A Nile cruise works well for families because the accommodation travels with you, meals are included, and there is a pool to return to after sightseeing. The parts that need planning are heat, pacing and cabin arrangements.
Cabins
This is the first thing to sort out. Most Nile cabins are twin or double, and genuine family cabins are rare. The usual solutions are connecting cabins or two cabins near each other.
Confirm in writing that connecting cabins are actually connecting rather than simply adjacent, since operators sometimes use the words loosely. Ask about the maximum occupancy per cabin, since a third bed is often a narrow sofa.
Managing the heat
Children tolerate heat worse than adults and complain about it later, once it matters. October to April is far more comfortable for family trips than the summer months.
Whatever the season, take the early excursion times seriously. Being back on board by midday is better than pushing through the hottest part of the day.
Which sites work best with children
- Kom Ombo Temple. The best family stop on the route. It is a few metres from the ship, compact, flat, and the Crocodile Museum with its mummified crocodiles genuinely interests children.
- Karnak Temple. The scale of the Hypostyle Hall impresses at any age, though the full visit can be long.
- Edfu Temple. The horse carriage ride is often the highlight of the day for younger children.
- Valley of the Kings. Manage expectations. The tombs are hot, airless and crowded. Two tombs may be plenty.
Pacing
You do not have to do every excursion. Skipping one and spending the morning at the pool is a legitimate choice, and often improves the rest of the trip.
Ships are generally happy for children to remain on board with a parent while others go ashore.
Food
Buffets suit fussy eaters well, since there is always bread, rice, pasta, chips and fruit. Tell the ship about allergies at booking rather than on arrival.
Safety on board
Pool areas are rarely supervised by lifeguards. Deck railings meet standards but sun decks get slippery, and stairs between decks are steep. Establish rules on the first day.
What to confirm before booking
- Cabin configuration and whether connecting cabins are guaranteed
- Child pricing and any age thresholds
- Whether the guide is private, which allows you to set your own pace
- Pool supervision arrangements
- Whether shorter versions of excursions are possible
