Semiramis II Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | BBQ Deck & Bathtubs from $599
Overview
Bottom line: The Semiramis II is a well-equipped 5-star budget Nile cruise ship with one uniquely memorable feature: a barbecue area on the deck — something genuinely unusual on any Nile cruise vessel. Combined with full-size bathtubs in every cabin, LCD TV with satellite channels, panoramic windows, a swimming pool, 24-hour doctor, and free Wi-Fi, the Semiramis II delivers solid 5-star cabin quality at $599 per person on the Thursday/Monday departure schedule. For budget-conscious travelers who specifically want bathtub cabins and the experience of a Nile barbecue evening under the stars, this ship offers a distinctive and very affordable choice.
Semiramis II — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | 5-Star Budget Nile Cruise |
| Unique Feature | Barbecue area on deck — rare on any Nile cruise ship |
| Bathroom | Full-size bathtub in every cabin |
| Entertainment | LCD TV with satellite channels in every cabin |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights) |
| Departures | Every Thursday from Luxor · Every Monday from Aswan |
| Price From | $599 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Medical | Doctor available 24 hours on board |
| Best For | Budget travelers wanting bathtubs · BBQ enthusiasts · Thursday/Monday schedule travelers · value-conscious families |
Is the Semiramis II Worth It?
Yes — bathtubs, LCD satellite TV, and a BBQ deck at $599 is strong value. The Semiramis II's most distinctive feature — the barbecue area on deck — creates an evening dining experience that no other budget ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet offers. A Nile barbecue at dusk, with the desert cliffs and palm groves on both banks and the first stars appearing overhead, is a genuinely special memory. The full-size bathtubs in all cabins at $599 are also noteworthy — a cabin feature typically reserved for ships costing $100–$200 more. Free Wi-Fi, mini bar, 24-hour doctor, international telephone, and gift shop complete a solid 5-star package.
Who Is the Semiramis II Best For?
- Budget travelers wanting bathtubs at the lowest possible price on the Thursday/Monday schedule.
- BBQ and outdoor dining enthusiasts who want the unique experience of a deck barbecue on the Nile — an evening feature no other ship in the fleet offers at this price.
- Families who want full board, pool, good cabin quality, and a 24-hour doctor on board at $599.
- Thursday arrivals in Luxor who want to board the same day and start the cruise immediately with a full range of facilities.
Who Should NOT Book the Semiramis II?
- If a gymnasium, beauty salon, or more extensive wellness facilities are a priority, the Nile Jewel ($599, Thu/Mon) offers a gymnasium alongside UV windows and bathtubs at the same price. The Crown Emperor ($649, Thu/Mon) adds a steam bath and sauna at $50 more.
- If Monday/Friday departures suit your Egypt itinerary better, the Sarah II ($599, Mon/Fri) offers a very similar package — bathtubs, LCD TV, full board — on the standard schedule.
- If two Jacuzzis, billiards, a discotheque, and a larger entertainment programme matter more than bathtubs and a BBQ deck, the Adonis ($699, Thu/Mon) has all of these at $100 more.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Semiramis II's barbecue deck is the feature guests mention when they return. A BBQ on the Nile at dusk between Edfu and Kom Ombo, watching the light change over the desert — this is the kind of evening that costs nothing extra on the Semiramis II but creates a memory that guests from much more expensive ships never have. At $599 with bathtubs and satellite TV, it is exceptional value on the Thursday schedule."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Semiramis II have a barbecue on deck?
Yes — the Semiramis II has a barbecue area on the deck, which is a genuinely unusual feature on a Nile cruise ship. Most Nile cruise vessels serve all meals in the indoor restaurant with an occasional buffet on the sundeck. The Semiramis II's BBQ area allows for outdoor grilling events on the deck — a particularly atmospheric dining option during evening sailing between temples when the desert sky turns spectacular. It is one of the most distinctive individual features of any budget Nile cruise ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet. Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm BBQ evening scheduling on your specific departure.
How does the Semiramis II compare to the Adonis at the same Thursday/Monday schedule?
Both the Semiramis II ($599) and the Adonis ($699) operate on the Thursday/Monday schedule. The Semiramis II wins on: bathtubs in all cabins, BBQ deck, LCD TV with satellite, and Wi-Fi throughout — at $100 less. The Adonis wins on: two Jacuzzis, billiards room, 150-seat restaurant, 140-seat lounge bar, discotheque, and ABS construction certification — at $100 more. Choose the Semiramis II if cabin comfort (bathtubs) and the unique BBQ deck experience matter most. Choose the Adonis if Jacuzzis, billiards, and a larger entertainment and social space matter more.
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Semiramis II
| 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 · Crocodile Museum |
| Aswan | Philae Temple (by motorboat) · Aswan High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk |
| Schedule: Thursday from Luxor (4 nights) · Monday 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 Semiramis II in a panoramic cabin with full-size bathtub
- 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, Crocodile Museum, 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 port taxes and service charges
- 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
- Bar drinks and alcoholic beverages on board
- Mini bar (chargeable)
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Semiramis II Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Windows | Panoramic windows in every cabin with Nile views |
| Bathroom | Full-size bathtub in every cabin |
| Television | LCD TV with satellite channels in every cabin |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning in every cabin |
| Mini Bar | Mini bar in every cabin (chargeable) |
| Telephone | International telephone in every cabin |
Semiramis II On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| BBQ Deck | Barbecue area on deck — unique feature not available on other ships at this price |
| Restaurant | International buffet cuisine — full board breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Swimming Pool | Outdoor swimming pool on sun deck |
| Medical | Doctor available 24 hours on board throughout the cruise |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
| Gift Shop | On-board gift shop for souvenirs and personal items |
| Reception | International telephone system · all major credit cards accepted |
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 Semiramis II Nile Cruise
The Semiramis II is a 5-star Nile cruise ship operating the Thursday/Monday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. It is the only ship in Egypt For Travel's standard fleet with a dedicated barbecue area on the deck — an outdoor grilling and dining space that creates an evening on the Nile unlike anything available on any comparable ship at this price. The ship also features full-size bathtubs in every cabin, LCD satellite TV, panoramic windows, a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour on-call doctor. All shore excursions are operated by a private licensed Egyptologist guide. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why the BBQ Deck Is the Semiramis II's Defining Feature
Most Nile cruise ships at $599 serve all meals in the enclosed air-conditioned restaurant. The outdoor sundeck may have loungers, but outdoor dining — grilling, open fire, the smell of food cooking under the open sky with the Nile sliding past — is simply not part of the budget cruise experience. The Semiramis II changes this. The BBQ area on deck creates one or more evenings during the cruise where dining happens outside, in the open air, after the temples of Edfu or Kom Ombo are already behind you and the next section of the Nile opens ahead. At dusk between Edfu and Kom Ombo, the desert light changes colour every few minutes. There is no better view from which to eat. This is not a major item in a hotel brochure sense — it is a specific, unusual experience that the guests of the Semiramis II consistently remember and describe when they return. Contact Egypt For Travel at booking to confirm BBQ evenings on your specific departure date.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Semiramis II 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. Once your Semiramis II booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change. The Semiramis II starts from $599 per person on the Thursday/Monday schedule.
Best Season to Cruise on the Semiramis II
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions. BBQ deck evenings are particularly atmospheric in cool air with the desert sky fully clear. Pool is used for afternoon relaxation. Book 4–8 weeks ahead for peak dates. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices and better availability. All temple visits at 06:30 before midday heat. Swimming pool is the most-used facility in summer. BBQ evenings after sunset when temperatures drop to a pleasant 25–28°C. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | High demand. 50% deposit required. Book 2–3 months ahead minimum. |
Departure Schedule
| Departure | Day | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxor | Every Thursday | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan |
| Aswan | Every Monday | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Aswan → Kom Ombo → Edfu → Luxor |
Thursday/Monday Ships — Semiramis II vs Competitors
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Semiramis II | $599 | BBQ deck on Nile · full-size bathtubs · LCD satellite TV · pool · 24-hr doctor — most distinctive budget Thu/Mon ship |
| Nile Jewel | $599 | Same price · gymnasium · UV windows · bathtub · non-smoking — more wellness, less BBQ character |
| Crown Emperor | $649 | Steam bath · sauna · gym · more facilities — $50 more for wellness focus |
| Adonis | $699 | 2 Jacuzzis · billiards · 150-seat restaurant · discotheque · ABS certified — $100 more, social/entertainment focus |
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 |
If your tour package includes airfare, additional charges for children may apply. Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm family cabin configuration at booking.
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 Semiramis II 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
- Semiramis II 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. The Semiramis II has a doctor available 24 hours on board throughout the cruise.
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.
