Movenpick MS Darakum

Movenpick MS Darakum

Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise
  • Every Monday From Luxor & Friday From Aswan

Overview

The Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise offers an extraordinary luxury Nile sailing experience between Luxor and Aswan with Egypt Top Tours. Inspired by elegant Moroccan design and modern comfort, this distinguished Nile cruise combines timeless hospitality with breathtaking scenery along the River Nile.

The Movenpick MS Darakum is one of the largest and most luxurious Nile cruises in Egypt, featuring spacious cabins, panoramic suites, fine dining venues, and exceptional onboard entertainment. Guests can relax in beautifully designed accommodations equipped with Smart LED TVs, free Wi-Fi, espresso machines, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and panoramic windows overlooking the Nile.

During the journey, travelers will discover the magnificent wonders of ancient Egypt including Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and the High Dam in Aswan.

Guests onboard the Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise can also enjoy a swimming pool, sundeck, lounge bar, themed Galabeya parties, oriental shows, fitness center, cocktail receptions, and gourmet international cuisine while sailing through Upper Egypt in total comfort.

Whether you choose the 4 Days Aswan to Luxor itinerary or the 5 Days Luxor to Aswan program, the Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise with Egypt Top Tours promises an unforgettable Nile adventure filled with luxury, culture, and relaxation.

Quick Facts — Movenpick MS Darakum

Feature Detail
Defining Feature Moroccan-inspired design paired with cutting-edge modern amenities, creating a uniquely sophisticated atmosphere on the Nile.
Cabins 44 luxury cabins plus 8 elegant suites and panorama suites with panoramic windows and Smart LED TV.
Wellness Swimming pool, spacious sun deck, fitness center overlooking the Nile.
Entertainment Lounge bar with Arabian-inspired design, themed Galabeya Egyptian nights, oriental belly dance shows, cocktail receptions, daily entertainment programme.
Safety & Comfort Complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room safety box, individually controlled air conditioning, private bathrooms with bathtubs, 24-hour reception, fire alarm & sprinkler system, marine satellite system, water purification.
Departures Every Monday from Luxor & every Friday from Aswan; 4-day and 5-day itineraries available.
Price from Contact for pricing
Best For Luxury travelers seeking authentic Egyptian culture with contemporary comfort and refined onboard dining & entertainment.

Is the Movenpick MS Darakum Worth It?

Yes. The Movenpick MS Darakum delivers genuine value for travelers who prioritize design-led elegance alongside cultural immersion. Its Moroccan aesthetic sets it apart from the standard European styling of competitors, and the combination of full-board luxury accommodation with all archaeological site entrance fees included eliminates hidden costs. Couples and small family groups gain the most from the sophisticated onboard atmosphere without compromising on serious Egyptology.

Compared to MS Alexander The Great, the Darakum offers a more intimate design narrative and consistently themed interiors, though Alexander typically features a larger passenger capacity and may appeal to group travelers seeking economies of scale. Against Jaz Regent Nile Cruise, the Darakum's Moroccan design language is more distinctive, but Jaz properties often provide additional spa facilities that the Darakum does not advertise; choose Jaz Regent if wellness treatments are a priority. The Movenpick MS Sunray (sister fleet) matches the Darakum in amenity parity but operates on different schedules, so selection is purely schedule-dependent rather than capability-driven.

The Movenpick MS Darakum represents the best value for culturally curious travelers who refuse to compromise on accommodations or meals while exploring the Luxor–Aswan corridor. Its design coherence and inclusive pricing model justify selection over larger or more austere competitor vessels.

Who Is the Movenpick MS Darakum Best For?

  • Affluent couples seeking romantic river cruising without mass-market crowds.
  • Design-conscious travelers who value aesthetic consistency and Moroccan architectural heritage.
  • Small families (4–6 people) wanting private guided tours with gourmet full-board dining.
  • Luxury leisure travelers combining archaeology with spa relaxation and evening entertainment.

Who Should Not Book the Movenpick MS Darakum?

  • Budget-conscious travelers seeking basic accommodation—consider Historia Boutique Hotel Nile or DWA Nile Cruise instead.
  • Guests requiring specialized wellness facilities (hammams, advanced spa)—Jaz Regent Nile Cruise offers more comprehensive treatment menus.
  • Large group organizers needing 100+ passenger capacity—MS Alexander The Great or Mövenpick SS Misr provide superior economies of scale.

Egypt Top Tours Expert Assessment

“The Movenpick MS Darakum's defining strength is its marriage of Moroccan design language with modern hospitality infrastructure—a positioning few Nile vessels attempt. For the classic Luxor-to-Aswan itinerary, this means passengers experience refined interiors, curated dining (complete with espresso machines and pillow menus), and attentive service without the sterile formality of European-styled competitors. The inclusion of all entrance fees, private guided tours, and full-board meals in published pricing eliminates the anxiety of post-booking surprises. The ideal guest is someone with sufficient travel experience to appreciate design coherence and cultural authenticity, paired with the means to prioritize comfort over budget optimization.”

— 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.

Aswan: Philae Temple · High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Movenpick MS Darakum's Moroccan design enhance the Egyptian cultural experience?
Yes—the Moroccan aesthetic creates a North African hospitality context that complements rather than competes with ancient Egyptian sites. Guests appreciate the thematic coherence of lounge spaces and public areas, and the Arabian-inspired bar design facilitates evening social exchange with fellow travelers. The design reinforces the broader Nile Valley cultural continuum without diluting the authenticity of daytime archaeological exploration.

How does the Movenpick MS Darakum compare to sister ship Movenpick MS Sunray on the same route?
Both vessels are operated by Movenpick and feature near-identical cabin specifications, dining standards, and safety systems. The primary differences are weekly departure schedules (Darakum: Monday from Luxor, Friday from Aswan; check Sunray's schedule separately) and minor interior design variations. Selection should be based on your preferred travel dates rather than amenity or quality differentiation.

What meals and beverages are included, and are dietary requirements accommodated?
Full board includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, plus afternoon tea and welcome cocktails. The main restaurant serves themed international buffets, and the in-room espresso machine supplies complimentary capsules. Egypt Top Tours' 24-hour reception can coordinate advance notice of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-related meal modifications—contact the booking team at least 14 days prior to departure.

Cruise Facilities

Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise Facilities

  • 44 luxury cabins
  • 8 elegant suites and panorama suites
  • Individually controlled air conditioning
  • Panoramic windows and luxurious interiors
  • Smart LED TV with satellite channels
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access
  • Espresso machine with complimentary capsules
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Mini bar and in-room safety box
  • Private bathroom with bathtub, bathrobe, and slippers
  • Swimming pool and spacious sun deck
  • Main restaurant with themed international buffets
  • Lounge bar with Arabian-inspired design
  • Fitness center overlooking the Nile
  • Cocktail reception and daily entertainment
  • Galabeya parties and oriental shows
  • Personalized scent onboard
  • Pillow menu for customized comfort
  • Sustainable eco-friendly amenities
  • Water purification system
  • Fire alarm and sprinkler safety system
  • Marine satellite system
  • 24-hour reception and hospitality services

Included

  • Meet and be assist by our representatives at the airport or railway station
  • Accommodation on board Movenpick MS Darakum 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 – High Dam & Philae Temple

Upon arrival in Aswan, the representatives of Egypt Top Tours will assist you with embarkation aboard the luxurious Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise before lunch.

After enjoying lunch onboard, begin your guided sightseeing tour in Aswan by visiting the High Dam, one of Egypt’s most important modern engineering achievements. Continue to the beautiful Temple of Philae dedicated to the goddess Isis and explore the famous Unfinished Obelisk inside the ancient granite quarries.

Return to the cruise for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay in Aswan.

Included Activities:

  • Visiting the High Dam
  • Exploring Philae Temple
  • Visiting the Unfinished Obelisk

Meals Included:

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 2: Kom Ombo Temple & Edfu Temple

Enjoy breakfast onboard while sailing toward Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, visit the fascinating Temple of Kom Ombo dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder.

Continue sailing toward Edfu while enjoying lunch and beautiful Nile scenery. In the afternoon, explore the remarkable Temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in ancient Egypt.

Continue sailing toward Luxor via Esna Lock while enjoying afternoon tea, dinner onboard, and a lively Galabeya Egyptian Night.

Included Activities:

  • Visiting Kom Ombo Temple
  • Exploring Edfu Temple

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 3: Luxor West Bank Tour

After breakfast onboard, start your guided exploration of Luxor’s legendary West Bank. Discover the Valley of the Kings, home to the magnificent tombs of ancient Egyptian Pharaohs hidden within the Theban mountains.

Continue to the spectacular Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir El Bahari, one of Egypt’s most unique architectural masterpieces, followed by the impressive Colossi of Memnon.

Return to the cruise for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon onboard before dinner and an evening belly dance show.

Included Activities:

  • Visiting the Valley of the Kings
  • Exploring the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
  • Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 4: Luxor East Bank – Final Departure

Enjoy breakfast onboard before check-out from the Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise. After disembarkation, continue your journey with a guided tour to Luxor’s magnificent East Bank attractions.

Visit the enormous Karnak Temple Complex with its giant columns, sacred lakes, and ancient chapels. Then continue to Luxor Temple, beautifully located along the Nile River and connected to Karnak through the historic Avenue of Sphinxes.

After completing your sightseeing tour, Egypt Top Tours will transfer you comfortably to Luxor Airport, Luxor Railway Station, or your hotel for your onward journey.

Included Activities:

  • Exploring Karnak Temple
  • Visiting Luxor Temple

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast
5 Days - Luxor / Luxor Every Monday
Day 1: Arrival in Luxor – East Bank Tour

Upon arrival in Luxor, the team of Egypt Top Tours will assist you with embarkation aboard the luxurious Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise before lunch.

In the afternoon, explore Luxor’s East Bank attractions including the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex and Luxor Temple, two of the greatest monuments of ancient Egypt.

Return to the cruise for dinner and overnight in Luxor.

Included Activities:

  • Exploring Karnak Temple
  • Visiting Luxor Temple

Meals Included:

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 2: Luxor West Bank – Sail to Edfu

After breakfast, begin your tour of Luxor’s famous West Bank. Visit the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon.

Return to the cruise for lunch before sailing toward Edfu via Esna Lock. Enjoy afternoon tea, a welcome cocktail reception, and dinner onboard while admiring the scenic Nile views.

Included Activities:

  • Visiting the Valley of the Kings
  • Exploring the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
  • Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 3: Edfu Temple & Kom Ombo Temple

Enjoy breakfast before visiting the Temple of Edfu dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

Continue sailing toward Kom Ombo while enjoying lunch onboard. Upon arrival, explore the Temple of Kom Ombo dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder.

Continue sailing toward Aswan while enjoying afternoon tea, dinner, and a traditional Galabeya Party onboard.

Included Activities:

  • Visiting Edfu Temple
  • Exploring Kom Ombo Temple

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 4: Aswan Sightseeing Tours

After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Aswan’s most famous attractions including the High Dam, the Temple of Philae, and the Unfinished Obelisk.

Return to the cruise for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon onboard followed by dinner and a Nubian show in the evening.

Included Activities:

  • Visiting the High Dam
  • Exploring Philae Temple
  • Visiting the Unfinished Obelisk

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 5: Final Departure from Aswan

Enjoy breakfast onboard before check-out from the Movenpick MS Darakum Nile Cruise. After disembarkation, Egypt Top Tours will transfer you to Aswan Airport, Aswan Railway Station, or your hotel for your final departure.

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast

Prices:

Winter Rates (Sep- April)

Winter Rates (Sep- April)


Prices
03 Nights/ 04 Days
$ 2149 Per Person In Triple Cabin
$ 2199 Per Person In Double Cabin
$ 3049 Per Person In Single Cabin
04 Nights/ 05 Days
$ 2749 Per Person In Triple Cabin
$ 2799 Per Person In Double Cabin
$ 3879 Per Person In Single Cabin

Notes:

Movenpick MS Darakum 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 Movenpick MS Darakum Cruise, our rates remain fixed and may not change.

Movenpick MS Darakum 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.

MS Darakum Nile Cruise 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 Movenpick MS Darakum Cruise

Please note that the MS Darakum  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 Movenpick MS Darakum 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.