Kahila Nile Cruise — Review, Itinerary & Prices | 22m² Cabins & 35m² Suites from $575
Overview
Kahila Nile Cruise 2026 — Honest Review, Itinerary & Prices from $575
Bottom line: The Kahila is a solid, well-specified 5-star Nile cruise ship on the Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule, offering one of the most generous standard cabin sizes in its price range — 22 m² per cabin across all 68 double cabins — and notably spacious 35 m² suites. Every cabin features private bath with shower, satellite colour TV, DVD player, telephone, air conditioning, and a music system. A closed video circuit throughout the ship adds a security layer rarely advertised on Nile cruise ships. The fire alarm and smoke detector in every cabin, combined with the closed video circuit, make the Kahila one of the most safety-conscious budget ships in the fleet. At $575 on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule, it sits competitively between the Blue Shadow I ($559) and Jaz Celebrity ($599).
| Quick Facts — Kahila Nile Cruise | |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | 5-Star Nile Cruise |
| Total Cabins | 68 double cabins (22 m²) · 4 suites (35 m²) |
| Deck Layout | Main deck · two upper decks · one lower deck |
| Cabin Features | DVD player · satellite colour TV · music system · closed video circuit · fire alarm & smoke detector |
| Route | Luxor → Aswan (4 nights) | Aswan → Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Saturday from Luxor · Every Wednesday from Aswan |
| Price from | $575 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) |
| Best For | Saturday arrivals in Luxor · travelers wanting spacious 22m² cabins at $575 · safety-conscious travelers · DVD entertainment users |
Is the Kahila Nile Cruise Worth It?
Yes — 22 m² cabins and 35 m² suites at $575 on the Saturday schedule is excellent value. The Kahila’s 22 m² standard cabin size is generous for this price — most budget ships in this price range offer 17–19 m² standard cabins. The 35 m² suites are even more impressive: at $575 starting price, these suites are larger than the Iberotel Amara’s suites ($619) and approach the Crown Emperor’s 38 m² suites ($599). The DVD player in every cabin, satellite TV, music system, closed video circuit, and fire alarm and smoke detector in every cabin create a ship that feels genuinely well-equipped and safety-oriented. For Saturday arrivals in Luxor wanting a spacious, well-specified cabin at a mid-range budget price, the Kahila is a strong choice.
Who Is the Kahila Best For?
✓ Saturday/Wednesday schedule travelers whose international flights or Cairo visits bring them to Luxor on Saturday morning.
✓ Travelers wanting spacious 22 m² cabins at a price below most ships offering this size.
✓ Suite seekers at $575 — 35 m² suites at this price are rare in the fleet.
✓ Safety-conscious travelers who appreciate closed video circuit, fire alarm, and smoke detectors in every cabin.
✓ DVD and entertainment users who want in-cabin DVD players alongside satellite TV.
Who Should NOT Book the Kahila?
✗ If a Jacuzzi, sauna, or spa are priorities on the Saturday schedule, the Moon Dance ($639, Saturday/Wednesday) has all three.
✗ If billiards and sliding panoramic windows matter, the Jaz Celebrity ($599, Saturday/Wednesday) has billiards, table tennis, and sliding panoramic windows.
✗ If a beauty salon, tea/coffee making, or automatic wake-up call are specific requests, the Blue Shadow I ($559, Saturday/Wednesday) is the most budget-priced option with bathtubs and unique cabin amenities.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
“The Kahila is a well-specified, dependable ship for the Saturday/Wednesday departure slot. The 22 m² cabin size is the feature that stands out — at $575 you are getting a cabin that most ships charge $100 more for. The 35 m² suites are genuinely impressive for this price. We recommend it consistently to travellers who arrive in Luxor on Saturday and want a comfortable, spacious cabin without paying mid-range prices.”
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited
Luxor: Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Valley of the Kings (3 tombs) · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon.
Nile Stops: Edfu Temple · Kom Ombo Temple.
Aswan: Philae Temple · Aswan High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk.
Saturday/Wednesday Ships Compared — Which to Choose?
| Ship | Price | Cabin Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Shadow I | $559 | Standard | Tea/coffee, auto wake-up, bathtub, lowest price |
| Kahila | $575 | 22 m² + 35 m² suites | Most spacious cabin, DVD, safety features |
| Jaz Celebrity | $599 | 19 m² + 25 m² suites | Billiards, table tennis, sliding windows, JAZ brand |
| Princess Sarah | $579 | Standard | UV windows, gym, movie channel, non-smoking |
| Moon Dance | $639 | Standard + suites | Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, beauty salon |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a closed video circuit on a Nile cruise ship and why does it matter?
The closed video circuit (CCTV) on the Kahila Nile Cruise is an on-board security system covering key areas of the vessel. It provides continuous monitored visual surveillance of corridors, public areas, and access points, which adds a meaningful security layer for passengers — particularly on overnight sailings between Luxor and Aswan when the ship is moored at quays. Very few budget and mid-range Nile cruise ships in Egypt For Travel’s fleet specifically advertise a closed video circuit as a cabin and ship feature. Combined with fire alarms and smoke detectors in every individual cabin, the Kahila represents an unusually security-conscious specification for its price range.
How do the Kahila's 35m² suites compare to other ships at similar prices?
The Kahila’s 35 m² suites at a $575 starting price represent outstanding suite value on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule. For comparison at similar prices: the Jaz Celebrity ($599, Sat/Wed) has 25 m² suites; the Princess Sarah ($579, Sat/Wed) has standard suites. On the whole fleet, only the Crown Emperor (38 m² suites, $599, Thursday/Monday) offers larger suites at this price tier. The Kahila’s 35 m² gives suite travelers significantly more space than most alternatives on the Saturday departure — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm suite availability on your preferred departure date.
Ready to book the Kahila? Spacious 22m² cabins & 35m² suites from $575. Saturday from Luxor. WhatsApp us now. ETA Licence No. 1947.
| Schedule: Saturday from Luxor (4 nights) · Wednesday from Aswan (3 nights) |
Cruise
Cabin Facilities (all cabins)
| ✓ Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer | ✓ Satellite colour TV |
| ✓ DVD player | ✓ Music system |
| ✓ Individually controlled air conditioning | ✓ Telephone |
| ✓ Closed video circuit (CCTV) | ✓ Fire alarm and smoke detector in every cabin |
| ✓ Double: 22 m² · Suite: 35 m² | |
Included
- Meet & greet at Luxor or Aswan by our representative
- Accommodation on Kahila in a 22 m² cabin or 35 m² suite
- Full board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily on board
- Private licensed Egyptologist guide in English, Spanish, German or Portuguese
- All guided shore excursions (100% private)
- Entrance fees to all listed sites
- Free bottled water during excursions
- All service charges and taxes
Excluded
- International flights to/from Egypt
- Egypt entry visa ($25 USD)
- Cairo hotel nights and domestic flights (available as add-on)
- Optional extras: Tutankhamun’s tomb · hot air balloon · Sound & Light Show
- Bar drinks · personal expenses
- Tips for guide and ship crew (optional)
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:
Kahila — Prices & Booking 2026
All prices per person in USD. EUR/GBP accepted. Every Saturday from Luxor (4 nights) and every Wednesday from Aswan (3 nights). Confirmed rates guaranteed.
Choosing Between Saturday/Wednesday Ships at $559–$639
Five ships depart Saturday from Luxor. Your choice depends on priorities: Kahila ($575) — most spacious cabin + suite at this price, DVD, CCTV security. Blue Shadow I ($559) — cheapest, bathtub, tea/coffee maker, auto wake-up. Princess Sarah ($579) — UV windows, gym, movie channel, non-smoking. Jaz Celebrity ($599) — sliding windows, billiards, table tennis, JAZ brand. Moon Dance ($639) — full wellness: Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, beauty salon.
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 |
Children: 0–2 free · 2–6 = 25% · 6–12 = 50% · 12+ = full rate. Cancellation: 61+ = 10% · 31–60 = 20% · 15–30 = 50% · 1–14 = 100%.
Egypt For Travel — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947 — WhatsApp: +20 155 555 2466