A dahabiya is a traditional Nile sailing boat with two large sails and only a few cabins. It sails slowly with the wind, moors at islands and quiet riverbanks, and stops at small temples and villages that the big ships pass by, as well as the great temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo. Most dahabiya cruises sail between Esna, south of Luxor, and Aswan in 4 or 5 nights.
Choose from the Merit, Merit II, Merit Star and Akhnaton. With so few guests on board, it feels like travelling on a private yacht, and a family or group of friends can charter the whole boat.
Merit Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Merit 1 Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Merit II Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Experience luxury on the Nile with Merit Dahabiya II. Discover exclusive routes and lavish comfort. Book your unforgettable Merit dahabiya II vacation now!
Merit Star Dahabiya
Unlock unparalleled luxury with Merit Star Dahabiya. Experience Egypt's timeless treasures on a bespoke Nile cruise like no other. Book your Dahabiya vacation…
Akhenaton Dahabiya
Discover luxury cruising on the Nile with Akhnaton Dahabiya. Unveil ancient wonders in style aboard our elegant vessel. Book your dream Akhnaton Dahabiya…
Dahabiya or cruise ship?
| Dahabiya | Cruise ship | |
|---|---|---|
| Cabins | A few, usually under 12 | Usually 50 to 80 |
| Pace | Slow, under sail; a small tug helps when there is no wind | Faster, fixed timetable |
| Stops | Small sites such as Gebel el-Silsila and El Kab, plus Edfu and Kom Ombo | The main temples |
| Facilities | Sun deck, lounge, home-style meals | Pool, restaurant, bar, more space |
| Price | Higher per person | Lower per person |
Which Nile cruise category suits you?
| Category | Ships such as | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Radamis II, Semiramis, Princess Sarah | The best value, same route and temples |
| Deluxe | MS Nile Premium, MS Royal Viking, Jaz Crown ships | More space, better food and service |
| Luxury | Sonesta St. George, Steigenberger Legacy, MS Mayfair | Suites, fine dining, attentive service |
| Dahabiya (this page) | Merit, Merit II, Akhnaton | A few cabins under sail, quiet stops |
| Lake Nasser | Movenpick Prince Abbas, Nubian Sea | Aswan to Abu Simbel, far from the crowds |
Good to know
- Dahabiyas have fixed departure days and very few cabins, so book early for October to April.
- Ask us about a private charter of the whole boat for your family or group.
- Combine your dahabiya with Cairo and Luxor in one plan. Read our Nile cruise guide.
Want to know which dates are still open? Send us your dates on WhatsApp at +20 155 555 2466 or with the form, and you get a personal reply within 2 hours.
Frequent Asked Questions
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Good Reviews On Tripadvisor
I enjoyed myself immensely! This trip experience is one that I will never forget, and that's just putting it mildly. Our Tour Guide, Prince, was far beyond impressive.
Excellent tourism experience. The tour guide (Ahmed) has a wealth of knowledge about the ancient Egyptian history and culture. He is significantly helpful, polite and always willing to help.
I've utilize Egypt For Travel numerous times! Professional Guides/Egyptologists, excellent service, and they go above abd beyond for an enriching experience. You won't regret booking with them! They're the best in Egypt!
