ON THE NILE

One of the best ways to experience such grandeur is on board an all-inclusive river cruise where you can enjoy a sunset over the water and desert as you soak in thousands of years of rich history. 
Nile cruises are specifically designed to offer the very best of Egypt and surrounding Mediterranean ports. You can indulge in tantalizing Egyptian cuisine that has relatively remained unchanged for centuries with only minor enhancements. An enchanting land of marvels, myths, and wonders, old and new, Egypt is an extraordinary destination no modern day explorer will want to miss. 
Whether you are looking to hit the ground running on an active tour, or you prefer to unwind and simply relish the sights at a relaxed pace, your journey through the Nile can be tailored in many different ways. Here are a few of our favorite journeys on the Nile (and beyond).

A LAND OF SPLENDOR

For 12 unforgettable days, Uniworld’s Splendor of Egypt and the Nile  experience highlights some of the  country’s most elusive and magical sites  in unimaginable luxury aboard the  beautiful River Tosca ship.  On this itinerary, travelers will explore the ruins of the Temple of Karnark, filled with exquisite stone carvings, and the entrancing Temple of Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. You’ll visit temples dedicated to Hathor, Horus, and other mythological figures, and pay homage to the only female who ruled as a Pharaoh at the Temple of Hatshepsut.  You’ll experience a bygone time by visiting the Valley of the Kings, the ornate burial ground of Egyptian nobility, and enjoy an exhilarating ride in a felucca, a traditional Nile River sailboat. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary begins and ends in Cairo, where you’ll visit the famous Egyptian Museum and bask in the wonder of its immense collection and display of ancient treasures including artifacts retrieved from the tomb of the eminent King Tutankhamun. Journey to Giza to gaze upon the mighty ancient Pyramids and the cryptic Sphinx. As your floating home, River Tosca  will take your breath away. All Royal and Grand Suites aboard the ship feature custom-made beds fitted with exquisite linens. Amenities include a vanity and make-up mirror, spacious closets, a hair dryer, safe, individual thermostats for air conditioning, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen televisions, and a balcony to privately take in all the sights. Private bathrooms have both a bathtub and shower, and are stocked with thick towels, cozy robes, his and her slippers, and luxurious bath products.

THE HOLY LAND, PYRAMIDS, & PETRA

For 12 days, Crystal Cruises’ Holy Land, Pyramids & Petra itinerary makes it way to Jordan, Israel, and Egypt, ending in Cyprus. This wondrous journey through the Holy Land and Egypt will transport you to a time most only read about. You’ll begin your explorations in Jordan, visiting the legendary Petra and its show-stopping rock formations built into high cliffs. The intricate detail will dazzle architecture buffs and art buffs alike. It was only known to locals for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered by the West in 1812. From there, you’ll travel to Eilat, Israel’s southernmost city. Eilat is home to one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Israel. Characterized by a vibrant red color, narrow, winding trails, and towering rock formations, Eilat’s trails cater to both beginners and advanced hikers. For those who find solace in the water, Israelis and foreigners alike flock to Eilat throughout the year for its crystal-clear waters and diverse sea life, which includes a vibrant array of tropical fish, dolphin sightings, and breathtaking coral formations. Moving on to Egypt, you’ll visit Luxor and walk through the famed Valley of the Kings which is hidden between rocky escarpments and home to the final resting place for the kings of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties. The wonderfully vivid wall paintings here will leave you breathless and with a broader perspective of the plethoric history of Luxor. In Egypt’s capital, Cairo, you’ll experience no shortage of classic Egyptian sights including Giza Necropolis, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the Great Sphinx. The journey continues on, venturing back to the Holy Land. Your trip back will include the historic locations and stunning scenery of the legendary places associated with the life, teachings, and miracles of Jesus. Not only will you visit Nazareth, but you will also see the ancient town of Capernaum and the traditional baptismal site of Yardenit. For a serene experience, Mt. Carmel offers beautiful scenery and combines the region’s cultural highlights. Top off your inspiring day with a visit to an Israeli winery. While in Israel you’ll also have the chance to experience floating weightlessly in the Dead Sea, renowned for its healing properties. The final leg of this wondrous adventure ends in Cyprus. Travel beyond the “Green Line” into Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, to Bellapais Abbey, the ruins of a 13th century gothic monastery before visiting Kyrenia harbor for a visit to the world’s oldest shipwreck. Your home away from home during the journey is the gorgeous Crystal Esprit, where after many busy days of exploration, you’ll fondly retreat to your own private sanctuary. Through panoramic windows, you’ll enjoy captivating views from dusk until dawn. Sophisticated adventurers will have their every thirst quenched on board Crystal Esprit, which combines timeless class with modern-world convenience.

THE NILE AND BEYOND

Looking for a cruise that has it all – including Egypt and the Nile? Silversea offers a number of cruises on board its exclusive Silver Spirit with stops in Egypt and along the Nile River. These itineraries also feature stops in the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean. Itineraries range from 16 to 31 days and the cruises are sure to please any adventure-seeker. From Greece to Egypt to the United Arab Emirates, and many more exciting destinations, the Silverseas’ experience is nothing short of inspiring, from start to finish. Most notable stops near and along the Nile include a day or two spent in Safaga and Luxor. Here you can unravel the mysteries, and marvel at the artistry and scale, of some of Ancient Egypt’s most important and impressive monuments, which rise from the fertile plains and palm groves of the River Nile. Safaga’s port sits on the Red Sea’s dazzling coastline, where gorgeous beaches and clear waters for diving and snorkeling await. Unwind here, amid the colorful fish life, or lie back to soak in ever-reliable sunshine. Most travelers will choose to head inland to Luxor, which rests beside the Nile, and is set amid an unmatched archaeological site of compelling legend and ancient history. Soak in the surroundings on boats, which meander up and down the river, or head out to tick off as many of the remarkable ruins as you can. You’ll venture into incredibly preserved tombs, decorated with majestic and mystical symbols and colorful artworks. Famous sites like the cursed tomb of King Tutankhamun, and the imposing rise of Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, are amid the innumerable highlights and wonders. On board Silver Spirit, you’ll relish in ocean view suites, all of which include the services of a butler. Almost all of the suites have a private veranda so that you can breathe in the fresh sea air right out of your door. The selection of dining options on board ensures your palette will never tire of choices.