Luxury Cruising on the Nile
Cruising the famous River Nile is one of the best ways to explore Egypt. On an idyllic journey between Luxor and Aswan you will marvel at sites including the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Kom Ombo and Karnak. Journeysmiths work with only the finest river cruisers, effortlessly combining modern comforts with a timeless elegance. On board you can expect spacious lounges, vast suites, saunas, spas and gyms. In the evenings, top chefs prepare a la carte dishes for you to refuel with as you discover Egypt’s fascinating history and ancient landmarks.
- Explore the grandiose Temple of Karnak.
- Step into the Valley of the Kings.
- Discover the island-based Temple of Philae.
- Get lost in history at the Temple of Kom Ombo.
- Marvel at the Colossi of Memnon.
Karnak Temple in Luxor is the epitome of ancient Egyptian grandeur. Half a mile long, with enormous statues of pharaohs, immense temple chambers and its 134 columns each measuring 200 feet high, the sheer scale of this temple is overwhelming. Dwarfed by 5,000 year old architecture, you can let your imagination run, almost hear the priests chanting incantations and see Ramses III making his way in splendour through the temple courts.
The Valley of the Kings, which lies on the western banks of the Nile, is the best known collection of elaborate tombs created by ancient Egyptians for their powerful pharaohs. Accompanied by your private guide who indulges you in every secret of these early tombs, discover chambers and corridors, illuminated with delicate lights and adorned with colourful illustrations and hieroglyphs that recount the royal’s life and prayers from the Book of the Dead.
Set on an island in the calm, glistening waters of the Nile, the Philae Temple complex is only accessible by boat. The approach is an enchanting experience, gliding across the water and watching as the magnificent structures come gradually into view. Once on the island the surreality strikes. You’re greeted with imposing sand coloured columns, towering pylons and many rooms, highly decorated both inside and out, right in the middle of the life-giving river Nile.
Unusually, the Temple of Kom Ombo is dedicated to two gods, Horus the falcon god and Sobek the crocodile god and was a place of healing for ancient Egyptians. You’ll find the depictions of medical scenes on the walls are plentiful and detailed - it doesn’t take long until you’re completely lost in the history of this fascinating site. Next door is a small but informative museum exhibiting the mummified crocodiles that once lived at the temple.
Built in 1350 BCE, the Colossi of Memnon are two huge statues, both of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. They are an incredible sight to behold, despite having suffered a lot of damage since they were originally constructed. Their size is awe-inspiring, particularly with huge mountains and the dazzling, cloudless skies behind them. Look closer and you’ll spot inscriptions, carved imagery and smaller figures representing the pharaoh’s wife and mother.
Cruise the Nile in style and comfort aboard the Oberoi Philae.
The Oberoi Zahra is an award-winning Nile cruiser and one of the most luxurious of its kind.
The Sanctuary Sun Boat IV is a luxurious and indulgent cruiser featuring modern and contemporary decor with delicate art deco influences.
The interiors on board this boutique cruiser are something really special. Carefully considered and expertly executed, contemporary design is blended with Egyptian traditions to create a sumptuous,
The Historia takes your mind back to a bygone era, of travelling to Egypt when curious tourists first began to sail the Nile, lured by the promise of its fascinating history.
A small private boat, the Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau is perfect for families or groups who want to discover the Nile in complete privacy.
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
In this article we’ve put together a list of our top ten recommended highlights to whet your appetite and show you what’s possible in Egypt.