The Nile & Beyond

For the first British travellers to cruise the Nile the climax was the approach across water to the rock temples of Abu Simbel, Egypt’s most southerly landmark. In those leisurely times a Nile cruise commenced at Cairo, allowing time for ‘relaxation, reading and the art of conversation’ before reaching the important sites. Since then the Aswan dams have created Lake Nasser, preventing the movement of the Nile vessels south of Aswan, so this itinerary combines our Nile and Lake Nasser cruises.

As the Nile flows through Lake Nasser, the desert imposes itself on the terrain as vegetation and habitation dwindle leaving a stark landscape where monuments of antiquity stand in splendid isolation. Whilst tales of their rescue prior to the completion of the High Dam in the 1960s scarcely need re-telling, the chronicle of the rescue of each individual temple adds a fascinating dimension. The modern face of tourism is left behind as access to these remote sites is by small tender or on foot. At Abu Simbel, Ramses II constructed two majestic temples fronted by colossal statues of himself. To appreciate the full majesty of this most evocative of ancient Egyptian sights, we recommend this longer stay rather than the usual brief visit. At first light the temple exterior takes on a reddish hue with everchanging colours throughout the day and modern technology later reveals the evening Sound & Light performance to dramatic effect.

For many, the image of a Nile cruise was set by the classic 1978 film of Agatha Christie’s atmospheric and evocative mystery ‘Death on the Nile’. With an all-star cast, it recreated a leisurely turn-of-the-century sailing on a Nile paddle steamer, such as the SS Karim. Previously retained for private use by the Kings and Presidents of Egypt, it is reserved exclusively for the guests of Voyages Jules Verne.

Luxor Temple Private Reception

Those who re-discovered ancient Egypt in the 18th and 19th centuries enjoyed magical overnight stays and this has prompted us to arrange private evening access to the Luxor temple, enhanced by striking illumination, to savour the unique night-time atmosphere. A private reception has been arranged on Day 7 at the temple exclusively for the guests of Voyages Jules Verne. Enjoy a cocktail served by staff in pharaonic uniform at the illuminated Temple before strolling through the temple unimpeded by other visitors. A recording of Verdi’s Aida, once staged in the temple, will provide a musical background to the occasion and local musicians will play the Egyptian ‘takht’ music. Please note, in summer the Luxor temple will have extended opening hours to the public until 10pm. For departures May-Oct 2010, guests will have a cocktail reception in the historic setting of the Victoria lounge at the Old Winter Palace at 8pm, followed by a visit to the illuminated temple during public opening times.