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These river-going sailboats were common in Egypt in the days of the monarchy (1920s-40s) when aristocrats and sophisticated travelers loved to cruise the Nile in style. They rented the boats for days or weeks at a time, and made their way from temple to temple enjoying the river breeze. The boats had four to ten cabins, bathrooms and a host of servants. The dahabiyya's were popular amongst those who wished to enjoy Egypt at a leisurely pace, to drink in the landscapes, and peruse the monuments and villages on the riverbanks.

We intend to revive those elegant days, but with modern comforts and conveniences. Two dahabiyyat will be ready in November 2005, each measuring 37 m x 6 m and equipped with air-conditioning.

The dahabiyyas are beautifully crafted wooden ships, outfitted in colonial style with oriental and Egyptian touches. The interiors boast period furnishing, and each cabin has its own decorative atmosphere. Each boat has six spacious cabins measuring 4.75 m x 2.60 m; each cabin has its private bathroom of 1.25 m x 2.60 m with a wc, wash basin, shower and hairdryer. Some cabins offer two single beds and others have a double. The boats can accommodate twelve passengers, though no triple cabins are available.

The cabins are located towards the front of the boat on the starboard and port sides, separated by a central corridor. The communal lounge covers the width of the boat, and is a lovely setting for serving meals. A reception area also covers the width of the boat. The kitchen is at the stern, while the staff cabin and sitting areas are located aft (back). The engine room lies beneath the kitchen. Engines will only be used if there is not enough wind to sail but generators are available to provide electricity.

From the front of the boat, two staircases lead to the top deck which will be partly shaded. Here, guests can sunbathe or just enjoy the ride from comfortable rattan deck chairs, or in oriental seating areas of colorful cushions and carpets. Meals will also be served on the top deck, a great place for cocktails and stargazing.

The onboard chef will prepare a wholesome and appetizing Egyptian cuisine, while barbeques and picnics will be organized on the riverbanks and islands in the Nile. Your meals (starting with lunch at embarkation and ending with breakfast at disembarkation) are all inclusive, along with tea, coffee and soft drinks as well as a daily high tea. Passengers are, however, invited to bring their own alcoholic beverages - none are available onboard due to licensing restrictions - but we'll supply the ice and the mixers at no additional charge.

The program starts every Saturday, in Luxor or Aswan, and lasts seven nights. Disembarkation is on Saturdays.

The trip includes visits to Thebes and to the Luxor, Karnak and Esna temples, as well as Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. Entrance fees for the monuments are all inclusive.

In addition to these unique historical sites, guests will visit less frequented monuments and enjoy field excursions. In the evening the dahabiyyat will moor on the banks of the Nile, beside a village or in the open countryside. In short, we promise our guests an idyllic, tranquil journey on sail boats fit for a king!