MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | Jacuzzi, Sauna, Spa & Gym from $699 | Saturday Departure
Overview
Bottom line: The MS Moon Dance is the most comprehensively equipped wellness ship in Egypt For Travel's deluxe fleet at $699. Its combination of Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, fitness centre and beauty salon on a single ship is not matched by any other deluxe Nile cruise at this price. With 60 standard cabins and 8 suites, a swimming pool with sun deck bar, full board dining, board games, and the distinctive Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule, the Moon Dance fills a specific and important gap in the fleet — the wellness-first, Saturday-departure deluxe cruise at a price that is genuinely accessible.
MS Moon Dance — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | Deluxe 5-Star Nile Cruise |
| Total Cabins | 60 standard cabins · 8 suites |
| Wellness Facilities | Jacuzzi · sauna · spa · gym · fitness centre · beauty salon — the most complete wellness package in Egypt For Travel's fleet at $699 |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Saturday from Luxor · Every Wednesday from Aswan |
| Programs | 3 Nights / 4 Days · 4 Nights / 5 Days |
| Price From | $699 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Best For | Wellness travelers · honeymooners · Saturday arrivals from Cairo · mid-week international connections · suite seekers at the deluxe price tier |
Is the MS Moon Dance Worth It?
Yes — especially for wellness-focused travelers on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule. The Moon Dance has a broader wellness offering than any other deluxe ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet at $699: Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, and fitness centre together make it the most wellness-complete ship in its price tier. The 8 suites give couples and honeymooners a genuine suite experience at the deluxe price without needing to step up to ultra-deluxe ships. The Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule is a specific advantage for travelers arriving in Egypt on Fridays from international flights or after a Cairo weekend, and for those connecting from Red Sea resorts mid-week.
Who Is the Moon Dance Best For?
- Wellness travelers who want Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym and fitness centre all on one ship at $699 — no other deluxe ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet offers all five of these together at this price.
- Honeymooners and couples who want a luxury suite at the deluxe price tier with comprehensive wellness facilities — the 8 suites combined with the Jacuzzi, sauna and spa create a genuinely romantic on-board experience.
- Travelers on Saturday arrival schedules — those arriving in Cairo on Thursday or Friday, spending the weekend at the Pyramids and Egyptian Museum, and flying to Luxor on Saturday morning can board the Moon Dance directly the same day.
- Mid-week international connections — the Wednesday Aswan departure suits travelers connecting from a Red Sea resort or arriving via mid-week international flights who cannot wait until Friday.
- Active travelers who want a gym and fitness centre available throughout the cruise — the Moon Dance is one of very few ships in Egypt For Travel's deluxe fleet with a proper fitness centre.
Who Should NOT Book the Moon Dance?
- If Monday/Friday departures fit your Egypt itinerary better, most deluxe ships in Egypt For Travel's fleet depart on those days. The Moon Dance's Saturday/Wednesday schedule is ideal for mid-week travelers but a constraint for others. Consider the M/S Nile Paradise ($699, Mon/Fri, UV windows, bathtub in all standard cabins) or the Hapi 5 ($699, Mon/Fri, library, indoor pool, hair salon) as Monday/Friday deluxe alternatives.
- If a private balcony or veranda in every cabin (not only suites) is essential, the M/S Mayfair ($999, Mon/Fri) delivers private balconies across all cabin categories as an ultra-deluxe step up.
- If a glass-floor restaurant or observation deck is a specific priority on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule, the Kahila ($629, Sat/Wed) offers these unique architectural features as a boutique alternative.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Moon Dance fills an important gap in the fleet — comprehensive wellness facilities (Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, fitness centre, beauty salon) at $699, combined with a Saturday/Wednesday schedule that many of our clients from European and American mid-week flights specifically need. The 8 suites make it a solid honeymoon option at the deluxe price tier. We recommend it consistently to wellness-focused travelers who want more than a swimming pool and a massage room on the same ship."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Moon Dance
| 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
Why does the Moon Dance depart on Saturday and Wednesday instead of Monday and Friday?
The MS Moon Dance departs every Saturday from Luxor and every Wednesday from Aswan. This schedule is specifically suited to travelers arriving in Egypt on Thursday or Friday — allowing a weekend in Cairo (Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili) before flying to Luxor on Saturday morning and boarding directly. Similarly, the Wednesday Aswan departure suits travelers connecting from a Red Sea resort earlier in the week or arriving on mid-week international flights. Contact Egypt For Travel and we will help you build a seamless Egypt itinerary around the Moon Dance's Saturday/Wednesday schedule.
Does the Moon Dance have a Jacuzzi and sauna?
Yes — the MS Moon Dance has a Jacuzzi and a sauna on board, alongside a full spa, gym, fitness centre, and beauty salon. This combination of five wellness facilities on one ship is not matched by any other deluxe Nile cruise at $699 in Egypt For Travel's fleet. Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm which wellness services are included in the cruise price and which carry a supplement charge on your specific departure.
| Schedule: Saturday from Luxor (4 nights) · Wednesday 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 MS Moon Dance in chosen standard cabin or suite
- 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
- 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 services (chargeable — confirm inclusions with Egypt For Travel)
- Beauty salon services (chargeable)
- Bar drinks and alcoholic beverages on board
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
MS Moon Dance Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cabin Configuration | 60 standard cabins · 8 suites — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm suite availability for your departure date |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning in every cabin |
| Bathroom | Private en-suite bathroom in every cabin |
| In-Cabin Entertainment | Satellite TV in every cabin |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
MS Moon Dance On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Jacuzzi | Jacuzzi on board — part of the most complete wellness package in Egypt For Travel's deluxe fleet at $699 |
| Sauna | Sauna on board |
| Spa | Spa on board — confirm with Egypt For Travel which treatments are included vs chargeable |
| Gym & Fitness Centre | Gym and fitness centre on board — one of very few deluxe Nile cruise ships with a proper fitness facility |
| Beauty Salon | Beauty salon on board (chargeable) |
| Swimming Pool | Swimming pool · sun deck with sun deck bar |
| Dining | Dining room — full board breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Lounge & Entertainment | Lounge bar · board games · free Wi-Fi throughout |
| Service | Laundry service (chargeable) |
Itinerary:
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.
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.
Prices:
Summer Rates (May- August)
Prices
Winter Rates (Sep- April)
Prices
Notes:
About the MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise
The MS Moon Dance is a deluxe 5-star Nile cruise ship on the Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. With 60 standard cabins and 8 suites, and the most comprehensive wellness package in Egypt For Travel's deluxe fleet at $699 — Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, fitness centre, and beauty salon — the Moon Dance is specifically suited to wellness-focused travelers, honeymooners, and those arriving in Egypt on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the Moon Dance's Wellness Package Is Exceptional at $699
At $699, most Nile cruise ships offer a swimming pool, a lounge bar, and a massage room. The Moon Dance goes further: Jacuzzi, sauna, spa, gym, fitness centre, and beauty salon are all on board. This is the difference between a Nile cruise with a wellness add-on and a Nile cruise where wellness is integral to the ship's design. A traveler on the Moon Dance can swim in the pool during lunch, use the Jacuzzi in the late afternoon, have a sauna before dinner, and use the gym the next morning before a 06:30 temple visit. The Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule means this full wellness experience is available to travelers whose Egypt itinerary does not conform to the Monday/Friday departure rhythm of most other deluxe ships. No other deluxe ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet at $699 offers all six of these wellness facilities together.
Nile Cruise Prices
All MS Moon Dance 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. Suite cabins (8 available on each departure) book before standard cabins — contact Egypt For Travel early to confirm suite availability for your preferred departure date. Once your Moon Dance booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Moon Dance
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits. The Jacuzzi and sauna are particularly popular in the cooler evenings of November–February. The swimming pool and sun deck are used at midday. Book suite cabins 4–8 weeks ahead for peak season departures. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices and better availability. Temple visits at 06:30 before midday heat. The pool and Jacuzzi are most heavily used in summer afternoons. The gym and fitness centre are appreciated by active travelers in the cooler morning hours before excursions. Better suite availability than peak season. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. 50% deposit required. The Moon Dance's 8 suites and wellness facilities make it well-suited to celebratory and honeymoon Christmas sailings. Book 3–4 months ahead for Christmas week suite availability. |
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 |
Saturday/Wednesday Deluxe Ships — Moon Dance vs Alternatives
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| MS Moon Dance | $699 | Jacuzzi · sauna · spa · gym · fitness centre · beauty salon · 8 suites — most complete wellness package in deluxe fleet |
| Kahila | $629 | Glass floor restaurant · observation deck · baby room · boutique deluxe — unique architecture focus |
| Kira (Seti First) | $599 | Free spa/sauna/steam · 6 suite balconies · library · Sat/Wed — best inclusions at $599 |
| MS Nile Palace | $599 | 75 cabins · 20 family cabins · free Jacuzzi · BBQ · conference · Sat/Wed — best for families |
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 MS Moon Dance 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
- MS Moon Dance 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.
