Nile Discovery Cruise and Excursion Packages

Cruise the spectacular River Nile, in Egypt, and experience its enthralling sights. Once the ancient playground of the Pharaohs, the River Nile flows north from the cataracts in Aswan, to Luxor's temples and then onto Cairo, city of a thousand minarets, and the sea. Overflowing with ancient treasures from a bygone age, the captivating city of Luxor is truly the jewel of the Nile. Magnificent temples, shrines and monuments pepper the banks of the meandering river and provide a fantastic insight into a past where once great pharaohs and animal-headed gods reigned supreme.

Sitting to the south of Cairo, it lies on completely flat land and has glorious views over the Egyptian flood plains. Not many resorts can boast such a treasure trove of ancient sights barely a stone’s throw away from their luxurious hotel pool, but Luxor is actually built on the 4,000 year old ruins of Thebes. Undoubtedly, the focal point of the city is the illustrious Luxor Temple with its incredible statues, shrines and two splendid obelisks. There are also fascinating museums housing mummified exhibits as well as objects from Tutankhamun's tomb.

Just north of Luxor is Karnak - a huge, ancient religious site that was built over 3,000 years ago in dedication to the Egyptian gods. In the evenings, an impressive sound-and-light show is projected here - definitely worth a visit.

Across the Nile, most visitors make their way to the Valley of the Kings, burial place of King Tut and countless Pharaohs. There are 62 tombs in total, but only a few are open to the public. You can explore some of these intriguing chambers replete with hieroglyphics that will transport you back to this mystical era.

Cruise Egypt’s world famous river aboard this elegant ship that simply oozes class. From the decadent marble entrance to the beautifully-designed cabins, the sophisticated dining room to the glorious sundeck, you’ll feel every inch the star as you take in the treasures of the Nile aboard this luxurious floating hotel. Your private cabin is a tranquil and tastefully-decorated oasis with plenty of space to stretch out – not that you’ll want to spend much time here of course, you’ll be too busy unearthing Egyptian gems or making the most of the ship’s facilities. By day, discover world famous sights, relax on deck or escape the heat with a cooling dip in the ship’s small pool. Then, by night, enjoy international flavours in the inviting restaurant, take cocktails in the lounge or get your dancing shoes on and make the most of the ships disco. You’ll love the warm, welcoming ambience, not to mention the first-class service which helps ensure your Egyptian adventure is everything you imagined it to be.

CRUISE ITINERARY

Wednesday – UK - Luxor: Transfer to cruise boat for sailing to Esna and overnight stay.

Thursday – Cruise to Edfu: Morning sail to Edfu and visit Temple then sail in the afternoon to Aswan and stay overnight.

Friday - Aswan: Visit the High Dam and Philae Temple. In the afternoon you will visit Kitcheners Island by motorboat. Overnight in Aswan.

Saturday – Kom Ombo/Esna: Morning at leisure, or you can take the optional excursion to Abu Simbel. In the afternoon you will sail to Kom Ombo and visit the temple then sail to Esna for your overnight stay.

Sunday – Cruise to Luxor: Sail to Luxor. In the Afternoon you will visit the temples of Karnak and Luxor followed by an overnight stay in Luxor.

Monday – West Bank: Morning to the West Bank, visiting the valley of the Kings, Deir El Bahari and the Colossi of Memnon. Afternoon at leisure and overnight stay in Luxor.

Tuesday – Cruise to Denderah: An early morning sail to Denderah where you will visit the Temple, you will then sail back to Luxor for an overnight stay.

Wednesday – Disembark and return to UK: Transfer from the cruise boat to the airport for return flights to UK

Operation

• This cruise begins on Wednesdays and operates on the British built Ra II or similar.
• Please be aware that it may be necessary to change the order or content of cruise itineraries from time to time, although we will endeavour to visit all the sights listed. Your final itinerary will be confirmed upon arrival by your cruise rep.
• Due to the ancient nature of many attractions, certain sites may not be accessible owing to restoration work.
• When docked in Qena, you may not be allowed off the cruise boat after your visit to Denderah Temple.
• If water levels are too low, cruise boats are unable to sail to Qena and so Denderah Temple will be visited overland by coach from Luxor (journey time is approximately 2 1/2 hours each way).
• Cruise boats may dock 10 abreast which can obscure cabin views.
• Night-time cruising is sometimes necessary.
• Engine noise may be heard from your cabin.
• Depending on the weather, a motorboat may be used instead of a trip out on a felucca boat.
• Maintenance of Esna Lock is vital in controlling Nile water levels.

Work is scheduled to take place from 01/06/06-30/06/06. We have therefore cancelled all cruises between these dates. For cruises that are not cancelled but begin or end within the Esna Lock closure dates, your cruise will be affected by a coach/minibus journey to or from Esna (approximately 45 minutes) and will be accompanied by a police convoy.

Cruise boat Accommodation - Your accommodation will be in outside cabins with shower and WC. Cabin facilities include TV, air-conditioning, mini-bar, hairdryer and a small balcony. Single cabins offer the same facilities but do not have a balcony and are half the size of a twin cabin. Meals may be buffet or waiter service. Normally there is a weekly oriental Egyptian buffet. Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing a twin cabin with shower and WC.

Other Facilities Cruise boat Facilities - Swimming pool • Sundeck • 2 whirlpools •Dining room • Bar • Coffee shop • 2 souvenir shops.

This luxury holiday is available on a 5* basis from £770 per person including flights, transfers in Egypt and 07 night accommodation on a full board basis based on 2 adults sharing.

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