Monica Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | 6 Presidential Suites, Jacuzzi & Piano Bar from $599
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Overview
Bottom line: The Monica Nile Cruise is one of the most comprehensively equipped deluxe ships in Egypt For Travel's fleet — combining an extraordinary breadth of on-board facilities with 6 presidential suites featuring French balconies at $599. No other ship in the fleet at this price offers 6 presidential suites. The Monica also features a Jacuzzi, piano bar, panoramic bar, a library, an internet café, a conference area, a shallow water pool alongside the main pool (specifically for young children), billiard and game area, discotheque, fitness facilities, beauty salon, and gift shops — a breadth of facilities that would normally be found on ships charging $200–$300 more. Full board is included throughout.
Monica — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | Deluxe Nile Cruise |
| Total Cabins | 68 cabins · 6 presidential suites with French balconies |
| Signature Features | 6 presidential suites · Jacuzzi · piano bar · library · conference area · internet café |
| Pools | Main swimming pool · separate shallow water pool (for young children) |
| Entertainment | Piano bar · panoramic bar · discotheque · billiard & game area |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Monday from Luxor · Every Friday from Aswan |
| Price From | $599 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Best For | Presidential suite seekers at $599 · families needing a shallow children's pool · corporate groups needing conference & internet · book lovers · couples wanting French balcony suites |
Is the Monica Nile Cruise Worth It?
Yes — particularly for its 6 presidential suites with French balconies at $599. The Monica offers more presidential suite cabins than any other ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet at this price — 6 French balcony suites versus 3 on the Tower Prestige ($629) and fewer on most other ships. For couples and travelers who specifically want a presidential suite experience but cannot justify the M/S Mayfair's $999 price, the Monica at $599 is the most accessible route to a French balcony suite on the Nile. The Jacuzzi, piano bar, panoramic bar, library, internet café, conference area, billiards, and shallow children's pool add a breadth of facilities that makes the Monica feel significantly more equipped than a standard ship at this price.
Who Is the Monica Best For?
- Travelers who specifically want a presidential suite with French balcony at $599 — the Monica offers 6 such suites, more than any other ship in the fleet at this price point, giving better availability on your preferred departure date.
- Families with young children who need a shallow water pool alongside the main pool for safe, supervised paddling — one of the few ships in Egypt For Travel's fleet with this dedicated children's pool facility.
- Corporate and conference travelers who need an internet café and conference area on board — the Monica is one of only two ships in the fleet with a dedicated conference facility.
- Book lovers and researchers who want a library between temple visits for preparation and reading — the library allows guests to explore the history of each site before and after visiting it.
- Evening entertainment seekers who want piano bar and panoramic bar options rather than a single lounge — the Monica offers distinct evening atmospheres across different on-board spaces.
Who Should NOT Book the Monica?
- If a private French balcony or veranda in every standard cabin (not only in the presidential suites) is essential, the M/S Mayfair ($999, Mon/Fri) delivers private balconies across all cabin categories.
- If UV panoramic windows and a bathtub in the base cabin (not just suites) are the priority, the M/S Nile Paradise ($699, Mon/Fri) delivers these in its standard Queen Deluxe category, with a 5-star deluxe classification and dedicated Master Suite balcony.
- If the Saturday/Wednesday departure suits your Egypt itinerary better, consider the Kira ($599, Sat/Wed, free spa/sauna, suite balconies, library) or the MS Nile Palace ($599, Sat/Wed, free Jacuzzi, conference room, 75 cabins).
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Monica is the ship that surprises guests most at $599. Six presidential suites with French balconies — more than any other ship at this price. A Jacuzzi, a piano bar, a panoramic bar, a library, an internet café, a conference room, billiards, and a shallow pool alongside the main pool for children. These are facilities you find on ships charging $900+. The Monica at $599 is genuinely exceptional value for anyone who wants presidential suite quality and a comprehensive on-board experience on the Monday/Friday schedule."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
Monica — Presidential Suites vs Monday/Friday Alternatives
| Ship | From | Suites with Balcony | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monica | $599 | 6 French balcony suites | Most presidential suites at $599 · Jacuzzi · piano bar · library · conference · shallow pool — best facilities breadth |
| M/S Nile Paradise | $699 | Master Suite balcony | UV windows & bathtub in ALL standard cabins · 5-star deluxe — best base cabin quality |
| Hapi 5 | $699 | Suites | Indoor pool · library · hair salon · wedding services · Mon/Fri |
| M/S Mayfair | $999 | All cabins have balcony | Private balcony in every cabin category — ultimate suite upgrade |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many presidential suites does the Monica have and what is included?
The Monica Nile Cruise has 6 presidential suites — the most of any ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet at $599. Each presidential suite includes a French balcony with Nile view, a spacious cabin layout, air conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, safe box, and a private bathroom. The French balcony allows guests to open the door and stand at the threshold to feel the Nile air and watch the river, desert, and temple banks pass — a significant experiential upgrade over a standard porthole or picture window cabin. With 6 suites available on each departure, the Monica has better presidential suite availability than most comparable ships where only 2–3 suites exist. Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm current suite availability for your preferred departure date.
What is the shallow water pool on the Monica and who is it for?
The Monica Nile Cruise has two pools: a main swimming pool and a separate shallow water pool. The shallow pool is specifically designed for young children and toddlers who cannot safely use the full-depth main pool. It is one of only a few ships in Egypt For Travel's fleet to offer this facility. For families with children under 6, the Monica's shallow pool removes the safety anxiety of a full-depth pool during afternoon downtime. Combined with the full board buffet, the billiard and game area, and the internet café for older children, the Monica is one of the most comprehensively family-friendly ships in the fleet at $599.
What makes the Monica's piano bar different from a standard cruise bar?
Most Nile cruise ships at $599 have a single lounge bar. The Monica has a piano bar, a panoramic bar, and a discotheque — three distinct evening spaces with different atmospheres. The piano bar provides a refined, musical evening setting for guests who want a quiet drink with live background music. The panoramic bar allows guests to watch the Nile passing in the evening while having a drink. The discotheque provides a livelier option later in the evening. This variety of evening venues is unusual at the $599 price point, where most ships offer a single lounge.
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Monica
| 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: Monday from Luxor (4 nights) · Friday 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 Monica in chosen cabin or presidential suite (suites with French balcony & 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 — breakfast, lunch and dinner on board daily
- 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, Unfinished Obelisk
- 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
- Internet café fees (chargeable)
- Beauty salon services (chargeable)
- Bar drinks and alcoholic beverages on board
- Mini bar (chargeable)
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Monica Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Presidential Suites | 6 presidential suites with French balconies — each with a private Nile-view balcony, spacious layout, and all standard amenities. The most presidential suites available at $599 in Egypt For Travel's fleet |
| 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 |
Monica On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Presidential Suites | 6 presidential suites with French balconies — the most of any ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet at this price |
| Jacuzzi | On-board Jacuzzi |
| Swimming Pools | Main swimming pool · separate shallow water pool for young children and toddlers · sun deck |
| Piano Bar | Piano bar — refined evening setting with live musical backdrop · unusual in this price category |
| Panoramic Bar | Panoramic bar — evening drinks while watching the Nile pass · distinct from the piano bar atmosphere |
| Library | Library on board — Egyptology references and travel books for preparation before temple visits |
| Internet Café | Internet café — available for guests needing connectivity beyond mobile data (chargeable) |
| Conference Area | Conference area for MICE events — one of only two ships in Egypt For Travel's fleet with a dedicated conference facility |
| Restaurant | Full board restaurant — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Entertainment & Leisure | Discotheque · billiard & game area · fitness facilities · beauty salon (chargeable) · gift shops · 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 Monica Nile Cruise
The Monica Nile Cruise is a deluxe-category ship on the Monday/Friday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. With 68 cabins including 6 presidential suites with French balconies, a Jacuzzi, piano bar, panoramic bar, library, internet café, conference area, billiards, shallow children's pool, and discotheque, it provides a breadth of on-board facilities that rivals ships charging $200–$300 more. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the Monica's 6 Presidential Suites Are the Best Value French Balcony Suite in the Fleet
A presidential suite with a French balcony on a Nile cruise is one of the defining Egyptian travel experiences — opening the balcony door in the early morning to watch temples and desert pass from your own private outdoor space is something standard cabins cannot replicate. The challenge is that most Nile cruise ships at $599 offer only 2–3 such suites on each departure, meaning availability is genuinely limited. The Monica solves this with 6 presidential suites, meaning travelers booking weeks rather than months ahead can still secure a suite. At $599, this is the most accessible route to a French balcony suite experience in Egypt For Travel's fleet — the next closest comparable is the Tower Prestige ($629, 3 suites, Sat/Wed) and after that the M/S Mayfair ($999, balconies in all cabins). The Monica sits squarely between these as the price-accessible suite option on the Monday/Friday schedule.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Monica 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 suite cabins at $599 book faster than standard cabins — contact Egypt For Travel early to confirm suite availability. Once your Monica booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Monica
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits. The presidential suite French balconies are most enjoyable in the cool evenings of November–February — watching the Nile from a private balcony after dinner. The Jacuzzi is popular in the cooler evenings. Book suite cabins 6–8 weeks ahead in peak season. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices, better availability. Temple visits at 06:30 before midday heat. The shallow children's pool is most heavily used in summer. The library and internet café provide cool air-conditioned spaces in the afternoon. Suite balconies are enjoyed in the cooler mornings and evenings. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. 50% deposit required. Presidential suites for Christmas week book 3–4 months ahead — these 6 suites are the first to fill on peak season departures. Book early if a suite is a priority. |
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 — Monica vs Alternatives at $599
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Monica | $599 | 6 presidential suites · Jacuzzi · piano bar · library · conference · shallow pool — best facilities breadth Mon/Fri |
| A Sara | $599 | UV windows · bathtub in all standard cabins · Mon/Fri — best base cabin quality at $599 |
| Nile Jewel | $599 | UV windows · bathtub · non-smoking · 24-hr doctor · gym — Thu/Mon schedule |
| Mahrousa | $649 | Full nightly entertainment · Galabia party · Mon/Fri — best for entertainment focus |
| M/S Nile Paradise | $699 | UV windows & bathtub in ALL standard cabins · 5-star deluxe · Mon/Fri |
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 Monica 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
- Monica 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.
