Nubia follows the wind rather than a timetable
At $1,090 per person the Nubia is towards the lower end of the dahabiya range. It is sail-powered and works to the wind and current rather than a rigid schedule, which is the most honest description of what a traditional dahabiya actually is.
Be clear about the trade before booking. A weather-led schedule means the days shape themselves and nothing feels rushed, and it also means arrival times move. If you have a tight connection at the end of the trip, build in a buffer day. Our guide to delays and rescheduling explains why that matters on the Nile generally.
It sails Luxor to Aswan via Edfu and Kom Ombo over four to seven nights, with a restaurant, open-air deck, lounge and reception.
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
- a flexible, weather-led sailing schedule
- Luxor to Aswan route
- Edfu and Kom Ombo
- Real, currently operating vessel
- Quote-friendly package
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 sail-powered boat that follows the wind and current rather than a rigid schedule.
- 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
Photos for this cruise are being added. Ask us for current ship photos when you request a quote.
Cruise FAQ
What is a dahabiya, and how is Nubia different from a cruise ship?
A dahabiya is a twin-masted sailing boat carrying a fraction of the guests a cruise ship does. Nubia follows wind and current rather than a fixed engine schedule, which is why its itinerary runs 4 to 7 nights instead of a rigid 4.
Where does the trip start?
You board at Esna after a transfer from Luxor, then sail south toward Aswan. Esna is used because the lock there suits small boats better than the main Luxor moorings.
What does it cost?
Rates step up through the year: lowest from June to August, a little higher in the May and September shoulder months, higher again in the October to April high season, with Easter and the Christmas and New Year sailings the most expensive dates of all. Send us your dates and we will confirm the exact figure.
Why does it cost more than a deluxe cruise ship?
You are paying for scarcity and access. A dahabiya moors at sandbanks, islands and villages that large ships physically cannot reach, and visits temples outside the coach convoy windows.
What should I know before booking?
There is no pool, no lift and no shop, cabins are compact, and wi-fi is patchy for long stretches. Most dahabiyas are also towed by a small tug when the wind fails, which is normal and worth confirming with any operator.
Can we charter the whole boat?
Yes. For groups of six or more, a private charter often costs little more per person than individual cabins on a deluxe ship. Send us your group size and dates and we will price it.
