Overview
MS Nile Premium is a deluxe 5-star Nile cruise sailing between Luxor and Aswan. The ship offers comfortable cabins, panoramic Nile views, full-board dining, a swimming pool, Sun Deck, gym, lounge areas, and onboard entertainment. It was launched in 2008 and later renovated. The ship has 60 cabins/suites across five decks.
The standard programs are 4 Nights / 5 Days from Luxor to Aswan and 3 Nights / 4 Days from Aswan to Luxor. The cruise route includes the major attractions of Upper Egypt, including Luxor’s temples and West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan.
Highlights
- 5-Star Deluxe Nile Cruise
- Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan
- 4 Nights / 5 Days from Luxor
- 3 Nights / 4 Days from Aswan
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Hatshepsut Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
- Edfu Temple
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Philae Temple
- Unfinished Obelisk
- Onboard entertainment
- Aswan High Dam
- Felucca sailing
- Swimming pool
- Sun Deck
- Pool bar
- Restaurant
- Lounge and cocktail bar
- Gym
- Reading room
- Gift shop
- Internet access
- Full-board meals
Reviews
Itinerary Description
Experience the timeless beauty of Egypt aboard the MS Nile Premium Nile Cruise, sailing through the heart of Upper Egypt between Luxor and Aswan. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the legendary Nile combined with guided visits to magnificent temples, ancient tombs, and fascinating archaeological sites.
Day 1 – Embarkation in Luxor
Arrive in Luxor and board the MS Nile Premium. Complete your check-in and settle into your cabin. Enjoy your first evening onboard, relax, and admire the peaceful views of the Nile Valley.
Day 2 – Luxor East & West Banks
Begin your exploration of ancient Luxor with a visit to the impressive Karnak Temple Complex and Luxor Temple on the East Bank. Continue to the West Bank to discover the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Return to the cruise and sail south along the Nile.
Day 3 – Edfu Temple
Enjoy breakfast onboard while sailing through the beautiful Nile Valley. Stop at Edfu to explore the magnificent Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient Egyptian temples. Return to the ship and continue sailing toward Kom Ombo.
Day 4 – Kom Ombo & Aswan
Visit the fascinating Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Horus. After the visit, return to the cruise and continue toward Aswan while enjoying the changing scenery along the Nile.
Day 5 – Aswan Sightseeing
Explore the highlights of Aswan with a visit to the beautiful Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Depending on the cruise schedule, enjoy additional visits to the Aswan High Dam and a relaxing traditional felucca ride on the Nile.
Day 6 – Disembarkation in Aswan
Enjoy your final breakfast onboard before checking out. Your Nile Cruise experience ends in Aswan. Continue your journey with an optional Abu Simbel Tour, Nubian Village experience, or private transfer to your next destination.
Throughout the journey, relax onboard the MS Nile Premium, enjoy comfortable accommodation and dining, and admire panoramic views of the Nile Valley. This cruise provides a memorable way to combine ancient Egyptian history with the peaceful rhythm of life along the Nile
Embarkation and lunch onboard. Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Dinner and overnight onboard.
Visit the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon. Sail toward Edfu.
Visit Edfu Temple, then continue sailing to Kom Ombo Temple. Sail toward Aswan.
Visit the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple. Enjoy a traditional Felucca ride. Overnight onboard.
Breakfast and disembarkation.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- 4 nights accommodation onboard MS Nile Premium
- Full-board meals
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Professional English-speaking Egyptologist
- Entrance fees to included sightseeing
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Hatshepsut Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
- Edfu Temple
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Philae Temple
- Aswan High Dam
- Unfinished Obelisk
- Traditional Felucca ride
- Air-conditioned transportation during excursions
- Onboard entertainment
- Transfers according to the selected package
- Drinks
Excludes
- International flights
- Egypt visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional excursions
- Laundry
- Wi-Fi or additional onboard services, if applicable
- Any service not specifically mentioned under Includes
More Info
The MS Nile Premium Nile Cruise offers an elegant and comfortable way to explore the ancient treasures of Upper Egypt while sailing along the legendary Nile River. Designed as a 5-star deluxe cruise, the ship combines comfortable accommodation, full-board dining, guided sightseeing, and onboard leisure facilities to create a convenient Egypt travel experience.
The cruise operates between Luxor and Aswan, passing through some of the most important archaeological destinations in southern Egypt. During the journey, travelers can discover magnificent temples, ancient royal tombs, impressive monuments, and beautiful Nile landscapes without having to change hotels every night.
The classic itinerary from Luxor to Aswan is generally 5 Days / 4 Nights, while the reverse journey from Aswan to Luxor can be arranged as a 4 Days / 3 Nights program, depending on the sailing schedule and availability.
One of the main advantages of a Nile cruise is the combination of sightseeing and relaxation. Guests can spend part of the day exploring ancient monuments with a professional Egyptologist and the rest of the day relaxing onboard, enjoying the swimming pool, Sun Deck, restaurant, lounge, or the scenery along the river.
Why Choose MS Nile Premium?
MS Nile Premium is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Upper Egypt in a comfortable and organized way.
A traditional road-based tour can require frequent hotel changes and long transfers between Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan. A Nile cruise eliminates much of this inconvenience.
The ship acts as a floating hotel, allowing travelers to unpack once and remain in the same cabin throughout the journey.
While the ship sails between destinations, guests can enjoy:
- Nile views
- Relaxation on the Sun Deck
- Swimming
- Meals and refreshments
- Leisure time
- Onboard entertainment
- Social areas
- Wellness facilities
The result is a balanced itinerary combining history, culture, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Main Highlights
The MS Nile Premium cruise covers many of the most important attractions in Upper Egypt.
Historical Highlights
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
- Colossi of Memnon
- Edfu Temple
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Philae Temple
- Aswan High Dam
- Unfinished Obelisk
Onboard Highlights
- 5-star deluxe accommodation
- Full-board meals
- Air-conditioned cabins
- Nile views
- Swimming pool
- Sun Deck
- Pool bar
- Restaurant
- Lounge
- Cocktail bar
- Gym
- Reading room
- Gift shop
- Internet access
- Onboard entertainment
- Leisure areas
The ship is designed to provide guests with comfortable accommodation while maintaining the atmosphere of a classic Nile cruise.
Day 1 – Luxor Embarkation
The journey begins in Luxor, one of the world’s most important archaeological destinations.
Ancient Luxor was part of Thebes, a major political and religious center of ancient Egypt.
After boarding MS Nile Premium, guests settle into their cabins before beginning the first sightseeing program.
Karnak Temple
The first major attraction is Karnak Temple, an enormous temple complex developed over hundreds of years.
Different pharaohs contributed to the construction and expansion of Karnak, creating a huge collection of pylons, courtyards, sanctuaries, statues, obelisks, and columns.
One of the most impressive sections is the Great Hypostyle Hall, which contains enormous columns covered with ancient inscriptions and reliefs.
A professional Egyptologist can explain the religious importance of Karnak and its connection to the ancient city of Thebes.
Luxor Temple
The tour continues to Luxor Temple, located in the center of modern Luxor.
The temple is famous for its monumental statues, columns, courtyards, and decorated walls.
Luxor Temple was associated with royal ceremonies and the ancient Opet Festival.
The connection between Luxor Temple and Karnak makes visiting both sites particularly valuable for travelers interested in understanding ancient Egyptian religion and royal traditions.
After the sightseeing program, guests return to the ship for dinner and overnight.
Day 2 – Luxor West Bank
The second day focuses on the West Bank of Luxor, home to some of Egypt’s most famous royal monuments.
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings was used as a royal burial ground during the New Kingdom.
Instead of building enormous pyramids, many pharaohs were buried in hidden rock-cut tombs within the desert mountains.
The tombs can contain colorful paintings, hieroglyphic inscriptions, and religious scenes connected to the ancient Egyptian concept of the afterlife.
The exact tombs open to visitors can vary depending on conservation work and local regulations.
The underground environment and detailed artwork make the Valley of the Kings one of the most memorable stops of the cruise.
Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
The itinerary continues to the impressive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari.
The temple was constructed against a dramatic limestone cliff and consists of several terraces connected by ramps.
Hatshepsut was one of ancient Egypt’s most important female rulers.
The temple’s reliefs provide information about her reign, religious traditions, and her famous expedition to the Land of Punt.
The combination of monumental architecture and dramatic natural scenery makes the temple particularly impressive.
Colossi of Memnon
The final major stop on the West Bank is the Colossi of Memnon.
These two enormous statues represent Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
They once stood at the entrance of his large mortuary temple.
Although most of the original temple has disappeared, the two massive statues remain an impressive example of ancient Egyptian monumental sculpture.
After the tour, guests return to MS Nile Premium and continue sailing south.
The Nile Sailing Experience
The sailing itself is one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip.
As MS Nile Premium moves south, the scenery changes gradually from the agricultural landscapes around Luxor toward the smaller towns and villages of Upper Egypt.
The fertile Nile Valley creates a striking contrast with the surrounding desert.
Guests may see:
- Palm trees
- Green agricultural fields
- Sugar cane
- Traditional villages
- Local fishing boats
- Nile islands
- Farmers working beside the river
- Desert landscapes
The Sun Deck is an ideal place to enjoy the scenery.
Guests can relax beside the pool, read, take photographs, enjoy refreshments, or simply watch the river landscape.
These quieter periods provide a welcome break between archaeological excursions.
Day 3 – Edfu and Kom Ombo
The cruise continues toward two remarkable ancient temples.
Edfu Temple
The Temple of Horus at Edfu is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt.
The temple was dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, and constructed during the Ptolemaic period.
Its monumental entrance pylon contains detailed reliefs showing the king and the gods.
Inside, travelers can explore courtyards, halls, columns, sanctuaries, and inscriptions.
The excellent preservation of Edfu makes it particularly useful for understanding ancient Egyptian temple architecture.
After the visit, guests return to the ship and continue sailing.
Kom Ombo Temple
The next stop is Kom Ombo Temple, situated directly beside the Nile.
The temple is unusual because it was dedicated to two gods:
Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder.
Its distinctive design reflects the dual dedication, with symmetrical sections associated with the two deities.
The location beside the river also provides beautiful views of the Nile.
After exploring the temple, guests return to MS Nile Premium and continue toward Aswan.
Day 4 – Aswan
The fourth day focuses on the major attractions of Aswan.
Aswan is known for its beautiful islands, granite quarries, Nubian culture, and peaceful Nile scenery.
Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam is one of Egypt’s most important modern engineering projects.
It was constructed to regulate the Nile, control flooding, support agriculture, and generate electricity.
The construction of the dam also resulted in a major archaeological rescue campaign because rising water threatened numerous ancient monuments.
Unfinished Obelisk
The Unfinished Obelisk is located in the ancient granite quarries of Aswan.
The monument demonstrates the enormous scale of ancient Egyptian stone-working projects.
Its visible cracks explain why the obelisk was abandoned before completion.
The quarry provides valuable insight into how ancient craftsmen worked large blocks of granite and the challenges involved in creating monumental structures.
Philae Temple
The sightseeing program continues to Philae Temple, located on Agilkia Island.
The temple complex is primarily dedicated to the goddess Isis.
It contains impressive pylons, columns, sanctuaries, reliefs, and inscriptions.
Guests reach the island by boat, creating a scenic approach to the temple.
Philae also has an important modern history because the temple complex was relocated to higher ground to protect it from rising water after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Felucca Ride
A traditional Felucca ride provides a peaceful experience on the Nile around Aswan.
These traditional sailing boats have been used along the river for generations.
The ride offers beautiful views of islands, palm trees, villages, and the surrounding desert.
It is a relaxing way to finish the day’s sightseeing.
Day 5 – Aswan Disembarkation
The final morning begins with breakfast onboard.
Guests then complete the disembarkation process in Aswan.
Depending on the selected package, onward transfers can be arranged to:
- Aswan Airport
- Aswan Railway Station
- Aswan Hotel
- Private accommodation
- Another agreed destination
Guests who want to stay longer in Aswan can add additional hotel nights.
An optional visit to Abu Simbel can also be arranged depending on the schedule.
Accommodation
MS Nile Premium provides comfortable accommodation designed for several nights of Nile travel.
Cabins are air-conditioned and equipped with modern amenities.
Depending on the cabin category, travelers can have features such as:
- Nile views
- Private bathroom
- Television
- Minibar
- Safe box
- Hairdryer
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Comfortable beds
- Individual air conditioning
The cruise offers different accommodation categories, including standard cabins and larger suites.
Staying in one cabin for the entire cruise means guests can unpack once and avoid moving their luggage between different hotels.
Dining Experience
MS Nile Premium operates on a full-board basis, generally including:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Meals are served onboard according to the daily cruise schedule.
Menus can include international dishes alongside Egyptian and Middle Eastern specialties.
Guests with dietary restrictions, allergies, or specific food requirements should communicate them before departure.
Drinks and beverages are generally separate unless explicitly included in the selected package.
Swimming Pool and Sun Deck
The Sun Deck is one of the most popular areas onboard.
Guests can relax outdoors while enjoying panoramic views of the Nile.
The swimming pool provides a refreshing place to cool down during warm afternoons.
The pool area can be particularly enjoyable while the ship is sailing between sightseeing destinations.
Lounge and Entertainment
The ship includes comfortable public areas where guests can relax after sightseeing.
The lounge and cocktail bar provide an indoor environment for socializing and enjoying drinks.
Depending on the sailing schedule, evening entertainment and cultural activities may also be offered.
These activities provide guests with opportunities to relax and socialize after a day of visiting temples and tombs.
Fitness and Leisure Facilities
MS Nile Premium also provides leisure facilities for guests who want to stay active during the cruise.
The available facilities can include a gym, reading room, swimming pool, and other recreational areas.
The reading room can be especially useful during sailing periods when travelers want a quiet place to relax.
Best Time to Take the Cruise
The most popular season for a Nile cruise is generally October through April.
During these months, temperatures are usually more comfortable for visiting archaeological sites.
Summer temperatures in Luxor and Aswan can become extremely high.
Travelers visiting between June and August should drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, wear suitable clothing, and avoid unnecessary exposure to the midday sun.
What to Bring
Recommended items include:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight clothing
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear
- Light jacket
- Camera or smartphone
- Personal medications
- Reusable water bottle
Comfortable footwear is especially important because archaeological sites can involve considerable walking on uneven surfaces.
Optional Excursions
Abu Simbel
The temples of Abu Simbel are among the most spectacular monuments in southern Egypt.
Built during the reign of Ramses II, they are famous for their enormous statues and rock-cut architecture.
The excursion can be arranged from Aswan according to the cruise schedule.
Nubian Village
A visit to a Nubian Village offers an opportunity to learn more about Nubian culture, traditions, architecture, crafts, and everyday life.
It is an excellent addition for travelers who want to experience contemporary Egyptian culture alongside the ancient monuments.
Combining MS Nile Premium With Cairo
The cruise can easily be included in a longer Egypt vacation.
A popular route is:
Cairo → Giza → Luxor → MS Nile Premium → Aswan → Cairo
Travelers can explore the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, museums, and historic Cairo before traveling south.
After arriving in Luxor, they can board MS Nile Premium and discover the major archaeological attractions along the Nile.
Combining the Cruise With Hurghada
Travelers who want to combine ancient Egyptian history with a Red Sea beach vacation can continue to Hurghada after the cruise.
A possible itinerary is:
Cairo → Luxor → MS Nile Premium → Aswan → Hurghada
After several days of temples, tombs, and historical sightseeing, guests can relax at a Red Sea resort.
Popular activities include:
- Beach relaxation
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Boat trips
- Desert excursions
- Resort activities
Who Is MS Nile Premium Best For?
Couples
The peaceful sailing atmosphere, comfortable cabins, Nile views, and onboard facilities make MS Nile Premium suitable for couples and honeymooners.
Families
Families can benefit from having accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing organized as part of one itinerary.
History Enthusiasts
The cruise provides access to many of Upper Egypt’s most important archaeological sites and includes guided sightseeing with an Egyptologist.
First-Time Visitors
The cruise is particularly convenient for first-time visitors because it connects Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan without requiring frequent hotel changes.
Travelers Seeking Comfort
Travelers who want to combine active sightseeing with relaxation can enjoy the balance offered by a Nile cruise.
Final Experience
The MS Nile Premium Nile Cruise offers a memorable combination of ancient Egyptian history, comfortable accommodation, scenic sailing, cultural experiences, and onboard relaxation.
The journey begins in Luxor with the monumental Karnak and Luxor Temples, followed by the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon.
The ship then continues south toward Edfu and Kom Ombo, where travelers can explore two distinctive ancient temples while enjoying the changing scenery of the Nile Valley.
The final stage of the journey takes place in Aswan, with visits to the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple, followed by a traditional Felucca ride.
Between sightseeing excursions, guests can enjoy the swimming pool, Sun Deck, restaurant, lounge, gym, reading room, and onboard entertainment.
For travelers looking for a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise that combines Egypt’s greatest archaeological attractions with comfortable accommodation and a relaxing sailing experience, MS Nile Premium provides an excellent way to discover the history and beauty of Upper Egypt.
Frequently Asked Questions
The standard Luxor-to-Aswan itinerary is 5 Days / 4 Nights.
The standard itinerary starts in Luxor.
The cruise ends in Aswan.
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included as part of the full-board package.
Yes. A professional English-speaking Egyptologist accompanies the sightseeing program.
Yes, the traditional Felucca ride is included in the standard Aswan program
No. Abu Simbel is an optional excursion and can be arranged separately
Yes. The ship features a swimming pool on the Sun Deck.
Yes. Transfers from Luxor or Aswan airports, railway stations, and hotels can be arranged according to the selected package.
Yes. MS Nile Premium can be combined with Cairo and Giza tours before or after the cruise.
Yes. Additional nights in Luxor or Aswan can be arranged according to your travel schedule.
