Floating the Nile: Experiencing Egypt via Cruise ship

Egypt has long fascinated travellers and it’s not hard to see why. This ancient land boasts both awe-inspiring natural beauty and a rich heritage. The best way to experience this North African destination is arguably by cruise ship, as floating along the life-giving Nile puts holidaymakers right at the heart and soul of the nation.

It’s now possible for people to make the most of Red Sea Nile cruises, and these adventures allow visitors to fully absorb Egypt’s history and scenery.  A popular choice among holidaymakers is to book a Nile cruise and stay trip. These adventures include some rest time in resorts, often located on the Red Sea coast, as well as trips along the meandering River Nile.

Many people opt for boat trips that sail between Luxor and Aswan. Holidaymakers on these trips get to see the temples at Luxor and nearby Karnak, Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens and Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Then there is the Aswan High Dam and Temple of Philae to view. To get the full Aswan experience, visitors can explore the area by felucca, an Egyptian sailing boat.

Out to the west, oceans of sand stretch right out to the Sahara, creating mesmerising vistas. For the best views, travellers can watch the sun rise over the Nile from the comfort of their cruise ships.

Meanwhile, in the Red Sea resorts, holidaymakers can sit back, relax and soak up the sun. Those with a sense of adventure may want to take diving lessons while they are staying by the coast. Some of the world’s best dive sites are located on the tip of the Sinai Peninsula and many resorts have their own dive schools, offering all the equipment and guidance first-timers need. Once beneath the waves, people can see an array of marine life, including impressive corals.

For the best experiences, holidaymakers should think about the weather. The hottest months are June, July and August and during this period, temperatures frequently climb above 40 degrees. In contrast, temperatures in December and January tend to be in the 20s. Generally speaking, winter is the high tourist season, while June to August is less busy in all parts of the country except the coasts. Whenever people travel to Egypt, they should make sure they have plenty of cool garments and sun protection to help them cope with the heat.