Dahabeya Merit I Nile Cruise: Itineraries
- 6 Days - 5 Nights
Description
The Dahabeya Merit I stands as a sophisticated choice for travelers seeking an intimate, high-end cruise along the Nile. Measuring 50 meters in length and 7.5 meters wide, this vessel is remarkable for its stability and spacious shared areas, providing a serene and private journey far from crowded tourist routes.
Blending traditional Egyptian aesthetics with contemporary hospitality, Dahabeya Merit I features a shallow draft of only 0.8 meters. This allows for exploration of pristine islands and lesser-known archaeological sites that larger ships cannot reach, ensuring a unique and authentic route between Luxor and Aswan. Every aspect on board is thoughtfully designed for comfort, privacy, and understated elegance.
Guests can unwind on the Sun Deck, which offers an outdoor heated jacuzzi and a lounge area perfect for reading. Life aboard flows at the tranquil pace of the Nile, alternating between in-depth cultural explorations led by expert Egyptologists and relaxing moments under the sun of Upper Egypt. This cruise is ideal for those who appreciate attentive service and delicious cuisine made from fresh local ingredients.
Choosing Dahabeya Merit I means immersing yourself in Egypt's ancient history while enjoying modern comforts. Flawless organization of excursions, a highly trained and safety-focused staff, and personalized attention make this cruise one of the most respected boutique journeys on the Nile. Every stop becomes a treasured memory of unmatched beauty.
Itinerary
Option 1: 6 Days / 5 Nights – Luxor to Aswan
Day 1Welcome Onboard – Arrival in Luxor
Upon arrival in Luxor, you will be greeted and escorted to the Dahabeya Merit I. After a welcome cocktail, settle into your elegant cabin. The afternoon features visits to the awe-inspiring Karnak and Luxor Temples. Conclude your day with a refined dinner and overnight stay on the West Bank.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Luxor
Day 2Exploring the West Bank, Sailing to Esna
After breakfast, discover the wonders of the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Return for lunch as the cruise sets sail toward Esna. Enjoy sunset tea on the Sun Deck, then dine and spend the night moored near a secluded island.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Esna
Day 3Edfu Temple Visit & Night at Al Ramady Island
Enjoy breakfast while crossing the Esna Lock. Cruise to Edfu and tour the remarkably preserved Temple of Horus. Continue onward to Al Ramady Island, where you'll have an exclusive dinner accompanied by a traditional local performance.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Al Ramady Island
Day 4Kom Ombo Temple & Swimming at Hor Diab Island
Begin your day with breakfast as you travel to Kom Ombo to explore the temple dedicated to Sobek and Haeroris. Following lunch onboard, you’ll pause at Hor Diab Island for a refreshing swim in the Nile's crystal-clear waters. Enjoy dinner during the journey towards Aswan and spend the night onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Aswan
Day 5Philae Temple & Aswan's Highlights
Arrive in Aswan to visit the captivating Philae Temple and the High Dam. After lunch, you’ll have free time to browse Aswan’s vibrant market or join an optional excursion to the Nubian Village. Dinner and overnight in Aswan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Aswan
Day 6Journey Ends – Disembark in Aswan
After your final breakfast on board, you’ll be assisted with your transfer to Aswan Airport or your hotel. Depart with lasting memories of this extraordinary Nile adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: -
Option 2: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Day 1Arrival in Luxor & East Bank Temples
Upon arrival at Luxor Airport, you'll be transferred to your Dahabeya Merit I cruise. Enjoy lunch onboard before setting out to explore the breathtaking Karnak and Luxor Temples. The evening features a welcome dinner, and you’ll stay overnight on the west bank of Luxor.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Luxor
Day 2West Bank Discovery, Sailing & Al Ramady Island
Begin your day with breakfast, then visit the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. The cruise then sets sail southward. After passing through Esna, anchor at Al Ramady Island for a traditional dinner beneath the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Al Ramady Island
Day 3Edfu Temple & Swimming at Hor Diab Island
Tour the magnificent Temple of Horus in Edfu before continuing the journey to Hor Diab Island. Here, you can relax and swim in the Nile’s refreshing waters. In the evening, the cruise proceeds toward Kom Ombo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Kom Ombo
Day 4Kom Ombo, Philae Temple & Aswan
Explore the remarkable Kom Ombo Temple before heading to Aswan to visit the majestic Philae Temple and the High Dam. The evening is free to explore Aswan’s vibrant bazaar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Aswan
Day 5Disembarkation in Aswan
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard, then transfer to either Aswan Airport or your hotel to conclude your journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: -
Option 3: 4 Days / 3 Nights – Aswan to Luxor
Day 1Arrival in Aswan and Philae Temple
Upon arrival in Aswan, you’ll board the Dahabeya Merit I and settle in. Your journey begins with visits to the Philae Temple and the High Dam. Later, set sail northward, enjoying dinner on board as the cruise gets underway.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Aswan
Day 2Kom Ombo and the Wonders of Gebel El Silsila
In the morning, explore the unique Kom Ombo Temple. The cruise continues to Gebel El Silsila, where you will discover the ancient rock quarries. End the day with an exclusive dinner near the rock-cut temple.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Gebel El Silsila
Day 3Edfu Temple and Arrival in Luxor
Visit the impressive Temple of Horus in Edfu, then cruise toward Luxor, passing through the Esna Lock. Spend a relaxing afternoon on deck, taking in scenes of river life along the Nile.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Luxor
Day 4Luxor’s Treasures and Disembarkation
After breakfast, embark on guided tours of the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple. Finally, you’ll be transferred to Luxor airport or your hotel, concluding your journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: -
Included/Excluded
- Comprehensive assistance from arrival to departure for a seamless, worry-free trip
- Personal travel assistant for all transfers to ensure punctuality and a smooth experience
- Luxury accommodation on board the 5-star Dahabeya Merit I with full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks
- All ground transfers in modern, private, air-conditioned vehicles
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites listed in the package
- Guided tours with an Egyptologist, providing rich cultural insights at every stop
- International and domestic flights (available upon request)
- Entry visa (obtainable at the airport for 30 USD or equivalent in euros)
- Expenses and excursions not detailed in the itinerary or not specifically included
- Gratuities and personal expenses
Attractions
Durations
Languages
Cities
Frequently asked questions
How long is Dahabeya Merit I Nile Cruise: Itineraries?
The cruise lasts 6 Days - 5 Nights and sails between Aswan & Luxor. Some cruises are offered in more than one length: the itinerary above lists each option.
What is included in the price?
The programme lists: Comprehensive assistance from arrival to departure for a seamless, worry-free trip; Personal travel assistant for all transfers to ensure punctuality and a smooth experience; Luxury accommodation on board the 5-star Dahabeya Merit I with full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks; All ground transfers in modern, private, air-conditioned vehicles; Entrance fees to all archaeological sites listed in the package; Guided tours with an Egyptologist, providing rich cultural insights at every stop.
What is not included?
Not included: International and domestic flights (available upon request); Entry visa (obtainable at the airport for 30 USD or equivalent in euros); Expenses and excursions not detailed in the itinerary or not specifically included; Gratuities and personal expenses.
Is a guide included?
Yes. The programme lists: Guided tours with an Egyptologist, providing rich cultural insights at every stop.
Can I choose my dates and cabin?
Tell us the month you would like and how many of you are travelling when you enquire. We check the departures and cabins available for those dates and reply with a price.
How do I book Dahabeya Merit I Nile Cruise: Itineraries?
Send an enquiry from the form on this page or message us on WhatsApp. It costs nothing to ask, and we reply within 24 hours with a price for your dates.
What is the cancellation policy?
Our cancellation terms are set out in the Cancellation Policy on this website. Ask us about the conditions for your dates before you book.
What travellers say
5.0 on Google · 7 reviews of Elevana Tours
“This is one of the best tours we had definitely doing it again and again”
“Great experience and great people. Highly recommend it to anybody going to Egypt”
“My family and I were very happy/satisfied to use this agency. We were thrilled to visit every single treasure in Egypt ❤️.”
