- 7.3
bestnilecruise.com
M/S Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise Ship (2026 Review)
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- Route::Luxor and Aswan
Our Expert Verdict on the Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise
The Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise offers a practical and affordable way to experience the Nile between Luxor and Aswan, combining classic sightseeing with comfortable accommodation and full-board dining. While officially classified as a 5-star cruise by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism, the onboard experience aligns more closely with a strong 3.5–4-star standard, making it best suited for travelers who prioritize value, itinerary coverage, and guided tours over ultra-luxury finishes.
With spacious cabins, panoramic Nile views, comprehensive excursions, and lively evening entertainment, Princess Sarah II delivers a reliable, no-frills Nile journey at a competitive price point. It represents solid value for first-time visitors to Egypt and budget-conscious travelers seeking an organized, stress-free cruise experience.
Who is this ship for?
Ideal for first-time Nile cruisers, families, small groups, and travelers seeking a cost-effective, guided Nile cruise with full sightseeing, traditional entertainment, and comfortable accommodations—without the premium pricing of luxury boutique vessels.
Cruise Ship
Princess Sarah II
Check-in from
Luxor
Saturday
Check-in from
Aswan
Wednesday
Value for
Money
(0-10)
7.5
Luxury Level
(0-10)
7.0
Amenities
Quality (0-10)
7.5
Inclusions &
Extras (0-10)
7.5
Excursion
Quality (0-10)
7.0
Guest Experience
(0-10)
7.0
Overall Score
7.3
About Princess Sarah II Nile Cruise
Sailing between Luxor and Aswan, the Princess Sarah II is a deluxe floating hotel offering 3, 4, or 7-night itineraries. The ship blends classic Nile cruise design with functional comfort, providing guests access to Egypt’s most iconic sites, including the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Philae Temple, Edfu, and Kom Ombo—all guided by qualified Egyptologists.
Category
Standard Nile Cruise
Total Cabins
66 Double Cabins, 2 Junior Suites, 2 Presidential Suites
Pool
Yes
Elevator
No (Stairs only between decks)
Wi-Fi
Free (All areas; spotty while sailing)
Balcony Type
No balconies; large panoramic opening windows
Dining Style
Restaurant (Open Buffet & Set Menus – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Alcohol
Soft drinks and selected local beverages (additional charges may apply)
Pros & Cons
- The Good (Pros)
- Competitive pricing with full-board meals and guided tours included
- Large panoramic windows in all cabins with Nile views
- Well-structured itineraries covering all major Upper Egypt highlights
- Lively onboard atmosphere with nightly entertainment
- The Bad (Cons) & Things to Watch
- Décor and finishes are dated compared to newer luxury ships
- Wi-Fi can be inconsistent while sailing
- No private balconies or elevators
- Crowds at peak sites compared to boutique dahabiyas
The Hardware (Decks & Public Areas)
Main & Upper Decks:
Home to the ship’s 66 cabins and suites, all featuring large panoramic windows, individual air conditioning, and practical layouts designed for comfort rather than luxury.
Sun Deck:
Includes a swimming pool, sun loungers, shaded seating areas, and bar, making it a popular daytime relaxation spot between excursions.
Gym:
Stay active on board with our open-air gym, offering essential fitness equipment to help you maintain your routine while enjoying the peaceful Nile surroundings.
Cabins & Suites
Style & Decor:
Cabins are classic and functional, with neutral tones and traditional cruise-ship furnishings. While not modern or boutique, they are clean, spacious, and well maintained.
The “Open Window” Factor:
All cabins feature large panoramic windows that open, allowing natural light and uninterrupted Nile views.
Bed & Occupancy:
Double or twin beds
Suitable for 1–2 guests (suites accommodate more space)
Amenities:
Air conditioning with individual controls, TV with satellite channels, mini-bar, safe box, internal telephone, and in-house music channels.
Bathrooms:
Private bathrooms with bathtub or shower, hair dryer, and standard amenities.
Noise Advice:
Light sleepers may prefer cabins away from engine areas and entertainment venues.
Food & Dining
Dining:
Meals are served in the main restaurant with international open buffets and set menus, aligned with the cruise schedule.
Cuisine:
A mix of Egyptian specialties and international dishes, designed to cater to a broad range of tastes rather than gourmet dining.
Evening Entertainment:
Nightly programs include belly dancing, folkloric shows, disco nights, and Galabeya parties, creating a lively onboard atmosphere.
Guided Tours & Excursions
More Than Just a Cruise:
Princess Sarah II provides a fully organized sightseeing experience, including transfers, entrance fees, and guided tours.
The Guides:
Tours are led by licensed Egyptologist guides, ensuring informative and structured visits to historical sites.
Languages:
English-speaking guides included; other languages may be available upon request.
Pricing & Value Analysis
Verdict: Very Good Value for Money
Typical Price Ranges (per person):
3 Nights / 4 Days: approx. $539 – $1,015
4 Nights / 5 Days: approx. $612 – $1,407
(Seasonal variations apply)
Comparison:
Compared to luxury dahabiyas and high-end 5-star ships, Princess Sarah II is significantly more affordable. While it lacks boutique elegance and personalized service, its inclusive pricing, complete itinerary, and reliable operations make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking maximum sightseeing value at a moderate cost.
Ready to Book?
Our Advice: We recommend checking availability directly with the operator to ensure
you get the best rate and can request specific cabin preferences.