Meroe is the entry point to dahabiya sailing
At $990 per person the Meroe is the cheapest dahabiya we list, against a category average of $1,350. It is a traditional two-masted sailing boat from the Nour El Nil fleet, and it sails rather than motors, which is the whole point: no engine noise, and a pace set by the wind instead of a schedule.
That is a genuinely different trip from a cruise ship. There is no pool and no spa, the guest count is a fraction of a full-size vessel, and it moors in places the big ships cannot reach. Facilities are a restaurant, open-air deck, lounge and reception.
It runs Luxor to Aswan over four to seven nights via Edfu and Kom Ombo. The right first question if the idea of a dahabiya appeals but the usual prices have put you off.
Helpful Resources
Dahabiya Nile Cruise Guide | Luxor Travel Guide | Nile Cruise Prices | Compare Nile Cruise Ships | What's Included | Best Time to Cruise
Cruise Highlights
4 to 7 Nights
- 1Day 1Board at Esna after transfer from Luxor, settle into your cabin, sail south with the current and moor on a quiet bank for the night.
- 2Day 2Morning sailing, stop at El Kab to see the rock-cut tombs, afternoon swimming stop and lunch on deck, moor near a sandbank.
- 3Day 3Visit Edfu Temple early before the larger ships arrive, sail on and stop at a riverside village and a camel market when scheduled.
- 4Day 4Visit the quarries at Gebel el-Silsila, a site most motorships pass by, afternoon sailing and a barbecue dinner on shore.
- 5Day 5Kom Ombo Temple at first light, continue sailing toward Aswan past Nubian villages.
- 6Day 6Arrive in Aswan, disembark after breakfast, optional Philae Temple and Abu Simbel extensions.
Cabins and Facilities
A traditional two-masted sailing dahabiya from the well-known Nour El Nil fleet.
- Restaurant
- Sun deck
- Lounge
- Reception
- Open-air deck
What is included?
- Full board meals
- Guided shore excursions
- Entrance fees to scheduled temples
- Port taxes
Not usually included
- Drinks beyond water
- Personal spending
- Tips and gratuities
- Cairo portion of the trip
| Season | 4 nights5 days / 4 nights | 7 nights8 days / 7 nights |
|---|---|---|
| Low seasonJun to Aug | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| ShoulderMay and Sep | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| High seasonOct to Apr | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| EasterPeak dates | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| ChristmasPeak dates | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
Indicative per person rates in a double cabin. Final price depends on cabin category, exact dates, and group size, and is confirmed at quote stage.
Cruise Photo Gallery
Cruise FAQ
How much does Meroe Dahabiya cost?
Starting prices are around $990 per person in a double cabin. The exact figure depends on cabin category, your dates and group size, and is confirmed at quote stage.
When is the cheapest time to sail?
Low season, roughly June to August, is the cheapest time to sail, with the May and September shoulder months a step below the October to April high season. The trade-off is heat: Upper Egypt regularly passes 40C in midsummer and excursions shift to early morning. Send us your dates and we will confirm the exact rate.
What do peak dates cost?
Easter, Christmas and New Year are the peak sailings and carry the highest rates of the year. Both sell out months ahead, so book early if your dates are fixed. Send us your dates and we will confirm the exact figure.
Which route does Meroe Dahabiya sail?
Luxor to Aswan, over 4 to 7 Nights. The itinerary covers the classic temple route between Luxor and Aswan.
What are the cabins like?
A traditional two-masted sailing dahabiya from the well-known Nour El Nil fleet. It suits travelers who want the quietest possible way to see the Nile.
What is included in the price?
The rate covers full board meals, guided shore excursions, entrance fees to scheduled temples and port taxes. Not included: drinks beyond water, personal spending, tips and gratuities and cairo portion of the trip.
