Looking for a Nile adventure that balances historic character with a genuine, exploratory spirit? Set sail on the Merit Dahabiya Nile Cruise, a vessel whose name honors the ancient Egyptian concept of harmony and truth. This classic dahabiya offers an authentic, no-fuss sailing experience for independent travelers who value substance over flash, and who seek a real connection with the river, its history, and its people.
With its wooden decks and traditional rigging, the Merit provides a comfortable and characterful base for small-group exploration. The focus is on the journey itself—the wind in the sails, the changing light on the water, and the slow unraveling of Egypt’s story. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to travel actively and thoughtfully, enjoying good company and simple, hearty comforts along the way.
The Merit Dahabiya stands out for its classic, sturdy character and its appeal to travelers with an independent streak. It offers a more participatory and adventurous feel compared to luxury vessels, emphasizing the joy of sailing, learning, and exploring in an unpretentious, friendly atmosphere. Key Features: Classic, Characterful Cabins: Cabins are comfortable and functional, decorated in a simple, nautical style that reflects the vessel’s traditional heritage. They are cozy retreats after a day of sun and exploration. Hearty, Communal Meals: Enjoy delicious, home-style Egyptian and Nubian meals cooked fresh by the onboard chef and shared around a large table on the deck, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. Knowledgeable, Engaging Crew & Guide: The Egyptian crew and expert guide are passionate about sharing their culture and history. They are more like travel companions, offering deep insights and facilitating authentic interactions. Active & Flexible Exploration: The itinerary often allows for swimming stops, village walks, and visits to sites based on group interest and weather, embracing the spontaneous nature of wind-powered travel. Your journey is designed for depth and authenticity, often veering off the standard tourist path. Your guide brings context to both iconic and lesser-known sites. Your adventure may include: Gebel el-Silsila (the powerful ancient quarry site, impressive for its scale and atmosphere) Local Nile Villages & Farms (walking through fields and meeting farmers) Traditional Felucca Sailing Excursions (switching to a smaller boat for shallow-water exploration) Iconic Temples like Kom Ombo & Edfu (visited with a focus on their engineering and daily ancient life) Birdwatching & Nature Stops (observing the rich wildlife along the riverbanks) The pace is steady but flexible, focused on experience rather than ticking boxes. Choose the Merit Dahabiya if you want: An authentic, classic sailing adventure with a focus on history and culture. A friendly, social atmosphere and a more active, participatory travel style. Good value and simple, honest comforts in a historic vessel. To explore with a small group of like-minded, curious travelers. Experience the timeless Nile not as a spectator, but as an engaged traveler on a vessel full of character. Why This Experience is Different: Classic Adventure & Independent Spirit
Discover the Authentic Heart of the Nile
Is This the Right Nile Experience for You?
When you set foot in Aswan, whether at the airport or the train station, you will be greeted warmly by our dedicated Tour Director, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure. Your trip begins with an exhilarating day trip around Aswan, led by our expert Egyptologist guide.
Immerse yourself in history during your visit to the famous Temple of Philae, stand in awe in front of the Great High Dam, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Aswan Bazaar while strolling.
After this rich tour, you will board the elegant Dahabiya Nile boat, where a delicious lunch awaits you as you glide gracefully along the calm waters of the Nile. As the day approaches, your journey continues to Kom Ombo, where an unforgettable stay awaits you.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Lunch – Dinner
Wake up at your leisure and enjoy a delicious breakfast. A day trip leads you to the magnificent Greco-Roman temple at Kom Ombo, a testament to ancient craftsmanship and spirituality. The entrances, halls, and double sanctuaries honor Haroeris (Horus the Great) and Sobek, the crocodile god. Our journey continues to the less-explored Jabal al-Silsilah, a place of quiet contemplation.
Anticipation builds as we approach the stunning Speos of Hormheb. An enchanting dinner, held in front of the illuminated temple backdrop or on the spacious upper deck, weather permitting, provides an evening of tranquility accompanied by carefully selected music that completes the ambiance.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Start your day with a delicious breakfast, setting the stage for exciting exploration. Travel to Edfu Temple on a horse-drawn chariot, a means of transportation that connects the past and the present. This temple is one of the famous Egyptian landmarks, a tribute to the falcon-headed god Horus.
After immersing yourself in the temple, Edfu’s bustling market will draw you in, offering you a chance to haggle for souvenirs and enjoy the local flavors and aromas. The day’s journey continues as we sail towards a picturesque island, where a captivating evening awaits us. Weather permitting, you can dine amidst the enchanting views of the Nile, on the sun terrace, or the river bank.
Immerse yourself in a charming atmosphere inspired by ancient Egypt, and enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine and Middle Eastern melodies. Clothing options range from personalized robes to glamorous belly dancing costumes, adding a fun twist to the evening’s festivities. Isna becomes our quiet haven overnight.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Have a sumptuous breakfast as we bid farewell to Esna. A trip to Luxor awaits you, including the famous Valley of the Kings, the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, and the sprawling expanse of the Karnak Temple.
Amidst this historic tapestry, a delicious lunch will punctuate your exploration. As the evening falls, you will be gracefully escorted to Luxor Airport or the train station, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Nile cruise.
Meals: Breakfast
When you arrive in Luxor, either at the airport or the train station, a tour manager will meet you and help you with any necessary arrangements. After that, you’ll go on a tour of Luxor with an Egyptologist.
You’ll see the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Memnon Colossi, and the Karnak Temple. The Karnak Temple is another place the group will visit. Then, you’ll be taken from Luxor to Esna to get on your Nile Boat. You’ll spend the night at Esna while your boat is floating down the Nile.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Lunch – Dinner.
As the sun rises, relish a leisurely breakfast while sailing towards Edfu, an ancient treasure trove. Arriving by midday, a charming horse-drawn carriage awaits you at the remarkable Edfu Temple, a shining testament to Egypt’s rich history. Among Egypt’s largest and most complete archaeological wonders, this monumental site features stunning granite statues of Horus, the falcon-headed deity, flanking its entrance.
Post-temple exploration, take to the market on foot or by bicycle, immersing yourself in the vibrant ambiance where souvenirs, flavors, and scents intermingle. After a delicious onboard lunch, our journey continues toward the splendid Silsela Hormoheb Temple. An exquisite dinner unfolds, set against the backdrop of the temple’s grounds, a tranquil island, or the boat’s elevated top deck, accompanied by melodies curated to match the setting’s serenity.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
Get up at your own pace and enjoy an indulgent breakfast, setting the stage for a day of exploration. Sail towards the enchanting Greco-Roman temple at Kom Ombo, where you will spend an immersive day. Enjoy the timeless beauty of the banks of the Nile, adorned with buffaloes and donkeys, during your journey toward Aswan. A quiet night awaits you near the gates leading into Aswan’s heart.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
After eating a delicious breakfast, disembark from the boat to reveal the majestic High Dam and the magnificent Philae Temple. A stroll through Aswan’s vibrant bazaar immerses you in the local culture and crafts. As the day turns into evening, return to the ship and enjoy the magic of Aswan, where a peaceful night awaits.
Overview On Dahabiya
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
After a nourishing breakfast, bid farewell to the ship and embark on a seamless departure. Our attentive staff will escort you to either the Aswan airport or the train station, ensuring a smooth transition to your next destination.
Meals: Breakfast.
| Person in Single | Person in Triple |
|---|---|
| 1500 USD | 1300 USD |
| Person in Single | Person in Triple |
|---|---|
| 1500 USD | 1300 USD |
| Person in Single | Person in Triple |
|---|---|
| 1500 USD | 1300 USD |
| Person in Single | Person in Triple |
|---|---|
| 1500 USD | 1300 USD |
We believe in transparency and want to ensure that our customers have a clear understanding of how our pricing works. Our pricing policy outlines the payment terms, including deposit requirements, installment options, and final payment deadlines. It’s essential to review and understand these terms to ensure a smooth booking process. Here are some key points to know about our pricing policy:
Embark on a journey of wonder and magic in Egypt, where captivating experiences await. Prioritize a smooth and enjoyable stay by organizing your luggage carefully. From the mysterious allure of the ancient pyramids to the majesty of the majestic temples, Egypt promises an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to uncover the secrets of this beautiful land and immerse yourself in its magic. We recommend packing carefully to ensure you are fully equipped to explore each wonder. Let the magic of Egypt enchant your senses and prepare for an extraordinary discovery journey. Your adventure of a lifetime awaits you in the splendor of this mysterious destination.
It operates weekly for 04 Nights Every Saturday from Luxor to Aswan and 03 Nights on Wednesday from Aswan to Luxor.
The correct refund policy for tour cancellations depends on factors such as the tour operator, the agreed booking conditions, and the context of the cancellation. See our dedicated terms and conditions page or contact us directly to understand the details. Revealing the nuances of our cancellation and refund policy ensures a seamless experience.
It is usually possible to change your travel date, but specific conditions and fees may apply. A notable example is that airlines often expand date change options, albeit with change fees and fare spreads.
Scrutinizing the words of your ticket, along with the airline or agency’s policies, is vital to understanding your choices. Accommodations share this complexity and have different change policies. Some allow cost-effective changes within a set time frame, while others impose stricter fees or rules.
I recommend contacting the airline, hotel, or agency to gauge possible date changes and possible expenses. They will provide accurate, up-to-date details tailored to your situation. Before making travel arrangements, always evaluate our cancellation and change policies to understand your alternatives to unexpected modifications.
Embarking on trips abroad often requires obtaining a visa in advance. The visa acts as an authorization approved by the host government and grants access and residence for a specified period. Some countries extend visa-waiver privileges to selected nationalities, allowing visa-free entry within specified time frames. However, these exemptions generally include conditions, such as the intention to travel or the length of stay.
Stay abreast of evolving visa requirements; It is wise to check for updates before confirming travel plans. Make sure to allow enough processing time, as visa issuance can take weeks or even months. If you need assistance obtaining a visa, do not hesitate to contact us. Your smooth travel experience is our priority.
To book a tour with us, we require that it be paid at the time of booking. This is the only guarantee for you to book the tour.
Daily excursions:
We welcome cash payments at the start of the round if you prefer.
Multi-day trips:
A deposit is necessary for long-haul flights once the itinerary has been confirmed. This down payment ranges from 10% to 100% and depends on the tour and its duration, ensuring that you confidently venture.
On our offers and holidays, gratuities are excluded and are entirely at the discretion of our passengers. Although it is not mandatory, it carries the notable importance of the dedicated personnel who ensure your comfort and service throughout your journey. Your thoughtful acknowledgment of their efforts is deeply appreciated.
For the Merit, value means a superior focus on the quality and depth of the experience itself—the expertise of the guides, the authenticity of interactions, the thoughtfulness of the itinerary—rather than on ultra-lavish but superfluous amenities. You invest in unforgettable, meaningful connections and learning, receiving a luxury that is rich in substance.
The pace is steady but not rushed, with ample time at each site. Some unique visits (like a village or lesser-known site) may involve walking on uneven ground. It is suitable for anyone with average mobility. The focus is on contemplation and learning, not on covering excessive ground.
Attire is smart-casual and respectful, especially for community visits. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a hat are essential. Evenings are casual elegance; there’s no need for formal wear. The emphasis is on comfort and appropriateness for the cultural context.
To a degree, yes. The small group size allows for some flexibility, such as spending more time at a particular temple or adding a brief, impromptu stop if the group agrees. For major customizations, a private charter is recommended to fully tailor the journey to specific passions like birdwatching, painting, or specific historical periods.

