Steigenberger Royale Nile Cruise Thurs/Mon Lux-Aswan-Lux

Introducing the Steigenberger Royale Nile Cruise: An Elegant Journey Through Egypt’s Heartland

Planning a Nile river adventure? The Steigenberger Royale offers a refined, luxurious way to explore Egypt’s iconic sites from Luxor to Aswan. This cruise, operated by Jaz Cruises, combines sophisticated amenities with a well-curated itinerary that highlights some of Egypt’s most famed temples and landscapes.

What draws us to this experience are its luxurious onboard facilities, the chance to enjoy stunning river views from panoramic windows, and the thoughtfully planned itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxing moments. Our favorite aspects include the high-quality meals, the variety of cultural visits, and the atmosphere of comfort and elegance onboard.

A potential drawback is that additional visits—such as Abu Simbel—are charged separately, which might surprise some travelers expecting all activities to be included. Still, for those looking for a comfort-focused, authentic Nile experience, this cruise is a strong choice.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine luxury and cultural exploration without feeling rushed—ideal for history buffs, comfort seekers, or anyone wanting a taste of Egypt’s grandeur with a touch of elegance.

Key Points

• Luxurious Experience: The cruise features spacious cabins with panoramic river views and upscale amenities.
• Cultural Highlights: Includes visits to iconic sites like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Luxor Temples, and Aswan’s high dam and Philae Temple.
• Flexible Itinerary: Options for 3, 4, or 7-night cruises departing from Luxor or Aswan, with additional sightseeing charged separately.
• Authentic Onboard Atmosphere: Enjoy local entertainment like Nubian shows, belly dancing, and galabya parties.
• Value for Money: At $435 per person, the cruise offers a comfortable, all-inclusive base but expect extra costs for key excursions.
• Stunning Views: From sunrise hot air balloon rides to panoramic windows, the scenery is a highlight at every turn.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Overall Vibe and Service

The Steigenberger Royale exudes an air of elegance, with a focus on providing a high level of comfort throughout your journey. From the moment you step onboard, you’re greeted with a welcoming atmosphere, attentive staff, and plentiful amenities. The ship’s design emphasizes space and light, with large panoramic windows allowing you to take in the ever-changing river scenery from your cabin or the sundeck.

Guests have consistently praised the onboard service, describing staff as friendly and helpful. The cruise is operated by Jaz Cruises, a reputable company known for delivering smooth, hassle-free experiences. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of meals—buffet-style, with a mix of local and international cuisine—that satisfy even the most discerning palates.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Luxor Arrival and Check-in
After your arrival in Luxor, the cruise begins with a check-in around lunchtime. Expect a relaxed afternoon with a buffet lunch and a tea break on the sundeck, where you can start soaking in the Nile views. Dinner in the evening sets the tone for the week ahead—refined, flavorful, and served with a side of Egyptian hospitality.

Day 2: Valley of the Kings & Edfu
Early mornings are best for visiting the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun are excavated deep into the mountains. It’s a highlight for history enthusiasts but can be crowded, so a guided tour helps make the most of it. The visit to the Colossi of Memnon and Queen Hatshepsut’s temple adds even more grandeur.

Lunch is served onboard before sailing to Edfu, with scenic views along the way. In Edfu, the Edfu Temple—dedicated to Horus—is a well-preserved example of Ptolemaic architecture and a must-see. The evening’s cocktail party offers a chance to mingle and discuss the day’s sights.

Day 3: Kom Ombo & Navigation to Aswan
Cruising to Kom Ombo, you’ll find the dual temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus intriguing, with its unique design and archaeological significance. The free time here allows for a stroll or some souvenir shopping. The cruise then continues to Aswan, where the views of the Nile are simply breathtaking, especially during sunset.

The evening features a Galabya Party, a fun dress-up event that adds a local flavor to your night. It’s a casual, lively way to connect with fellow travelers.

Day 4: Aswan Sights & Nubian Culture
A full day exploring Aswan’s highlights begins with visits to the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Philae Temple, all accessible via guided tours. These sites showcase Egypt’s engineering marvels and spiritual centers.

Later, a felucca ride offers a serene perspective of the river and the Botanical Garden. Dinner is followed by a Nubian show, immersing guests in vibrant music and dance, which many find both entertaining and culturally enriching.

Day 5: Abu Simbel Optional Visit
For those interested, an optional early morning trip to Abu Simbel is available. This colossal temple complex carved into the mountainside is awe-inspiring. Due to its distance, it’s a separate charge, but many guests consider it a highlight worth the extra cost.

Day 6 & 7: Return Journey and Final Sightseeing
Cruising back towards Luxor, you’ll visit the Karnak & Luxor Temples, often regarded as Egypt’s most impressive religious sites. The last night features a belly dance and dervish show, closing the trip with lively entertainment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cruise includes all buffet meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—and the accommodation on board. These are well thought out to satisfy diverse tastes, with many reviews mentioning the quality and presentation of meals.

However, notable sites like Abu Simbel and additional visits cost extra, around USD 350 per person for a 7-night cruise. This is worth considering when planning your budget, especially if you’re eager to see the more distant temples.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Transport, Timing & Group Size

Most departures are scheduled for Thursdays from Luxor and Mondays from Aswan, with options for 3, 4, or 7 nights. The schedule is flexible enough for various travel plans, but check your visa requirements ahead of time.

The group sizes are generally moderate, allowing for a personalized experience, especially since guides are available in English and Arabic. The timing of visits is arranged to avoid the midday heat, making sightseeing more comfortable, and the cruising portion offers relaxing views in between stops.

Comfort & Additional Tips

Guests have highlighted the spacious cabins and clean facilities. Be sure to bring a hat and headscarf for sun protection, especially during outdoor excursions. The cruise explicitly states that alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard, which helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

It’s important to note that this trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with vertigo, or people prone to seasickness due to the nature of river navigation.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $435 per person, the cruise offers a comfortable, elegant introduction to Egypt’s Nile, especially considering the included amenities. The real value lies in the combination of luxury, convenience, and access to key sites, which are often difficult to see independently.

The extra costs for certain visits should be factored into your budget, but overall, this cruise provides a smooth, well-organized way to explore Egypt’s highlights without sacrificing comfort.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise suits travelers who prioritize comfort and style but want genuine culture. It’s great for those who appreciate scenic river views and want to see major sites without the hassle of multiple bookings. The inclusion of entertainment and local experiences adds a lively touch for those seeking a lively yet elegant journey.

If you prefer guided tours, high-quality amenities, and a relaxing environment, the Steigenberger Royale is a wonderful choice. However, be prepared for extra costs if you’d like to visit some of the more distant monuments, and keep in mind the restrictions for pregnant women or those sensitive to water movement.

FAQ

Is the itinerary flexible?
The daily schedule can be modified due to navigational reasons or water levels, but the core visits like Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple, and Karnak & Luxor Temples are usually included.

What’s the best way to book additional excursions?
Extra visits, such as Abu Simbel, are purchased separately, often directly through the cruise staff or prior arrangements. It’s useful to plan ahead if these are must-see sites for you.

Are meals included?
Yes, all buffet meals are included in the price, offering a variety of local and international dishes to keep everyone satisfied.

What is the onboard entertainment like?
Guests have enjoyed Nubian shows, galabya parties, belly dancing, and dervish performances, making evenings lively and culturally engaging.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While the cruise is luxurious and generally suitable for adult travelers, it might not be ideal for very young children due to the nature of sightseeing and water activities.

How many nights can I choose to cruise?
Options include 3, 4, or 7-night cruises departing from both Luxor and Aswan. The 7-night cruise covers a comprehensive itinerary, while shorter options focus on specific regions.

What should I pack?
Bring a hat, headscarf, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler evenings. Remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Information isn’t specified, but given the luxury nature of the cruise, Wi-Fi might be available at an additional cost or limited to certain areas. Check with the operator for current details.

To sum it up, the Steigenberger Royale Nile Cruise offers a refined way to explore Egypt’s most famous sights while enjoying the comforts of a luxury vessel. With panoramic views, engaging cultural stops, and attentive service, it’s well-suited for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and discovery. Just remember to budget extra for optional excursions and stay prepared for a memorable adventure along the timeless Nile.

You can check availability for your dates here: