With just a handful of cabins, Dahabiyas offers an intimate and tranquil setting, perfect for couples, families, and discerning travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and charm.
Step aboard and rediscover the art of slow, graceful travel along the storied waters of the Nile. Once favored by Egyptian royalty and 19th-century explorers, these traditional, wind-powered vessels deliver a refined journey far removed from the crowds of modern cruise ships.
Handcrafted from rich wood with an elegant, classic design, each Dahabiya is a tribute to Egypt’s golden era of travel. Gliding between Luxor and Aswan, the route reveals the Nile’s hidden treasures, quiet temples, peaceful islands, and village life untouched by mass tourism. Every stop is thoughtfully curated to offer a deeper connection to Egypt’s ancient wonders and everyday culture.
Onboard, modern comfort meets timeless style. Spacious suites offer panoramic views, and dining features fresh, authentic Egyptian cuisine alongside international favorites. With attentive, personalized service and only a few guests on board, Dahabiyas promise an atmosphere of exclusivity and relaxation.
A Dahabiya cruise is more than a holiday; it’s a journey back to the elegance of true exploration. Let the gentle rhythm of the Nile guide you through Egypt’s living history. Make it a short paragraph
A Dahabiya is a traditional wooden sailing boat offering a serene, intimate journey along the Nile. Gliding quietly with sail power, it provides a peaceful alternative to larger, crowded vessels, combining classic charm with modern comfort.
Experience the Nile at your own pace, in comfort and style, as you discover Egypt’s treasures far from the crowds.
Planning a Nile cruise in Egypt? Choosing between a Dahabiya and a modern Nile cruise ship can make a big difference in your travel experience. Both offer unique ways to explore the iconic river, but the right choice depends on your style, group size, and travel goals.
Both options provide unforgettable experiences along the Nile, offering a chance to witness Egypt’s ancient temples, scenic landscapes, and rich culture. Let the Nile guide your perfect Egyptian adventure.
Explore the Nile in style with a Dahabiya cruise. These traditional sailing boats offer a quiet, luxurious alternative to larger ships, allowing you to sail slower routes, uncover hidden temples, and visit peaceful riverside villages.
With a Dahabiya cruise, you can experience the Nile at your own pace, combining comfort, culture, and unforgettable scenery.
Indulge in a refined 5-night journey along the Nile aboard an elegant Dahabiya cruise, designed for travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and meaningful cultural experiences. With a small group, personalized service, and access to hidden sites beyond large cruise ships, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery in under a week.
Private transfer from Luxor to Esna. Visit the Temple of Khnum and explore the local market before boarding your Dahabiya. Begin sailing toward El Kab and enjoy your first night onboard. Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Morning guided visit to the tombs of El Kab and a nearby traditional village. Continue sailing to Edfu and visit the Temple of Horus by horse-drawn carriage, overnight near a scenic Nile island. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Relaxed day of sailing with opportunities for swimming in the Nile or walking along the desert banks. Explore the sandstone quarries and the Temple of Horemheb in the afternoon. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning relaxation at Gebel El Silsila or on a private Nile island. Continue sailing through tranquil stretches of the river. Traditional dinner served onboard. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the double temple of Kom Ombo and the Crocodile Museum. Continue sailing toward Aswan and enjoy a farewell dinner onboard. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, private transfer to your hotel, airport, or train station in Aswan. Meals included: Breakfast
For travelers seeking a slow-paced, immersive experience, this elegant 4-night Dahabiya cruise from Esna to Aswan offers a perfect blend of ancient history, local culture, and relaxed luxury. With expert guiding and a small group setting, sail past temples, villages, and dramatic Nile landscapes—away from the crowds.
Meet in Luxor and enjoy a private transfer to Esna. Visit the Temple of Khnum and explore the vibrant local market. Board your Dahabiya and sail south to El Kab for a guided exploration of its tombs and ancient ruins. Continue to a quiet island near Quessia for overnight mooring. Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Begin the day with a scenic sail to Edfu. Travel by horse-drawn carriage to the Temple of Horus. After lunch onboard, cruise to the peaceful village of Wadi El Shat. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning, explore the sandstone quarries and the cliff-hewn Temple of Horemheb at Gebel El-Silsila. Sail onward to Kom Ombo for a guided visit to the twin temple dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris, followed by the Crocodile Museum. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, sail to Daraw and visit its traditional rural market. In the afternoon, visit a nearby Nubian village to engage with local families and enjoy a cultural immersion. Continue sailing to Aswan and enjoy a farewell dinner onboard. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy breakfast onboard before disembarking in Aswan. A private transfer will take you to your hotel, airport, or train station. Meals Included: Breakfast
Set sail aboard a luxurious Dahabiya, where intimacy meets elegance and every detail is curated for comfort, culture, and calm. This 3-night cruise from Aswan to Esna invites you to explore timeless temples, remote villages, and serene islands far from the crowds, close to the heart of Egypt.
Begin with a private pick-up in Aswan. Embark on your Dahabiya and sail to Kom Ombo for a guided tour of the temple and Crocodile Museum. Continue sailing to the quiet cliffs of Gebel El-Silsila, mooring near the quarries for the evening. Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Morning visit to the ancient sandstone quarries and the Temple of Horemheb. Sail onward to Edfu and ride a horse-drawn carriage to the impressive Temple of Horus. In the evening, enjoy a magical campfire dinner under the stars at El Fawaz Island. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sail to El Kab and walk among its rock-cut tombs, ruined temples, and mudbrick city walls. Return to the Dahabiya for a relaxing afternoon sail to Esna. Enjoy a farewell dinner onboard. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, disembark in Esna. A private transfer will take you to your hotel, airport, or train station in Luxor (approx. 1 hour). Meals Included: Breakfast
Includes airport transfers, temple fees, guided tours, and full cruise services. Transfers from other locations are available.
Fully personalized Egypt experience.
0-5 years old Free of charge (must sit on parents’ lap; separate seats may require extra payment). 6-11 years old 50% of the adult price. 12 years old Full adult price applies.
Dahabiya cruises operate on fixed sailing dates between Esna and Aswan. Once you share your travel window, we’ll provide handpicked Dahabiya options along with fact sheets, deck plans, amenities, and photos. After you select the vessel that suits you best, we’ll take care of the full booking and arrangements.
• Some Dahabiya boats offer suite cabin upgrades at an additional cost. • Pricing varies by boat and cabin category. Please inquire for specific options.
• Standard Cabin: Comfortable room with elegant furnishings and large windows. • Suite Cabin: Spacious upgrade with premium features and scenic views or a private balcony.
• Dahabiya cruises do not offer triple occupancy cabins. • Each cabin accommodates a maximum of two guests. • For three travelers, a combination of one double cabin and one single cabin must be booked.
• Not all Dahabiya boats serve alcohol onboard. However, guests are welcome to bring their alcoholic beverages. You may also purchase alcohol in Egypt, though available brands may differ from those in your home country.
• Prices vary depending on travel season, fuel costs, and USD exchange rates. • May to August: Low season with more competitive rates. • September to April: Peak season with higher pricing due to increased demand. • Christmas, New Year, and Easter: Premium pricing applies during these high-demand periods. • Final prices may be subject to change based on fuel surcharges and currency fluctuations.
After submission we’ll get in touch on the provided email address. The final price will be provided based on your requirements.
To enter Egypt, most travelers need a tourist visa, which can be obtained in one of the following ways: Visa on Arrival: Available at major Egyptian airports. This is a convenient option for eligible travelers who prefer to get their visa upon arrival in Egypt. Electronic Visa (e-Visa): You can apply online before your trip through the official Egypt e-Visa Portal. This allows you to receive your visa electronically and avoid airport queues. Embassy or Consulate Visa: If you're not eligible for the e-Visa or visa on arrival, you may need to apply through the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate in your country. 👉 To find out whether you need a visa before coming to Egypt, use the official visa eligibility checker:
Egypt offers several convenient transportation options. Domestic flights connect major cities like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Abu Simbel, making long-distance travel fast and efficient. Trains provide comfortable travel between popular destinations, especially between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Private transfers arranged by MSM Travel Egypt offer safe, air-conditioned transport between airports, hotels, and sightseeing locations.
Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in major cities. Cash is recommended for local markets and tipping. ATMs are available, and currency exchange services are easy to find at airports, banks, and exchange offices.
Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in major tourist areas. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and avoid drinking tap water. Stick to reputable tour providers, follow local advice, and keep copies of important documents. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Staying connected in Egypt is easy. Local SIM cards with data are available at airports and mobile shops—Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat are the main providers. Prices typically start around $5–USD 10 for a basic tourist SIM with 10–20 GB of data. Most hotels, cafés, and tourist spots offer free Wi-Fi. MSM Travel Egypt also offers SIM cards and mobile hotspot setup as part of our services, so you’re always connected from day one.
Arabic is Egypt’s official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by guides. Many locals also understand French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Russian. Here are some fun and useful phrases you’ll hear often: Salam Alaikum (السلام عليكم) – Peace be upon you Shukran (شكراً) – Thank you Aywa (أيوه) – Yes La’ (لا) – No Habibi / Habibti (حبيبي / حبيبتي) – My dear Yalla, yalla, yalla (يلا) – Let’s go! Let’s go! Let’s go! Ma’a as-salama (مع السلامة) – Goodbye If you’d like to learn a little Arabic before or during your trip, just ask us, and we’ll give you a small welcome booklet with common phrases—a free souvenir and a friendly way to learn a bit of the local language.
Egypt follows Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2. Daylight Saving Time may apply during summer months, shifting the clock to UTC +3. Most businesses, shops, and government offices operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday. Banks usually open from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and many tourist sites and markets stay open later in the evening, especially in major cities. Fridays are considered weekend days, so some places may open late or close early.
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical needs or lost items. Egypt has modern hospitals and pharmacies in major cities, with English-speaking doctors often available. Keep your insurance and any prescriptions with you.
Booking with us is simple and secure. We accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and online payments. All bank payments are made to a registered business account under the company name, MSM Travel Ltd. A deposit is required to confirm your reservation. Cancellations are accepted within specific timeframes, with refunds based on notice given. Full details are available in our Terms & Conditions.
For emergencies, dial: Police: 122 Ambulance: 123 Tourist Police: 126 Support is available 24/7 in major tourist areas. Keep your hotel info, travel documents, and emergency contact numbers handy at all times.
Sail along the legendary Nile River in comfort and elegance.
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