Tour operator TUI expanded its river cruise offerings outside of Europe for the first time with its five-star all-inclusive ship Al Horeya (meaning "freedom"), which began sailing recently along the Nile. The ship accommodates 141 passengers with 72 cabins, including singles, standard cabins, and suites. Notably, it is TUI's first vessel in its river fleet to have a swimming pool, reported the Daily Mail.
The Al Horeya offers week-long, all-inclusive, round-trip voyages from Luxor, designed for travelers who want to explore the Nile and its historic sites without guesswork, with flights and excursions included in its packages, according to Metro. The ship sails about 74 miles (120 km) from Luxor to Aswan, with stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo before returning to Luxor, making traveling in Egypt easy for those anxious about traveling around Africa alone.
A seven-night cruise on the Al Horeya starts from £1,799 per person, including flights between London Gatwick or Manchester Airport into Luxor, which Jo Kessel considers excellent value.
Passengers can choose from an extensive range of guided tours available in each destination, all leaving directly from the ship. Each Al Horeya sailing includes two excursions: the Temple of Horus at Edfu and the Kom Ombo Temple, both of which are worth attending. Additional excursions are available for those who want to see more wonders of the ancient world. For example, a hot air balloon experience over Luxor starts from £89, reported Metro.
Having two qualified Egyptologists on board at all times allows passengers to ask questions about all facets of life, from Cleopatra's reign to modern Egyptian politics. "We have curated a range of excursions which allows customers to experience the temples which hold centuries of stories, such as Abu Simbel Temples and Valley of the Kings with ease," said Katy Berzins, head of TUI River Cruises. "For the more cultural experiences, we have immersive excursions that allow customers to discover new and exciting pieces of Egypt such as the Nubian Village Tour," she added.
The Valley of the Kings is a must-visit destination in Egypt, where ancient Egyptians buried Pharaohs in lavishly decorated, treasure-filled underground chambers. The tombs are expertly designed, with chambers and tunnels carved into the landscape, leaving visitors in awe of the craftsmanship, detail, and colors of the 3,000-year-old hieroglyphics.
One of the highlights of the cruise is a visit to the tomb of Tutankhamun, where his mummified body remains inside a glass case. "Seeing Tutankhamun's mummy was a 'real pinch yourself moment'," said Katie Boyden, realizing he had lain in this tomb for more than 3,300 years.
In addition to the historical sites, passengers can experience a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. During the ride, the tranquility is interrupted only by the roar of flames as the pilot, Mahmoud, adjusts the height. The experience offers an unbeatable God's eye view from the lush green corridor of the Nile to the rocky hills where the Valley of the Kings is located.
On board the Al Horeya, guests can enjoy various amenities. The top deck features a plunge pool and two hot tubs by day, and the al fresco dining space, Felucca, comes to life at night. The ship has a bar on the top deck serving drinks around the clock, and a restaurant both outside and inside, with Lazeeza as the main dining room open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Meals on the Al Horeya offer a mix of traditional Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes alongside classic British fare. Breakfast and lunch are buffets, with some items, such as omelettes, made to order. "I enjoyed ordering a made-to-order cheese omelette at breakfast and taking notes on the chef's technique," said Katie Boyden, as reported by Metro.
Entertainment on the ship includes live music performances and visits from traditional Nubian and whirling dervish acts. The Observatory, the lounge bar on the third deck, hosts evening entertainment.
Passengers can also explore independently or relax on the sun deck, enjoying 20-25°C sun under cloudless skies and all-inclusive drinks.
"Sitting with a drink in hand, watching a farmer at the green riverside with sandy mountains looming behind, I got a renewed sense of the importance of the Nile to all the inhabitants of Egypt," noted The Independent.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.