Henry and I found the Sun Star IV cruise ship on the Nile River courtesy of our friend David Hinnawi, who kindly made the call to Abercrombie & Kent on our behalf. We were so pleased with his recommendation and the fact that we were able to cruise during the exact dates we had planned to be in both Luxor and Aswan. This company, its staff and the Sun Star IV are the most luxurious of boats in “yacht-like style” on the Nile.  Built in 1996, the vessel was totally renovated in September, 2006. It is 72 meters long, 12.8 meters wide, and has a shallow draught of 1.15 meters, perfect to handle the shallow parts of the Nile River. It is rated a 5 star luxury cruise, with capacity of 80 guests, in 36 luxurious cabins. We booked a 5 day-4 night cruise between Luxor and Aswan, motoring upriver toward the southern part of the country, or Upper Egypt. The Nile River is unusual in its flow northward from Lake Victoria to the delta on the Mediterranean Sea. Because the southern part of the country is higher in elevation than the north, the water flows downhill, south to north. Upper Egypt refers to elevation, not location. Therefore, Cairo and Luxor, both north of Aswan, are called “Lower Egypt” while Aswan in the south is called “Upper Egypt”. This confusion didn’t matter, and cruise proved itself to be a marvelous blend of sightseeing, relaxation and fun. While traveling upriver, we were able to relax around gurgling fountains, under umbrellas or awnings, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature as we cruised on the River Nile.  We focused on an itinerary of beautiful sites, while also enjoying the company of  a wonderful group of  fellow travelers. Henry and I were included amongst a group of rugged individuals who were traveling without a guide. Together, thirteen, plus our Egyptologist, Ahmed, became a pack of “Pharaohs” as we visited each important site together. Practical matters such as food, accommodations and service aboard the Sun Star IV were all of the highest standard. A battery of chefs prepared exquisite cuisine which was as delicious as it was beautifully presented. Henry and I were fortunate to have one of 4 dining tables which stood beneath a Murano Glass chandelier, bringing a touch of international elegance to the impeccable  style of the Sun Star IV, and its excellent new decor. Henry and I both agree that it was one of our favorite cruising experiences thus far.

PHOTOS: Left Column: 1. The Sun Star IV. 2. The Greco-Roman Temple of Khnum near Esna, as seen from the boat. 3. Mountain backdrop and foliage of the Nile River as seen from the boat. 4. Palm trees along the banks of the Nile River, photographed from the Sun Deck. Center, Top: Sun Deck with small swimming pool and gurgling fountain. Center, Bottom:  Extra security for awhile: a guard with  a rifle in one part of the Nile, too wide for military patrol to be effective. We felt safe until  he dropped his rifle! Right Column: 1. Sunset in Luxor. 2. A village on the east bank of the Nile. 3. The fertile valley of the Nile. 4. Palm trees reflected in the still waters of the Nile.

JOURDAN ARPELLE-ZIEGLER                                           BACK TO MAP PAGE