Expert Guide to Nile Cruise Sailing Dates and Schedules

Have you ever wondered which time slot offers the perfect balance of temple visits, serene river views, and fewer crowds on a Luxor–Aswan journey?

I’m your guide from Egypt Cruise Planners, here to simplify your choices for international travelers. Focusing on the classic Luxor–Aswan routes, our Egypt Nile River Cruises provide clear, practical advice—no Lake Nasser options—to make planning easy.

Expect detailed options: 3 Night departures from Aswan on Mon/Wed/Fri and 4 Night departures from Luxor on Mon/Thu/Sat. We provide ship names, typical start times, and check-in notes so you can align cabins, amenities, and your budget perfectly.

This guide also highlights realistic price ranges and Nile River Cruise all-inclusive offerings, including guided visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Plus, you’ll find tips on booking for cooler weather and calmer crowds, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey.

Key Takeaways

• Clear roadmap for choosing short or longer river options between Luxor and Aswan.
• Exact weekday departures and how they affect onshore visits and timing.
• Indicative prices to help set a realistic travel budget.
• What a typical day includes — meals, guided tours, and relaxed deck time.
• How to hold a cabin and match the ship style to your comfort needs.

Welcome aboard—Your Trip begins with your guide from Egypt Cruise Planners

Let me guide you through the choices so your river trip starts calm and clear. I’m your personal contact at Egypt Cruise Planners. I compare departures for travelers from the United States and worldwide, so everyone feels at home planning with me.

What I bring: real knowledge of hotel-style ships, expert-led site visits, and the ways top brands operate. Major operators include Travco (Steigenberger Nile Cruise, Jaz Nile Cruise), Mövenpick Nile Cruise, Sonesta Nile Cruise, Oberoi Nile Cruise, and more.

I translate busy timetables into a simple plan. I explain how a typical tour unfolds onboard—meals, Egyptologist-led visits, free time—so you feel ready before check-in.

• I’ll be a single, friendly voice who knows ships and shores.
• I’ll answer practical, real-time questions about flights, clothing for sunrise visits, and pacing.
• I help first-timers learn the daily rhythm; I help return guests refine their experience.

Operator	Ship Style	Typical Focus
Travco (Steigenberger)	Hotel-style	Comfort, guided touring
Movenpick / Sonesta	Contemporary	Service, cuisine
Oberoi	Luxury	High-end amenities

Nile Cruise Sailing Dates and Schedules

Match your arrival city to the weekly rhythm — some departures suit tight plans, others invite a relaxed pace. I lay out the common patterns so you can pick with confidence.

Typical weekly pattern: 4-night departures from Luxor most often run on Thursday, Saturday, and Monday. 3-night departures from Aswan commonly leave on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Check-in is usually near 11 a.m.; actual sailing normally begins after breakfast, around 8:00–9:00 a.m.

Short itineraries compress highlights; longer runs let you linger on deck between guided visits. Cooler months sell earlier, so book sooner if weather matters. Ship rotations tie specific departure days to real, bookable options — I’ll list those ships next.

• I explain the northbound versus southbound flow so you know the daily visit order.
• If friends arrive on different days, I’ll suggest combos that sync for shared tours.
• Allow for river traffic; flexible afternoon plans keep the trip smooth.

Departure Type	Common Days	Check-in Time	Indicative Price (USD)
3-night from Aswan	Mon, Wed, Fri	~11:00 a.m.	$350+
4-night from Luxor	Thu, Sat, Mon	~11:00 a.m.	$420+
Boarding vs sailing	Board early; cruise after breakfast	Board before lunch	Depends on ship class

3-Night Nile Cruise from Aswan — Monday Departures

Monday departures from Aswan to Luxor offer a compact, four-day run that balances major temples with calm river views. I see these trips as efficient and enjoyable for travelers with limited time.

Typical check-in sits near 11 a.m., with boarding after breakfast. The standard itinerary covers Philae Temple, the High Dam, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Esna lock transit, and Luxor’s East and West Bank highlights over the days.

• Monday rotation ships: Alyssa Nile Cruise, Livingstone, Le Fayan Nile Cruise, La Traviata, Minerva, Soleil Nile Cruise, Sun Ray—mixed styles and amenities.
• Expect a tight daily flow: breakfast onboard, late-morning guided visits, relaxed sailing, then evening rest.
• Cabin choices matter—upper-deck cabins and suites go quickly; request early if you want larger windows.
• Abu Simbel is optional as a day trip or short flight add-on before you board in Aswan.

Feature	What to Expect	Indicative Cost	Notes
Itinerary	Philae, High Dam, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Luxor	From USD 350	Season-dependent pricing
Meals	Breakfast & lunch onboard most days; dinners included on most ships	Included (standard)	Bring water and snacks between tours
Onboard amenities	Pool deck, spa options, varied dining	Varies by ship class	Ask about Wi‑Fi and open‑deck access
Optional add-on	Abu Simbel by road or flight	Extra cost	Book early for morning transfers

If you prefer a focused river cruise that still hits the highlights, a Monday start from Aswan is a smart pick. How to Choose the Right Nile Cruise I’ll guide you in comparing ships, cabins, and amenities so your short itinerary perfectly fits your comfort needs and budget.

3-Night Nile Cruise from Aswan — Wednesday Departures

Wednesday departures from Aswan often give a relaxed rhythm that fits tight itineraries and curious explorers. I find midweek runs particularly peaceful, with fewer crowds at key sites.

Typical flow: check-in sits near 11 a.m., boarding after breakfast, then guided visits to Edfu (Horus), Kom Ombo (Sobek & Haroeris), and Luxor’s West Bank across the three days. Lunch onboard usually slots between tours, leaving afternoons for sailing or deck time.

Wednesday rotations include Blue Shadow Nile Cruise, Concerto, Esplanade, Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise, and Star Goddess—ships that span casual to refined styles. Pricing for this 3-night option commonly starts around USD 350. You can add Abu Simbel from Aswan before you board; I’ll align transfers or short flights with your arrival.

• Morning visits begin after breakfast; afternoons mix sailing with a second stop.
• Compare dining layouts and lounges to match your relaxation needs.
• I’ll map a clear day-by-day plan so photos and timing work well at Edfu and Kom Ombo.

Feature	Wednesday Rotation	Check-in / Start	Indicative Price
Ships	Blue Shadow, Concerto, Esplanade, Princess Sarah II, Star Goddess	~11:00 a.m.; after breakfast	From USD 350
Key sites	Edfu, Kom Ombo, Luxor West Bank	Guided morning visits; lunch onboard	Included (standard tour)
Optional add-on	Abu Simbel transfer or flight	Pre-cruise day	Extra cost — book early

3-Night Nile Cruise from Aswan — Friday Departures

Friday departures from Aswan bring the biggest fleet lineup, so you get the widest choice of ship styles and onboard vibes. This rotation runs many vessels—from Acamar through Sun Goddess—covering classic comfort to premium finishes.

Core highlights mirror other three-night runs: Philae, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Luxor’s East and West banks. Indicative fares start near USD 350 for standard classes; peak season can push prices higher.

If Abu Simbel is essential, Friday rotations often align with an early Aswan day trip or a short flight the morning before boarding. Breakfast usually comes before the first guided visit, which helps set a smooth daily rhythm.

• The roster offers variety—spa, sun deck, lively bars, or quiet lounges—so I match ships to your vibe.
• Over three days, you’ll balance guided temple time with relaxed evening river moments.
• Golden hour at Kom Ombo and the run toward Esna offer great light—I’ll point you to the best deck spots for photos.

Feature	What to Expect	Typical Cost	Notes
Fleet size	Acamar–Sun Goddess roster; broad choices	Varies by ship class	Book early for preferred cabins
Itinerary flow	Philae, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Luxor visits	From USD 350	Seasonal price shifts apply
Add-on option	Abu Simbel by road or flight before boarding	Extra cost	Arrange transfers in advance
Daily rhythm	Breakfast, guided morning tours, and afternoon sail	Included on most packages	Check meal timings per ship

4-Night Nile Cruise from Luxor — Monday Departures

Choose a Monday departure from Luxor when you want roomy days at Karnak and time to unwind between tours. I find these 4-night/5-day trips give the best pace for deep exploration without rushing.

What to expect: check-in is usually near 11 a.m., with the first full day focused on Luxor — Karnak’s Hypostyle Hall, Luxor Temple at dusk, and the Valley of the Kings with Hatshepsut. Later days include Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae as you move toward Aswan.

Monday rotations include Acamar, Chateau Lafayette, Esmeralda Nile Cruise, Farah, Hamees, Historia Nile Cruise, Mayfair, Mirage, Moon Goddess, Nile Goddess, Princess Sarah Nile Cruise, Radamis I Nile Cruise& II, Royal Esadora, Royal Lily, Royal Lotus, St. George, and Sun Goddess. This roster covers standard to luxury options, so you can match cabins and amenities to your style.

• Expect a balanced day: breakfast, morning tour, onboard lunch, then relaxed afternoons on the river.
• I’ll help you choose cabins — Juliet balconies, upper‑deck suites, or standard rooms — to fit budget and view preferences.
• Luxury-curious travelers will find enhanced dining, larger spas, and refined service on several Monday ships.

Feature	Details	Indicative Price (USD)
Itinerary highlights	Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae	From ~420
Check-in	Around 11:00 a.m.; boarding after brief orientation	Included
Onboard amenities	Pools, spas, fitness, upgraded dining on luxury vessels	Varies by ship class

If you plan a sunrise balloon in Luxor, I’ll slot it so you still catch key temple time. Monday departures give space to breathe—more temple hours, more deck moments, and a smoother flow along the river.

4-Night Nile Cruise from Luxor — Thursday Departures

If you arrive in Luxor midweek, a Thursday start keeps momentum without wasting a travel day. I find this option suits travelers who want a steady pace across five days and four nights.

Thursday ships: Alyssa Nile Cruise, Le Fayan Nile Cruise, La Traviata, Livingstone, Minerva, Soleil, Sun Ray. These vessels simplify choice while spanning comfort levels from classic to refined.

The standard itinerary covers Luxor’s East and West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae as you head toward Aswan. Indicative fares often begin near USD 420 for many cabins.

• This run opens at Luxor’s icons, then slides south with timed cruise segments and guided visits.
• Lunch onboard is woven between tours, leaving afternoons for deck time or spa bookings.
• I’ll confirm timing for the Valley of the Kings so you hit tombs during quieter hours.
• If you want romantic evening shots, I’ll point to nights with the best lighting for temple photos.

Feature	Detail	Indicative Price
Common ships	Alyssa, Minerva, Sun Ray set	From ~USD 420
Key sites	Luxor East/West, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae	Included in standard itinerary
Onboard comforts	Pool deck shade, spa, varied dining	Varies by vessel class

4-Night Nile Cruise from Luxor — Saturday Departures

Saturday departures are perfect for a quick weekend hop that turns into a slow, scenic glide from Luxor to Aswan. Board mid-morning, breathe, and settle into a relaxed rhythm before the big temple days.

Ships on this rotation include Blue Shadow, Concerto Nile Cruise, Esplanade, Princess Sarah II, and Star Goddess. Each vessel brings a distinct onboard personality—choose one that fits your taste for comfort or light luxury.

With four nights, the itinerary gives room for richer storytelling from your Egyptologist, especially on Luxor’s West Bank. Expect full-day visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, then Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae as you travel south.

• Weekend ease: Saturday departures streamline travel and free up your first day for gentle exploration.
• Cabin tips: I recommend mid-ship cabins for quieter nights and steady views.
• Leisurely pace: Ample pauses between sites mean tea on deck, and sunset silhouettes near Kom Ombo.

Discover Egypt Tours with Cruise and find the perfect Nile Cruise itinerary for your Nile River adventure.

Feature	Typical Offer	Indicative Price
Route	Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Philae → Aswan	From ~USD 420
Ship examples	Blue Shadow, Concerto, Esplanade, Princess Sarah II, Star Goddess	Varies by cabin class
Best for	Weekend arrivals, relaxed days, small-group touring	Standard to luxury options

What each itinerary covers: key sites and daily flow

Expect a steady flow: mornings for major temples, a midday pause for breakfast or lunch onboard, then scenic river time and calm evenings to review the day. I’ve walked these routes many times, and I plan each day to keep your energy steady while you explore ancient sites.

Most itineraries begin on Luxor’s East Bank—Karnak and Luxor Temple—then move to the West Bank with the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut terraces, and the Colossi of Memnon. Valley of the Kings time is usually longer, so you can choose tombs with my help.

Southbound days call at Edfu (Horus) and Kom Ombo (Sobek and Haroeris). These stops often fall between breakfast and lunch, so tours fit neatly into the daily rhythm without rush.

At Aswan, Philae’s island temple is unforgettable. Pair it with the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and a felucca loop around Elephantine for great views and local flavor.

• Meals: breakfast before most tours; lunch onboard; dinner after evening time to relax.
• Optional add‑on: Aswan Abu Simbel works well as an early flight or road day from Aswan—ask me to slot it so sites remain unhurried.
• Guides: certified Egyptologists lead tours and bring history to life every day.

Route length	Core sites	Daily flow
3-night	Philae, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Luxor highlights	Morning tours, lunch onboard, afternoon sailing
4-night	Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae	Extended temple time, relaxed afternoons, evening deck views
Optional add-on	Abu Simbel (from Aswan)	Early-morning transfer or flight; full-day trip

When to sail for the best experience

Best Time for a Nile Cruise: Pick the best weeks so your temple visits feel personal and your days stay pleasantly cool. If you prefer mild weather, aim for October to April—those months bring lower temps and calmer light along the Nile River. I recommend early-morning starts at the Valley of the Kings to avoid crowds and capture soft dawn pictures.

Shoulder weeks—just before peak season or after—offer fewer visitors, easier cabin choices, and kinder light for photos. When major holidays cluster, I’ll advise locking a cabin early; popular suites sell out fast.

Summer still works if you plan smart: early tours, shaded deck breaks mid-day, lots of water between visits. I’ll sequence big sites so your experience stays unhurried, personal, and truly memorable.

• Tip: Many departures follow the usual Monday/Thursday/Saturday pattern from Luxor, with Monday/Wednesday/Friday from Aswan; check-in is commonly around 11 a.m., sailing often begins after breakfast.
• Abu Simbel: If Aswan Abu Simbel is a must, I’ll align it with your Aswan morning, then arrange a relaxed afternoon on board.
• Photo planning: Choose a season for golden sunsets or soft dawn light; I’ll match days to your visual goals.

Planning Focus	Best Time	Practical Note
Mild weather & fewer crowds	Oct–Apr	Book early for preferred cabins
Budget-friendly timing	Shoulder weeks	More cabin choices, quieter sites
Hot-weather strategy	Summer months	Early visits, shaded afternoons, hydrate well

Luxury vs. standard Nile cruise options and amenities

Your choice of vessel shapes daily rhythm more than it changes the route—what varies is how you relax between temple visits.

I work with big hotel-style ships and smaller, classic vessels. Larger hotel ships—brands like Mövenpick, Sonesta, Oberoi, and Steigenberger Nile cruise/Jaz/Travco—often host up to ~200 guests and feature broad facilities.

Common amenities include sun decks, a pool, a lounge bar, a restaurant, a spa/beauty center, a laundry, a gift shop, and safe deposit boxes. These staples appear across most offerings, so the core experience stays consistent.

• A luxury Nile cruise typically adds refined décor, elevated dining, expanded spa menus, and quieter, tailored service.
• Standard Nile cruise options deliver comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and solid buffet or à la carte meals at a good value.
• Guiding quality is the same priority—certified Egyptologists lead tours on both tiers.

I’ll help you weigh trade-offs—bigger spas versus cozier lounges, live music versus low-key evenings—so your choice matches your priorities. Freshly refurbished ships can offer the best mix of style, comfort, and price.

Feature	Luxury	Standard
Onboard service	Personalized, quieter	Warm, efficient
Dining	Gourmet menus, fine presentation	Buffet/à la carte with regional dishes
Facilities	Expanded spa, refined lounges	Pool, sun deck, lively social spaces

Whether you opt for a luxury nile option or a straightforward standard ship, your daily flow stays familiar—breakfast, guided visits, lunch, relaxing river time, and an easy evening. Tell me what matters most and I’ll match ships to your budget and taste.

Indicative prices, booking windows, and how to secure your cabin

Let’s map realistic costs, ideal booking windows, and straightforward steps to secure your cabin.

Budget benchmarks are simple: 3-night/4-day trips from about USD 350, 4-night/5-day from about USD 420, and week-long 7-night/8-day options near USD 740. Check-in typically sits around 11:00 a.m.; many ships start moving after breakfast.

Peak months (Oct–Apr) fill fast. I recommend holding a cabin early to keep your preferred itinerary and room category. Booking 8–12 weeks ahead is smart; book earlier for suites or linking rooms.

“Discover the cost of your dream Nile River Cruise today and learn how to book it easily – get your personalized quote now!”

• Compare two options: I’ll pencil two ships on the same days so you can weigh amenities, then lock the best fit.
• Add Abu Simbel: If Abu Simbel is essential, we add it as a tight Aswan day tour or short flight before boarding so your main river plan stays intact.
• What I confirm: included guided tours, entry fees, breakfast and lunch coverage, transfers, and any extras to set your budget.

Item	Indicative cost	When to book	Notes
3-night / 4-day itinerary	From USD 350	8–12 weeks ahead	Good value for short trips; choose upper deck early
4-night / 5-day itinerary	From USD 420	8–12 weeks ahead; sooner in peak	Balanced pace; suites sell fast
7-night / 8-day itinerary	From USD 740	Book 3–6 months ahead	Best for relaxed visits and premium cabins

I handle the admin with the company—names, passport details, deposits—so your documents are ship-ready. Prefer flexibility? I can hold a backup option on soft hold while you confirm flights and time off.

Conclusion

You’ve seen the options—let’s make your next Upper Egypt journey feel effortless. I’ll stitch ships, days, and temples into a calm plan so you absorb the wonders and ancient Egypt history without rush. Your experience will balance guided tours when you want depth, and quiet deck time for the view.

If Abu Simbel calls, I’ll add the Aswan–Abu Simbel option so the rest of the trip stays smooth. I handle cabins, transfers, and smart packing tips. Tell me your travel dates and priorities and I’ll hold the best week for you—then we’ll raise anchor together and let the river lead to stories you’ll keep for a lifetime.