nile river cruise november 2023

11-Night Splendors of Egypt & the Nile CME AWAY® River Cruise

On board uniworld river tosca, topics: dermatology emergency medicine psychiatry.

Sailing November 4th, 2023 - November 15th, 2023

Cruise the Nile in a manner once reserved for queens and pharaohs.

For 12 adventure-filled days, experience Egypt and the Nile’s most wondrous sites in style and luxury. *  Wander amongst the towering ruins of the Temple of Karnak, the world’s largest ancient religious complex, and the entrancing Temple of Luxor. Visit temples dedicated to Hathor, Horus, and other mythological figures, and pay homage to the country’s first female ruler at the Temple of Hatshepsut. Follow in the footsteps of renowned scholars and explorers as you venture forth into the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty. You will enjoy an exhilarating ride in a  felucca , a traditional Nile River sailboat.

This captivating itinerary begins and ends in Cairo, where you’ll visit the famous Egyptian Museum and its stupendous and unrivaled collection of pharaonic artifacts, including treasures recovered from the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Journey to Giza to gaze upon the mighty ancient Pyramids and the timeworn, enigmatic Sphinx—iconic images that continue to amaze.

An enchanting land of marvels, myths, and wonders old and new, Egypt is an extraordinary destination no culturally curious traveler will want to miss.

Faculty & CME Details

Dr. anne curtis.

Dermatology

About The Speaker

Dr. Anne Curtis is a busy Toronto dermatologist who combines a practice in general dermatology with one in cosmetic dermatology. She graduated from medical school at the University of Toronto in 1982 and was awarded the Cody Gold Medal for the highest standing over 4 years of medical school. She then completed a fellowship in Internal Medicine at the University of Western Ontario, where she was Chief Resident at University Hospital. Dr. Curtis then returned to the University of Toronto where she completed her dermatology training in Toronto and Hamilton. In addition to her Canadian fellowships, she has her American Board certifications in Internal Medicine and Dermatology as well.

In addition to her office practice, Dr. Curtis is the former Director of the Dermatology Laser Centre at Women’s College Hospital. She also teaches both family medicine and dermatology residents and is the President of the Eglinton Branch Society of the Ontario Medical Association. For 5 years she was an Ontario Delegate to the Canadian Medical Association. She is the current Treasurer of the Toronto Dermatological Society and organizes the meetings of a large Toronto dermatology journal club. Dr. Curtis is married to an academic psychiatrist and is the mother of 3 adult sons. She enjoys drama and sings soprano in her church choir.

Dr. Mitchell Shulman

Emergency Medicine

Dr. Mitch Shulman (or “Dr Mitch” as he’s known to those who follow him on radio, TV and in print) has always loved teaching. He’s an Associate Professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at McGill and an attending physician in the emergencies of the 2 campuses of the McGill University Health System teaching medical students and residents. He has presented at McGill’s Thursday Evening Lecture series and its Lunchtime Webinars, at the McGill Refresher Course for Family Physicians and at many other professional meetings. He’s an ACLS Master Instructor. He’s also actively engaged in educating the public. He appears daily on Bell Media Radio, weekly on Global TV’s, Montreal This Morning and is an award-winning columnist with a weekly column in the largest English language weekly in Quebec, The Suburban. He volunteers his time speaking at many charitable events.

After completing his undergraduate training at Harvard, he came back home to Montreal to attend McGill Medical School and then did a residency in Emergency Medicine (where he was Chief Resident). He was among the first Royal College certified Emergency Medicine specialists (1983) and served as an examiner for the Royal College. He was acting Director of the Emergency Department and served as its Research Director. He’s been a community doc and an occupational health physician. Currently, as well as his emergency department clinical responsibilities, he also serves as a medical scientist on an ethics review committee and works at the McGill Student Health Center. His commitment to his community runs deep. He was its Medical Director responsible for First Response and coached hockey to the Junior level. He still refs local ice hockey and plays. His philosophy on teaching has always been that we all have valuable knowledge to share and so he sincerely looks forward to hearing from you as we share the learning at this Sea Courses event.

Dr. Blake Woodside

Dr. Blake Woodside is an expert in the treatment of severe eating disorders, and their common comorbidities. Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto, he has been treating patients and engaged in the development of new treatments for eating disorders and their common comorbidities, such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorders and post traumatic stress disorder for many years. He is also a trained Marital and Family Therapist, and is a clinical member and approved supervisor of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. His research has focused on the underlying biological variables contributing to eating disorders and on the development of new treatments. He lives in Toronto with his wife Anne and his three living children.

• Introduction to Eating Disorders
• Overview of Anxiety Disorders
• Understanding Depression
• Acne and Rosacea- an approach to treatment
• Diseases of the Hair and Nails - diagnosis and treatment
• Nevi and Skin Cancer- diagnosis and treatment
• Cosmetic Dermatology - assessing and counselling patients
• Basic & Advanced Cardiac Life Support: Latest Updates: What Do They Mean For Me and My Patients?
• Concussion: It’s Not Just About Athletes
• Office Emergencies: You And Your Staff Are At Risk! Do You Know What To Do?
• ENT Emergencies: From Nose Bleeds To Orbital Cellulitis: What You Need to Know to Handle Common and Uncommon ENT Emergencies
• Emergency Procedures For Non-Emergency Docs: Tricks to Manage the Airway and Access the Circulation When your Patient is Crashing
• In-Flight Medical Emergencies: Is There A Doctor On Board?
• Managing Pain: Useful Tips from the Emergency Room That You Can Apply Elsewhere

Venue Information

Additional noteworthy features.

• Meals onboard prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners
• Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner
• Farewell Dinner
• Complimentary house wine, local beer, soft drinks, tea, and coffee will be served during lunch and dinner onboard
• 9 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking trained Egyptologists

ACCOMMODATIONS

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the elegant  River Tosca
• Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites
• 4 nights in Cairo at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza (or similar)

EXPERIENCES

• 1 country: Egypt
• 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Services of an experienced Egyptologist
• Cultural enrichment
• All transfers on arrival and departure days
• Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour

Itinerary & Schedule

Detailed itinerary, day 1 | saturday, november 4, 2023 | cairo (arrive),   day 2 | sunday, november 5, 2023 | cairo, day 3 | monday, november 6, 2023 | cairo, fly to luxor (embark) cruising the nile river, dendera, day 4 | tuesday, november 7, 2023 | dendera, cruising the nile river, luxor, day 5 | wednesday, november 8, 2023 | luxor, kom ombo, day 6 | thursday, november 9, 2023 | kom ombo, cruising the nile river, aswan,   day 7 | friday, november 10, 2023 | aswan, day 8 | saturday, november 11, 2023 | aswan, cruising the nile river, edfu, day 9 | sunday, november 12, 2023 | esna, cruising the nile river, luxor, day 10 | monday, november 13, 2023 | luxor (disembark), fly to cairo, day 11 | tuesday, november 14, 2023 | cairo, day 12 | wednesday, november 15, 2023 | depart cairo, pre-and-post trip information.

Cruise, Land, Resort must be booked through CME AWAY®.

This course is designed for family physicians, specialists, and allied health care professionals. The aim is to provide evidence-based material, as well as practical and relevant clinical pearls that will be easy to implement into one’s own medical practice. Conference attendees will be invited to complete a pre-course Needs Assessment to assist the faculty with the development of their presentations.

Dermatology Emergency Medicine Psychiatry

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Detailed Port Descriptions

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What people love about nile river cruises in november.

It was a wonderful cruise , we saw all sightseen between luxor and aswan and Stuff Nilvison ETS was helpful and all time smiley and they had a lot of knowledge about egypt and history and many information about egyptian modern live

Excellent tour. May be chaotic at times, but there is always someone taking care of you. We had a different guide at each city. We had a hot air balloon plus the experiences in all the temples. Even the guide arranged for a falucca trip for us!

The cruise was very nice and the staff friendly. Facilities were good. However, for tourists coming from countries with weak currencies it was a very expensive trip. We knew that in advance, but still decided to go on the trip. Our discomfort was with the tips that were expected by every-one. The guides, the bus drivers, the driver of horse carriage, the staff on the boat all expected tips and they were adamant to get it. They were dissatisfied if you give less than what they wanted. These extra money that has to be paid made the trip even more expensive.

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Travel Alert Advisory

• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• EGYPT EXTENSIONS
• DATES & PRICES
• CONNECTIONS

  Egypt Extensions

Enhance your bucket-list cruise and land adventure and make the most of your time in this incredible region of the world before or after your 11-night Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary.

• PRE OR POST DUBAI

ADD 3 NIGHTS DUBAI PRE-CRUISE

Explore the vibrant city of Dubai, home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and a cultural focal point in the Middle East known for luxury shopping, modern architecture and a lively nightlife.

Arrive at the Dubai international airport, where you will meet an AmaWaterways’ representative and be transferred to your hotel.

Visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest existing building in the city and a must-visit for a taste of old Dubai. Afterwards, drive through the Al Fahidi historic district, commonly referred to as Al Bastakiya. Enjoy a boat trip down the massive Dubai Water Canal, past many of the city’s luxury hotels and landmarks. Next, visit the Gold Souk, Dubai’s most famous and visited souk, offering a huge selection of jewelry made from gold, silver and diamonds before exploring the Spice Souk, where countless flavors, fragrant herbs and colorful spices will greet you at every turn. Another highlight of the day is a visit to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In the afternoon, enjoy a desert safari where you will be immersed in the beauty and customs of the desert, with activities such as dune bashing and sand boarding, along with cultural elements such as shisha pipes, henna painting, belly dancing and more, followed by a barbecue dinner. (B, D)

Start the day with a visit to Zayed Grand Mosque, the biggest in the country and well-known for its grand chandeliers. After your visit here, you will drive past Emirates Palace and the sprawling Presidential Palace in Ras Al Akhdar, stopping at each for photo opportunities as you make your way to Heritage Village. Once there, you can shop, explore regional artifacts and watch local artisans as they mold pottery, blow glass sculptures and weave fabric on a loom. Conclude your day’s adventure with a visit to Yas Marina, one of Abu Dhabi’s finest marinas, which includes dining, fitness and leisure facilities. (B)

Check out of the hotel and transfer to the Dubai International Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Dubai Pre Cruise Extension DATES & PRICES

Note: Airfare to or from Cairo not included.

ADD 4 NIGHTS JORDAN PRE-CRUISE

Discover the fascinating jewels of Jordan, including its capital, Amman, and the UNESCO-designated "Rose City" of Petra; and cap off your journey in Wadi Rum, the timeless "Valley of the Moon."

Upon arrival and after you have cleared customs and immigration, an AmaWaterways’ representative will meet you and transfer you to the 5-star St. Regis Amman, now an established landmark in Jordan’s capital city.

Once part of the Roman Empire, Jordan is home to a legacy of Roman architectural treasures. Just outside the city is the extremely well-preserved ancient city of Jerash, dating back 6,500 years and considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East. After exploring this historic site, enjoy lunch at the award-winning Lebanese House Restaurant, which offers a unique atmosphere. In the afternoon, tour Amman’s Old City neighborhood with its rolling hills, historic sites, and colorful markets. Afterwards, browse a sweet shop and sample kanfeh, an ultra-creamy Middle East dessert. (B, L)

Venture west to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era. Afterwards, visit the Dead Sea, one of the world’s most intriguing natural wonders. Situated at approximately 1,500 feet (460 meters) below sea level, the Dead Sea is one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, and its healing waters have been sought after for more than 2,500 years. After lunch at a seaside resort, enjoy some time to relax and go for an easy swim—or float, due to the natural buoyancy because of the high salt content of the sea. Afterward, head south, arriving in Petra in the early evening. (B, L)

After breakfast, enjoy the ancient city of Petra, the “Rose City.” Visit the Siq, a narrow passageway nearly three-quarters of a mile long carved into sheer rock walls. While the Treasury is the most well-known ruin in Petra, it’s not the only one. You will also see the 4,000 spectator Theater, the Courts, Qasr Bint Pharaoun, Temple of the Winged Lion and other monuments. After lunch at a local guest house, head to Wadi Rum with its red-pink, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings. Often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon,” it is a romantic and timeless place. Enjoy a Jeep tour and traverse the unique desert landscape, featuring dramatic sandstone and basalt mountains, making it one of the most beautiful deserts. Return to Petra and experience an authentic dinner at a Bedouin tent. Discover the fascinating culture of these nomadic people who have lived in the desert for thousands of years. (B, L, D)

Drive north to Mount Nebo, one of the most revered sites in Jordan where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. After a local lunch nearby, return to Amman and Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Jordan Pre Cruise Extension DATES & PRICES

Note: Airfare between Amman, Jordan and Cairo, Egypt is not included

ADD 4 NIGHTS ISRAEL POST-CRUISE

From the Dead Sea to mesmerizing sacred wonders, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall, there’s no shortage of ways to uncover Israel’s enthralling past and captivating present. For the latest updates regarding travel to Israel at this time, please view our Travel Advisory page.

Fly from Cairo to Tel Aviv, Israel in the afternoon. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by an AmaWaterways representative, and transferred to Jerusalem, where you will check into your hotel. (B)

Tour the Jewish quarter and visit the Byzantine Cardo. Not far from here, lies the Western Wall, which surrounds the Temple Mount, the holiest site for Jews. After lunch, visit the Israel Museum that houses the Dead Sea Scrolls. Then follow Via Dolorosa, the path where Jesus walked to his crucifixion, arriving at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus was said to have been crucified. (B, L)

Drive through the Judean Desert to Masada. Enjoy a cable car ride to the top, where you will explore the ancient ruins of Herod’s 2,055-year-old palace fortress. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Dead Sea where you can enjoy swimming and lunch. On your return to Jerusalem, visit Qumran, a historic archeological site where the legendary Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient Jewish texts, were found. (B, L)

Take a short motorcoach ride to the West Bank to visit Bethlehem, King David’s hometown, and Jesus’ birthplace. Tour Manger Square and the UNESCO-designated Church of the Nativity, built above the cave where Jesus was born. Continue underground to the Gihon Spring, the major water source of Jerusalem for over 1,000 years and crucial to the city’s survival. From Jerusalem, venture to Tel Aviv to tour one of the most vibrant cities in the world offering sandy Mediterranean beaches with a world-class nightlife, a buzzing cultural scene and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, embark on a colorful culinary journey to Carmel Market, also called the shuk, the largest, most beautiful and happening market in Israel. Continue the day with a visit to Old Jaffa, an 8000-year-old port city, which showcases Tel Aviv’s urban tapestry. (B, L)

Bid farewell to Jerusalem and prepare for your flight home. (B)

Israel Post Cruise Extension DATES & PRICES

Note: Airfare between Cairo, Egypt and Tel Aviv, Israel is not included

ADD 3 NIGHTS DUBAI PRE-CRUISE AND 4 NIGHTS ISRAEL POST-CRUISE

Explore the vibrant city of Dubai, home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and a cultural focal point in the Middle East. Finish your journey in Israel, home to some of the oldest and holiest sites in the world, and explore such wonders as Old Jaffa, the Walled City, and the Dead Sea. For the latest updates regarding travel to Israel at this time, please view our Travel Advisory page.

POST ISRAEL

Dubai Pre - Israel Post Cruise Extension DATES & PRICES

ADD 4 NIGHTS JORDAN PRE-CRUISE AND 4 NIGHTS ISRAEL POST-CRUISE

Discover the fascinating jewels of Jordan, including its capital, Amman, the "Rose City" of Petra, and the blush pink sands of Wadi Rum. Finish your journey in Israel, home to some of the oldest and holiest sites in the world, and explore such wonders as Old Jaffa, the Walled City, and the Dead Sea. For the latest updates regarding travel to Israel at this time, please view our Travel Advisory page.

Jordan Pre - Israel Post Cruise Extension DATES & PRICES

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Nile River Cruises 2023, 2024 | Nile River Cruise Packages, Itineraries, Deals

Choosing to experience 2023 and 2024 Nile River Cruises is choosing to see Egypt as the Pharoahs did in ancient times. It's choosing to take advantage of an opportunity to experience the best of Egypt through the country's life line, which is the mighty Nile River.

Highlights on The Nile

Highlights on The Nile are spectacular beginning with the Pyramids, Sphinx, Luxor's Karnak Temple, The Necropolis of Thebes, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Hatshepsut, Temple of Hathor... Drifting along the Nile aboard an all-suite, stylishly adorned, state of the art and elegant vessels that are specifically built for the Nile river.

On Nile river cruise 2023 and 2024 packages, everything is organized and handled with the utmost care... Navigating yourself through Egypt more specifically along the Nile river, although can be done, a little ease in knowing all the guidance not to mention all the organizational factors is handled and included throughout your visit can create a space for a plethora of new, unexpected & delightful experiences...

2023 and 2024 Nile River Cruises Include...

2023 and 2024 Nile River cruises include representation beginning with someone at Cairo International Airport waiting to greet you upon arrival; round trip transfer service between airport and hotel; two nights accommodations in Cairo; round trip flights between Cairo and Luxor; luxury seven day cruise along the Nile from Luxor to Luxor with stops in Kom Ombo Edfu & Aswan, and a ride in a Felucca. Nile river cruise 2023 packages also include excursions to Temple of Esna, Pyramids of Giza, Colossi of Memnon, Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo Temple, Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple...

Taste of Egypt (WUAY2021)

CODE: WUAY-2021 OPERATOR: Avalon Waterways Popularity: 9 -->

CODE: ABD-Egypt OPERATOR: Adventures by Disney Popularity: 9 -->

Taste of Egypt (WUAY2022)

CODE: WUAY-2022 OPERATOR: Avalon Waterways Popularity: 8 -->

Taste of Egypt with Jordan (WUAE2021)

CODE: WUAE-2021 OPERATOR: Avalon Waterways Popularity: 9 -->

Taste of Egypt with Jordan (WUAE2022)

CODE: WUAE-2022 OPERATOR: Avalon Waterways Popularity: 8 -->

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Nile River Cruise - Egypt Nile Cruise 2024/2025

Are you looking for a Nile River Cruise Holidays? You are in the right place as Luxor and Aswan Travel provide best Nile Cruises options in Egypt.

Choose your dream cruise through a variety of Nile cruises in the land of the Pharaohs, sailing through southern Egypt and discover the most incredible and majestic temples between the cities of Luxor and Aswan.

The Nile Cruise  from Luxor to Aswan takes 5 days and vice versa Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor 4 days. You also have the option to go on a round Nile Cruise  from Luxor to Luxor or from Aswan to Aswan.

During the tour days on board your Nile River Cruise , you will visit the East Bank in Luxor which includes the Temple of Karnak and Luxor Temple . Enjoy dinner on board and feast your eyes on a Belly Dance Show.

Another day features a visit to the West Bank to see the Valley of the Kings , Valley of the Queens , and Hatshepsut Temple , then dressing in casual attire for the Captain’s welcome party and chat the night away as you sail to Edfu .

A day tour to Edfu and Kom Ombo will let you explore the Temple of Kom Ombo and Temple of Horus in Edfu then sail to Aswan to visit the Aswan High Dam , Unfinished Obelisk and the Temple of Philae Nile River Cruise  Prices starting from $417.

Choose your best Nile River Cruise now!

Luxor and Aswan Nile Cruises

Dahabiya Nile Cruise

Take the classic way to see the Nile. Enjoy a tranquil sailing and explore unique temples & tombs not on your average Nile River cruise route onboard a Dahabiya, most exclusive and luxurious way to experience the river.

Lake Nasser Cruise

Discover the best of Egypt and leave the stress and worries you have behind by sailing and experiencing a relaxing journey south on Lake Nasser to see the monuments and ruins of Ancient Nubia and Abu Simbel.

Why travel with Luxor and Aswan Travel?

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Your entire vacation is designed around your requirements

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All our specialists have traveled extensively or lived in their specialist regions, We're with you every step of the way

The same specialist will handle your trip from start to finish

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Pharaohs & Pyramids

• From $5,999
• 11 Guided Tours
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026

Pharaohs & Pyramids Map

Discover Egypt, ancient & modern

Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt amid the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Explore the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars. Visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Skim the waters of the Nile by traditional felucca . Enjoy the fragrances of Aswan’s spice market. Join our expert Egyptologists on a 12-day cruisetour through Egypt on board our modern Nile ships, owned and operated by Viking.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Jerusalem

From $2,399 | 4 Nights

Pre: British Collections of Ancient Egypt

From $3,699 | 4 Nights

Pre: Istanbul

From $1,399 | 3 Nights

Post: Jordan—Petra, Dead Sea & Amman

From $2,199 | 4 Nights

Post: Alexandria

From $799 | 2 Nights

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Upcoming Nile River Cruise November, 2023

By ShaZoGus , October 20, 2023 in River Cruising

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Booked on a Uniworld Nile River cruise with a pre-cruise extension in Jordan. Uniworld cancelled Israel post-cruise 2 days ago due to the war. Feeling very anxious and stressed about going to that part of the world but we’re at the mercy of Uniworld should they decide to make any further cancellations. As we do not have cancel-for-any-reason insurance, we stand to lose a lot of money. Air Canada is allowing us to rebook our flights ( Toronto-Amman and TelAviv-Toronto) at no fee or to receive a refund. If a major airline is offering a full refund on business class tickets, they seem to be taking the situation more seriously than the cruise line.

Anybody else out there in a similar situation?

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We are going with AMA on a Nile River cruise in mid- November. We're doing the pre cruise extension in Jordan, going to Amman and Petra for 4 nights before going to Cairo for 3 nights, then the cruise and then another night in Cairo. They also cancelled pre and post cruise Israel. We're concerned also but all the other pre/post extensions are still a go as is the cruise...at least so far .We have about 3.5 weeks before we leave and anything could happen in that time. If the cruise is still happening, we'll go but it sure won't be a worry free vacation. Good to know that AC is offering a full refund as we're using them as well going to Toronto-Amman also in business class and returning from Cairo.

I'm sure that if the cruise is cancelled that AMA will give us a future cruise credit.

Thanks for your response. Our trips sound quite similar, although with different cruise companies.  We are scheduled to fly to Jordan on November 5th, just over 2 weeks from now. I very much agree with you that this won’t be a worry-free trip if it happens, which defeats the purpose of a vacation.

Hopefully the river cruise companies will do the right thing and cancel, as I’m pretty sure that we aren’t the only passengers with these concerns!

Did you not purchase the Uniworld insurance? If you did, you can cancel for a full future cruise credit.  https://www.uniworld.com/us/already-booked/travel-protection  

Don't want to assume, but you are aware of the Egypt Visa issues for Canadians right? 

Oh yeah…getting the Egypt Visas was very stressful, but we did manage to get our e-visas just before the cutoff date of October 1st.

Unfortunately, we did not purchase Uniworld insurance…there were some pre-existing health conditions at the time of booking which have since been resolved.

23 minutes ago, ShaZoGus said: Unfortunately, we did not purchase Uniworld insurance…there were some pre-existing health conditions at the time of booking which have since been resolved.

That is unfortunate. A friend of mine who was supposed to join me on my last cruise had to cancel due to a pre-existing condition, and she got a full refund from the insurance since she purchased it when she booked her trip.

That’s good to know for future reference. Thank you.

21 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Oh yeah…getting the Egypt Visas was very stressful, but we did manage to get our e-visas just before the cutoff date of October 1st.

I was under the impression that evisas obtained before October 1st for travel after October 1st were going to be rendered invalid?

Did this change?

19 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Yes, it did change and we found out the hard way.  We used CIBT, a third party visa company, completed all the forms and sent them by FedEx along with our passports in order for the Egyptian embassy in Ottawa to process old-school paper visas on September 14. CIBT received our package on September 15 and immediately called to say that things had changed yet again and we were no longer eligible for the paper visas and that we could now apply for an e-visa which needed to be approved and issued by October 1st and would be valid for 3 months.  Completed the online forms on September 15th and finally received the e-visas on September 29th after being told that the process would take only 5 business days.         

Wow... what a kerfuffle this whole thing is with Egypt Visas.

I just hope that all goes smoothly for you and that you have a wonderful trip! 

Egypt is a beautifully striking country and it will go down as one of our favourite and best trips ever.  Our of 40 some odd countries, it is in the top three.

Just one word of advice from a traveller that got a dreaded Egypt stomach bug on the last day and missed the pyramids, be very cautious of what you are eating and drinking off of a ship or outside of a hotel.  Note also that typical North American remedies like Imodium do NOT work for these stomach bugs. 

Thank you for your advice…we have some activated charcoal tablets in the event of “Pharaoh’s Revenge” and plan to be careful with food in Egypt (if we go!). Still hoping that Uniworld cancels!

17 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Thank you for your advice…we have some activated charcoal tablets in the event of “Pharaoh’s Revenge” and plan to be careful with food in Egypt (if we go!). Still hoping that Uniworld cancels!

If you go, even the charcoal will not help.  You will need antibiotics.  Uniworld have doctors that will come to the ship, and for me we were at the Four Seasons at the end of our trip and the hotel has doctors that they call and the doctors come to you.

I had Imodium, charcoal, and probiotics - nothing helped until the doctor visit and the meds he prescribed.

Oh my…you really got it bad!  Any idea what caused it?  I heard that it’s wise to avoid salads as well as any raw fruit and veggies that have been peeled and to always use bottled water.

23 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Oh my…you really got it bad!  Any idea what caused it?  I heard that it’s wise to avoid salads as well as any raw fruit and veggies that have been peeled and to always use bottled water.

We were told by the Uniworld agents that met us at the airport, on the bus ride to the hotel for the first night, not to eat or drink outside the hotel or the ship.  We did not.  We followed their instructions.

Our travel companion got it bad on the second last day on the ship, and she had to have a doctor come to the ship.

I got "hit" at 4am on the final day in the hotel and the day of the pyramids.  We had our farewell dinner the night before in the hotel, and to my knowledge, I was the only person on my ship of 70 odd that was not in attendance for the Pyramids - so who knows where it came from.

By 1pm that day when I had unsuccessfully tried Imodium and Charcoal, my husband was keeping our Guide informed and he called the hotel and asked them to arrange a doctor.  Doctor and nurse arrived an hour later with IV fluids and anti-spasmodic meds in the IV and then three prescription drugs.  Two anti-biotics and one anti-spasmodic.  The doctor and nurse stayed in the room with me until the IV was completed - about an hour - and then left.  The nurse checked back about 10pm that night - in person - and I was on the road to recovery.

We left the next day and with 17 hours of flying ahead of us, I was a bit skeptical, but the doctor said that the drugs would make me flight ready... and I did make it home without incident.

I showed the doctor the Imodium and he just laughed and said Western meds won't help with this.

He felt that it could have been dairy related, but I don't eat a lot of dairy, and the only dairy the day before was the farewell dinner cheesecake at the hotel and everyone had it.

It will likely always be a mystery as to what caused it.  Same with our travel companion that got it on the ship.  No way to know what caused it as she was the only one sick on the ship.

Interesting fact however, I asked the doctor how often he gets called to the ship or hotel, and he indicated that this was his medical practice - only tourists on the ships in port or in the hotels. This is his business.

We were lucky when we went, but my daughter ended up with "Mummy Tummy" when she went.  Luckily, she recovered quickly and only missed one day of touring. 

It is stories like the one above that scare me enough that I will *not* travel without good travel insurance. Plan for the worst, hope for the best...  Travelling can be a huge expense - I want to make sure that I won't spend the money for the next trip on medical coverage for the bring I am currently on!

6 hours ago, franski said: We were lucky when we went, but my daughter ended up with "Mummy Tummy" when she went.  Luckily, she recovered quickly and only missed one day of touring.    It is stories like the one above that scare me enough that I will *not* travel without good travel insurance. Plan for the worst, hope for the best...  Travelling can be a huge expense - I want to make sure that I won't spend the money for the next trip on medical coverage for the bring I am currently on!   Fran

Our friends that had the doctor come to the ship paid $100 USD for that.

I paid $200 USD in the hotel, but the extra was for the IV and time to sit while the IV was administered.   We have good health insurance - great health insurance - but, we are required to call them before anything is done, unless we are incapacitated, and we chose not to.  Why?  Because they would have sent us to a clinic or a hospital where we would have sat and waited and probably experienced few if anyone that spoke English.  We knew the cost and decided to pay it rather than use the medical coverage that we had.

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Upcoming Nile River Cruise November, 2023

By ShaZoGus , October 20, 2023 in River Cruising

Recommended Posts

Booked on a Uniworld Nile River cruise with a pre-cruise extension in Jordan. Uniworld cancelled Israel post-cruise 2 days ago due to the war. Feeling very anxious and stressed about going to that part of the world but we’re at the mercy of Uniworld should they decide to make any further cancellations. As we do not have cancel-for-any-reason insurance, we stand to lose a lot of money. Air Canada is allowing us to rebook our flights ( Toronto-Amman and TelAviv-Toronto) at no fee or to receive a refund. If a major airline is offering a full refund on business class tickets, they seem to be taking the situation more seriously than the cruise line.

Anybody else out there in a similar situation?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

We are going with AMA on a Nile River cruise in mid- November. We're doing the pre cruise extension in Jordan, going to Amman and Petra for 4 nights before going to Cairo for 3 nights, then the cruise and then another night in Cairo. They also cancelled pre and post cruise Israel. We're concerned also but all the other pre/post extensions are still a go as is the cruise...at least so far .We have about 3.5 weeks before we leave and anything could happen in that time. If the cruise is still happening, we'll go but it sure won't be a worry free vacation. Good to know that AC is offering a full refund as we're using them as well going to Toronto-Amman also in business class and returning from Cairo.

I'm sure that if the cruise is cancelled that AMA will give us a future cruise credit.

Thanks for your response. Our trips sound quite similar, although with different cruise companies.  We are scheduled to fly to Jordan on November 5th, just over 2 weeks from now. I very much agree with you that this won’t be a worry-free trip if it happens, which defeats the purpose of a vacation.

Hopefully the river cruise companies will do the right thing and cancel, as I’m pretty sure that we aren’t the only passengers with these concerns!

Did you not purchase the Uniworld insurance? If you did, you can cancel for a full future cruise credit.  https://www.uniworld.com/us/already-booked/travel-protection  

Don't want to assume, but you are aware of the Egypt Visa issues for Canadians right? 

Oh yeah…getting the Egypt Visas was very stressful, but we did manage to get our e-visas just before the cutoff date of October 1st.

Unfortunately, we did not purchase Uniworld insurance…there were some pre-existing health conditions at the time of booking which have since been resolved.

23 minutes ago, ShaZoGus said: Unfortunately, we did not purchase Uniworld insurance…there were some pre-existing health conditions at the time of booking which have since been resolved.

That is unfortunate. A friend of mine who was supposed to join me on my last cruise had to cancel due to a pre-existing condition, and she got a full refund from the insurance since she purchased it when she booked her trip.

That’s good to know for future reference. Thank you.

21 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Oh yeah…getting the Egypt Visas was very stressful, but we did manage to get our e-visas just before the cutoff date of October 1st.

I was under the impression that evisas obtained before October 1st for travel after October 1st were going to be rendered invalid?

Did this change?

19 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Yes, it did change and we found out the hard way.  We used CIBT, a third party visa company, completed all the forms and sent them by FedEx along with our passports in order for the Egyptian embassy in Ottawa to process old-school paper visas on September 14. CIBT received our package on September 15 and immediately called to say that things had changed yet again and we were no longer eligible for the paper visas and that we could now apply for an e-visa which needed to be approved and issued by October 1st and would be valid for 3 months.  Completed the online forms on September 15th and finally received the e-visas on September 29th after being told that the process would take only 5 business days.         

Wow... what a kerfuffle this whole thing is with Egypt Visas.

I just hope that all goes smoothly for you and that you have a wonderful trip! 

Egypt is a beautifully striking country and it will go down as one of our favourite and best trips ever.  Our of 40 some odd countries, it is in the top three.

Just one word of advice from a traveller that got a dreaded Egypt stomach bug on the last day and missed the pyramids, be very cautious of what you are eating and drinking off of a ship or outside of a hotel.  Note also that typical North American remedies like Imodium do NOT work for these stomach bugs. 

Thank you for your advice…we have some activated charcoal tablets in the event of “Pharaoh’s Revenge” and plan to be careful with food in Egypt (if we go!). Still hoping that Uniworld cancels!

17 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Thank you for your advice…we have some activated charcoal tablets in the event of “Pharaoh’s Revenge” and plan to be careful with food in Egypt (if we go!). Still hoping that Uniworld cancels!

If you go, even the charcoal will not help.  You will need antibiotics.  Uniworld have doctors that will come to the ship, and for me we were at the Four Seasons at the end of our trip and the hotel has doctors that they call and the doctors come to you.

I had Imodium, charcoal, and probiotics - nothing helped until the doctor visit and the meds he prescribed.

Oh my…you really got it bad!  Any idea what caused it?  I heard that it’s wise to avoid salads as well as any raw fruit and veggies that have been peeled and to always use bottled water.

23 hours ago, ShaZoGus said: Oh my…you really got it bad!  Any idea what caused it?  I heard that it’s wise to avoid salads as well as any raw fruit and veggies that have been peeled and to always use bottled water.

We were told by the Uniworld agents that met us at the airport, on the bus ride to the hotel for the first night, not to eat or drink outside the hotel or the ship.  We did not.  We followed their instructions.

Our travel companion got it bad on the second last day on the ship, and she had to have a doctor come to the ship.

I got "hit" at 4am on the final day in the hotel and the day of the pyramids.  We had our farewell dinner the night before in the hotel, and to my knowledge, I was the only person on my ship of 70 odd that was not in attendance for the Pyramids - so who knows where it came from.

By 1pm that day when I had unsuccessfully tried Imodium and Charcoal, my husband was keeping our Guide informed and he called the hotel and asked them to arrange a doctor.  Doctor and nurse arrived an hour later with IV fluids and anti-spasmodic meds in the IV and then three prescription drugs.  Two anti-biotics and one anti-spasmodic.  The doctor and nurse stayed in the room with me until the IV was completed - about an hour - and then left.  The nurse checked back about 10pm that night - in person - and I was on the road to recovery.

We left the next day and with 17 hours of flying ahead of us, I was a bit skeptical, but the doctor said that the drugs would make me flight ready... and I did make it home without incident.

I showed the doctor the Imodium and he just laughed and said Western meds won't help with this.

He felt that it could have been dairy related, but I don't eat a lot of dairy, and the only dairy the day before was the farewell dinner cheesecake at the hotel and everyone had it.

It will likely always be a mystery as to what caused it.  Same with our travel companion that got it on the ship.  No way to know what caused it as she was the only one sick on the ship.

Interesting fact however, I asked the doctor how often he gets called to the ship or hotel, and he indicated that this was his medical practice - only tourists on the ships in port or in the hotels. This is his business.

We were lucky when we went, but my daughter ended up with "Mummy Tummy" when she went.  Luckily, she recovered quickly and only missed one day of touring. 

It is stories like the one above that scare me enough that I will *not* travel without good travel insurance. Plan for the worst, hope for the best...  Travelling can be a huge expense - I want to make sure that I won't spend the money for the next trip on medical coverage for the bring I am currently on!

6 hours ago, franski said: We were lucky when we went, but my daughter ended up with "Mummy Tummy" when she went.  Luckily, she recovered quickly and only missed one day of touring.    It is stories like the one above that scare me enough that I will *not* travel without good travel insurance. Plan for the worst, hope for the best...  Travelling can be a huge expense - I want to make sure that I won't spend the money for the next trip on medical coverage for the bring I am currently on!   Fran

Our friends that had the doctor come to the ship paid $100 USD for that.

I paid $200 USD in the hotel, but the extra was for the IV and time to sit while the IV was administered.   We have good health insurance - great health insurance - but, we are required to call them before anything is done, unless we are incapacitated, and we chose not to.  Why?  Because they would have sent us to a clinic or a hospital where we would have sat and waited and probably experienced few if anyone that spoke English.  We knew the cost and decided to pay it rather than use the medical coverage that we had.

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Everything You Need To Know Before Embarking On A Nile River Cruise

A Nile cruise is on nearly every international traveler’s wish list. The wonders of ancient Egypt go way beyond the pyramids and the sphinx, with countless treasures lying further south, a stretch away from Cairo, lying either within reach of Luxor or Aswan, which is why most people opt for a cruise between the two cities, stopping off at the most important sites along the way.

Having visited Cairo before, a Nile cruise had been on my wish list for years until I finally found the right ship, which I knew I would enjoy, together with the right duration of cruise and itinerary to suit me. It took a lot of research and some luck to chance upon the cruise that was right for me: very small, few people, historic connections, a touch of the glamor of 1920s- and 1930s-style travel, and plenty of class. I found my ideal cruise on the SS Sudan , the last true paddle steamer on the Nile, the one Agatha Christie sailed on and where she wrote Death on the Nile — and where the subsequent movies were filmed. Small enough to allow for privacy, large enough for comfort, with a five-night, six-day itinerary between Luxor and Aswan.

But what is perfect for me isn’t necessarily perfect for everybody else. Some might want a pool, a shop, more people to socialize with, or maybe more modern cabins, and probably going from Aswan to Luxor, or even cruising the whole way from Cairo to Aswan. Timing is crucial as well, as is deciding what to do at either end. There are many things to consider before embarking on a Nile cruise, so, here I have listed a few points to mull over and research before you book yourself that trip of a lifetime.

Up Or Down River?

Let’s start with some nomenclature you will need to go along the right route: Cruising up the Nile means you are going south, toward the source of the Nile, which, by the way, I recently discovered in Uganda. Cruising down the Nile is sailing toward the estuary in the Mediterranean. But, just to confuse things, Upper Egypt is in fact southern Egypt, while Lower Egypt is in the north, by the coast.

Most Nile Cruises, except for the ones setting off from Cairo and cruising all the way up the Nile, actually sail only in Upper Egypt, between Luxor and Aswan.

I am unsure about what the statistics are when it comes to preferences, but all the cruise ships in Upper Egypt either cruise from Luxor to Aswan or from Aswan to Luxor. Both Luxor and Aswan have airports you can fly into from Cairo, the main international airport in Egypt, so the choice really is yours. That said, personally, I felt that going from Luxor to Aswan was my preferred option simply because — in my mind — Aswan is so much prettier than Luxor. And from Aswan, you can travel to the temples in Abu Simbel, leaving you with the best bit at the end of your journey. But many people would argue the opposite and there really is no right or wrong.

Hotels At Either End

While many travelers, mostly those who are time poor, head straight from the airport to the cruise ship and, once docked after the cruise, fly straight back out again, I would like to plead for a night or two at either end. Not only does it give you the option of overcoming any jet lag or travel fatigue, but also there are some lovely historic hotels that are worth spending a night in. In Luxor, the famous Winter Palace is a historic hotel, a little frayed around the edges, but with a fabulous garden and a pedigree of former guests that is hard to beat. The only place that can beat the guest list of the Winter Palace is the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan where Agatha Christie stayed at the end of her cruise, and you can take a tour through numerous suites named after illustrious guests who stayed there over the last century. And the hotel offers rooms with some of my favorite views in the world .

What Kind Of Boat

There are essentially four types of boats on the Nile that can take you from A to B. There are modern cruise ships, relatively small when compared to ocean-going cruise ships with around 50 cabins, but many with swimming pools, cabins with balconies, and shops and restaurants on board. There is the SS Sudan , alone in its class, without amenities such as pools or shops, but with only five suites and 18 cabins, plus a superb sundeck, a bar, and a restaurant. Then there are the dahabiyas, beautiful boats with a sail at either end — and even more private with many only catering to around 12 passengers. The dahabiyas come without engines, but often have a tugboat for added speed, and offer the most tranquil and secluded cruises. Lastly, there are the feluccas, small sailboats, where in some cases you can spend one night on board, but generally, these lovely and traditional sailboats are only used for day trips.

Where Are The Stops?

Between the most popular cruise harbors of Luxor and Aswan lie the most amazing sights, most of which are taken in by all the various cruises, because, after all, that is why everybody is there. The main stops are Qena, a little downriver from Luxor, with the Dendera and Abydos temples; Luxor , with the various valleys of tombs; Edfu with the fabulous Kom Ombo temple; and lastly Aswan, with a visit to Philae. On a five-night cruise upriver (so going south), you will stay overnight in Qena, Luxor, Edfu, and two nights in Aswan.

Length Of Cruise

Most cruises between Luxor and Aswan take between three and seven days, the shorter ones skipping Qena and only staying one night in Aswan, the longer ones adding extra nights, usually in Luxor.

If you are lucky enough to have the time to sail from Cairo to Aswan , the itinerary takes a minimum of 11 nights, but more often than not 14 nights, with sightseeing in Cairo included, usually reaching Luxor on Day 11. Despite the current of the Nile, which is evident but quite slow, the cruises up or down the river take the same amount of time.

When Best To Travel

The best time to visit Upper (southern) Egypt is between October and April. That said, I went at the end of October, and the temperatures were still in the 90s Fahrenheit, making sightseeing a bit of an exhausting undertaking. In the summer, these temperatures are much, much worse, so travel then is best avoided. In December and January, the coldest months, the temperatures hover around the mid-70s Fahrenheit. As for rain, the rainy season is between October and April, with a negligible spike at less than an inch of rain in October.

What You Must Pack

Even if yours is a fancy cruise, pack light, pack layers, and pack sensible shoes. It will be hot and sandy whenever you go exploring. In the Valley of the Kings, for example, there is much sand, no shade, and plenty of stairs and steps to conquer, so light clothing but good shoes that keep you firmly on the ground are useful. Bring a light cover for the evening and something nice for the boat. A clothes brush to get the sand and dust off you at the end of the outing and a handheld fan to bring you some air when it gets warm are essential. And, if you like a tipple or two, know that in Egypt imported wine and champagne are extortionately expensive, so, get your full allowance in the duty-free shop and enjoy along the way.

What To Do Before (Or After)

Chances are that you will fly into Cairo, and unless you are embarking in Cairo, some sightseeing is a must. Allow at least two extra days to see the main sights before heading south. And once you are in the south, note that all cruise ships stop at Aswan because of the dams. If you want to see Abu Simbel, you can either fly from Aswan to Abu Simbel or take a tour either by bus or private car , but you will need to book the car in advance. This is because the tourist road caravan sets off first thing in the morning and is escorted by police all the way between Aswan and Abu Simbel because of potential bandits, and all travelers need to be registered and accounted for by the day before at the latest.

What To Read And Watch About The Nile

To get you in the mood and keep you going while you’re there, here are some books and films set in exactly the places you will be visiting, so you can go, “Oh, I know that place!” as you read or watch.

• Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie
• The films Death on the Nile from 1978 with Peter Ustinov , 2004 with David Suchet , and 2022 with Kenneth Branagh
• Some very light but fun mysteries by Elizabeth Peters , with lots of places to be recognized
• The superb old travel book by Amelia B. Edwards A Thousand Miles up the Nile , first published in 1877

One fantastic historical TV series presented by Bettany Hughes is entitled The Nile and is full of information, making for perfect viewing before and after your trip.

Pro Tip: In many places, you will either have to pay for a photography permit, or, at times, won’t be able to take photographs. But don’t let that stop you from carrying your camera everywhere with you!

Related Reading:

• How This River Cruise Allowed Me To Get To Know My Mom Again
• 7 Best River Cruise Lines Around The World
• American Cruise Lines Unveils Its Longest U.S. River Cruise — The Four Rivers You’ll Explore In 60 Days

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits