Dahabiyas are beautifully crafted sailboats that became very popular during the British Colonisation of Egypt, which lasted from 1882 until 1952. During this period many British aristocrats, celebrities and royals travelled to Egypt and cruising the Nile by Dahabiya was the ultimate in luxury.

Dahabiya’s have recently seen a revival for those wishing to travel on the Nile but looking for an alternative to the larger cruise ships. The Dahabiyas of today are still extremely well crafted ships but now come with all the luxuries that modern day tourists have come to expect including air-conditioned en-suite cabins and beautifully cooked meals. Travelling on the Nile under sail conjures up images of a bygone era and is an extremely romantic and relaxing experience. The smaller size of the boats also means you have a much more personal experience on the river with your fellow passengers, crew and Egyptologist guide.

There are several different styles of Dahabiya available – nearly all of which are more expensive than travelling on a conventional cruise boat. These include some with modern styling, and some with more traditional design inside. We can offer both types, to fit individual preferences.

The Nile Spirit is a luxury Dahabiya designed to give the discerning traveller a combination of nostalgia with a twist of modern design. The 6 cabins and 2  suites, with their own private balcony, all boast an array of luxury features such as individually controlled climate control, hairdryers, mini-bars, plasma TV’s, and in room movies. The facilities on board include a reception area, library with 2 LCD TV’s and massage chairs. On the sundeck you will find a bar offering a selection of drinks and cocktails and also a BBQ area.

The Nile Spirit operates cruises on various dates throughout the year between Esna and Aswan and full private charters for larger families or groups can also be arranged.

For those travellers looking for a more traditional Dahabiya, then the Rihana may be just what you’re looking for. The ship has been designed in a traditional style and has been fitted with elegant, well-crafted furnishings. The 8 deluxe cabins are all fitted with personal safe, individually controlled air conditioning, telephone, coffee and tea facilities, mini bar, satellite TV as well as many other features. The facilities on board include an elegant dining room, shaded dining area on the top deck, bar, reading lounge and jacuzzi in addition to work out and massage facilities.

The Rihana operates cruises starting on regular dates throughout the year between Luxor and Aswan on 7, 4 and 3 night durations and is also available for private charters.

For the ultimate in luxury whilst sailing on the Nile, look no further than the Sonesta Dahabiya, which was launched in February 2009 and has set new standards for sailing on the Nile. The boat is beautifully designed and gives you a real taste of travel in a bygone era. Each of the ships 6 cabins and 2 suites are furnished to a high level, and in room features include direct dial telephone, individually controlled climate control, hairdryers, mini bar, safety deposit box, plasma TV’s and for guests staying in one of the ships 2 suites, a private terrace. The on board facilities include an elegant dining area, a stylish lounge, an oriental style Jacuzzi and a partially shaded sun deck in addition to Sonesta’s famous high standards of service and hospitality.

The Sonesta Dahabiya sails on various dates between Luxor and Aswan on 7 Night cruise durations or for passengers travelling with their extended families, up to a maximum of 16 passengers, we are able to arrange for private charters.

Please do contact us if you would like us to suggest an itinerary featuring a Dahabiya, or would like to book a tour using one of the boats featured above.