MS Terramar Nile Cruise
Overview
Bottom line: The MS Terramar by Sunrise Resorts & Cruises is a boutique all-suite Nile cruise that occupies its own category on the river. Fully renovated in January 2025 — the most recent major refit of any ship in Egypt For Travel’s fleet — the Terramar carries exactly 20 suites across three decks, with no standard cabins. Every guest on this ship is in a suite of minimum 30m². The Aurora Senses premium bathroom amenity collection is provided in every suite — the same hospitality-grade amenity range found in Sunrise’s five-star Red Sea resorts. With a high staff-to-guest ratio (maximum 40 guests at full capacity), genuine gourmet dining, a full spa and wellness centre, a doctor on call 24 hours, and Sunrise’s hotel-group service quality, the Terramar is not a cruise ship with suites. It is a floating boutique hotel that travels between Luxor and Aswan. At $999, it is the most comprehensively luxurious ship in Egypt For Travel’s fleet at its price point, and for honeymooners, anniversary travelers, and anyone seeking the finest Nile experience at $999, it is the definitive choice on Monday/Friday departures.
Quick Facts — MS Terramar
| Ship Category | 5-Star Deluxe Boutique — Suite Only — Sunrise Resorts & Cruises |
| Renovated | Fully renovated January 2025 — most recent refit in the fleet |
| Total Suites | 20 suites only across 3 decks — no standard cabins |
| Suite Categories | 8 Junior Suites (30m²) · 6 Presidential Suites (30m²) · 4 Presidential Pharaonic Suites (30m²) · 2 Royal Panoramic Suites (40m²) |
| Signature Features | Suite-only ship · 2025 renovation · Aurora Senses premium amenities · Doctor on call 24h · High staff-to-guest ratio · Sunrise hotel group management |
| Route | Luxor → Aswan (4 nights) | Aswan → Luxor (3 or 7 nights) |
| Departures | Every Monday from Luxor · Every Friday from Aswan |
| Price from | $999 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board — breakfast, lunch & dinner (gourmet international & Egyptian cuisine) |
| Best For | Honeymooners · Anniversary travelers · Solo luxury travelers · Families needing maximum suite space · Anyone wanting the finest Mon/Fri Nile cruise |
Is the MS Terramar Worth It?
Yes — unambiguously, for the traveler who wants the finest Nile cruise experience at $999 on Monday departures. The January 2025 renovation makes the Terramar the most freshly refitted ship in Egypt For Travel’s entire fleet. The all-suite format with no standard cabins means the ship is physically configured differently from a conventional cruise: larger bathrooms, more corridor space, larger public areas per passenger, quieter dining. The Aurora Senses premium bathroom amenities signal genuine luxury investment rather than budget fittings. The doctor on call 24 hours — uncommon even at $999 on the Nile — provides a level of medical assurance particularly valued by older travelers, families with young children, and anyone with a health consideration. For honeymooners who want Monday departures and cannot get the Steigenberger Senator (Thursday), the Terramar is the premium alternative with the freshest renovation and Sunrise’s hotel-group service. At $999 on Monday/Friday departures, there is no comparable suite-only ship in the fleet.
Who Is the MS Terramar Best For?
- ✓ Honeymooners and anniversary couples on Monday departures — the Terramar is the boutique suite alternative to the Steigenberger Senator for clients who need Monday embarkation in Luxor.
- ✓ Travelers who want the freshest renovation — the January 2025 refit makes the Terramar the most recently updated ship in the fleet at any price point.
- ✓ Families with older children who need maximum suite space — the 30–40m² suites accommodate 3 adults comfortably, with space that standard cabins on conventional ships simply don’t provide.
- ✓ Solo luxury travelers who want complete suite comfort without sharing a ship with 100+ other passengers — maximum 40 guests on the Terramar.
- ✓ Travelers who value the 24-hour doctor on call — a critical factor for older travelers, those with medical conditions, and families with young children.
- ✓ Sunrise hotel group loyalists who trust the Sunrise standard from their Red Sea resort experiences and want the same group’s premium offering on the Nile.
- ✓ Environmentally conscious travelers — the 2025 renovation included LED lighting, energy-efficient systems and updated safety technology.
Who Should NOT Book the MS Terramar?
- ✗ If Thursday/Monday departures are required and the highest intimacy is the goal, the Steigenberger Senator ($1,499 Thu/Mon) is the alternative — only 17 suites, private outdoor terrace, champagne on arrival and daily minibar refill.
- ✗ If nightly festive entertainment — disco, belly dancing, full Galabia party every night — is the priority, the Terramar’s boutique and peaceful character may be quieter than expected.
- ✗ If a private balcony or outdoor terrace (step-out access) in every suite is essential, only the Steigenberger Senator has this feature as standard. The Terramar’s panoramic windows open but the suite does not have a traditional step-out terrace.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
“The Terramar’s January 2025 renovation puts it in a unique position: the most recently refitted luxury ship in our fleet, operated by Sunrise with hotel-group standards, at $999 on Monday departures. The Aurora Senses amenities were a deliberate upgrade by Sunrise to position the Terramar at a higher level than their other cruise ships — and they succeed. For honeymooners on a Monday schedule, for families who want suite space and a doctor on call, and for solo luxury travelers who want to be one of 40 guests maximum on a boutique ship, the Terramar is our strongest recommendation at this price point. The freshness of the 2025 renovation makes it feel unlike anything else in the fleet right now.” — Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited
- Luxor East Bank: Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple
- Luxor West Bank: Valley of the Kings (3 tombs included) · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon
- Nile Stops: Edfu Temple (calesh transfer) · Kom Ombo Temple (Crocodile Museum)
- Aswan: Philae Temple (motorboat) · Aswan High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk
- Optional Add-Ons: Abu Simbel by flight · Hot air balloon over Luxor · Nubian village felucca
MS Terramar vs Other Boutique Options
| Feature | MS Terramar ($999) | Steig. Senator ($1,499) | MS Mayfair ($975) |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-Suite Ship | ✓ 20 suites only | ✓ 17 suites only | ✗ Standard + suites |
| Most Recent Renovation | Jan 2025 | 2018 | 2019 |
| Premium Bathroom Amenities | ✓ Aurora Senses | Standard | Standard |
| Doctor on Call 24h | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Private Outdoor Terrace | ✗ No | ✓ All suites | ✗ No |
| Schedule | Mon/Fri | Thu/Mon | Mon/Fri |
| Max Passengers | 40 | 34 | ~100 |
Suite Facilities
| ✓ All suites 30m² minimum — Royal Panoramic Suite 40m² | ✓ Large panoramic Nile-view windows |
| ✓ Individually controlled AC | ✓ Satellite LED TV |
| ✓ Music channels | ✓ Mini bar |
| ✓ Telephone | ✓ Sitting area |
| ✓ Private bathroom: bathtub & shower | ✓ Aurora Senses premium bathroom amenities |
| ✓ Hair dryer & make-up mirror | ✓ Free Wi-Fi |
| ✓ All suites accommodate up to 3 adults |
On-Board Facilities
| ✓ International Buffet Restaurant — gourmet Egyptian & international | ✓ Luxurious lounge bar |
| ✓ Sun Deck Bar | ✓ Swimming pool on sun deck |
| ✓ Spa & wellness centre (Sunrise standard) | ✓ Fitness gym |
| ✓ Library | ✓ Darts & onboard games |
| ✓ Doctor on call 24 hours | ✓ High staff-to-guest ratio |
| ✓ Meetings & events facilities | ✓ Souvenir shop |
| ✓ Evening: live music, cultural shows, galabeya party | ✓ LED lighting & energy-efficient systems (2025 refit) |
| ✓ Updated 2025 fire & safety systems |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the MS Terramar different from a regular Nile cruise?
Four fundamental differences: First, the Terramar is a suite-only ship — every guest is in a suite of minimum 30m², not a standard 19–20m² cabin. Second, the ship carries maximum 40 guests — compared to 100–150 on conventional cruise ships — giving it a fundamentally different atmosphere: quieter, more personal, more attentive. Third, the January 2025 renovation brought Aurora Senses premium bathroom amenities, updated safety systems, and LED energy-efficient lighting — making it physically the freshest ship in the fleet. Fourth, Sunrise Resorts & Cruises manages it with hotel-group standards from their network of 30+ properties, including a 24-hour doctor on call. The Terramar is a boutique hotel experience that happens to travel between Luxor and Aswan, not a cruise ship that offers suites.
Is the MS Terramar good for a honeymoon?
Yes — the MS Terramar is one of Egypt For Travel’s two primary honeymoon cruise recommendations (alongside the Steigenberger Senator). The suite-only format, maximum 40 guests, Aurora Senses bathroom amenities, and the intimacy of the Sunrise-managed boutique experience create the private and romantic atmosphere honeymooners want. The Terramar departs Monday/Friday, making it the honeymoon choice for clients whose itinerary requires a Monday embarkation in Luxor. Egypt For Travel can arrange honeymoon decorations (flower petals, candles, card) on board for couples booking the Terramar. Mention your honeymoon at booking and we will arrange the surprise.
What are the different suite categories on the MS Terramar and what is the difference between them?
The MS Terramar has four suite categories: Junior Suite (30m²) — 8 available, twin or double configuration, sofa and seating area. Presidential Suite (30m²) — 6 available, same size as Junior but premium furnishing upgrade and enhanced Nile position. Presidential Pharaonic Suite (30m²) — 4 available, Egyptian-themed decor with Pharaonic design elements, premium position. Royal Panoramic Suite (40m²) — 2 available, the largest suites on the ship at 40m², panoramic Nile views from expanded windows. Egypt For Travel will confirm current pricing for each category upgrade and availability on your preferred dates.
| Schedule: Every Monday From Luxor & Friday From Aswan |
Cruise
MS Terramar Nile Cruise Facilities
General Facilities:
- WI-FI throughout the cruise
- 24-hour front desk service
- Express Check-In/Out
- Multilingual staff
- Concierge service
- Luggage room
- Laundry service
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Gift/souvenir & jewelry shops
- Mini market
Cabin & Bed Capacity:
- Junior Suite: 8 cabins (30 m²)
- Presidential Suite: 6 cabins (30 m²)
- Presidential Pharaonic Suite: 4 cabins (30 m²)
- Royal Panoramic Suite: 2 cabins (42 m²)
Suite Facilities:
- SAT HD/LED TV
- Wi-Fi (free)
- Internal telephone
- Safe box
- Air conditioning
- Mini bar (chargeable)
- Hairdryer & Magnifying mirror
- Aurora Senses bathroom amenities
- Bathroom with shower/bathtub
Dining:
- International Restaurant: 48 seats – Open buffet, International cuisine
- Summer Hours: 7:00 – 10:00, 13:00 – 15:00, 19:00 – 22:00
- Winter Hours: 7:00 – 10:00, 13:00 – 15:00, 19:00 – 22:00
- Sun Deck Bar: 46 seats – 10:00 – 00:00
Pool:
- Main Pool (Heated in winter): 140 m², 40 loungers
Spa & Wellness:
- Spa & Jacuzzi: 08:00 – 20:00 (Massage & Jacuzzi available upon request, chargeable)
- Gym: 08:00 – 20:00 (free of charge, age: +16)
Entertainment:
- Live music
- Daily evening shows
Sports & Activities:
- Darts
- Library room
Included
• Meet and assist by our representatives at the airport or railway station
• Accommodation on board MS Terramar Nile Cruise on full board
• English / Portuguese / German / Spanish speaking tour guide
• All sightseeing tours are private guided tours
• Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites in the itinerary
• Bottled water during the trips
• All transfers by a private air-conditioned deluxe vehicle
• All service charges and taxes
Excluded
• Any optional tours
• Personal Spending
• Tipping
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)
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Winter Rates (Sep- April)
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