Crown Emperor Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | Crown Deluxe 5-Star from $649
Overview
Bottom line: The Crown Emperor is a deluxe 5-star Nile cruise ship operated by Crown Hotel & Resorts on the Thursday/Monday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. Its 68 cabins and suites — all with large panoramic Nile-facing windows — are spread across 5 decks, with on-board wellness facilities including a Jacuzzi, sauna, spa and massage centre, and fitness centre. The Crown Emperor operates on the Thursday/Monday schedule — sister ships in the Crown brand family, both at $649, both with the same wellness package. At $649 on the Thursday/Monday schedule it stands alongside the MS Moon Dance ($699) and the MS Concerto ($699) as a well-priced option for guests whose itinerary suits a Thursday departure.
Crown Emperor — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | Deluxe 5-Star Nile Cruise |
| Brand | Crown Hotel & Resorts |
| Total Cabins | 62 double cabins · 4 junior suites · 2 presidential suites — 68 total |
| Decks | 5 decks (3 cabin decks) |
| Cabin Signature | Large panoramic Nile-facing windows · private bathroom · individually controlled air conditioning |
| Wellness | Jacuzzi · sauna · spa & massage centre · fitness centre |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Thursday from Luxor · Every Monday from Aswan |
| Price From | $649 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) |
| Best For | Thursday/Monday schedule travelers · Crown brand preference · wellness on board at $649 · full Jacuzzi + sauna + spa package at $649 |
Is the Crown Emperor Worth It?
Yes — particularly for guests who want wellness facilities on the Thursday/Monday schedule at $649. The Crown Emperor offers Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, and fitness centre — a full wellness package — at $649, which is $50 less than the MS Moon Dance ($699) on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule, and matches the Mahrousa ($649) on a Mon/Fri schedule. If the wellness facilities are the priority and saving $50 per person matters, the Crown Emperor is the strongest value option on the Thursday/Monday departure. If cabin features (bathtub in every cabin, openable windows, bazaar, billiards) or a specific wellness profile (Moon Dance has an additional beauty salon) are more important, the $699 ships may be worth the difference. At $649 the Crown Emperor makes a clear and well-reasoned case.
Who Is the Crown Emperor Best For?
- Thursday/Monday schedule travelers whose Egypt itinerary — typically Cairo first, then fly to Luxor on Wednesday or Thursday — makes Thursday departure from Luxor the natural fit.
- Value-conscious wellness seekers who want Jacuzzi, sauna, and spa on a Thu/Mon ship but do not want to pay more. The Crown Emperor delivers the full wellness package at $649.
- Crown brand preferences — guests familiar with Crown Hotel & Resorts properties who know the service standard they can expect.
- Presidential suite seekers at $649 on a Thu/Mon schedule — 2 presidential suites available per departure.
- Couples and honeymooners who want a wellness cruise (Jacuzzi & spa) on a Thursday departure at a price point that leaves budget for other Egypt experiences.
Who Should NOT Book the Crown Emperor?
- If Monday/Friday departures fit your Egypt itinerary better, the Crown Empress ($649, Mon/Fri) is the sister ship on the Monday schedule — same price, same Crown brand, same wellness package.
- If openable panoramic windows, bathtubs in every cabin, on-board bazaar, billiards, and table tennis matter most on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule, the MS Concerto ($699, Sat/Wed) departs on a different schedule but is the superior cabin-comfort choice at $50 more.
- If a beauty salon and gym as dedicated spaces alongside the Jacuzzi and sauna are the priority, the MS Moon Dance ($699, Sat/Wed) departs on a different schedule but has a more complete wellness centre.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Crown Emperor is the logical first choice for guests who want wellness on the Thursday/Monday schedule at $649. At $649 it delivers Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, and fitness — the same wellness offering as the Crown Empress on the Monday/Friday schedule. For guests whose itinerary lands on a Thursday from Luxor, it is a straightforward recommendation."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Crown Emperor
| 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
Crown Emperor vs Crown Empress — which ship should I choose?
The Crown Emperor and the Crown Empress are sister ships in the Crown brand family. Both start from $649. Both have Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, and fitness centre. Both have panoramic Nile-facing windows and 2 presidential suites. The only meaningful difference is the departure schedule: Crown Emperor departs every Thursday from Luxor and every Monday from Aswan — Crown Empress departs every Monday from Luxor and every Friday from Aswan. Choose the Crown Emperor if Thursday is the right departure day for your Egypt itinerary. Choose the Crown Empress if Monday departure better fits your Cairo pre-cruise days.
How does the Crown Emperor compare to the Moon Dance and Concerto on the same schedule?
The Crown Emperor departs Thursday/Monday. The MS Moon Dance and MS Concerto depart Saturday/Wednesday. The Crown Emperor is $649. The MS Moon Dance and the MS Concerto are both $699 on the same schedule. The Crown Emperor is $50 less and includes Jacuzzi, sauna, and spa on a different departure schedule. The Moon Dance ($699, Sat/Wed) — different schedule — adds a beauty salon and gym as dedicated spaces. The Concerto ($699) adds bathtubs in all cabins, openable panoramic windows, bazaar, billiards, table tennis, and a panorama bar. If the priority is wellness at the lowest Thu/Mon price and the schedule fits, the Crown Emperor is the choice. If the Saturday/Wednesday schedule is required, consider the Concerto or Moon Dance at $699, or the Kahila at $629.
| Schedule: Thursday from Luxor (4 nights) · Monday 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 Crown Emperor in chosen cabin or suite (all with panoramic Nile-facing 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 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
- Spa and massage treatments (chargeable)
- Bar drinks and alcoholic beverages on board
- Mini bar (chargeable)
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Crown Emperor Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cabin Configuration | 62 double cabins · 4 junior suites · 2 presidential suites — 68 total across 5 decks (3 cabin decks). Presidential suites — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm availability per departure date. |
| Windows | Large panoramic Nile-facing windows in all cabins |
| Bathroom | Private bathroom with bathtub or shower · hairdryer |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning in every cabin |
| Entertainment | Satellite TV with international channels |
| Storage & Service | Safe deposit box · mini bar (chargeable) · internal telephone |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
Crown Emperor On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Restaurant — international cuisine, full board breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Lounge Bar | Lounge bar and entertainment area with evening programming |
| Swimming Pool | Swimming pool on sun deck |
| Jacuzzi | Jacuzzi |
| Sauna | Sauna |
| Spa & Massage | Spa and massage centre (chargeable treatments) |
| Fitness Centre | Fitness centre with exercise equipment |
| Bazaar / Boutique | On-board bazaar — Egyptian crafts and souvenirs |
| 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 Crown Emperor Nile Cruise
The Crown Emperor is a deluxe 5-star Nile cruise ship operated by Crown Hotel & Resorts on the Thursday/Monday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. With 68 cabins and suites across 5 decks — all with large panoramic Nile-facing windows — and on-board wellness facilities including Jacuzzi, sauna, spa and massage centre, and fitness centre, the Crown Emperor is the Thursday/Monday option in the Crown brand family at $649. Its sister ship, the Crown Empress, offers the same facilities on the Monday/Friday schedule. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the Crown Emperor is the Value Leader on Thursday/Monday at $649
The Thursday/Monday departure offers strong options at multiple price points. The MS Concerto ($699) and the MS Moon Dance ($699) are $699 on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule. The Kahila is $629. The Crown Emperor sits at $649 — $50 less than the top two, $20 more than the Kahila — and delivers something that the Kahila at $629 does not: a full wellness package with Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, and fitness centre. For a guest whose itinerary requires a Thursday departure from Luxor and who wants wellness on board at $649, the Crown Emperor is the logical choice. The $50 saving per person on a couple's cruise is $100 — enough to cover a hot air balloon deposit over Luxor or a Tutankhamun KV62 ticket for both. The Crown Emperor makes that saving possible without removing the wellness experience.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Crown Emperor 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 vary during Christmas, New Year, and Easter holiday periods. Presidential suites (2 per departure) book ahead of standard double cabins — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm presidential suite availability for your preferred Thursday departure date. Once your Crown Emperor booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Crown Emperor
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits. Sauna and spa are most popular in the cool evenings of November–February. Presidential suites fill 4–8 weeks ahead in peak season — book early. Thursday departures are popular October–April; confirm your cruise date as soon as your flights are set. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices, better suite availability. Temple visits at 06:00 before midday heat. The Jacuzzi and pool see the most use in summer afternoons. At $649 the Crown Emperor in summer offers strong value. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. 50% deposit required. Christmas week presidential suites book 3–4 months ahead. Thursday departures suit guests flying to Luxor from Cairo on Wednesday; book early for Christmas week. |
Departure Schedule
| Departure | Day | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxor | Every Thursday | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan |
| Aswan | Every Monday | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Aswan → Kom Ombo → Edfu → Luxor |
Thursday/Monday Deluxe Ships — Crown Emperor vs Alternatives
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Crown Emperor | $649 | Jacuzzi · sauna · spa · fitness · 2 presidential suites — best wellness value on Thu/Mon — Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, fitness, 2 presidential suites |
| Kahila | $629 | Glass-floor restaurant · observation deck · 22 m² cabins — $20 less, unique architecture, no Jacuzzi/sauna |
| MS Moon Dance | $699 | Jacuzzi · sauna · spa · gym · beauty salon · 8 suites — more complete wellness, $50 more |
| MS Concerto | $699 | Bathtub all cabins · openable windows · DVD · bazaar · billiards · table tennis · panorama bar — best cabin comfort, $50 more |
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 Crown Emperor 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
- Crown Emperor 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.