenities are designed to enhance your comfort and relaxation while sailing on the Nile.06Is the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise welcomes families. Children 0–5.99 years travel free, and those 6–11.99 years pay 50% of the adult price. Children 12 and older pay the full adult price. One child maximum can share a cabin with parents; two or more children require their own cabin.07What should I wear for shore excursions during the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
For shore excursions, we recommend light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather and walking on uneven surfaces. Modest dress, covering shoulders and knees, is advisable for visits to temples and religious sites. A hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes are essential.08Are gratuities included in the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise price?
Gratuities for the crew, cruise staff, and guides are not included in the standard Nile Serenity Nile Cruise price unless explicitly stated otherwise. It is customary to tip for good service, and guidelines are usually provided onboard.09What is the best time of year to take the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
The best time to experience the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise is typically from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for sightseeing. Summer months, from May to September, can be very hot, especially in Upper Egypt.10Can I arrange optional activities, such as a hot-air balloon ride, through the Nile Serenity Nile Cruise?
Optional extras, such as hot-air balloon flights over Luxor or premium tomb entries in the Valley of the Kings, are not included in the standard cruise package. These can often be arranged through the cruise staff or your Discovery Tours Egypt specialist.
If plans change
Cancellation
- More than 30 days
- Full refund less a £50 admin fee
- 15–30 days
- 50% refund
- Within 14 days
- No refund – date changes considered case by case
Product ID: CRU-NIL-973497
You Might Also Like
Nile7 Nights
Alexander The Great Nile Cruise
Six-night Prestige Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan aboard a 5-star vessel. Typical calls include Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange transfers, Egyptologists and shore excursions. We don't run group bus tours, we favour paced days so you see Edfu and Kom Ombo properly, not in 40 minutes. Unlike many four-night packages, this six-night voyage gives longer calls and more cruising time.
Nile7 Nights
Concerto II Nile Cruise
Luxor7 Nights
Le Fayan Nile Cruise
Board MS Le Fayan at the Luxor Corniche pier and step aboard a compact Nile cruise that runs four days downriver to Aswan. I guide the shore excursions myself when available; we move with the light – morning visits to the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut's temple when tombs are coolest, late-afternoon walk through Karnak's Hypostyle Hall if crowds thin. Cabins are Nile-cruise size and practical, with private en suite bathrooms and wardrobe space; this is intimate, not an ocean liner. Each afternoon you sit on the shaded sun deck and watch feluccas, fishermen and river markets pass close to the bank. We stop at Edfu and Kom Ombo for temple walks; plan on 60–90 minute shore calls in Edfu and a short market visit at Kom Ombo's quay. In Aswan we moor on the Corniche and arrange the motorboat transfer to Philae Temple. Meals follow local rhythms: breakfasts and lunches on board, an evening of grilled fish when the catch is good. Note practical details up front: luggage transfers use the pier gangway, mobile signal is patchy between Nile bends, and some tombs require extra-permit fees. If you like quiet mornings in old temples and direct commentary from an Egyptologist, this four-day downriver cruise keeps logistics simple and the day-to-day focused on sites and sunlight.
From £1,023