Radamis II Princess Du Nil Nile Cruise 2026 — Honest Review, Itinerary & Prices from $549
Overview
Bottom line: The Radamis II Princess Du Nil is Egypt For Travel's best-value Nile cruise — and the most consistently booked ship in the fleet. At $549 per person for the 3-night program, it delivers everything that matters on a Nile cruise: a private licensed Egyptologist guide at every temple, full board included, a clean panoramic-window cabin, a swimming pool, and a spa. You visit the same Valley of the Kings and the same Karnak Temple as passengers on ships costing three times the price. The Radamis II is not a luxury ship. It is a clean, comfortable, honest budget cruise that does exactly what it promises — and we recommend it with confidence to every traveler whose priority is Egypt's ancient sites rather than the ship's facilities.
Radamis II Princess Du Nil — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | Budget 5-Star Nile Cruise — Best Value in Fleet |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan · Aswan to Luxor |
| Duration | 4 nights / 5 days (from Luxor) · 3 nights / 4 days (from Aswan) |
| Departures | Every Monday from Luxor · Every Friday from Aswan |
| Price From | $549 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Guide Languages | English · Spanish · German · Portuguese |
| Pool | Yes — outdoor swimming pool on sun deck |
| Spa | Yes — spa and massage services on board |
| Family Friendly | Yes — pool, full board buffet, children pricing |
| Best For | Budget travelers · first-time Egypt visitors · families · solo travelers · travelers over 60 |
Is the Radamis II Princess Du Nil Worth It?
Yes — if your priority is Egypt's temples rather than the ship's facilities. The Radamis II delivers everything that matters on a Nile cruise: a private licensed Egyptologist guide, full board, a clean cabin with panoramic Nile windows, a swimming pool, and a spa. The Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae are identical on the Radamis II and on a ship costing $999. What changes at higher prices is the cabin size, the number of onboard facilities, and the atmosphere — not the quality of the Egyptologist guide or the access to the ancient sites. For a traveler whose Egypt budget prioritises depth of experience over cabin luxury, the Radamis II is the right answer.
Who Is the Radamis II Best For?
- Budget-conscious travelers who want the complete Nile cruise temple itinerary without paying for facilities they will not use.
- First-time Egypt visitors combining this cruise with a Cairo package and keeping the total trip cost accessible.
- Families with children who need full board, a pool, and flexible children pricing more than premium cabin amenities.
- Solo travelers who want a private guide experience on the Nile at the most accessible price in the fleet.
- Travelers over 60 who want to see Egypt's greatest sites comfortably without paying for nightlife or gym facilities.
- Anyone on their first Nile cruise who wants to experience the route before deciding whether to upgrade on a future visit.
Who Should NOT Book the Radamis II?
- If UV panoramic windows and bathtub cabins matter more than price, the Sarah II ($599, Monday/Friday) has both plus presidential suites and set menu dining at $50 more.
- If evening entertainment — nightly belly dancing, Galabia party, live music — is a priority, the Mahrousa ($649) has the most comprehensive evening programme on the Monday/Friday schedule.
- If a genuine 5-star deluxe experience — UV windows, bathtub, Master Suite with private balcony — is the goal, the M/S Nile Paradise ($699) delivers this at $150 more per person.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"We have operated the Radamis II for years and the feedback from guests is consistent: they came for the temples and they were not disappointed. The Valley of the Kings, Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae are the same whether you pay $549 or $1,499. What changes at higher prices is the ship's atmosphere and cabin quality — not the Egyptologist guide or the access to the sites. For a traveler whose Egypt budget is under $1,000 total including Cairo, the Radamis II is the answer. We book it with complete confidence."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Radamis II
| Location | Sites Visited |
|---|---|
| Luxor East Bank | Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Avenue of Sphinxes |
| Luxor West Bank | Valley of the Kings (3 tombs) · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon |
| Edfu | Edfu Temple — by horse-drawn calesh from the dock |
| Kom Ombo | Kom Ombo Temple · Crocodile Museum |
| Aswan | Philae Temple (by motorboat) · Aswan High Dam |
| Schedule: Monday from Luxor (4 nights / 5 days) · Friday from Aswan (3 nights / 4 days) |
Included
- Meet & greet by our representative at Luxor or Aswan with a name sign
- Accommodation on the Radamis II Princess Du Nil in a private cabin with panoramic Nile-view windows
- Full board: buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily on board
- Private licensed Egyptologist guide in English, Spanish, German or Portuguese for all excursions
- All guided shore excursions (100% private — not shared group tours)
- Entrance fees: Valley of the Kings (3 tombs) · Temple of Queen Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon · Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Edfu Temple · Kom Ombo Temple · Philae Temple · Aswan High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk
- Free bottled water during all shore excursions
- All service charges and taxes
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
- Alcoholic beverages on board
- Wi-Fi on board (available with charge)
- Any meals not specified in inclusions above
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Windows | Panoramic Nile-view windows |
| Bathroom | Private bathroom with shower · hairdryer |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled in every cabin |
| Television | Satellite colour TV |
| Mini Bar | Yes (chargeable) |
| Safe Deposit Box | Yes — in every cabin |
| Telephone | Direct dial in every cabin |
On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | International buffet — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Swimming Pool | Outdoor pool on sun deck · sun loungers |
| Spa | Spa and massage services (chargeable) |
| Lounge Bar | Main lounge bar · evening entertainment |
| Sun Deck | Open sun deck with Nile views |
| Gift Shop | Souvenir and gift shop on board |
| Wi-Fi | Available on board (chargeable) |
| Evening Entertainment | Galabia party · belly dancing · Nubian show |
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 Radamis II Princess Du Nil
The Radamis II Princess Du Nil is the most consistently booked ship in Egypt For Travel's fleet — a 5-star budget Nile cruise operating the Monday/Friday schedule between Luxor and Aswan. The Radamis II has been operated by Egypt For Travel since 2010 and accumulated more guest departures and verified reviews than any other ship in the fleet. The cabin specification is honest: panoramic Nile-view windows, private shower bathroom, satellite TV, individually controlled air conditioning, mini bar, telephone, and safe deposit box. The ship has an outdoor swimming pool on the sun deck, a spa with massage services, a lounge bar, and an international buffet restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Every shore excursion is operated by a private licensed Egyptologist guide in the guest's chosen language. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why Day 2 Is the Most Memorable Day on the Radamis II
Day 2 of the Radamis II itinerary combines the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut in a single morning on the Luxor West Bank — the most concentrated and visually extraordinary program of the entire cruise. Guests who visited the Tutankhamun galleries at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo before boarding the Radamis II arrive at the Valley of the Kings already knowing the story of the treasure found in 1922. Standing at the entrance to KV62 with that knowledge and the painted walls visible inside the tomb corridor creates an experience that no gallery visit alone can replicate. The 06:30 start means the Valley is visited in the coolest, quietest hour — before the temperature rises and the main groups arrive — giving guests the most intimate access to the tombs available on any Radamis II departure.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Radamis II Princess Du Nil 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 Radamis II Nile Cruise booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Radamis II
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions. Comfortable mornings at the temples. Clearest light for photography. 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 scheduled at 06:30 to finish before midday heat. The Radamis II pool is essential in summer. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. Higher prices. 50% deposit required. Book 2–3 months ahead minimum. |
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 |
Choosing Between Monday/Friday Ships — Radamis II vs Competitors
Thirteen ships depart Monday from Luxor on the 2026 schedule. The Radamis II sits at the lowest price point. Here is how the closest alternatives compare:
| Ship | From | Best Feature — Why Choose It Over the Radamis II |
|---|---|---|
| Radamis II Princess Du Nil | $549 | Best price in fleet · pool · spa · full board · most booked ship |
| Al Nabilatan | $549 | Reading room · billiards · 24-hour room service · set menu dining · same price |
| Iberotel Helio | $579 | JAZ brand service standards · two-level sun deck · doctor on board |
| Sarah II | $599 | UV panoramic windows · bathtub every cabin · presidential suites · set menu dining |
| M/S King of Thebes | $599 | Most popular 4-star renovated ship · reading room · afternoon tea · fitness room |
| Mahrousa | $649 | Nubian bar · nightly belly dancing · free gym · free billiards · best entertainment |
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 your specific family pricing 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 Radamis II Princess Du Nil 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 entry to special archaeological sites is not included, specifically the interior of the Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) at the Valley of the Kings, which requires a separate entrance fee of approximately $40 per person. Your guide will advise 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 covering cancellation is strongly recommended for all guests.
Tipping Guide
- Egyptologist guide: $10–15 per person per day
- Private driver: $5–10 per person per day
- Radamis II cruise crew: $10–15 per person total, paid on the final day of the cruise
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 Valley of the Kings involves walking on uneven ground in heat — comfortable closed-toe shoes are essential for all temple sites.
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.
