- 7.9
bestnilecruise.com
M/S Steigenberger Royale Nile Cruise (2026 Review)
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- Route:: Luxor / Edfu / Kom Ombo / Aswan
Our Expert Verdict on the Steigenberger Royale
The Steigenberger Royale Nile Cruise delivers a polished, upper-mid to luxury Nile sailing experience with a strong emphasis on comfort, panoramic views, and classic cruise amenities. While it doesn’t follow the ultra-exclusive, all-suite concept of boutique vessels, it excels in offering a well-rounded, high-quality journey at a more accessible price point.
With spacious cabins, large windows, multiple leisure facilities, and a full itinerary covering Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, the Royale strikes a practical balance between luxury and value. The onboard atmosphere is lively yet refined, making it suitable for a broader range of travelers.
For those seeking a stylish, comfortable Nile cruise with solid inclusions and a reputable brand name, Steigenberger Royale is a dependable and rewarding choice.
Who is this ship for?
Ideal for couples, families, and first-time Nile cruisers who want a comfortable, well-equipped experience without stepping into ultra-luxury pricing. Also suitable for small groups and travelers who prefer a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and onboard entertainment.
Cruise Ship
Steigenberger Royale
Check-in from
Luxor
Monday
Check-in from
Aswan
Friday
Value for
Money
(0-10)
8.5
Luxury Level
(0-10)
8.0
Amenities
Quality (0-10)
8.5
Inclusions &
Extras (0-10)
7.0
Excursion
Quality (0-10)
7.0
Guest Experience
(0-10)
8.0
Overall Score
7.9
About Steigenberger Royale Nile Cruise
Sailing between Aswan and Luxor, the Steigenberger Royale is a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise offering a blend of modern comfort and classic Egyptian hospitality. The ship features 50 cabins and 2 suites, making it larger than boutique luxury vessels but still intimate enough for a comfortable onboard experience.
Guests explore iconic sites such as Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Luxor’s East and West Banks, while enjoying a well-equipped floating hotel experience complete with spa services, a panoramic bar, and a two-level sun deck.
Category
5-Star Deluxe Cruise
Total Cabins
50 cabins + 2 suites
Pool
Yes (Sun Deck)
Elevator
No (Stairs only between decks)
Wi-Fi
Yes
Balcony Type
Panoramic sliding windows
Dining Style
Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Alcohol
Available at extra charge
Pros & Cons
- The Good (Pros)
- Large panoramic windows in all cabins
- Wide range of onboard facilities (spa, gym, library, bar)
- Comprehensive itinerary with guided excursions included
- Balanced mix of relaxation and entertainment
- The Bad (Cons) & Things to Watch
- Not an all-suite or ultra-luxury ship
- Can feel busier than smaller boutique vessels
- Wi-Fi reliability may vary sailing
- Drinks and some extras are not included
The Hardware (Decks & Public Areas)
Main Areas:
- Elegant main restaurant with Nile views
- Lounge bar and panoramic bar with live ambiance
- Library, gift shop, and relaxation areas
Sun Deck:
- Swimming pool and Jacuzzi
- Pool bar with shaded seating
- Sun loungers for relaxation and sightseeing
Wellness & Fitness:
- Massage services available
- Fitness equipment on deck
- Beauty salon (on request)
Cabins & Suites
Style & Decor:
Cabins are designed with a clean, contemporary style, combining neutral tones with practical luxury. While not oversized, they are efficiently laid out and comfortable for multi-night stays.
The "Open Window" Factor:
All cabins feature panoramic sliding windows, offering uninterrupted Nile views—one of the ship’s strongest selling points.
Cabin Categories & Sizes:
Standard Cabins:
50 cabins at ~19.5 sqm
Suites:
2 suites at ~35 sqm with expanded space
Amenities:
- Air conditioning (individually controlled)
- Private bathroom with shower/bathtub
- Satellite TV
- Minibar and safe
- Hairdryer and Wi-Fi
Noise Advice:
Mid-ship cabins tend to offer the most stability and least engine noise. Light sleepers should avoid lower decks near technical areas.
Food & Dining
Dining on Steigenberger Royale is consistent and satisfying, with a mix of international dishes and Egyptian specialties served in a buffet and set-menu format.
Guests can expect:
- Generous breakfast, lunch, and dinner spreads
- Scenic dining with Nile views
- Occasional themed dinners and local cuisine nights
The sundeck bar adds a relaxed dimension, perfect for drinks at sunset.
Guided Tours & Excursions
More Than Just a Hotel:
This is a fully guided Nile experience with structured sightseeing included.
The Guides:
Professional Egyptologists lead all tours, providing historical depth and efficient site management.
Pricing & Value Analysis
Verdict: Strong Value (Upper Mid-Range / Entry Luxury)
Comparison:
Indicative Rates (Per Person):
- 3 Nights: From approx. $659–$910
- 4 Nights: From approx. $859–$1099
(Prices vary by season; peak dates like Christmas and Easter are higher.)
Comparison:
At roughly $200–$400 per night, Steigenberger Royale sits comfortably in the upper mid-range category. When you factor in full-board meals, guided excursions, transfers, and entrance fees, the overall package delivers excellent value compared to cheaper cruises that charge extra for tours and logistics.
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.