Sarah II Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | Presidential Suites & UV Windows from $599
Overview
Bottom line: The Sarah II is one of the most complete 5-star Nile cruise ships on the Monday/Friday standard schedule — and it has a cabin range that most travelers do not expect at $599. With 66 double cabins, 2 junior suites, and 2 presidential suites (70 total), all featuring UV panoramic windows and bathtubs, the Sarah II combines premium cabin quality across every category with open buffet and set menu dining options — a flexibility rarely offered at this price. The non-smoking cabin policy, dedicated movie channel showing 3 films daily, fully equipped gymnasium, room service, 24-hour doctor, and international telephone complete a specification that consistently outperforms its $599 price point.
Sarah II — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | 5-Star Standard Nile Cruise |
| Total Cabins | 66 double cabins · 2 junior suites · 2 presidential suites (70 total) |
| Cabin Windows | UV panoramic windows in all cabins and suites |
| Bathrooms | Private bathtub · hairdryer in every cabin and suite |
| Dining | Open buffet AND set menu options — both available daily |
| Smoking Policy | Non-smoking cabins throughout |
| Entertainment | Dedicated movie channel (3 films daily) · colour TV with in-house channels |
| 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 — open buffet and set menu dining daily |
| Best For | Travelers wanting presidential suites at $599 · non-smokers · set menu dining enthusiasts · UV window and bathtub seekers on Monday/Friday |
Is the Sarah II Worth It?
Yes — presidential suites, UV windows, bathtubs, and set menu dining at $599 is genuinely exceptional value. Most ships at $599 offer a single standard cabin category with basic buffet dining. The Sarah II offers four accommodation levels — standard double, junior suite, and presidential suite — all with UV panoramic windows and bathtubs. The set menu dining option alongside the open buffet gives guests a structured meal choice normally associated with restaurants charging significantly more. At $599, the Sarah II's accommodation range and dining flexibility are unmatched at this price point on the Monday/Friday schedule.
Sarah II Cabin Categories — Which Should You Choose?
| Category | Qty | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Cabin | 66 | UV windows · bathtub · TV · mini bar · safe | Couples · most travelers |
| Junior Suite | 2 | Larger space · UV windows · bathtub · all amenities | Couples wanting more room |
| Presidential Suite | 2 | Top accommodation on ship · UV windows · bathtub · premium space | Special occasions · best available at $599 |
Who Is the Sarah II Best For?
- Travelers who want a presidential suite at $599 — the Sarah II's 2 presidential suites are the highest accommodation category available at this price point on the Monday/Friday schedule. Most Nile cruise ships with presidential suites charge $649–$999 per person.
- Couples or solo travelers who want dining flexibility — the set menu dining option alongside the open buffet gives the evening meal a structured, restaurant-quality feel that pure buffet ships cannot match.
- Non-smokers on the Monday/Friday schedule who want UV windows, bathtubs, and a gymnasium without paying the $699 premium tier.
- Travelers who want a full daily movie programme on board — the dedicated channel showing 3 films daily is rare at $599 and makes downtime between temple visits genuinely enjoyable.
- Anyone wanting a suite category on a Monday departure from Luxor — the Sarah II is the only ship at $599 on this schedule offering junior suites and presidential suites.
Who Should NOT Book the Sarah II?
- If a steam bath or sauna is a priority, the Crown Empress ($649, Mon/Fri) adds both at $50 more per person on the same Monday/Friday schedule.
- If evening entertainment — Galabia party, belly dancing, nightly shows — matters more than cabin category, the Semiramis I ($599, Mon/Fri) has a full nightly entertainment programme at the same price.
- If a Jacuzzi on board is important, the Adonis ($699, Thu/Mon) has two Jacuzzis on the Thursday schedule at $100 more.
- If a 100% non-smoking environment throughout the entire ship is the priority — not just non-smoking cabins — the A Sara ($599, Mon/Fri) applies a fully non-smoking policy across the whole ship at the same price.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Sarah II surprises guests who book it purely for the price. Presidential suites at $599 is not something you find on any other Monday/Friday ship in the fleet — or anywhere else on the Nile at this price. The open buffet and set menu combination is also unusual at $599 — it gives the dining experience a sense of choice and occasion that pure buffet ships cannot match. For travelers who want a premium cabin and flexible dining on the Monday schedule, the Sarah II is the clear answer."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Sarah II really have presidential suites at $599?
Yes — the Sarah II has 2 presidential suites as its top accommodation category, available from $599 per person. Presidential suites at $599 are extraordinarily rare on the Nile — most ships with presidential suites charge $649–$999 per person. The Sarah II's presidential suites feature UV panoramic windows and bathtubs, consistent with the ship's premium cabin specification across all categories. With only 2 suites available, they sell out quickly in peak season (October–April). Contact Egypt For Travel to check presidential suite availability on your preferred Monday departure — we respond within 2 hours.
What is the difference between open buffet and set menu dining on the Sarah II?
The Sarah II offers two dining formats. The open buffet is a self-service spread of international and Egyptian dishes at set meal times — the standard format on most Nile cruise ships. The set menu option provides a structured meal with specific courses chosen and prepared for that sitting — similar to a restaurant experience, giving the meal more of an occasion quality. At $599, having both options available is unusual — most Nile cruise ships at this price serve buffet only. The set menu is particularly appreciated at dinner when the experience of a proper multi-course meal after a full day at the temples feels genuinely rewarding.
How does the Sarah II compare to the A Sara — same price, different strengths?
Both the Sarah II and the A Sara are priced from $599 and operate the Monday/Friday schedule from Luxor and Aswan. Both offer UV panoramic windows, bathtubs, a full gymnasium, and non-smoking cabins. The key differences are features, not price. The Sarah II adds presidential suites, junior suites, set menu dining alongside the open buffet, and a dedicated 3-film daily movie channel — making it the better choice for guests who want suite accommodation or structured dining. The A Sara applies a 100% non-smoking policy throughout the entire ship (not just cabins), making it the better choice for guests who want a clean-air environment in all shared spaces including the restaurant, lounge, and pool deck. Both are excellent — the right choice depends on which feature matters more to you.
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Sarah 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: Monday from Luxor (4 nights / 5 days) · Friday from Aswan (3 nights / 4 days) |
Included
- Meet and greet by Egypt For Travel representative at Luxor or Aswan Airport/Station with a name sign
- Accommodation on the Sarah II in your chosen cabin or suite category (UV panoramic windows and bathtub in all categories)
- 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 — open buffet and set menu dining — 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 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
- Mini bar and room service charges (chargeable)
- Alcoholic beverages on board
- Laundry service (chargeable)
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Sarah II Cabin Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Windows | UV panoramic windows in every cabin and suite |
| Bathroom | Private bathtub · hairdryer in every cabin and suite |
| Smoking Policy | Non-smoking cabins throughout the ship |
| Television | Colour TV · in-house music and video channels · dedicated movie channel (3 films daily) |
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled air conditioning in every cabin |
| Mini Bar & Room Service | Mini bar in every cabin (chargeable) · room service available |
| Safe Deposit Box | In-cabin safe deposit box |
| Telephone | International telephone in every cabin |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi in every cabin and throughout the ship |
Sarah II On-Board Facilities
| Facility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Open buffet and set menu dining — full board breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Swimming Pool | Outdoor swimming pool · sun deck |
| Gymnasium | Fully equipped gymnasium on board |
| Medical | Doctor available 24 hours on board throughout the cruise |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi throughout the ship |
| Laundry | Laundry and daily housekeeping services (chargeable) |
| Gift Shop | Gift shop for souvenirs and personal items |
| Reception | 24-hour front desk · 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 Sarah II Nile Cruise
The Sarah II is a 5-star Nile cruise ship operating the Monday/Friday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. With 70 cabins and suites across four categories — double cabin, junior suite, and presidential suite — all featuring UV panoramic windows and bathtubs, it offers the widest accommodation range of any standard 5-star ship at $599 on the Monday/Friday schedule. The open buffet and set menu dining option is available at every meal, making it the only ship at this price point offering structured multi-course dining alongside the standard buffet. The Sarah II is Egypt For Travel's primary recommendation for Monday departures where suite accommodation or dining flexibility is a priority. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947.
Why Presidential Suites at $599 Are Extraordinary
Presidential suites on Nile cruise ships are almost universally found on ships charging $649–$1,299 per person. They appear on ships such as the JAZ Regent at $1,099 and the Farah at $1,299, where they are the expected top tier. The Sarah II at $599 makes presidential suite accommodation available at a price point where most competitors offer only standard double cabins. With only 2 presidential suites on board, availability is genuinely limited — they regularly sell out 6–10 weeks ahead in peak season. Egypt For Travel advises guests who specifically want a Sarah II presidential suite to contact us to check availability before setting travel dates, rather than after.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Sarah 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. Suite categories carry a supplement above the base double cabin rate. Once your Sarah II booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Sarah II
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions. Presidential suites book out earliest — contact Egypt For Travel to check availability well in advance. Set menu dining especially valued at dinner in cool evenings. Book 6–10 weeks ahead for suites. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices and better suite availability. UV windows provide thermal benefit in summer. All temple visits at 06:30 before midday heat. Movie channel and set menu dining make evenings comfortable on board. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — perfect | Highest demand. 50% deposit required. Presidential suites frequently fully booked by October. Contact Egypt For Travel as early as possible for festive departures. |
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 — Sarah II vs Competitors
| Ship | From | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Radamis II Princess Du Nil | $549 | Lowest price in fleet · pool · spa — $50 less, no suite categories |
| A Sara | $599 | Same price · UV windows · bathtub · 100% non-smoking entire ship · gym |
| Sarah II | $599 | Presidential suites · UV windows · bathtub · set menu dining · 3-film daily movie channel — best suite range at $599 |
| Crown Empress | $649 | Steam bath · sauna · UV windows — $50 more, wellness focus |
| M/S Nile Paradise | $699 | UV windows · bathtub · Master Suite with private Nile balcony — $100 more |
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 |
Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm junior suite and presidential suite configuration for families.
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 Sarah 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
- Sarah 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 Sarah 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.
