The Best of the Best: A Definitive Ranking of Top Lake Nasser Cruise Boats

Pro Tip:

Lake Nasser cruises usually last 3 to 4 nights, sailing between Aswan and Abu Simbel. Due to limited departures and boat availability, it’s wise to book at least 2–3 months in advance, especially from October to March.

Read:

• Beyond the Pyramids: Which Nile Cruise Ships Luxor Aswan Offer Unique Shore Excursions?

lake nasser cruise boats Itinerary

A Lake Nasser cruise typically sails from Aswan to Abu Simbel, offering a quiet, scenic route through Nubian lands and visits to temples that many Nile cruises miss entirely. Below is a sample 4-day itinerary used by top cruise boats like Omar El Khayam, Prince Abbas, or private charters via Egypt Trippers.

Day 1 – Aswan Check-In & Kalabsha Temple

• Embark in Aswan around midday.

• Welcome lunch onboard.

• Afternoon visit to Kalabsha Temple, Beit El Wali, and Kiosk of Kertassi.

• Enjoy dinner as the boat sets sail.

• Overnight on board near Wadi El Seboua.

Day 2 – Wadi El Seboua, Dakka, and Meharakka

• Breakfast with open lake views.

• Morning visit to Wadi El Seboua Temple, accessible by a short desert walk.

• Explore Temple of Dakka and Temple of Meharakka.

• Return for lunch on board and relax during sailing.

• Sunset views from deck.

• Overnight onboard.

Day 3 – Amada, Derr, and Penout’s Tomb

• Early morning sail to Amada.

• Visit Temple of Amada, the Temple of Derr, and the Tomb of Pennut — some of the oldest and best-preserved structures relocated after the creation of Lake Nasser.

• Afternoon sailing toward Abu Simbel.

• Optional cultural talk or Nubian folklore presentation in the lounge.

• Overnight near Abu Simbel.

Day 4 – Abu Simbel & Disembark

• Early breakfast on deck.

• Guided tour of Abu Simbel Temples — built by Ramses II and carved into the rock face.

• Marvel at the massive seated statues and learn how UNESCO saved them from flooding.

• Return to the boat for check-out and transfer to airport or hotel.

What’s Included:

• Accommodation on a 5★ cruise ship or private charter.

• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Guided sightseeing with certified Egyptologist.

• Entrance fees to all listed monuments.

• Ground transportation where needed.

Also read:

• Privacy Guaranteed: Why a Dahabiya is the Best Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise Experience.

How much do lake nasser cruise boats tour cost?

The cost of a Lake Nasser cruise varies depending on the type of boat, duration, level of luxury, and whether the cruise is shared or private. In general, Lake Nasser cruises are slightly more expensive than traditional Nile cruises due to their remoteness and fewer operating vessels.

Here’s what to expect in 2025–2026:

Standard 5★ Lake Nasser Cruise Boats

Examples: Prince Abbas, Omar El Khayam

• 3 nights / 4 days: $750 – $1,100 per person

• Includes:

  • Full-board meals

  • Sightseeing with Egyptologist guide

  • Entry tickets to all temples

  • Onboard accommodation and transfers

Tip: Prices often increase during high season (October to April) and around holidays.

Luxury or Suite Cabins

• Cost: $1,300 – $1,800 per person

• Includes larger cabins, balcony suites, upgraded dining, and more personalized service.

Private Dahabiya or Charter Boat (via Egypt Trippers)

• Cost: $6,000 – $12,000+ for a full charter (3–4 nights)

• Group size: 2 to 10 people

• Ideal for private groups, families, or luxury travelers seeking flexibility.

• Includes private chef, custom itinerary, and personal guide.

Additional Costs to Consider:

Booking Tips:

• Booking directly through Egypt Trippers or a trusted local operator can save 15–25%.

• Look for packages that include both cruise and land tours for the best value.

• Ask if Abu Simbel sunrise entry is included — it’s a premium experience.

What Differentiates The Egypt Trippers Ship from Other Similar Ships?

In a sea of cruise options, the Egypt Trippers ship stands out not just for its design or amenities — but for the experience it delivers. Here’s what truly sets it apart from other Lake Nasser cruise boats:

Customization Over Copy-Paste Itineraries

While most ships follow fixed routes and tight schedules, Egypt Trippers offers flexible itineraries tailored to your pace, interests, and group style. Want more time at Abu Simbel? A sunset stop for photography? Fewer temple visits, more onboard relaxation? They’ll make it happen.

Boutique Experience Without the Crowds

Unlike larger cruise ships that carry over 100 passengers, Egypt Trippers offers a more intimate, small-group atmosphere — or even fully private charters. This means no rushed tours, no long lines, and no generic tourist feel. Just space, silence, and scenery.

Local Experts, Real Access

Egypt Trippers is an Egyptian-owned and operated company, with deep roots in the region. Their guides, crew, and support staff are not outsourced — they’re locals who know every hidden corner of Nubia and every story behind the temples.

True Value, Not Tourist Markups

By booking directly through Egypt Trippers, you avoid inflated foreign agency fees. What you get is premium service, transparent pricing, and extras (like airport transfers or custom meals) often included at no extra cost.

Designed for Depth, Not Just Distance

While other cruise operators focus on ticking off major monuments, Egypt Trippers focuses on curated moments — whether it’s tea with a Nubian family, a guided walk through Amada’s lesser-known chambers, or stargazing from the deck under the desert sky.

In short: If you’re looking for a cruise that goes beyond the checklist — one that values experience, quiet luxury, and cultural authenticity — the Egypt Trippers ship delivers what others overlook.

Highlighted Destinations

A Lake Nasser cruise isn’t about checking off crowded tourist stops — it’s about discovering the lost temples of Nubia, many of which were relocated stone by stone to save them from submersion. Here are the must-see destinations you’ll visit aboard an Egypt Trippers cruise ship:

Abu Simbel Temples

The crown jewel of Lake Nasser.
Built by Ramses II, these colossal temples are carved into the mountainside and perfectly aligned to the sun on two days a year. A visit at sunrise is a spiritual experience — especially when approached by water.

Amada Temple

The oldest temple in Nubia.
Dating back to the 18th Dynasty, Amada features rare, brilliantly colored reliefs and vivid inscriptions. It’s more delicate than massive, and far less visited than sites along the Nile.

Wadi El Seboua

“Valley of the Lions.”
This complex includes a striking avenue of sphinxes leading to the temple, built by Ramses II. It’s surrounded by desert stillness, making the experience surreal and cinematic.

Temple of Dakka

Originally built by a Nubian king and later expanded by the Ptolemies and Romans, Dakka showcases a blend of architectural styles. Its solitary location on the lake’s edge makes it ideal for quiet exploration.

Temple of Meharakka

A small but fascinating stop, known for its spiral staircase — the only one of its kind in Nubian temples. Its unfinished nature gives you insight into ancient construction techniques.

Kalabsha Temple & Kiosk of Kertassi (Aswan Departure Point)

Located near the Aswan High Dam, Kalabsha is often the first stop on north-to-south cruises. It’s beautifully preserved and provides an excellent intro to Nubian architecture and Roman influence.

Tomb of Pennut at Aniba

A lesser-known but rich historical site. The tomb honors a local governor under Ramses VI and features detailed wall paintings — a rare window into Nubian elite life during the New Kingdom.

Each of these destinations is remote, crowd-free, and deeply atmospheric — offering a vastly different experience from the typical Nile cruise circuit.

Lake Nasser cruises Packages

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape, a private cultural journey, or a classic 5-star experience, there’s a Lake Nasser cruise package that fits your travel style. Egypt Trippers offers a range of curated packages that combine comfort, history, and unforgettable scenery — all with zero tourist traps.

1. Classic 4-Day Lake Nasser Cruise (Aswan to Abu Simbel)

Duration: 3 nights / 4 days
Route: Aswan → Kalabsha → Wadi El Seboua → Amada → Abu Simbel
Includes:

• 5★ cruise boat (e.g., Prince Abbas or Omar El Khayam)

• Full-board meals

• Daily guided excursions with Egyptologist

• Entrance fees to all temples

• Transfers to/from embarkation points

Price Range: $850 – $1,200 per person
Best For: First-time visitors, cultural travelers

2. Private Charter Cruise by Egypt Trippers

Duration: Flexible (3–6 nights)
Route: Fully customizable
Includes:

• Private boat or Dahabiya-style vessel

• Custom itinerary with hand-picked stops

• Onboard chef, crew, and personal Egyptologist

• Optional add-ons: hot air balloon ride (Luxor), desert trek, Nubian cultural experiences

Price Range: $6,000 – $12,000+ per charter
Best For: Families, photographers, luxury groups, and slow travelers

3. Lake Nasser + Nile Cruise Combo Package

Duration: 8–10 nights total
Route: Lake Nasser (Aswan to Abu Simbel) + Nile Cruise (Luxor to Aswan)
Includes:

• Two separate cruises

• All meals, guides, entry fees, and transfers

• Domestic flight between Abu Simbel and Luxor (optional)

Price Range: $1,800 – $3,200 per person
Best For: Travelers who want to see everything — from the Valley of the Kings to the temples of Nubia

Add-Ons & Custom Upgrades:

Booking Tip:

Egypt Trippers can also help with hotels, airport transfers, and custom add-ons, making it easy to turn your cruise into a seamless, multi-city Egypt tour.

Suggested:

• Budget vs. Boutique: How to Compare Nile River Cruise Companies by Price and Value.

FAQ

How long is a typical Lake Nasser cruise?

Most cruises last 4 days / 3 nights, sailing from Aswan to Abu Simbel. Some private charters may offer extended itineraries of up to 6 nights for slower, customized travel.

How much does a Lake Nasser cruise cost?

• Standard 5★ cruises: $750–$1,200 per person

• Luxury cabins or suites: $1,300–$1,800 per person

• Private charter boats: $6,000–$12,000+ per group
  Prices vary by season, ship class, and inclusions.

What are the best Lake Nasser cruise boats?

Top-rated ships include:

• Steigenberger Omar El Khayam (modern luxury)

• Prince Abbas by Mövenpick (classic comfort)

• Private charter boats by Egypt Trippers (custom, small group)

What’s the best time of year to cruise Lake Nasser?

The ideal months are October through April, when the weather is cooler and better suited for desert travel and sightseeing.

What destinations are included in the itinerary?

Highlighted stops often include:

• Abu Simbel Temples

• Amada Temple

• Wadi El Seboua

• Temple of Dakka

• Kalabsha Temple

• Tomb of Pennut
  These sites are remote, peaceful, and rich in history — many were rescued from rising waters during the Aswan High Dam project.

Is Abu Simbel included in every cruise?

Yes. All Lake Nasser cruises either start or end at Abu Simbel, with a guided tour included. Some packages also offer sunrise visits, which must be requested in advance.

What makes Egypt Trippers cruises different?

• Fully customizable itineraries

• Smaller, crowd-free cruise experiences

• Local guides and onboard teams

• Private charters available with flexible routing

• Transparent pricing with no tourist markups

Can I combine a Lake Nasser cruise with a Nile cruise?

Absolutely. Egypt Trippers offers combo packages that include a Lake Nasser cruise and a traditional Nile cruise (Luxor to Aswan), along with domestic flights, transfers, and hotel stays.

Conclusion

A Lake Nasser cruise is more than just a relaxing journey — it’s a rare opportunity to see a quieter, deeper side of Egypt that few travelers ever reach. Far from the crowds of the Nile, you’ll sail across vast, mirror-like waters to temples hidden in the Nubian desert, guided by locals who know every legend and landscape.

Whether you choose a 5-star luxury ship like Prince Abbas, a modern vessel like Omar El Khayam, or a private charter with Egypt Trippers, you’ll experience Egypt in a way that’s intimate, immersive, and unforgettable.

With fewer boats, flexible itineraries, and authentic cultural encounters, a Lake Nasser cruise offers something the Nile never could — solitude, silence, and sacred beauty.

Ready to go beyond the usual and sail into something extraordinary? Egypt Trippers has a boat — and a story — waiting for you.