Mövenpick MS Royal Lily

Upon arrival in Luxor, board the Mövenpick MS Royal Lily and settle into your cabin before enjoying lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to visiting Karnak Temple, an expansive complex of sanctuaries, pylons, and obelisks, followed by a guided walk through the atmospheric Luxor Temple at sunset. Afterward, return to the ship for afternoon tea, dinner, and your first night on the Nile.

After breakfast, set out for Luxor’s West Bank to explore the Valley of the Kings, entering three elaborately decorated royal tombs. Continue to Hatshepsut Temple at Deir El Bahari, a marvel of ancient architecture built against dramatic cliffs. Stop at the Colossi of Memnon to admire these towering statues before returning to the cruise for lunch. The ship sails to Esna, passing through its famed lock—offerings views of rural Egypt along the banks. Relax with dinner as the Nile drifts by. Optional early morning hot air balloon flight can be arranged.

Begin your day with a horse-drawn carriage ride to the impressive Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus, where intricate reliefs bring ancient myths to life. After returning to the ship for lunch, continue sailing to Kom Ombo. In the afternoon, visit Kom Ombo Temple, a rare double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder, and the adjoining Crocodile Mummification Museum. Return to the ship for dinner and sail onward toward Aswan.

Arrive in Aswan and start your day at the Aswan High Dam, a remarkable achievement of modern engineering. Next, cruise to Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, dedicated to Isis and set amid picturesque waters. Visit the Unfinished Obelisk to see firsthand how these massive monuments were carved from stone. After lunch on board, enjoy leisure time—perhaps a felucca ride on the river or a quiet evening under the stars. An optional excursion to a Nubian Village is available for those interested in local culture.

Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking in Aswan. For those wishing to extend their experience, an optional trip to Abu Simbel—Ramses II’s monumental temples—can be arranged by air or road for an additional fee.