
How the Oberoi Philae differs from its sister ship
The Philae is the sister ship to the Oberoi Zahra and shares its spacious-suite standard, but adds private balconies, which is the practical difference between the two. At $1,950 per person it is marginally the more expensive of the pair and among the highest starting rates we list.
Like the Zahra it carries a spa, restaurant, sun deck, lounge and reception, and like the Zahra its facilities list does not include a swimming pool. If you are choosing between the two, the decision is essentially balcony access against a small price difference, since the cabin standard is otherwise the same.
The Philae is scheduled northbound, Aswan to Luxor, calling at Kom Ombo and Edfu, over four or three nights. Booking this direction usually means the shorter itinerary, so check which length you are being quoted. It suits honeymooners and anyone for whom a private outdoor space attached to the cabin is the deciding factor.
Helpful Resources
Luxury Nile Cruise Guide | Aswan Travel Guide | Nile Cruise Prices | Compare Nile Cruise Ships | What's Included | Best Time to Cruise
Cruise Highlights
- the widely regarded gold standard for cabin space on the river
- Aswan to Luxor route
- Kom Ombo and Edfu
- Real, currently operating vessel
- Quote-friendly package
33 Nights4 Days / 3 Nights · Aswan to Luxor
- 1Day 1Board in Aswan, visit Philae Temple and the High Dam.
- 2Day 2Sail to Kom Ombo and Edfu with guided temple visits.
- 3Day 3Continue to Luxor and visit East Bank highlights.
- 4Day 4Visit Luxor West Bank and disembark.
44 Nights5 Days / 4 Nights · Luxor to Aswan
- 1Day 1Arrive in Luxor, board the cruise, visit Karnak and Luxor Temple.
- 2Day 2Explore the West Bank, including Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple, then sail toward Edfu.
- 3Day 3Visit Edfu Temple and Kom Ombo Temple, then continue sailing toward Aswan.
- 4Day 4Visit Philae Temple, the High Dam area, and optional Nubian experiences.
- 5Day 5Disembark in Aswan or add Abu Simbel as an optional extension.
77 Nights8 Days / 7 Nights · Round Trip
This 7-night option sails this ship's own 4-night and 3-night legs back to back for a full Luxor - Aswan - Luxor round trip, without repeating the same guided temple visits on the way back.
- 1Day 1Arrive in Luxor, board the cruise, visit Karnak and Luxor Temple.
- 2Day 2Explore the West Bank, including Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple, then sail toward Edfu.
- 3Day 3Visit Edfu Temple and Kom Ombo Temple, then continue sailing toward Aswan.
- 4Day 4Visit Philae Temple, the High Dam area, and optional Nubian experiences.
- 5Day 5Continue in Aswan, then begin the return sailing toward Luxor. An Abu Simbel extension can still be added before departing.
- 6Day 6Sail back toward Luxor, passing Kom Ombo and Edfu along the way.
- 7Day 7Free time in Luxor to relax onboard, shop, or arrange optional extras before your final night.
- 8Day 8Disembark in Luxor.
Cabins and Facilities
The sister ship to the Zahra, with the same spacious-suite standard and private balconies.
- Restaurant
- Sun deck
- Lounge
- Reception
- Spa or wellness area
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 | 3 nights4 days / 3 nights | 4 nights5 days / 4 nights | 7 nights8 days / 7 nights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low seasonJun to Aug | Ask for rate | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| ShoulderMay and Sep | Ask for rate | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| High seasonOct to Apr | Ask for rate | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| EasterPeak dates | Ask for rate | Ask for rate | Ask for rate |
| ChristmasPeak dates | Ask for rate | 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 FAQ
How much does Oberoi Philae cost?
Starting prices are around $1,950 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 Oberoi Philae sail?
Aswan to Luxor, over 5 Days / 4 Nights or 4 Days / 3 Nights. The itinerary covers the classic temple route between Luxor and Aswan.
What are the cabins like?
The sister ship to the Zahra, with the same spacious-suite standard and private balconies. It suits honeymooners and travelers who want the most exclusive ship on 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.


