M/S King of Thebes Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | 4-Star Renovated with Reading Room, Billiards & Afternoon Tea from $629
Overview
Bottom line: The M/S King of Thebes is Egypt For Travel's most popular Nile cruise ship — and the most trusted 4-star renovated option on the Luxor–Aswan route. Fully renovated to a genuine 4-star standard, it delivers the complete Nile cruise experience — private Egyptologist guide, all major temples, full board, swimming pool, spa, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable Nile-view cabins — at a price that makes a first-class Egypt trip accessible to everyone. The reading room, billiard room, ping-pong table, fitness room, and complimentary afternoon tea at 4pm daily on the upper deck give the King of Thebes a leisure atmosphere that most comparable ships cannot match at this price. Egypt For Travel has operated the King of Thebes longer than any other ship in the fleet.
M/S King of Thebes — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | 4-Star Renovated Nile Cruise — Most Popular in Fleet |
| Signature Features | Reading room · billiard room · ping-pong · fitness room · 4pm afternoon tea on upper deck |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Monday from Luxor · Every Friday from Aswan |
| Price From | $629 per person (summer triple cabin) |
| Board Basis | Full board — open buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner + complimentary 4pm afternoon tea daily |
| Wi-Fi | Free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
| Guide Languages | English · Spanish · German · Portuguese |
| Luxury Level | 4-Star Renovated — well above budget Nile cruise; below 5-star deluxe |
| Family Friendly | Yes — pool, full board buffet, reading room, ping-pong, flexible children pricing |
| All-Inclusive | Available as supplement — includes drinks during meals and at bar from 10am to 10pm |
| Best For | First-time Nile cruise passengers · couples · families · solo travelers wanting 4-star quality at affordable pricing |
Is the M/S King of Thebes Worth It?
Yes — unreservedly, for the vast majority of travelers. The King of Thebes consistently earns the highest guest satisfaction rating of any ship in Egypt For Travel's budget and mid-range fleet. The renovation is genuine — not cosmetic. The cabins are well-maintained, the food quality is reliably good, and the crew is experienced and attentive. But more importantly: the private Egyptologist guide is the same quality you get on a $1,499 ship. The Valley of the Kings is the same Valley of the Kings. The Karnak Temple is the same Karnak Temple. The King of Thebes does what every Nile cruise should do — deliver Egypt's greatest ancient sites with expert guidance — and it does it from $629. That is why it is our most booked ship year after year.
Who Is the M/S King of Thebes Best For?
- First-time Nile cruise passengers who want a thoroughly reliable 4-star experience without paying 5-star deluxe prices. The King of Thebes is Egypt For Travel's standard recommendation for first Nile cruises.
- Couples looking for a romantic river experience at a price that leaves budget for the rest of their Egypt trip.
- Families with children who need a pool, full board buffet, reading room, and ping-pong, with flexible children pricing available.
- Solo travelers wanting a private guide and a sociable onboard atmosphere without group-tour compromise.
- Travelers combining Cairo and Nile cruise who want quality on both segments without the total trip exceeding $1,200 per person.
- Anyone who wants more than the basic budget ships but cannot justify paying $300–$700 more for 5-star deluxe.
Who Should NOT Book the M/S King of Thebes?
- If you specifically want a beauty salon, bathtub cabins, or multiple bars and lounges, this is a 4-star renovated ship — not a 5-star deluxe vessel. For bathtub cabins on the Monday/Friday schedule, consider the A Sara Nile Cruise ($599, UV windows, bathtubs, 100% non-smoking).
- For a genuine 5-star deluxe step up, the M/S Nile Paradise ($699, Mon/Fri) offers panoramic UV windows, bathtub cabins, and a Master Suite with private balcony at $70 more.
- For the best ultra-deluxe experience on the Nile, the M/S Mayfair ($999, Mon/Fri) is the benchmark — award-winning, with a private veranda and flagship-level service.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"We have operated the King of Thebes longer than any other ship in our fleet and our recommendation is consistent: for a first Nile cruise, this is the ship. It is renovated, reliable, and the crew knows how to look after international guests. The afternoon tea at 4pm on the sun deck — watching the desert cliffs pass as you sail toward Edfu — is one of those moments that guests mention years later. The King of Thebes delivers the Nile cruise the way it should be delivered."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
M/S King of Thebes vs Other Nile Cruise Ships
| Ship | Category | From | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radamis II Princess Du Nil | Budget | $549 | Cheaper · pool & spa only · no reading room or billiards |
| M/S King of Thebes | 4-Star Renovated | $629 | Best value 4-star · reading room · billiards · afternoon tea · most booked |
| M/S Nile Paradise | 5-Star Deluxe | $699 | UV windows · bathtubs · Master Suite with private balcony |
| M/S Magic 1 | 5-Star Boutique | $699 | Spanish-speaking guide · 4 cuisines · billiards · food safety award |
| M/S Mayfair | Ultra Deluxe | $999 | Award-winning · private veranda · flagship luxury on the Nile |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the M/S King of Thebes a good Nile cruise ship?
Yes — the M/S King of Thebes is Egypt For Travel's most booked Nile cruise ship and consistently receives the highest guest satisfaction scores in the 4-star category. The renovation is genuine and thorough — the cabins, public areas, restaurant, and sun deck have all been updated to a modern standard. The key strengths are: a fully licensed and experienced private Egyptologist guide in your language; a swimming pool, outdoor sun deck, spa, fitness room, reading room, billiard room, and lounge bar on board; free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout; complimentary afternoon tea at 4pm daily on the upper deck; and an all-inclusive formula option (drinks during meals and at the bar from 10am to 10pm, available with supplement). The private guided shore excursions are consistently praised as the best part of the experience — which is exactly how it should be on a Nile cruise.
What is the difference between the 3-night and 4-night King of Thebes cruise?
The 4-night cruise departs every Monday from Luxor, visiting Karnak and Luxor Temple on Day 1, the Valley of the Kings and West Bank on Day 2, Edfu and Kom Ombo on Day 3, and Philae and the High Dam in Aswan on Day 4 before disembarking Day 5. This southbound direction is recommended for first-time Nile cruise passengers — the pace is unhurried and the scenery sailing south toward Aswan as the desert narrows around the Nile is spectacular. The 3-night cruise departs every Friday from Aswan and sails north to Luxor over 4 days. Both directions visit the identical temples in reverse sequence. The Monday departure is recommended unless you are already in Aswan or arriving from Abu Simbel.
What is the best time of year to cruise on the King of Thebes?
The best season is October to April when Luxor and Aswan temperatures are 18–28°C — comfortable for temple visits and perfect for sun deck afternoons. The winter months (December–February) are particularly popular: cool and clear with exceptional light for photography at the temples. Summer (June–August) is possible but Luxor and Aswan reach 40–42°C — temple visits are done in the very early morning before midday heat. Book 4–8 weeks ahead for October–April departures. Christmas and New Year week is in very high demand — book 2–3 months ahead minimum.
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the King of Thebes
| Location | Sites Visited |
|---|---|
| Luxor East Bank | Karnak Temple — largest ancient religious complex ever built, 134 massive columns in the Great Hypostyle Hall · Luxor Temple · Avenue of Sphinxes |
| Luxor West Bank | Valley of the Kings (3 royal tombs included) · Temple of Queen Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon |
| Edfu | Edfu Temple — the best-preserved temple in Egypt — arrived by horse-drawn calesh |
| Kom Ombo | Kom Ombo Temple — unique double temple of Sobek and Haroeris · Crocodile Museum |
| Aswan | Philae Temple (by motorboat) · Aswan High Dam |
| Schedule: Monday from Luxor (4 nights / 5 days) · Friday from Aswan (3 nights / 4 days) |
Included
- Meet and greet by Egypt For Travel representative at Luxor or Aswan Airport/Station with a name sign
- Accommodation on the M/S King of Thebes in an air-conditioned cabin with private bathroom and Nile view
- 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 — open buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner on board daily
- Complimentary afternoon tea and coffee at 4pm daily on the upper deck
- All entrance fees: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings (3 tombs), Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Crocodile Museum, Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam
- Horse-drawn calesh from Edfu dock to Edfu Temple
- Motorboat to Philae Temple across the reservoir
- Free unlimited Wi-Fi on board throughout the cruise
- Complimentary bottled water per person daily
- 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
- All-Inclusive Formula supplement (covers drinks during meals and at bar from 10am–10pm)
- Spa and massage treatments (chargeable)
- Mini bar consumption (chargeable)
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
M/S King of Thebes Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Windows | Nile-view window in every cabin |
| Bathroom | Private bathroom with hairdryer in every cabin |
| Television | Satellite TV in every cabin |
| Air Conditioning | Individually adjustable air conditioning in every cabin |
| Safe Deposit Box | In-room safe in every cabin |
| Mini Bar | Mini bar in every cabin (chargeable) |
M/S King of Thebes On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Afternoon Tea | Complimentary afternoon tea and coffee at 4pm daily on the upper deck — signature experience watching the Nile landscape pass |
| Restaurant | Open buffet restaurant — full board breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Lounge & Bar | Lounge bar · discotheque |
| Reading Room | Dedicated reading room on board |
| Billiard Room | Billiard room for afternoon leisure |
| Ping-Pong | Ping-pong table on board |
| Swimming Pool | Outdoor swimming pool · sun deck |
| Fitness Room | Fitness room for daily exercise |
| Spa | Spa and massage room (chargeable) |
| Wi-Fi | Free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
| Gift Shop | On-board gift shop |
| Service | 24-hour reception · laundry service (chargeable) |
| All-Inclusive Option | All-inclusive formula available as supplement — drinks during meals and at bar from 10am to 10pm including water, sodas, wine and alcoholic beverages |
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 M/S King of Thebes Nile Cruise
The M/S King of Thebes is a 4-star renovated Nile cruise ship operating the Monday/Friday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. Egypt For Travel has operated the King of Thebes longer than any other ship in the fleet, and it is consistently the highest-rated and most-booked ship across the budget and mid-range categories. The renovation is genuine — cabins, public spaces, restaurant, and sun deck were all updated to a modern standard. The reading room, billiard room, ping-pong table, fitness room, pool, spa, and complimentary afternoon tea at 4pm daily create a leisure environment that most comparable ships at this price cannot match. All shore excursions are fully private with a licensed Egyptologist guide. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the Afternoon Tea on the Upper Deck Is the King of Thebes' Defining Experience
Every Nile cruise has a morning at the Karnak Temple. Every Nile cruise has a morning in the Valley of the Kings. What every Nile cruise does not have is a moment on the upper deck at 4pm, tea in hand, as the ship sails the stretch of river between Edfu and Kom Ombo with the desert cliffs turning gold in the afternoon light. On the King of Thebes, this happens daily — as a complimentary ritual, not a hotel room charge — and it is the moment guests mention years later when they describe the cruise. The afternoon sailing hours on the Nile, when the light is low and the river is quiet and the temples of the morning are already a memory, are the hours that belong entirely to the traveler. The King of Thebes marks those hours with tea on the sun deck rather than an empty lounge. That is the difference between a ship managed to specifications and a ship operated with genuine hospitality culture.
Nile Cruise Prices
All M/S King of Thebes Nile Cruise rates are quoted in US dollars per person per trip. Prices vary by season and cabin category. Payments are also accepted in Euro (EUR) and British Pounds (GBP) at the current exchange rate. Prices for Christmas, New Year, and Easter holiday departures may differ from standard seasonal rates. Once your King of Thebes booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the King of Thebes
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits, pool, and afternoon tea on deck. Winter months (December–February) are particularly popular — cool, clear, exceptional light for photography at the temples. Book 4–8 weeks ahead. King of Thebes is the most booked ship at Egypt For Travel — early booking strongly advised for peak season. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower summer prices and better availability. All temple visits at 06:30 before midday heat. Pool is the most-used facility in summer. Afternoon tea on deck is enjoyed after 4pm as temperatures become comfortable again. Reading room and lounge popular during afternoon sailing hours. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand of the year. 50% deposit required. Book 2–3 months ahead minimum. King of Thebes is frequently fully booked for Christmas and New Year week by October. |
Departure Schedule
| Departure | Day | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxor | Every Monday | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan |
| Aswan | Every Friday | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Aswan → Kom Ombo → Edfu → Luxor |
Monday/Friday Ships — King of Thebes vs Competitors
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Radamis II Princess Du Nil | $549 | Lowest price in fleet · pool · spa — no reading room or billiards |
| Semiramis I | $599 | Royal suites · billiards · nightly entertainment — best entertainment ship at $599 |
| M/S King of Thebes | $629 | 4-star renovated · reading room · billiards · afternoon tea · most booked ship in fleet — best overall value at this level |
| Crown Empress | $649 | 5-star · steam bath · sauna · UV windows — wellness focus at $20 more |
| M/S Nile Paradise | $699 | 5-star · UV windows · bathtub · Master Suite private balcony — $70 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 King of Thebes 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, Crocodile Museum, Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam, and Unfinished Obelisk. 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
- King of Thebes 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.
