The River Nile is the longest river in the world and gives life to Egypt, as it has done for many thousands of years. Much of Egypt’s population still live along the banks of the river, and many of this historic country’s ancient sites are situated close to the Nile. It is no surprise, then, that one of the most popular ways to enjoy Egypt is by taking a Nile cruise. And despite the idea of a cruise being an expensive, luxurious way to travel, a Nile cruise offers luxury at an affordable price.

 

The most common length of cruise is for seven nights, but bear in mind that part of the first and final day will be spent travelling. Although this isn’t as time consuming as it once was, with airlines flying from London and regional airports in the UK straight to Luxor, where many cruises set sail from. Once there, passengers check-in to the boat they are travelling on and when everyone is on board it’s time to set sail. Much better than the usual finding-your- bearings- on-land; straight away the holiday is in full swing.

 

The affordability of this type of trip is shown by the Egypt holidays offered by Fly Monarch. Prices for a seven-night cruise in June 2009 start from £635 per adult, or £778 for the same deal on board an elite 5-star vessel. These trips are all-inclusive, which means drinks, meals, and most excursions are already paid for. The only extra money needed is for spending on the many excursions.

 

Highlights of a trip are many. The spectacular Valley of the Kings outside Luxor is one of the most visited historic sites in the world, and contains the tombs and burial chambers of ancient Egyptian Pharaohs and nobility. The most famous Pharaoh of all – Tutankhamun - was discovered here in a long forgotten tomb in 1922 by the archaeologist Howard Carter. Further down river, the temple at Edfu, the Aswan High Dam, and the markets of Aswan itself are all big tourist attractions. Each day is mixed between relaxation on the boat’s sundeck and pool area, and the excitement of the various excursions.