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Queen Nefer Dahabiya
Experience Egypt in timeless elegance aboard the Queen Nefer Dahabiya, a handcrafted sailing vessel offering an intimate Nile journey between Luxor and Aswan.
About this tour
Experience Egypt in timeless elegance aboard the Queen Nefer Dahabiya, a handcrafted sailing vessel offering an intimate Nile journey between Luxor and Aswan. Blending Pharaonic history with modern comfort, this boutique cruise allows travelers to explore legendary temples such as Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae, while also discovering hidden gems like El Hegz, Herdiya, and Daraw Village. Away from the crowds, you’ll drift peacefully past palm groves, golden dunes, and charming riverside villages. Each evening brings delicious onboard dining, serene sunsets, and the quiet romance of the Nile under a canopy of stars. With personalized service and authentic experiences, Queen Nefer Dahabiya redefines luxury as a return to simplicity, comfort, and discovery.
4 Days Queen Nefer Dahabiya From Aswan to Esna Every Friday
Day 1: Embarkation in Aswan
2 meals
- Welcome Aboard: At 9:00 AM, our representative will greet you at your chosen location in Aswan—hotel, train station, or airport—and escort you to your elegant Queen Nefer Dahabiya.
- Check-In & Cruise Start: Receive a warm welcome from the friendly crew and settle into your cabin. Enjoy your first lunch on board as the Dahabiya begins its tranquil journey toward El Herdiya Island.
- El Herdiya Island: Take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful countryside and experience the calm beauty of rural Nile life.
- Evening Onboard: Savor a freshly prepared dinner on deck while surrounded by the soothing waters of the Nile.
Day 2: Kom Ombo & Daraw Village
3 meals
- Kom Ombo Temple: After breakfast, visit the remarkable Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to two gods—Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the falcon-headed protector. Explore its twin sanctuaries and admire the beautifully carved reliefs.
- Daraw Village: Depending on timing, stop at Daraw, famous for its camel market (Souq El Gemal) and lively local bazaars where traders from Sudan once gathered to exchange goods.
- Gebel El Silsila: Enjoy lunch while sailing toward Gebel El Silsila, where ancient sandstone quarries provided materials for Egypt’s grand temples.
- Evening Barbecue: Anchor at Besaw Island for a delightful barbecue dinner and a peaceful overnight stay under the stars.
Day 3: Edfu – Esna
3 meals
- Morning Cruise: Begin your day with breakfast on deck while observing traditional Nile life along the riverbanks.
- Edfu Temple: Visit the impressive Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, showcasing detailed reliefs that depict the story of divine creation and ancient rituals.
- Sailing Toward Esna: Enjoy lunch as you continue your voyage toward Esna, relaxing on the sun deck and soaking in the serene landscapes.
- Evening Onboard: Anchor at a quiet island and relish your final dinner under a canopy of stars.
Day 4: Disembarkation in Esna
1 meal
- Farewell Breakfast: Enjoy your final breakfast on board as you bid farewell to the crew and your serene Queen Nefer Dahabiya experience.
- Disembarkation: Disembark in Esna and take a moment to reflect on the peaceful beauty and authentic charm that made your Nile journey unforgettable.
5 Days Queen Nefer Dahabiya From Esna to Aswan Every Monday
Day 1: Embarkation in Esna
Dahabiya2 meals
- Arrival in Esna: At 9:00 AM, our Luxor representative will warmly greet you at your preferred pickup point—hotel, airport, or train station—and transfer you to the elegant Queen Nefer Dahabiya, docked in Esna.
- Temple of Khnum: Before boarding, visit the Temple of Khnum, dedicated to the ram-headed creator god and guardian of the Nile’s source.
- Embarkation: Step aboard your Dahabiya, enjoy a welcome drink, and check in as your tranquil Nile journey begins toward El Hegz Island.
- El Hegz Island: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the island and meet local families to discover authentic Egyptian rural life.
- Dinner Onboard: End your first day with a freshly prepared dinner on the sun deck under the soft glow of the setting sun.
Day 2: Edfu & El Ramady Island
3 meals
- Morning Sail: Enjoy breakfast while gliding along the calm waters of the Nile toward Edfu.
- Temple of Horus: Visit the grand Temple of Horus, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples and a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
- Sail to El Ramady Island: Enjoy lunch onboard as you sail onward, passing serene riverbanks and timeless landscapes.
- Barbecue Dinner: In the evening, anchor at El Ramady Island and enjoy a delightful barbecue dinner beneath a blanket of stars.
Day 3: Gebel El Silsila & Maniha Island
3 meals
- Sunrise Sail: Begin your day with a sunrise breakfast as you cruise toward Gebel El Silsila.
- Gebel El Silsila: Explore this ancient sandstone quarry that once supplied massive temple blocks during Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and visit its fascinating rock-cut shrines.
- Leisurely Afternoon: Enjoy lunch onboard as you continue sailing toward Maniha Island, surrounded by peaceful Nile scenery.
- Evening Serenity: Anchor at Maniha Island and enjoy a relaxing dinner, enveloped by the calm of the river and nature’s whispers.
Day 4: Kom Ombo & Daraw Village
3 meals
- Sailing to Kom Ombo: After breakfast, sail southward to visit the Temple of Kom Ombo.
- Temple of Kom Ombo: Discover this unique twin temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the falcon-headed god, overlooking the Nile.
- Daraw Village: If time permits, visit Daraw’s famous Camel Market (Souq El Gemal), one of Egypt’s most colorful and authentic trading spots.
- Dinner Onboard: Return to your Dahabiya for a relaxing evening and dinner as you sail closer to Aswan.
Day 5: Disembarkation in Aswan
1 meal
- Final Breakfast: Enjoy your last breakfast onboard while taking in the final views of the Nile’s serene beauty.
- Disembarkation: Upon arrival in Aswan, disembark from the Queen Nefer Dahabiya.
- Departure Assistance: Our representative will assist with your transfer to your hotel or Aswan Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Nile journey.
Cruise Facilities
- 5 stylishly furnished cabins with private bathrooms and Nile views
- Elegant dining area offering freshly prepared Egyptian and international cuisine
- Spacious sun deck with lounge chairs and shaded seating
- Outdoor terrace for tea, drinks, and evening gatherings
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled water throughout the cruise
- Authentic sailing experience—no engine noise for ultimate tranquility
- Experienced, multilingual crew and onboard Egyptologist guide
- Daily housekeeping and laundry service upon request
- Wi-Fi available in common areas (subject to Nile signal)
- Safety equipment and first-aid available on board
Included / Excluded
- Meet and assist service upon arrival & departure
- All Transfers by a private A/C vehicle.
- Accommodation for 4 or 3 nights on a Dahabiya for full board basis.
- Entrance fees to all sites as indicated on the itinerary.
- English-speaking tour guide during the visits.
- Bottled water during the visits.
- All service charges and taxes.
- Entry Visa to Egypt
- Any Optional tours.
- All personal Expenses.
- Tipping (Recommend).
Policies, in plain English
All rates listed by EgyVacations are quoted in U.S. Dollars (USD) unless stated otherwise. However, we accept payment in other major currencies such as EUR and GBP, based on the daily exchange rate at the time of payment.
- Our prices are based on current market rates, seasonal variations, and availability, and are subject to change without prior notice. Rates are only confirmed once full payment or a deposit has been received.
- Package rates generally include accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and meals, as outlined in your detailed itinerary. Please refer to your specific booking for a full list of inclusions and exclusions.
- Holiday Season Supplement: A 25% holiday surcharge applies to all Nile Cruise and tour package bookings during Christmas, New Year, and Easter periods.
Start your dream tour by paying as low as 30% of the total cost. During festive periods like New Year, Christmas and Easter, we require a 50% down payment. Feel free to pay the rest two days before your arrival or in cash when you arrive – we’ve got you covered!
- If you’re paying by credit card, we need a signed letter from you. This letter gives us permission to charge your card. Make sure the signature matches the one on your card and passport.
- Upon receiving your payment, we’ll issue a written confirmation, along with your itinerary and travel documents.
In case you cancel your trip, the following charges will be applied:
- From the date of booking until 61 days before your arrival date, 15% of the entire tour price will be charged.
- 35% of the tour price if you cancel 60-31 days before arrival.
- 50% of the tour price if you cancel 30-15 days before arrival.
- 100% of the tour price if you cancel 14-1 days before arrival.
Christmas, New Year, and Easter:
- From the date of booking until 61 days before your arrival date, 30% of the entire tour price will be charged.
- 50% of the tour price if you cancel 60-31 days before arrival.
- 75% of the tour price if you cancel 30-15 days before arrival.
Additionally, airlines charge their fees which are subject to the airlines’ terms and conditions, and there’s also a 5% bank fee on refunds. If you don’t show up for your reservation, we won’t be able to give you a refund.
EgyVacations welcomes families with children and offers the following pricing structure:
- Under 2 years: Free of charge
- 2 to 5 years: 25% of adult rate
- 6 to 11 years: 50% of adult rate
- 12 years and above: Full adult rate
Children’s discounts apply when sharing a room with two paying adults. Please note that some cruises or hotels may have their own child policies, which will be specified in your itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
A Dahabiya Nile Cruise is a luxurious yet traditional way to explore the Nile River aboard an elegant, sail-powered boat. Unlike large cruise ships, Dahabiya boats are small and intimate, typically carrying 8–12 passengers. They offer a serene, personalized journey between Luxor and Aswan, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty of the Nile at a slower pace. Onboard, guests can expect comfortable ensuite cabins, freshly prepared meals, and guided tours to Egypt’s most captivating temples and villages along the riverbanks.
What are the Best Places to Visit with Dahabiya Boats?
The most popular route for Dahabiya cruises runs between Luxor and Aswan, featuring world-famous temples and lesser-known gems. Key stops include Luxor’s Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. Along the journey, travelers explore Esna’s lock, the Temple of Edfu, the stunning sandstone quarries of Gebel El-Silsila, and the twin temple of Kom Ombo. The adventure usually ends in Aswan, home to the Philae Temple, Nubian villages, and serene Nile islands — making it one of the most scenic routes in Egypt.
When is the Best Time for a Dahabiya Trip on the Nile River?
The best time to enjoy a Dahabiya cruise is between October and April, when the weather is pleasantly mild and perfect for sightseeing. During these months, the temperatures are comfortable for exploring temples and open-air sites during the day, while evenings remain cool and refreshing. The summer months from May to September can be very hot, especially in Upper Egypt, but some travelers still choose this period for quieter sailings and better rates.
How to Book a Dahabiya on the Nile?
Booking a Dahabiya cruise is easy and can be done through local tour operators, travel agencies, or directly from cruise companies online. Most Dahabiyas offer fixed weekly departures, usually from Luxor or Aswan, with options for shared or private charters. When booking, it’s important to check the itinerary, inclusions (meals, guides, entrance fees), and the type of Dahabiya — as some are boutique-style with higher-end service while others focus on authentic, simple sailing experiences. Booking in advance, especially in peak season, ensures availability and better cabin choices.
How Much Should I Tip on the Dahabiya?
Tipping, or “baksheesh,” is a customary practice in Egypt and an important part of a Dahabiya cruise experience. For a 4- or 5-day trip, a total tip of $10–15 USD per person per day is generally appropriate, which is then shared among the crew, guides, and service staff. Many operators collect tips at the end of the trip in an envelope to distribute fairly. Of course, tipping more is always appreciated if the service exceeded your expectations.
Travellers, in their own words.
Every quote is a real one, posted under the traveller's own name.
What a great team!
They helped me plan my day and arranged for an Egyptologist and driver to take me to all these places.
Had a great time
Thanks to well organised sightseeing and tour guide Ahmed who was professional and pleasant.
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