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How big is your imagination? Does it run as wide and deep as the ancient River Nile? Running strong and sure through the land of the ancients where pharaohs ruled, historians mused this mighty river's source and poets wrote odes to its beauty.

Indulge yourself, follow in the footsteps of some of the world's greatest explorers as they sailed down the mighty River Nile in search of the secrets of the ancients, golden treasures that filled the eyes and answers to some of the world's greatest mysteries.

The Dahabiya has been used for many centuries as a means of transportation on the Nile. Most were used for carrying freight but in the 19th century as Nile travel became popular with the increasing number of tourists visiting Egypt, many were converted into passenger vessels. Amelia Edwards, in her book "1000 miles down the Nile", travelled in a Dahabiya. Before the advent of steam powered cruisers, Thomas Cook operated several hundred Dahabiyas on the Nile.

The term Dahabiya is normally used to describe a shallow-bottomed, barge-like vessel with two or more sails powered by the wind and relying on the river current and a gentle breeze. The vessels have been around in one form or another for thousands of years, with similar craft being depicted on the walls of the tombs of Egyptian Pharaohs. Indeed, the name derives from the Arabic word for gold, owing to similar, gilded state barges used by the Muslim rulers of Egypt in the Middle Ages. To be called a genuine Dahabiya the boat must have no engine so sailing on one of our Dahabiyas is peaceful and truly a unique Nile cruise experience.

We offer a choice of 3 Dahabiyas with 5, 8 or 10 cabins catering for individuals and large groups. Each cabin has its own en-suite shower room and crisp clean Egyptian cotton bedding. There is plenty of space on each deck to sunbathe, sit in the shade and chat or to find a quiet corner to read but for most simply to watch the world go by. Our on board chef is an expert at preparing wholesome, appetizing Egyptian cuisine from fresh produce bought daily at local villages along the Nile. Your meals, starting with lunch at embarkation and ending with breakfast at disembarkation, are all inclusive, along with tea, coffee and mineral water which is available at all times.

So step aboard a great tradition in Nile travel, our stately Dahabiya. The vision and attention to original detail in traditional boat building allied with the uncompromising luxury and comfort of modern day make traveling on our Dahabiyas a matchless choice for your Nile adventure.

The sandal is a smaller version of a dahabiya, again originally used as a freight vessel on the Nile. Many can still be seen today transporting stone up and down the Nile. You get the same attention to detail but on a smaller scale. These boats are ideal for families, small groups and individuals who prefer a more intimate setting.


Visit the links within the website for more detailed information or request a full information pack.
 
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