Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise
  • Every Monday From Luxor & Friday From Aswan

Overview

Step aboard the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise and experience an unforgettable journey through Egypt's timeless wonders. Operated by Egypt Top Tours, the Iberotel Crown Empress offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm as you sail between Luxor and Aswan. With 117 elegantly designed cabins, panoramic windows, a spacious sun deck, and onboard amenities including a swimming pool, sauna, and fine dining options, this 5-star deluxe cruise ensures a relaxing and enriching travel experience along the legendary Nile River.

Quick Facts — Iberotel Crown Empress

Feature Detail
Defining Feature Panoramic sliding windows in every cabin combined with a full-beam sun deck, maximizing views of the Nile's landscape throughout your voyage.
Cabins 117 cabins total: 117 double cabins (19 m²), 3 single cabins, and 8 suites (38 m²) with private balconies.
Wellness Swimming pool with pool bar, sauna, steam bath, massage services, and fitness equipment on deck.
Entertainment Spacious sun deck, lounge bar, sun deck bar, main restaurant, and nightly Egyptian folkloric shows.
Safety & Comfort Free limited Wi-Fi, in-cabin safety deposit box, individual climate control, 24-hour reception, on-board doctor on call, and marine satellite TV.
Departures Every Monday from Luxor (5 days to Aswan) and every Friday from Aswan (4 days to Luxor).
Price from Contact for pricing
Best For Travellers seeking modern comfort with authentic Egyptian culture, who value unobstructed Nile views and a relaxed pace between temple visits.

Is the Iberotel Crown Empress Worth It?

Yes—the Iberotel Crown Empress delivers exceptional value because its panoramic windows and full-beam sun deck transform cabin time into an extension of sightseeing, not downtime. Every moment aboard becomes part of the experience, whether you're watching feluccas drift past your cabin at sunrise or spotting wildlife along the riverbanks. This ship benefits travellers who want to soak in Egypt's landscape without sacrificing five-star comfort, and who appreciate the balance between guided excursions and quiet reflection on the water.

Compared to peer vessels like the Steigenberger Regency and MS Crown Jewel, the Iberotel Crown Empress prioritizes views over size: it carries 117 cabins versus Steigenberger's larger fleet capacity, keeping the atmosphere more intimate. The Steigenberger Regency appeals to guests seeking cutting-edge spa facilities and butler service in suites; the Crown Empress excels for those who want their cabin window to be the main amenity. MS Crown Jewel matches the Crown Empress's cabin count but leans toward all-inclusive beverage packages, whereas the Crown Empress maintains a more traditional (and economical) dining model where wine and premium spirits carry a supplement.

The Iberotel Crown Empress delivers the most value for independent-minded travellers and couples who want photogenic Nile moments without paying for massive onboard venues they'll never use. If you plan to spend most of your day on shore visiting temples, the panoramic cabin design ensures the transition between land and water feels seamless—a quality that justifies the floating investment far better than a second sauna or nightclub.

Who Is the Iberotel Crown Empress Best For?

  • Photography enthusiasts and landscape lovers who want their cabin to be a viewing platform, not just a place to sleep.
  • Couples seeking a romantic Nile voyage with privacy, fresh air on a spacious sun deck, and intimate dining without cruise-ship crowds.
  • Cultural travellers aged 50+ who value guided temple tours during the day and prefer quiet, contemplative evenings with Nile views over nightlife.
  • Families (without very young children) wanting a structured itinerary with private guided tours and a relaxed ship atmosphere between excursions.

Who Should Not Book the Iberotel Crown Empress?

  • Luxury seekers expecting butler service, Michelin-standard dining, or exclusive concierge—choose the Steigenberger Royale instead, which offers white-glove service and premium suites.
  • All-inclusive budgeteers who want beverages, shore excursions, and tips pre-paid—the MS Nile Style or Salima Nile Cruise offer more transparent all-in pricing models.
  • Party-focused travellers seeking nightly live bands, casino, and extensive nightlife—the Chateau Lafayette and Royal Beau Rivage provide more entertainment-forward programming.

Egypt Top Tours Expert Assessment

“The Iberotel Crown Empress stands out for the intelligent placement of panoramic windows in every cabin, a feature that deepens engagement with the Nile throughout your four or five days aboard. Rather than confining views to public decks, this design choice means you remain connected to the river's rhythm and scenery even during downtime—a quality that particularly enhances the contemplative mood of sailing between Luxor and Aswan. For the temple-focused itinerary, where guests divide their time equally between shore excursions and floating restoration, this constant visual connection to the Nile's ancient landscape reinforces why you've come to Egypt. The ship is ideally suited to couples and seasoned travellers who prefer understated elegance and unrushed exploration over resort-style activity.”

— Egypt Top Tours Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947

What You Will See — Sites Visited

Luxor: Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Valley of the Kings · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon.

Nile Stops: Edfu Temple · Kom Ombo Temple · Esna Lock (northbound crossing).

Aswan: Philae Temple · High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the panoramic cabin windows opening, and can I control the light?
Yes, the large panoramic sliding windows open fully, and each cabin features individually controlled air conditioning and blackout options. You can enjoy the breeze during Nile sailing and control glare during rest periods—the design balances unobstructed views with cabin comfort.

How does the Iberotel Crown Empress compare to the Steigenberger Regency for a cultural holiday?
Both offer excellent guided temple tours, but the Crown Empress prioritizes riverside viewing and a more intimate ship atmosphere, while the Steigenberger Regency focuses on spa luxury and larger suite accommodations. Choose the Crown Empress if scenery and seclusion matter most; choose Steigenberger if you want premium wellness facilities and butler service.

Are all meals included, and what about alcoholic beverages?
Yes, all cruises include full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at no extra charge. Local and international alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the main restaurant, lounge bar, and sun deck bar; water is complimentary during shore excursions. Mini bars in cabins carry an extra charge.

Cruise Facilities

Iberotel Crown Empress Cruise Facilities

Guest Cabins

  • 117 Double Cabins
  • 3 Single Cabins
  • 8 Suites
  • Main and Upper Deck cabins with large panoramic sliding windows
  • Suites with private balconies

Cabin Features

  • Individually controlled air conditioning
  • Marine satellite TV in all cabins
  • Private bathroom with bathtub and hair dryer
  • In-cabin safety deposit box
  • Mini bar (extra charge)

Cabin Sizes

  • Double Cabins: 19 m²
  • Suites: 38 m²

Cruise Facilities

  • 24-hour reception
  • Free limited Wi-Fi
  • Laundry service (extra charge)
  • Large sun deck with swimming pool and pool bar
  • Steam bath, sauna, and massage services (extra charge)
  • Fitness equipment on deck
  • Gift shop (extra charge)
  • Beauty salon (on request, extra charge)
  • On-board doctor (extra charge)
  • Local and international phone access (extra charge)
  • Major credit cards accepted

Dining & Lounges

  • Main Restaurant
  • Lounge Bar
  • Sun Deck Bar

Technical Information

  • Electric current: 220 volts, 50 Hz

*Services marked with an asterisk are available at an additional charge.

Included

  • Meet and be assist by our representatives at the airport or railway station
  • Accommodation on board Esplanade 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:

4 Days - Aswan / Luxor Every Friday
Day 1: Arrival in Aswan – Nubian Elegance and Ancient Engineering

Upon your arrival in Aswan, our Egypt Top Tours representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your floating retreat, the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise. Check-in is before noon. Begin your journey with a delicious lunch on board.
Afterwards, dive into the charm of Aswan with visits to the High Dam, a modern marvel that controls the Nile's flow and generates power for much of Egypt. Then, sail by motorboat to the serene Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island. Conclude the day at the Unfinished Obelisk, an ambitious yet incomplete monument lying in the ancient granite quarries.
Return to the cruise for dinner and a peaceful evening aboard the Iberotel Crown Empress as you settle into your Nile adventure.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Kom Ombo & Edfu – Twin Temples of the Nile

After breakfast, the cruise sails towards Kom Ombo. Step ashore to explore the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated equally to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. This symmetrical temple reveals fascinating carvings, ancient medical tools, and the sacred stories of both deities.
Continue your journey sailing to Edfu while enjoying lunch and the tranquil Nile scenery. Upon arrival, experience a charming horse-drawn carriage ride to the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Explore its grand halls, sacred texts, and impressive reliefs of the battle between Horus and Seth.
After your visit, return to the cruise to relax and prepare for the evening’s entertainment—an Egyptian folkloric show presented by the staff.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Luxor West Bank – Valley of the Kings and Timeless Monuments

This morning, after breakfast on board, explore the wonders of Luxor’s West Bank—the land of the dead in ancient times. Begin with the Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, including the tomb of Tutankhamun. Continue to the majestic Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural masterpiece built into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari.
Finally, marvel at the towering Colossi of Memnon, the last remnants of a once-mighty temple. Return to the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise for lunch and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure as the cruise docks in Luxor.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Luxor East Bank – Temples of Divine Glory & Departure

After your final breakfast on board, check out and head out to explore Luxor’s stunning East Bank. Begin with the Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious site ever built, dedicated primarily to Amun-Re. Walk through its vast courtyards, towering columns, and sacred lakes.
Then proceed to the Luxor Temple, a beautiful structure linked to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes. This temple reflects Egypt's layered history, featuring additions from pharaohs, Romans, and early Islamic periods.
After your tour, you will be transferred to your chosen location in Luxor, marking the end of your unforgettable journey aboard the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise.

Meals: Breakfast

5 Days - Luxor / Aswan Every Monday
Day 1: Luxor Arrival – Temples of the East Bank

Begin your Nile journey in style as you board the Iberotel Crown Empress before lunch. Settle into your cabin and prepare for your afternoon exploration of Luxor's monumental East Bank.
Visit the Karnak Temple Complex, Egypt’s largest temple and a treasure trove of ancient inscriptions, obelisks, and columns. Then head to the beautifully aligned Luxor Temple, graced by statues of Ramses II and the remnants of a mosque, showcasing the temple's use through the ages.
Return to the cruise for dinner and a relaxing night onboard in Luxor.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Luxor West Bank – Royal Tombs & Eternal Temples

After breakfast, journey across the Nile to the West Bank and visit the legendary Valley of the Kings. Explore some of the most beautifully decorated tombs of Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs. Continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an awe-inspiring monument dedicated to one of Egypt’s few female rulers.
Conclude your tour at the towering Colossi of Memnon before returning to the ship for lunch. The cruise then sets sail toward Esna. Enjoy scenic sailing and cross the Esna Lock—a unique experience on the Nile.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Edfu and Kom Ombo – Guardians of the Nile

Start your day in Edfu with a horse-drawn carriage ride to the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Explore its immense pylon, sanctuaries, and intricate reliefs depicting mythological battles.
Return to the cruise for lunch and continue sailing south. In the afternoon, stop at Kom Ombo to explore its unusual double temple, dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder. Don't miss the adjacent Crocodile Museum, where mummified reptiles and ancient tools await.
Sail on toward Aswan for your final stretch on the Nile.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Aswan Exploration – Where Ancient Meets Modern

Enjoy breakfast and begin your Aswan tour with a visit to the impressive High Dam, which reshaped Egypt's modern development. Next, take a short boat ride to the enchanting Temple of Philae, a beautiful island sanctuary to the goddess Isis.
Conclude with a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk in the granite quarries—an enormous monument left incomplete that still offers insight into ancient stoneworking techniques. Return to the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise for lunch and spend your afternoon at leisure. Optional excursions to a Nubian Village or a felucca ride can be arranged.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Farewell from Aswan – Optional Abu Simbel Tour

Disembark after breakfast. You may choose an optional early morning tour to the Abu Simbel Temples, built by Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. These rock-cut masterpieces are world-renowned for their grandeur and alignment with the sun during equinoxes.
Whether you depart from the ship or join the excursion, your time aboard the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise concludes with memories of timeless beauty and Egyptian grandeur.

Meals: Breakfast

Prices:

Winter Rates (Sep- April)

Winter Rates (Sep- April)


Prices
03 Nights/ 04 Days
$ 799 Per Person In Triple Cabin
$ 849 Per Person In Double Cabin
$ 1199 Per Person In Single Cabin
04 Nights/ 05 Days
$ 949 Per Person In Triple Cabin
$ 999 Per Person In Double Cabin
$ 1349 Per Person In Single Cabin

Notes:

Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise Prices

Our tour rates are in US dollars per person per trip. You can also pay in Euro or GBP. Prices might vary during Christmas, New Year, and Easter Nile Cruise Vacations. We aim to provide the best rates and maintain their accuracy. Once you confirm Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise, our rates remain fixed and may not change.

Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise Children Policy

0 - 01.99 Free of Charge
2 - 5.99 pay 25% of tour price
6 - 11.99 pay 50% of tour price
12+ pay full tour price as per adult person
If your tour package includes airfare, extra charges for your children may be applied.

Iberotel Crown Empress Payment Policy

To secure your desired program and ensure availability, we recommend making reservations as early as possible. A deposit of 25% of the total amount is required to secure your booking, except during the Christmas and New Year holidays when a deposit of 50% is necessary. This deposit will be deducted from your final payment. The remaining balance can be settled up to one week before your arrival date or in cash upon your arrival.

Additional Entry Tickets For Iberotel Crown Empress

Please note that the Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise doesn't include entrance fees to the special archaeological sites, such as entering the interior of the Tomb of Tutankhamun at the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. Separate fees apply for these attractions.

Cancellation Policy For Iberotel Crown Empress Nile Cruise

• Cancellations made from the date of booking until 61 days before your arrival date will incur a 10% cancellation fee of the entire tour price.
• Cancellations made between 60 and 31 days before your arrival date will incur a 20% cancellation fee of the entire tour price.
• Cancellations made between 30 and 15 days before your arrival date will incur a 50% cancellation fee of the entire tour price.
• Cancellations made between 14 and 1 day before your arrival date will incur a 100% cancellation fee of the entire tour price.

Furthermore, please note that cancellation fees may also apply to domestic flights within Egypt according to the airline's specific cancellation policy.