Kira Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | Seti First · Free Spa, Sauna & Suite Balconies from $599
Overview
Bottom line: The M/S Kira is one of the most surprisingly well-equipped ships in Egypt For Travel's fleet at the $599 price point. Operated by the Seti First Group — one of Egypt's most experienced hospitality companies, also operating the Seti Abu Simbel Lake Resort and Seti Sharm Palm Beach Resort — the Kira brings genuine hospitality group standards to Nile cruising. Its defining advantages are the free spa, sauna and steam (included for all guests, not chargeable), free library and game room, a Turkish bath, private balconies in suite cabins, daily afternoon tea, and complimentary tea, coffee, and water in every room throughout the cruise. At $599 these inclusions are exceptional.
Kira — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | 5-Star Nile Cruise — Seti First Group |
| Total Cabins | 59 cabins · 6 suites with private balconies |
| Signature Features | Free spa, sauna & steam · Turkish bath · free library & game room · private balcony suites |
| Complimentary Extras | Welcome drink & towel · fruit basket & cookies on check-in · daily afternoon tea · in-cabin tea/coffee/mint/green tea free throughout |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) · Extended Aswan program (7 nights) |
| Departures | Every Saturday from Luxor · Every Wednesday from Aswan |
| Programs | 3 Nights / 4 Days · 4 Nights / 5 Days · 7 Nights / 8 Days (Aswan extended) |
| Price From | $599 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) + daily afternoon tea + free in-cabin tea/coffee throughout |
| Best For | Spa and wellness travelers · book lovers · couples wanting suite balconies · detail-oriented travelers who value hospitality extras · 7-night extended sailing |
Is the Kira Worth It?
Yes — the Kira offers one of the strongest inclusions packages of any ship at $599. Most ships at this price include only full board and a swimming pool. The Kira adds: free spa, sauna and steam for all guests; a free library and game room; a complimentary fruit basket and cookies on check-in; a welcome drink and refreshing towel on boarding; daily afternoon tea; and tea, green tea, mint, and coffee available free in the cabin throughout the cruise. These are inclusions typically found on ships charging $699–$799. Combined with Seti First Group's professional hospitality standards and the private balconies in the 6 suite cabins — the Kira is exceptional value at $599.
Who Is the Kira Best For?
- Spa and wellness travelers who want free sauna, steam, and spa access without the additional charge most ships impose — a facility that ships charging $799–$999 often still charge extra for.
- Book lovers and game players who value the free library and game room for downtime between temple visits. The library allows preparation before each site; the game room provides a social option in the evenings.
- Couples wanting suite balconies at $599 — the 6 suites with private Nile balconies are extraordinary value at this price. Private balconies are typically found only on ships charging $999+.
- Travelers who appreciate thoughtful hosting details — the welcome fruit basket, cookies, refreshing towel, and complimentary in-cabin hot drinks signal Seti First Group's genuine hotel hospitality philosophy rather than minimum cruise service.
- Travelers combining the 7-night option from Aswan who want an extended Nile experience with spa, library, and suite balcony access for 7 full days.
Who Should NOT Book the Kira?
- If UV panoramic windows and bathtub cabins in every standard cabin are the priority, the A Sara ($599, Mon/Fri) offers these features in all standard cabins on a different day schedule.
- If nightly entertainment shows are a core priority — Galabia party, belly dancing, and a disco every night — the Mahrousa ($649, Mon/Fri) is the fleet's entertainment-focused ship with a full nightly programme.
- If a free outdoor Jacuzzi and free spa on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule matter more than suite balconies, the MS Nile Palace ($599, Sat/Wed, 75 cabins) offers a complimentary Jacuzzi and free spa on the same Saturday departure.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Kira surprises guests consistently. At $599 they expect a standard Nile cruise. What they get is free spa, free sauna, free steam, a library, a game room, complimentary in-cabin hot drinks, a welcome fruit basket, and daily afternoon tea — plus private balcony suites. Seti First Group is a serious hospitality operator with decades of experience in Egypt. Their attention to the small details of guest experience sets the Kira apart from other ships at this price point. It is genuinely one of the most value-rich ships in the fleet."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
Kira vs Saturday/Wednesday Ships at $599
| Ship | From | Free Spa/Sauna | Suite Balcony | Library |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kira (Seti First) | $599 | Yes — FREE | Yes (6 suites) | Yes — FREE |
| MS Nile Palace | $599 | Yes — Jacuzzi & spa free | No | No |
| Semiramis II | $599 | No | Royal suites | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the spa and sauna really free on the Kira?
Yes — the Kira Nile Cruise includes free spa, sauna and steam access for all guests as part of the standard package. This is confirmed by Seti First Group's documentation. Most Nile cruise ships charge separately for spa and wellness services — even those at $699–$999. The Kira's free spa inclusion makes it one of the strongest wellness value propositions in Egypt For Travel's fleet at this price. The Turkish bath is also available on board, and massage services are offered at an additional charge. In-room tea, green tea, mint, and coffee are included free throughout the cruise, along with a complimentary mineral water bottle daily.
What is the 7-night Kira Nile Cruise option?
The Kira is available in 3-night, 4-night, and 7-night programs. The 7-night option sails from Aswan and provides an extended Nile journey giving more time at each temple site — and 7 full days of complimentary spa, sauna, library, and game room access. For travelers who want a comprehensive Nile experience without the rush of a 3 or 4-night cruise, the 7-night Kira program is exceptional value. Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm current 7-night departure dates and pricing.
Who is Seti First Group?
Seti First Group is one of Egypt's most experienced hospitality operators, running the Seti Abu Simbel Lake Resort, Seti Sharm Palm Beach Resort, and multiple Nile cruise ships including the M/S Kira and M/S Alessandra. The Group's hotel hospitality background means the Kira is run with hotel-grade attention to the guest experience — the welcome drink and towel, fruit basket on check-in, daily afternoon tea, complimentary in-room hot drinks, and free library and game room are all direct expressions of Seti First's philosophy applied to the Nile. When booking the Kira through Egypt For Travel, you receive Seti First Group's operational service combined with Egypt For Travel's private licensed Egyptologist guides.
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Kira
| 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 |
| Schedule: Every Saturday From Luxor(4 Nights / 5 Days) & Wednesday 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
- Welcome drink and refreshing towel on boarding
- Accommodation on the M/S Kira in chosen cabin or suite (suites with private Nile balcony)
- 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 buffet, lunch buffet (restaurant or sun deck), and dinner buffet daily
- Daily afternoon tea service
- Tea, green tea, mint and coffee available free in cabin throughout the cruise
- Complimentary mineral water bottle per person daily
- Free spa, sauna and steam access for all guests throughout the cruise
- Free library and game room access throughout the cruise
- 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
- Turkish bath (chargeable)
- Massage services (chargeable)
- Beauty salon services (chargeable)
- Mini bar (chargeable)
- Bar drinks and alcoholic beverages on board
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Kira Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Suite Balconies | 6 suites with private Nile balconies — private balconies at $599 are exceptional value; this feature is typically found only on ships charging $999+ |
| In-Cabin Hot Drinks | Free tea, green tea, mint and coffee in every cabin throughout the cruise — not chargeable, restocked daily |
| Bathroom | Complete luxury bathroom with quality guest amenities in every cabin |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning in every cabin |
| Television | Satellite TV in every cabin |
| Mini Bar | Mini bar in every cabin (chargeable) |
| Safe Deposit Box | In-cabin safe deposit box in every cabin |
Kira On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Spa, Sauna & Steam | Free spa, sauna and steam for all guests throughout the cruise — not charged as an extra; exceptional value at $599 |
| Turkish Bath | Turkish bath on board (chargeable) |
| Library | Free library for all guests — Egyptology references, travel books, and reading material throughout the cruise |
| Game Room | Free game room for all guests — board games and social activities during sailing days |
| Welcome Hospitality | Welcome drink and refreshing towel on boarding · complimentary fruit basket and cookies in cabin on check-in |
| Afternoon Tea | Daily afternoon tea service · complimentary mineral water bottle per person daily |
| Swimming Pool | Swimming pool with sun deck bar |
| Restaurant & Lounge | Restaurant — full board breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet daily · panoramic lounge bar |
| Entertainment & Service | Discotheque · beauty salon (chargeable) · massage (chargeable) · free Wi-Fi throughout · laundry service (chargeable) |
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 Kira Nile Cruise
The M/S Kira is a 5-star Nile cruise ship operated by the Seti First Group on the Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. With 59 cabins including 6 suites with private Nile balconies, complimentary spa, sauna and steam for all guests, a free library and game room, welcome hospitality extras (fruit basket, cookies, afternoon tea, in-cabin hot drinks), and a 7-night extended program option — the Kira provides an inclusions package that ships charging significantly more rarely match. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the Kira's Free Spa and Inclusions Matter at $599
Most 5-star Nile cruise ships at $599 provide full board, a swimming pool, and air-conditioned cabins. That is the standard. The Kira, at the same price, adds: free spa, sauna and steam (facilities ships at $799–$999 often still charge extra for); a free library and game room; private balconies on suite cabins; a welcome fruit basket and cookies on check-in; a welcome drink and refreshing towel on boarding; daily afternoon tea; and complimentary tea, green tea, mint and coffee in the cabin throughout the entire cruise. These are not cosmetic extras. The in-cabin hot drinks mean a traveler returning from a 06:30 temple visit in summer heat can make a cup of mint tea in their cabin at no charge. The library means preparation before visiting Karnak or reading about the Valley of the Kings during the afternoon sailing. The free spa means a wellness day costs nothing extra. And the 6 suite balconies with private Nile views — watching the Egyptian desert pass from a private terrace — is an experience typically available only at twice the price. This is what Seti First Group's hotel hospitality background produces on a Nile cruise: not just transport from temple to temple, but a considered guest experience from check-in to disembarkation.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Kira 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. Contact Egypt For Travel for 7-night program pricing and suite cabin availability — the 6 suites with private balconies book faster than standard cabins. Once your Kira booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Kira
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits. The suite balconies are most enjoyed in the cool evenings of November–February — watching the Nile from a private terrace with a cup of complimentary mint tea. The library is extensively used in peak season when the pace is unhurried. Book 4–8 weeks ahead for suite cabins. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices and better availability. Temple visits at 06:30 before midday heat. The free spa and sauna are most appreciated in summer — a steam after a hot excursion day at no extra charge. The in-cabin hot drinks mean early risers can prepare before the 06:30 temple visit without needing the restaurant. The library provides cool, air-conditioned afternoon reading. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. 50% deposit required. The Kira's welcome hospitality and afternoon tea atmosphere make it well-suited to celebratory holiday sailings. Suite balconies for Christmas week book 3–4 months ahead. Book early. |
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 |
| Aswan (extended) | Wednesday (7-night) | 7 Nights / 8 Days | Extended Aswan program — contact Egypt For Travel for dates |
Saturday/Wednesday Ships — Kira vs Alternatives
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Kira (Seti First) | $599 | Free spa/sauna/steam · 6 suite balconies · free library · afternoon tea · welcome hospitality extras · 7-night program — best inclusions per dollar at $599 |
| MS Nile Palace | $599 | 75 cabins · 20 family cabins · free Jacuzzi · free spa · BBQ · conference room — best for families & groups |
| Semiramis II | $599 | BBQ deck · Royal suites · billiards — entertainment focus |
| Kahila | $629 | Glass floor restaurant · observation deck · baby room — boutique premium step up |
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 Kira 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, 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
- Kira 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.
