Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise

A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is one of the great journeys in Egypt, and the Steigenberger Minerva offers it as a round trip starting and finishing in Luxor. The ship is operated by Steigenberger, the hotel group behind two of Luxor's large riverside hotels, and is described as a five-star cruise ship.

The itinerary runs for up to seven days. Guests check in at Luxor on the first day and check out in Luxor at the end, with the ship sailing south to Aswan and back. A cruise of this kind typically stops at the major temples along the river, which may include Edfu and Kom Ombo, though the exact programme should be confirmed when booking, along with which excursions are included in the price.

On board there are 77 cabins, including two suites, spread across four decks. Facilities include a restaurant, a lounge and bar, a pool with a pool bar set on a spacious sun terrace, a fitness room, a beauty salon, a souvenir shop and a conference area. The sun deck is where most guests spend the sailing hours, watching villages, palm groves and feluccas pass by on the banks.

A cruise suits travellers who want to see several major sites without repeated packing and unpacking, and it works well for couples, older travellers and families with children who enjoy being on the water. Those who prefer small groups and a slower pace might compare it with a dahabiya, a traditional sailing boat carrying far fewer passengers.

Because the cruise starts and ends in Luxor, it is easy to add extra nights in the city before or after to see the East and West Bank monuments at your own pace. Book through the hotel group's website or a trusted operator, and check embarkation times, what is included and the dress code for dinner before you travel.

The best months for cruising are the cooler ones from autumn to spring, when days on deck are comfortable and shore visits are less tiring. In summer, excursions are usually scheduled very early in the morning and late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Bring sun protection, a hat and modest clothing for temple visits, and expect to start some days before sunrise.