Caroline O’Toole from JWT Cruises shares her experience sailing one of the world’s most iconic rivers: the Nile in Egypt, onboard the luxurious AmaDhalia.
“The history, the food, the people and the stunning ship… everything was just incredible,” says Caroline, who travelled in December. “It was one of my absolute favourite trips of all time.”
Departing from Luxor, the Nile River cruise takes you through the Valley of the Kings, home to more 60 pharaonic tombs and one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites.
“We explored five incredible tombs, including Ramses, Seti and Tutankhamun. AmaWaterways has a dedicated Egyptologist accompanying you on this journey which makes it extra special as you can learn so much from their wealth of knowledge,” explains Caroline.
“We also visited spectacular temples such as the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Temple of Horus in Edfu, dedicated to the falcon-headed god of the sky and one of the best preserved in ancient Egypt.”
Those looking to visit the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Abu Simbel can book a day trip and take a short 30 minute flight from Aswan.
“The Abu Simbel temples were carved over 3,000 years ago by Ramses II for himself and Queen Nefertari. They are just incredible. The towering statues at the entrance are breathtaking and the carvings inside are simply stunning.”
About the ship
The AmaDhalia river ship was Caroline’s luxurious home for a week. Hosting just 72 guests, AmaDhalia offers a very intimate experience.
“It was lovely to get back onboard after a morning excursion and enjoy lunch on the sun deck, taking in the surrounding beauty,” adds Caroline. “This was a trip of a lifetime!”
When to travel
Caroline highly recommends December as one of the best months to travel in Egypt, but you can contact the team for more dates and availability.
Enjoy 11 nights from December 3, 2025, including four nights in Cairo and a seven-night cruise from Luxor, from €6,751pps. Prices include flights from Dublin. Excursion to Abu Simbel is optional.
To book this trip or discuss your travel ideas, visit JWT Cruises on Upper Salthill Road from Monday to Friday, or Saturday by appointment, or contact the team at cruises@jwttravel.ie, phone 091 394484. JWT Travel is licensed by the Irish Aviation Authority, TA 0804 TO 273.
