Sonesta Cruise Collection

Many passengers will already be familiar with the Sonesta brand and have stayed in one of their hotels for work or leisure. The ships appeal to well-traveled passengers from North America and English-speaking countries looking to explore Egyptian history and culture and travel in comfort. To make the most of Nile sailings you need to be in reasonably good health and able to walk around unpaved areas and stand for periods of time.

As with most river cruises, there is no dress code and there are no formal nights. You need to bring clothes suitable for hot days and, depending on the time of travel, cooler nights. The most important thing to pack is comfortable sneakers or sandals for shore tours, where the terrain can sometimes be rocky and uneven. Loose clothing made from natural fibers is best and women should dress conservatively, covering up knees and shoulders, when visiting temples and religious sites. Back onboard, folks tend to change into smart casual attire for dinner. Winter nights in Egypt, from December through February, can get quite cold so bring a sweater, fleece or light jacket.

No. Fares cover all meals, excursions, guides, a welcome cocktail party and onboard entertainment such as belly dancing and whirling dervish performances, folkloric shows and a galabya party where passengers have the option of dressing in Egyptian costumes. Cruises booked through Sonesta and the majority of tour operators featuring include a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival and drinks with meals, including wine and beer with dinner. Some tour companies do not include the wine on arrival or alcoholic drinks with meals. Extras include spa services, laundry, Wi-Fi and gratuities.

A Nile cruise is an awesome way of being fully immersed in Egyptian history, and shore tours to ancient sites are the main activities. A highlight is a visit to the Valley of the Kings containing the tombs of pharaohs, most famously Tutankhamun whose burial chamber was unearthed by English archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. Excursions are accompanied by expert and knowledgeable Egyptologists that bring thousands of years of history to life. An authentic experience includes the chance to sail on a traditional felucca, a single-sailed wooden vessel unchanged for centuries. When ships are sailing, the most popular pastime is relaxing in the shade on the sun deck to watch day-to-day life on the Nile.

Best for: Curious globetrotters, active retirees and history lovers that want to explore Egypt and the Nile in style.

Not for: Cruisers looking for big ships packed with entertainment, folks that want multiple dining options and families with young children.