Jaz Viceroy – 5 Days Nile Cruise Every Saturday Luxor to Aswan

Planning a Nile cruise can feel overwhelming, but the Jaz Viceroy’s 5-day journey from Luxor to Aswan offers a blend of comfort, history, and authentic Egyptian charm that’s hard to beat. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a relaxing yet enriching experience on Egypt’s most iconic river.

What really catches our eye are the luxurious cabins, the delicious onboard cuisine, and the well-planned itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure. The attentive staff and the beautiful boat design also seem to set this cruise apart. One thing to consider is that entry tickets to attractions are not included, so budget accordingly for those extras.

This experience suits travelers who want a mix of comfort and cultural exploration without the hassle of coordinating multiple tours. It’s perfect for those who value high-quality service, stunning scenery, and delicious meals in a small, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Luxurious yet affordable: Priced at $3,800 per person, it offers high-end comfort and personalized service.
• Well-curated itinerary: Includes major sites like Karnak, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan.
• All-inclusive meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered, with tempting menus and attentive service.
• Authentic experiences: Opportunities to visit iconic temples and enjoy traditional Nubian shows.
• Comfortable, intimate atmosphere: Small ship with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Extra costs: Entrance tickets to attractions are not included, so plan for additional expenses.

The Journey: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Luxor and the Temples of Karnak & Luxor

Your adventure begins in Luxor, where you’ll board the Jaz Viceroy around 3:00 pm. The process is smooth, with a convenient meeting point at Marsa Eledris, Cairo – Aswan Eastern Desert Rd, Luxor. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch and settle into your cabin, which reviewers describe as spotlessly clean and comfortable.

The highlight of the first day is visiting the Karnak and Luxor Temples. These UNESCO-listed sites are the cornerstone of Egypt’s history, with the Karnak Temple often called “the largest religious building ever constructed.” Expect to spend around an hour at Karnak, marveling at its enormous pylons and intricate hieroglyphs, and then stroll over to Luxor Temple, which is beautifully illuminated at night. Guests mention that the guides are knowledgeable, adding depth to these visits.

Day 2: Valley of the Kings and Edfu

Early breakfast sets the tone for a busy day. The main event is touring the Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. It’s a profound experience walking among the tombs, with some reviewers noting it’s “a highlight of Egypt.” The Colossi of Memnon and Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple follow, providing more insight into Egypt’s powerful queens and monumental architecture.

After lunch, the cruise departs for Edfu, sailing via Esna. The journey lasts about 11 hours, but the on-deck tea time and the managers’ cocktail party help pass the time enjoyably. Once in Edfu, you’ll visit the Temple of Horus — renowned for its well-preserved hieroglyphs and grand façade. Reviewers describe the temple as “marvelous,” and guides are often praised for their detailed storytelling.

Day 3: Edfu to Kom Ombo and Aswan

Following breakfast, you’ll explore the Edfu Temple further or enjoy leisure time onboard. The ship then sails to Kom Ombo, where the Temple of Sobek and Horus await. These twin temples are particularly unique, offering insights into ancient dual worship practices. Many guests mention the magnificent temples and quote that the experience “took you back in time.”

Post-lunch, the cruise continues towards Aswan. Evening activities include a Galabya Party—a fun, informal night where guests often don traditional attire—and time to relax on the sun deck, soaking in views of the Nile.

Day 4: Aswan Highlights and Nubian Culture

In Aswan, the tour hits full stride with visits to the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple. The dam is an engineering marvel, and the Unfinished Obelisk offers a rare glimpse into ancient stone-carving techniques. Guests praise the friendly guides who help make these sites come alive with stories.

By afternoon, there’s a peaceful trip to the Botanical Garden by Felucca, a traditional sailing boat, providing a tranquil escape after a busy morning. The evening culminates with a Nubian Show, which many reviewers say adds a lively and authentic cultural touch to the cruise.

Day 5: Disembarkation in Aswan

Your Nile journey concludes after breakfast. With a typical check-out time, guests reflect on the comfortable cabins, the delicious food, and the attentive crew. Reviewers appreciate the smooth disembarkation process and note that, despite the small ship size, the experience feels intimate and personalized.

What Makes the Jaz Viceroy Stand Out?

Comfort and Design: Many reviewers describe the ship as beautiful, modern, and very clean. Its size ensures a cozy atmosphere without feeling overcrowded, and the rooms are spacious, with some mentioning a full bathtub in the bathrooms—a luxury after long days of sightseeing.

Culinary Experience: The onboard meals receive high praise. Guests mention the variety and quality of food, with some describing it as amazing. The presence of a talented chef and a poolside bar offering refreshing drinks makes dining onboard a pleasure.

Guides and Service: The guides are often called knowledgeable and friendly, able to shield guests from scams and peddlers—a common concern in Egypt. Many reviews highlight the attentive staff and their efforts to ensure guests are comfortable throughout the trip.

Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visiting major temples and sites with expert guides adds depth to the experience. The Nubian show and optional visits to botanical gardens foster authentic cultural exchange.

Value for Money: While the price of $3,800 per person might seem steep, reviewers argue that the quality of service, comfort, and included amenities make it worthwhile. The cruise’s small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity and personalized attention.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Entry tickets are not included in the package, so set aside extra funds for entrance fees at major sites like Valley of the Kings and Philae Temple.
• Book in advance as the cruise departs only on Saturdays and seats fill up quickly.
• Consider the weather: Egypt can be hot, especially in summer, so pack sun protection, hats, and light clothing.
• Wi-Fi on board can be inconsistent, so plan to disconnect if possible.
• Bring cash for tips and small expenses, particularly for souvenirs or additional tours.

Who Will Love This Nile Cruise?

If you’re after a luxurious yet intimate experience with superb service, stunning views, and thoughtful itineraries, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, couples, and small groups looking to explore Egypt in comfort without sacrificing authenticity. The all-included meals and guided excursions ease planning, making it ideal for travelers who want a seamless, high-quality Nile adventure.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Nile cruise on the Jaz Viceroy offers a wonderful balance of comfort, cultural discovery, and authentic Egyptian hospitality. Reviewers consistently praise the beautiful ship, delicious food, and knowledgeable guides, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a stress-free way to explore Egypt’s iconic sites.

While the cost is on the higher side, the value delivered through personalized service, exclusive access, and a cozy atmosphere makes it well worth considering. Perfect for those who want to experience the Nile in style, this cruise will likely leave you with memories as timeless as Egypt’s ancient monuments.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the cruise is designed to be accessible, with a small group size ensuring personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
Meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, along with onboard activities and guided tours. Entrance tickets to attractions are not included.

When does the cruise depart?
Every Saturday, with check-in around 3:00 pm at the starting point in Luxor.

Can I customize the itinerary or excursions?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional sightseeing at attractions like the temples requires additional tickets.

What is the ship like?
The Jaz Viceroy is described as modern, beautifully decorated, and very clean, with rooms that are spacious and comfortably furnished.

Are Wi-Fi and connectivity reliable onboard?
Wi-Fi can be inconsistent, so it’s recommended to disconnect and enjoy the views and company instead.

How are the guides?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to protect from scams, enhancing the overall experience.

What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing, sun protection, hats, and extra cash for tips or entrance fees are recommended.