Concerto Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | Bathtub in All Cabins, Openable Windows, Panorama Bar & Bazaar from $699
Overview
Bottom line: The MS Concerto is a large, comprehensively equipped deluxe 5-star Nile cruise ship operated by the Extension Travel Group — launched in September 2008 and thoroughly renewed in December 2015. Its 67 cabins and suites across 5 decks (with three cabin decks) include bathtubs in every cabin as standard, panoramic windows that open, a DVD player in every room, and more social facilities than most ships at $699: a panorama bar, a bazaar, billiards, table tennis, a lounge bar and discotheque, a pool bar, and a restaurant seating 140 passengers. At $699 it delivers cabin quality and on-board social variety that most ships at this price do not match.
MS Concerto — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | Deluxe 5-Star Nile Cruise |
| Operator | Extension Travel Group |
| Launched / Renewed | September 2008 · December 2015 (full renewal) |
| Total Cabins | 61 double cabins · 2 single cabins · 2 junior suites · 2 presidential suites |
| Decks | 5 decks (3 cabin decks) |
| Cabin Signature | Bathtub in every cabin · panoramic windows (openable) · DVD player |
| Social Facilities | Panorama bar · bazaar · billiards · table tennis · lounge bar & discotheque · pool bar · 140-seat restaurant |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Saturday from Luxor · Every Wednesday from Aswan |
| Price From | $699 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) |
| Best For | Bathtub seekers at $699 · Sat/Wed schedule travelers · on-board social variety enthusiasts · bazaar shoppers · larger groups wanting a 67-cabin ship · presidential suite seekers at $699 |
Is the MS Concerto Worth It?
Yes — particularly for cabin quality and on-board social variety at $699. The Concerto's most important feature is the bathtub in every cabin as standard — a feature that on most ships at $699 only appears in suites or premium cabin categories. On the Concerto it is in every room from the base category. The openable panoramic windows are another distinguishing feature — most panoramic windows on Nile cruise ships are sealed and fixed; the Concerto's can be opened to let the Nile air directly into the cabin. The panorama bar, bazaar, billiard room, table tennis, and 140-seat restaurant deliver social variety beyond the standard lounge-bar and pool format of most ships at $699. The December 2015 renewal means the interiors and fittings are genuinely refreshed. At $699 on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule, the Concerto occupies a strong position — more social spaces, more cabin features, and a larger ship format than most competitors at the same price.
Who Is the Concerto Best For?
- Travelers who specifically want bathtubs at $699 — a bathtub in every cabin from the base category is not a standard feature at this price tier. Most ships reserve bathtubs for suite categories.
- Saturday/Wednesday schedule travelers whose flights or Cairo weekend plans make this departure pattern the natural fit.
- On-board social variety enthusiasts who want more than a single lounge-bar — the Concerto has a panorama bar, a lounge bar and discotheque, a pool bar, billiards, and table tennis as separate entertainment zones.
- Bazaar shoppers — the Concerto's on-board bazaar is a popular feature during sailing days, offering Egyptian crafts and souvenirs without needing to disembark.
- Larger groups who want a 67-cabin ship with a 140-seat restaurant and multiple social spaces that can accommodate different preferences simultaneously.
- Presidential suite seekers at $699 — 2 presidential suites available per departure. Contact Egypt For Travel early to confirm availability.
Who Should NOT Book the Concerto?
- If Monday/Friday departures fit your Egypt itinerary better, the M/S King of Thebes ($629, Mon/Fri) and the M/S Nile Paradise ($699, Mon/Fri) are strong alternatives on the standard Monday/Friday departure schedule.
- If a Jacuzzi, sauna, and full spa are the priority on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule, the MS Moon Dance ($699, Sat/Wed) offers Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, and beauty salon at the same price. The choice between the Concerto and Moon Dance at $699 comes down to cabin comfort vs wellness facilities — see the FAQ below for a detailed comparison.
- If UV-filtered panoramic windows specifically are the priority, the A Sara ($599, Mon/Fri) has UV panoramic windows in all cabins at $100 less — though on a Monday/Friday schedule rather than Saturday/Wednesday.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Concerto is a dependable, well-renewed ship with one feature that repeatedly impresses guests who have done the Nile cruise before — the openable panoramic windows. On most ships the windows are fixed. On the Concerto you can open them and let the Nile air into the cabin. Combined with bathtubs in every room, a bazaar, a panorama bar, and billiards — it is a comprehensively equipped ship at a competitive price. The December 2015 renewal is thorough and shows. We recommend it with confidence."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Concerto
| Location | Sites Visited |
|---|---|
| Luxor East Bank | Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple |
| Luxor West Bank | Valley of the Kings (3 tombs) · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon |
| Edfu | Edfu Temple — arrived by horse-drawn calesh from the dock |
| Kom Ombo | Kom Ombo Temple |
| Aswan | Philae Temple (by motorboat) · Aswan High Dam |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the MS Concerto stand out at $699?
The MS Concerto stands out at $699 for three reasons. First, bathtubs in every cabin from the base category — most deluxe ships at $699 have shower-only standard cabins with bathtubs reserved for suites. On the Concerto, every guest in every cabin category gets a bathtub. Second, openable panoramic windows — you can actually open the Nile-view windows and feel the river air, which sealed fixed-window ships cannot offer. Third, its social variety: panorama bar, lounge bar and discotheque, bazaar, billiards, table tennis, pool bar, and a restaurant seating 140 — more distinct social spaces than most ships at this price. The ship was launched in 2008 and fully renewed in December 2015, so the interiors are genuinely refreshed and well-maintained.
Concerto vs Moon Dance — which $699 Saturday/Wednesday ship should I choose?
Both the MS Concerto and the MS Moon Dance depart on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule and both start from $699. They are genuinely different ships that suit different priorities.
Choose the Concerto if: Cabin comfort matters most — bathtubs in every cabin, openable panoramic windows, DVD player. On-board variety matters — bazaar, billiards, table tennis, panorama bar, discotheque, 140-seat restaurant. Presidential suites at $699 are a priority. You want a large, well-established ship (67 cabins, 5 decks) with more social spaces.
Choose the Moon Dance if: Wellness is the priority — the Moon Dance has Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, fitness centre, and beauty salon. You want 8 suites rather than 2 presidential suites. A dedicated wellness experience on board matters more than the variety of social spaces.
Both ships deliver strong value at $699 on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule. Contact Egypt For Travel and we can advise which is the better fit for your specific itinerary.
| Schedule: Saturday from Luxor (4 nights) · Wednesday from Aswan (3 nights) |
Included
- Meet and greet by Egypt For Travel representative at Luxor or Aswan Airport/Station with a name sign
- Accommodation on the MS Concerto in chosen cabin or suite (all cabins include bathtub and openable panoramic windows)
- Private licensed Egyptologist guide throughout all touring days (English, Spanish, German, Portuguese)
- All guided shore excursions — 100% private, not shared group tours
- Private air-conditioned vehicle between the ship and every temple
- Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in the 140-seat restaurant on board
- All entrance fees: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings (3 tombs), Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam
- Horse-drawn calesh from Edfu dock to Edfu Temple
- Motorboat to Philae Temple across the reservoir
- Free Wi-Fi on board throughout the cruise
- Free bottled water during all shore excursions
- All service charges and port taxes
- 24/7 Egypt For Travel WhatsApp support throughout your cruise
Excluded
- International flights to and from Egypt
- Egypt tourist visa — $25 USD per person, paid on arrival at Cairo Airport
- Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Tips and gratuities — Egyptologist guide: $10–15 per person per day · driver: $5–10 per day · cruise crew: $10–15 per person total on final day
- Tomb of Tutankhamun KV62 — approximately $40 per person extra entrance at the Valley of the Kings (not included in the standard 3-tomb ticket)
- Abu Simbel excursion — optional add-on from Aswan, approximately $140 per person by road
- Hot air balloon over Luxor — optional, approximately $120–160 per person; must be pre-arranged at booking
- Massage services (chargeable)
- Bar drinks and alcoholic beverages on board
- Mini bar (chargeable)
- Bazaar purchases
- Laundry service
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
MS Concerto Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cabin Configuration | 61 double cabins · 2 single cabins · 2 junior suites · 2 presidential suites — 67 total across 5 decks (3 cabin decks). Presidential suites book early — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm availability. |
| Bathroom | Bathtub in every cabin from the base category — most ships at $699 reserve bathtubs for suites only. The Concerto provides a bathtub to every guest regardless of cabin category. Hairdryer included. |
| Windows | Panoramic windows that open — most panoramic windows on Nile cruise ships are sealed and fixed. The Concerto's panoramic windows can be opened to let the Nile air directly into the cabin. |
| In-Cabin Entertainment | DVD player in every cabin · satellite TV with international channels |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning in every cabin |
| Storage & Service | Safe deposit box · mini bar (chargeable) · internal telephone in every cabin |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
MS Concerto On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | 140-seat restaurant — international cuisine, full board breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Panorama Bar | Panorama bar — elevated views over the Nile, one of the most distinctive social spaces on board |
| Lounge Bar & Discotheque | Lounge bar and discotheque — evening entertainment and social space |
| Swimming Pool & Pool Bar | Swimming pool · pool bar on the sun deck |
| Billiards & Table Tennis | Billiard room · table tennis — active entertainment options that most Nile cruise ships at this price do not offer |
| Bazaar | On-board bazaar — Egyptian crafts and souvenirs available for purchase during sailing days without disembarking |
| Fitness & Wellness | Fitness equipment · massage services (chargeable) |
| Service | Free Wi-Fi throughout · 24-hour reception · laundry service |
Itinerary:
5 Days - Luxor / Aswan
Day 1: Arrival in Luxor – Begin Your Nile Cruise Vacation
Upon your arrival at Luxor Airport or Train Station, our representatives will warmly welcome you and assist in boarding your Nile Cruise. Following a delightful lunch served on board, embark on an awe-inspiring trip to the eastern bank of Luxor along the Nile.
Explore the monumental Karnak Temple, the world's largest ancient religious site. Take your time to leisurely wander through this extensive complex, representing the reigns of numerous pharaohs.
Next, visit the splendid Temple of Luxor, constructed by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, for ceremonial festivities dedicated to the deity Amun. End your day with a delectable dinner served aboard the cruise. Overnight at Luxor.
Day 2: Excursions in Luxor (West Bank attractions)
After a delicious breakfast on board, your knowledgeable tour guide will accompany you to visit the west bank of Luxor. You will embark on an exciting trip to the royal burial ground of 64 pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings, which is also the original resting place of the world-famous boy king Tutankhamun.
Next, you will visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the only pharaoh queen, at Deir-el-Bahari. The temple's design is a unique blend of classical architecture and ancient Egyptian culture, and it boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You will also visit the two gigantic statues of Memnon, which are a true testament to the grandeur of ancient Egyptian art and craftsmanship.
Back to your Nile Cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board the cruise. Sail towards Edfu while enjoying your dinner. You will spend a comfortable and relaxing night on board the cruise in Edfu.
Day 3: Excursions to Temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo
Indulge in a delightful breakfast aboard our Nile cruise before embarking on an enriching journey to the Temple of Horus in Edfu. Accompanied by our expert guide, travel in traditional style via a Kalesh (horse cart) ride to explore this magnificent Ptolemaic temple, renowned for its impressive architecture and well-preserved chambers. Enjoy the towering statues of Horus guarding the entrance gate as you immerse yourself in ancient Egyptian history.
Following this captivating visit, savor a delectable lunch on board the cruise while sailing to Kom Ombo. Discover the unique Temple of Sobek and Haroeris. Sail to Aswan. Dinner and overnight in Aswan.
Day 4: Nile Cruise excursions in Aswan
After having breakfast on board the Nile Cruise, your tour guide will join you to start the day in Aswan. You will take a boat ride to the island of Agilkia to visit the Temple of Philae, which is dedicated to the goddess Isis and was rescued from the rising waters caused by the construction of the High Dam. You will marvel at the long colonnades, towers, and reliefs of Philae, including the latest hieroglyphic and demotic descriptions of Egypt.
After the visit, you will have lunch on board the Nile cruise and then have free time to relax and enjoy the facilities on board. Later in the evening, you will have dinner on board the cruise and spend the night in Aswan.
Day 5: Nile Cruise Disembarkation in Aswan
After a delightful breakfast on board the cruise, you will disembark at 08:00 am and be escorted to your transportation by our Egypt For Travel representative. Whether you are departing from Aswan Airport or Aswan train station, we will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer for you.
4 Days - Aswan / Luxor
Day 1: Boarding On The Nile Cruise / Aswan Day Tour
Your Nile Cruise vacation to ancient Egypt begins as soon as you arrive at Aswan Train Station or Aswan Airport, where an Egypt For Travel representative will greet you. You will then be transferred to your Nile cruise by private air-conditioned vehicle for embarkation in Aswan before lunch. Savor a delicious meal onboard before heading out to explore the wonders of the region.
Your first stop will be the High Dam and the Temple of Philae on Isis Island, where you will be transported back in time to the glory days of ancient Egypt(Kemet Egypt). After Aswan day tour, return to your boat for an exquisite dinner onboard. As the night falls, you will spend the night in Aswan, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nile River. Trust Egypt For Travel to provide you with an unforgettable journey through time and space, filled with adventure, luxury, and discovery.
Day 2: Explore Kom Ombo Temple and Sail to Edfu
After enjoying a delightful breakfast aboard your Nile cruise, embark on an enriching trip through ancient Egypt. Sail to Kom Ombo while relishing a delectable lunch onboard. Upon arrival, visit the renowned Kom Ombo Temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. Enjoy the awe-inspiring ancient architecture and delve into the impressive history with your Private tour guide.
Then, back to your Nile cruise and continue sailing to Edfu. Spend the evening surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nile River as you indulge in a lavish dinner onboard.
Trust us to curate a trip full of unforgettable experiences, adventure, and relaxation.
Day 3: Sail to Edfu& Tour To The East Bank
Embark on a fascinating trip through the wonders of ancient Egypt after indulging in a delectable breakfast onboard your luxurious Nile cruise. Visit the awe-inspiring Temple of Horus in Edfu and discover the secrets of the fascinating mythology of Horus, the god of the sky and kingship. Afterward, sail towards Esna while enjoying a delicious lunch onboard.
Cross the Esna lock and make your way toward Luxor, where you will be captivated by the stunning beauty of the Karnak and Luxor temples on the eastern Bank of Luxor.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Egypt as our knowledgeable Egyptologists guide you through the temples, sharing fascinating insights and stories along the way.
After a day filled with wonder and exploration, enjoy a splendid dinner onboard your cruise and spend the night at Luxor.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the magic of ancient Egypt.
Day 4: Explore Luxor's West Bank & Departure
Egypt For Travel ensures a seamless experience for their guests from start to finish. Enjoy breakfast on board the cruise before disembarking at 0800am and meeting your private guide, who will accompany you on a tour of the West Bank. Explore the fascinating Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, and the Colossi of Memnon with expert guidance.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the Luxor train station or airport for your departure, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through ancient Egypt.
Prices:
Summer Rates (May- August)
Prices
Winter Rates (Sep- April)
Prices
Notes:
About the MS Concerto Nile Cruise
The MS Concerto is a deluxe 5-star Nile cruise ship operated by the Extension Travel Group on the Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. Launched in September 2008 and thoroughly renewed in December 2015, it carries 67 cabins and suites across 5 decks — all with bathtubs, all with openable panoramic windows — and delivers on-board social variety (panorama bar, bazaar, billiards, table tennis, lounge bar and discotheque, 140-seat restaurant) that most ships at $699 do not match. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the Concerto's Openable Windows Are a Genuine Distinction
The standard panoramic window on a Nile cruise ship is sealed. It is large, it faces the Nile, and it provides a beautiful view — but it does not open. The MS Concerto's panoramic windows are different: they can be opened. This matters on the Nile. At sunrise between Luxor and Edfu, with the ship sailing south through the sugarcane fields, the air is cool and carries the smell of the Nile. A sealed window keeps that outside. An openable window brings it in. The difference between watching the Nile through glass and feeling the river air from the same window is significant to guests who have done the Nile cruise before and know what they are looking for. Combined with the bathtub in every cabin — another feature that most ships reserve for suite categories — the Concerto gives every guest in every cabin category a level of sensory comfort that ships costing $100–$300 more often do not deliver.
Nile Cruise Prices
All MS Concerto Nile Cruise rates are quoted in US dollars per person per trip. Payments are also accepted in Euro (EUR) and British Pounds (GBP) at the current exchange rate. Prices may vary during Christmas, New Year, and Easter holiday periods. Presidential suites (2 available per departure) book significantly ahead of standard double cabins — contact Egypt For Travel early to confirm presidential suite availability for your preferred Saturday departure date. Once your Concerto booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Concerto
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits. The openable windows are most appreciated in the cool mornings of November–February. The panorama bar is popular in the evenings. Book presidential suites 4–8 weeks ahead in peak season. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices and better availability. Temple visits at 06:00 before midday heat. The swimming pool and pool bar are the busiest on-board spaces in summer afternoons. Better presidential suite availability than peak season. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. 50% deposit required. The Concerto's bazaar and discotheque make it lively during the holiday season. Presidential suites for Christmas week book 3–4 months ahead. |
Departure Schedule
| Departure | Day | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxor | Every Saturday | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan |
| Aswan | Every Wednesday | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Aswan → Kom Ombo → Edfu → Luxor |
Saturday/Wednesday Deluxe Ships — Concerto vs Alternatives
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| MS Concerto | $699 | Bathtub all cabins · openable windows · DVD · panorama bar · bazaar · billiards · table tennis · 2 presidential suites — best cabin comfort & social variety |
| MS Moon Dance | $699 | Jacuzzi · sauna · spa · gym · fitness · beauty salon · 8 suites — best wellness at same price |
| Kahila | $629 | Glass-floor restaurant · observation deck · 22 m² standard cabins — $70 less, unique architecture |
| Kira (Seti First) | $599 | Free spa/sauna/steam · library · 6 suite balconies — $100 less, best value inclusions |
Nile Cruise Children Policy
| Age | Rate | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 1.99 years | Free of charge | Sharing cabin with parents · no extra bed |
| 2 – 5.99 years | 25% of adult rate | Sharing parents' cabin |
| 6 – 11.99 years | 50% of adult rate | Sharing parents' cabin |
| 12 years and above | Full adult rate | Considered adult for pricing purposes |
Payment and Deposit Policy
| Period | Deposit Required |
|---|---|
| Standard booking (all dates) | 25% of total price |
| Christmas, New Year and Easter departures | 50% of total price |
The deposit is deducted from the final balance. The remaining amount can be settled up to one week before your arrival date, or in cash upon boarding. An installment plan over 6, 9, or 12 months is available — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm terms.
Entry Tickets Note
The MS Concerto package includes entrance fees to all standard sites: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings (standard 3-tomb ticket), Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and Aswan High Dam. Please note that the Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) at the Valley of the Kings requires a separate entrance fee of approximately $40 per person — not included in the standard 3-tomb ticket. Your Egyptologist guide advises on the day.
Cancellation Policy
| Notice Before Departure | Cancellation Charge |
|---|---|
| 61 days or more | 10% of total price |
| 31 – 60 days | 20% of total price |
| 15 – 30 days | 50% of total price |
| 1 – 14 days | 100% of total price (no refund) |
Christmas, New Year and Easter departures: specific cancellation terms apply and are confirmed at booking. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Tipping Guide
- Egyptologist guide: $10–15 per person per day
- Private driver: $5–10 per person per day
- MS Concerto cruise crew: $10–15 per person total, paid on the final day
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal liability is strongly recommended for all guests. Egypt For Travel does not sell travel insurance but can advise on suitable policies at booking.
About Egypt For Travel
Egypt For Travel — Egypt Today Travel Group
Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947
39 Zohair Sabry Street, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
WhatsApp: +20 155 555 2466
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.egyptfortravel.com
Our team responds to all inquiries within 2 hours during business hours (Cairo time, GMT+2).
Partner brands: Around Egypt Tours · Egypt Top Tours · Best Nile Cruises
All tours and cruises operated directly — not subcontracted.
