There used to be only one way to do the Nile in true luxury. Think Death on The Nile and the SS Karnak, modeled after the classic PS Sudan. The paddle steamers of last century featured wood paneling and pokey state rooms too small for a steamer. Textured and colorful fabrics reflected a parochial view of Arabia, whilst the cozy dining rooms put you within earshot of neighboring tables. Later in the day, guests slumped in wicker chairs on deck, fanning themselves as the heat of the day waned with the sun.
Well, things have changed. Cruising the Nile hasn’t had so much a touch-up as a complete face-lift. Paddle steamers today offer pools and spas for the weary for upwards of hundreds of guests. After a day of wandering through temples on bespoke tours, dining and self-care take over on board. A few are taking a different turn. The Oberoi Zahra and Storia the Dahabeya are exemplary of a luxe approach with the Waldorf-Astoria set to launch late 2026.
But it’s Soleil that sets the standard for the contemporary approach to this bucket-list destination.
The New Jewel of The Nile
Soleil stands apart from the crowd with a quiet, unhurried and thoughtful approach to Nile cruising, not to mention a design aesthetic re-writing the river cruise rules. A warm palette reflecting the location with smooth, stone surfaces and supple timber curves. There’s a full complement of facilities you’d expect of a floating hotel twice its size, with rejuvenation front and centre.
The spa features a sauna, steam room and marble jacuzzi, making use of the changing view through floor to ceiling windows repeated in rooms and suites.
Deliciously Decadent
A balance has been struck between intimacy and respectful distance with a sweet-spot of 41 rooms and 12 suites. Whether you choose group tours or private guides on shore, back on board there’s space enough to feel secluded or friendly. After a day on shore, you’ll easily secure an appointment at the spa or a treadmill in the gym. And the dining room is generous, so you can keep it private or host a large group without imposing on fellow travelers.
Head to the upper deck and the wicker chairs make way for lounges and a tiled pool. Call it the deck of serenity, where you can lazily watch ancient history pass by under the waning Egyptian sun.
Dining takes on mid-east fusion with buffets for breakfast and lunch with a la carte or tasting menus at dinner. Fresh, local ingredients are taken on board during the journey for an inventive take on regional dishes. If you’re vegetarian, prepare yourself for an indulgence of middle eastern favorites re-imagined for a sophisticated palate. The crew can even arrange for a private dinner under the stars at a temple, or a group celebration in the private dining room.
Unforgettable Moments
The popularity of the ancient temples along the Nile can get a little crowded, even as large as they are. Soleil delivers a more intimate perspective with bespoke private tours and unforgettable on-shore experiences.
Get a bird’s eye view from a hot air balloon or ask as many questions as you like on private tours with expert guides. And for a more immersive experience, excursions to villages offer a deeper understanding of ancient Egypt’s connection to the present.
The boutique on board stocks a range of local apparel, accessories and jewelry so you can avoid haggling on shore for wearable souvenirs.
From The Past to The Present
Taking its lead from the pioneers of Nile River travel, Soleil’s approach to itineraries of three, four or seven days is to personalize the experience. Each guest is known by name and rather than reacting to requests, the service personnel anticipates them. There’s a serenity on board Soleil, as you cruise into the past, with an effortless attention to detail. Is there any better way to learn about an ancient mystery?
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FAQs
Q. What is the best time of year to cruise The Nile?
A. The Nile River is low from November to February, with many operators using this time to take a break. July and August are sweltering, so any time outside these months is perfect.
Q. Does Soleil cater for families?
A. There are no multi-room suites on Soleil and the experiences are adult-focused.
Q. What itineraries are available on Soleil?
A. Soleil runs three itineraries from Luxor to Aswan. The seven-day itinerary involves a return trip to Luxor, whilst the three- and four-day trips originate in Luxor and terminate in Aswan.
