The Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat offers an intimate alternative to a large Nile cruise ship. With only five Deluxe Cabins and two Elegant Suites, this traditional-style sailing vessel carries a small number of guests between Luxor and Aswan while combining a relaxed pace with guided visits to Upper Egypt’s celebrated temples and tombs.
This 8-day, 7-night Dahabeya Nile cruise operates in both directions. Travelers can choose a Luxor-to-Aswan journey or the reverse Aswan-to-Luxor route according to the scheduled departure date. Both itineraries include time in Luxor and Aswan, visits to Edfu and Kom Ombo, peaceful sailing days and overnight moorings beside the Nile.
Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat at a Glance
| Cruise duration | 8 days / 7 nights |
|---|---|
| Available routes | Luxor to Aswan or Aswan to Luxor |
| Scheduled departure | Saturday on selected alternating dates |
| Accommodation | 5 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Elegant Suites |
| Maximum capacity | 14 guests |
| Sightseeing language | English; other languages may be requested for an additional charge |
| Starting price | From US$2,049 per person |
Why Choose the Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat?
The Amirat is designed for travelers who prefer a quieter and more personal Nile journey. Its limited number of cabins creates a more private atmosphere than a full-size cruise ship, while its extended seven-night program leaves room for unhurried sailing between the main archaeological stops.
Daily guided sightseeing introduces the temples, tombs and monuments of Upper Egypt. Between visits, guests can relax on the shaded sun deck, watch everyday life along the riverbanks or enjoy the lounge and open-air Oriental-style Jacuzzi.
Cabins and Suites
Deluxe Cabins
The vessel has five Deluxe Cabins equipped for a comfortable seven-night stay. Cabin amenities include individual climate control, a plasma television with movie programming, complimentary internet access, a direct-dial telephone, electronic door locks, a minibar, a safe and a hair dryer.
Elegant Suites
Two Elegant Suites provide additional privacy and feature their own terraces, allowing guests to enjoy open Nile views from their accommodation. The suites also include the principal amenities available in the Deluxe Cabins.
Cabin and suite availability is limited because the Dahabeya has only seven accommodations. Early enquiries are recommended for peak travel periods and specific sailing dates.
Dining and Life Onboard
Breakfast and lunch are normally served buffet-style, although either meal may be offered à la carte depending on operations. Dinner is served à la carte in the main dining room. The sun deck bar serves drinks in an open-air setting overlooking the Nile, while the lounge provides an indoor space for relaxing in the evening.
Onboard facilities and services include:
- Shaded sun deck and bar
- Comfortable indoor lounge
- Open-air Oriental-style Jacuzzi
- In-cabin dining available until midnight
- Complimentary internet access in the accommodations
- Entertainment according to the cruise program
- Daily guided sightseeing excursions
Choose Between Two Nile Cruise Routes
Luxor to Aswan
This route begins with Luxor’s East and West Bank monuments before sailing south through Esna and Edfu. It continues to Kom Ombo and ends in Aswan with visits to the dams and Philae Temple.
Aswan to Luxor
The reverse itinerary starts with Aswan’s principal sites, followed by Kom Ombo, Edfu and leisurely sailing toward Luxor. The final sightseeing days cover Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings and other West Bank landmarks.
The two routes contain many of the same major visits but arrange them in reverse order. Your direction is determined by the selected sailing date, so confirm the embarkation city before arranging flights or hotels.
Archaeological Highlights
- Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens
- Medinet Habu and the Colossi of Memnon
- Edfu Temple
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Aswan High Dam and Old Dam
- Philae Temple
- Optional visit to Gebel El Silsila when operationally available
Who Is This Dahabeya Cruise Best For?
The Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat is particularly suitable for couples, honeymooners, mature travelers, history enthusiasts and small groups seeking a peaceful Nile experience. It also suits families who value a smaller vessel and a slower itinerary, although parents should consider the cabin arrangements and sightseeing schedule before booking.
Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat Price
Prices start from US$2,049 per person. The final price depends on the departure date, direction, cabin category, occupancy and availability. Holiday and peak-season sailings may cost more. Submit an enquiry with your preferred date, number of travelers and cabin choice to receive a confirmed quotation.
Important Sailing Information
Dahabiya itineraries are influenced by river conditions, navigation requirements and the passage through Esna Lock. The operator may adjust sailing times, mooring points or the sequence of visits without removing the principal scheduled sightseeing. Other-language guides are available on request and may carry an additional charge.
Departure dates and route availability follow the official Sonesta sailing schedule and should be reconfirmed before booking.
Looking for another way to explore the river? Compare our Dahabiya Nile cruises or browse the wider collection of Nile River cruises between Luxor and Aswan.
