Sonesta Nile Cruises

Absolutely yes! A Nile River cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt in style and comfort. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider booking a Nile cruise:

• Unparalleled sightseeing: Witness ancient temples, tombs, and monuments up close without the hassle of traveling between them.
• Luxurious accommodations: Relax in comfortable cabins with all amenities and enjoy delicious meals.
• Cultural immersion: Experience traditional Egyptian hospitality and learn about the country’s rich history and culture.
• Stunning landscapes: Cruise along the Nile River and marvel at the beauty of the Egyptian countryside.
• Relaxation and rejuvenation: Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of the Nile.

It’s truly a magical experience that will create memories that will last a lifetime.

The best time to take a Nile River cruise depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:

• October to April: This is the peak season for Nile cruises, with warm weather and sunny skies. However, it can also be crowded and more expensive.
• May to September: The weather is still warm, but there are fewer crowds and lower prices. However, be prepared for hot temperatures, especially during the summer months.
• December to February: This is the coolest time of year, with comfortable temperatures and minimal crowds.

Ultimately, the best month for you will depend on your budget, tolerance for crowds, and preferred weather conditions.

The cost of a Nile River cruise varies depending on the length of the cruise, the time of year, the type of ship, and the level of luxury.

• Low-end: Budget cruises start around $500 per person for a 4-day cruise.
• Mid-range: Mid-range cruises cost between $1,000 and $2,000 per person for a 7-day cruise.
• High-end: Luxury cruises can cost upwards of $5,000 per person for a 7-day cruise.

Additional costs to consider:

• Flights: If you are not flying into Cairo, you must factor in the cost of flights to Luxor or Aswan.
• Visas: You must purchase a visa for Egypt, which costs around $25.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary in Egypt, so budget for tips for your crew and guides.
• Excursions: Some excursions, such as hot air balloon rides, are not included in the price of the cruise.

Here are some tips for finding a good deal on a Nile River cruise:

• Book your cruise in advance: Cruises are often cheaper if you book several months in advance.
• Travel during the off-season: Prices are lower during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October).
• Look for deals and discounts: Many travel websites and tour operators offer discounts on Nile River cruises.
• Compare prices: Be sure to compare prices from different cruise lines before you book.

Most cruises on the Nile start and end in either Luxor or Aswan.

• Luxor: Luxor is located on the eastern bank of the Nile River and is famous for its many ancient temples and tombs, including the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple Complex. When the cruise starts from Luxor, it lasts 5 days and 4 nights.
• Aswan: Aswan is located on the southern border of Egypt and is famous for its beautiful scenery, including the Temple of Philae and the temples of Abu Simbel. When the cruise starts from Aswankon, the trip lasts 4 days and 3 nights.

Some cruises also offer the option of starting or ending in Cairo, the capital of Egypt. Home to the Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum, Cairo is a great place to explore before or after your cruise.

The length of a Nile River cruise varies depending on your itinerary and interests. Here are some common options:

• 3 Night Cruises: These cruises briefly overview the most popular sights between Aswan and Luxor. Depart from Aswan and end in Luxor.
• 4 Night Cruises: These cruises offer a more comprehensive itinerary, including visits to both Luxor and Aswan. Depart from Luxor and end in Aswan.
• 7 Night Cruises: These cruises are ideal for those who want to explore the Nile in depth and experience various activities, such as hot air balloon rides, felucca rides, and visits to local villages. Depart from Luxor and end in Luxor.

The best length of cruise for you will depend on your time constraints and budget.

It is always recommended to book your Nile River cruise at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during the peak season (October-April). This will give you the best chance of getting your desired cruise at your desired price.

Here are some benefits of booking in advance:

• Better selection of cruises: You will have a wider selection of cruises.
• Lower prices: You may get a discounted rate if you book in advance.
• Guaranteed availability: You will be guaranteed a spot on the cruise you want.

Here are some tips for booking your Nile River cruise in advance:

• Research different cruise lines: Read reviews and compare prices before you book.
• Book directly with the cruise line: This is often cheaper than booking through a third-party website.
• Consider travel insurance: This can protect you if you cancel your trip for unforeseen circumstances.

The dress code on a Nile River cruise is generally smart casual. However, it is important to pack various clothing to accommodate different weather conditions and activities.

Here are some suggestions:

• For daytime: Lightweight clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses are ideal for the warm weather. You may also want to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• For evenings: Collared shirts, pants, and dresses are appropriate for dinner and evening activities.
• For excursions: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around temples and other attractions. You may also want to pack a hat and sunglasses.
• For cold weather: Pack a sweater or jacket if you are traveling during the cooler months.
• For formal events: Some cruises may have one or two formal nights. Be sure to pack a cocktail dress or suit if this is the case.

It is also important to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

There are several luxurious Nile River cruise ships to choose from, offering a variety of amenities and services. Here are a few of the most popular:

• Oberoi Philae: This luxurious ship features elegantly appointed cabins, gourmet dining, and a variety of onboard activities.
• Movenpick Royal Lotus: This ship offers spacious cabins with balconies, a spa, and a swimming pool.
• Sonesta St. George I: This ship is known for its excellent service and beautiful public areas.
• Radisson Blu: This ship offers modern amenities and a variety of onboard activities.
• Nile Adventurer: This ship is ideal for those who want a more traditional experience, with smaller cabins and a more intimate atmosphere.

When choosing a luxury Nile River cruise ship, consider your budget, preferred amenities, and desired level of service.

Learning a few Arabic words and phrases can enhance your experience when visiting Egypt, as it shows respect for the local culture and can help you communicate with locals. Here are some Arabic words and phrases to know:

• Salaam Alaikum: This is a common Arabic greeting that means “peace be upon you.” Locals will appreciate it if you greet them with this phrase.
• Shukran: This means “thank you.” It’s always polite to show gratitude when someone helps you or does something for you.
• Sabah Al-Khair: This means “good morning.” It’s a polite way to greet someone in the morning.
• Masaa Al-Khair: This means “good evening.” It’s a polite way to greet someone in the evening.
• Laa Shukran: This means “no, thank you.” You can use this phrase when declining an offer or a service.
• Min Fadlak: This means “please.” You can use this word when making a request.
• Afwan: This means “you’re welcome.” You can use this word to respond to someone who has thanked you.
• Aiwa: This means “yes.” It’s a simple way to answer a question in the affirmative.
• Laa: This means “no.” It’s a simple way to answer a question in the negative.
• Ma’a Salama: This means “goodbye” or “go with peace.” It’s a polite way to bid farewell.

By learning these basic Arabic words and phrases, you can show respect for the local culture and communicate more effectively with locals during your visit to Egypt.