- 4.9
bestnilecruise.com
M/S Tamr Henna Nile Cruise Ship (2026 Review)
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- Route::Luxor and Aswan
Our Expert Verdict on the Princess Farida Dahabiya
The Tamr Henna Luxury Nile Cruise delivers a refined five-star cruising experience designed for travelers who value comfort, space, and comprehensive sightseeing along the Nile. Newly renovated and sailing since November 2023, Tamr Henna combines generous suite sizes, modern facilities, and Egyptologist-guided excursions into a seamless, all-inclusive journey between Luxor and Aswan. While positioned at a premium price point, the cruise offers strong value through spacious accommodations, attentive service, and a well-balanced itinerary—making it an excellent choice for couples, families, and travelers seeking classic luxury without sacrificing modern amenities.
Who is this ship for?
Ideal for couples, families, and small groups seeking a luxury Nile cruise with spacious suites, high service standards, and fully guided private excursions. Particularly well-suited for travelers who prefer larger cabins, wellness facilities, and a traditional cruise-ship atmosphere rather than boutique sailing vessels.
About Princess Farida Dahabiya
Sail the Nile in style aboard Tamr Henna, a newly restored 5-star luxury Nile cruise ship offering a harmonious blend of elegance, comfort, and cultural immersion. Operating year-round between Luxor and Aswan, the vessel features expansive suites, multiple dining venues, wellness facilities, and panoramic Nile views—creating a polished and relaxing environment for discovering Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Category
5-Star Luxury Nile Cruise
Total Cabins
Total Cabins & Suites: 38
Pool
Yes
Elevator
No (Stairs only between decks)
Wi-Fi
Free (All areas; spotty while sailing)
Balcony Type
No
Dining Style
Main Restaurant (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Full Board)
Alcohol
Soft drinks and local alcohol
Pros & Cons
- The Good (Pros)
- Exceptionally spacious suites by Nile cruise standards
- Newly renovated with modern comforts
- Strong wellness offering (spa, sauna, gym, jacuzzi)
- Private, Egyptologist-led excursions included
- The Bad (Cons) & Things to Watch
- No elevator on board
- Wi-Fi can be inconsistent while sailing
- Premium pricing during peak seasons
- Large-ship feel may not suit boutique-cruise seekers
The Hardware (Decks & Public Areas)
Main & Accommodation Decks:
Guest accommodations span three decks, offering excellent separation between cabins and public areas. Cabins are sound-insulated and thoughtfully laid out for comfort during longer sailings.
Sun Deck:
A highlight of the ship, featuring:
Swimming pool & pool bar
Sunbathing loungers
Open-air seating with panoramic Nile views
Lounge & Public Areas:
Luxurious indoor lounge and bar
Piano bar with classic ambiance
24-hour reception lobby
Shopping area
Cabins & Suites
Style & Decor:
Cabins feature classic luxury styling with warm tones, premium fabrics, and large windows that frame the passing Nile scenery. The atmosphere is elegant yet practical, designed for relaxation after full sightseeing days.
The “Open Window” Factor:
All cabins offer large sliding windows, allowing ample natural light and uninterrupted river views. Select suites include balcony-style access.
Bed & Occupancy:
Standard and Junior Suites: 1–2 guests (double or twin)
Deluxe & Family Suites: Up to 3 guests
Amenities:
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Fully stocked minibar (free)
Tea & coffee station
100% Egyptian cotton linens
Bathrobes, slippers, luxury toiletries
Satellite TV, safety deposit box, hairdryer
24-hour in-room dining & turndown service
Bathrooms:
Private bathrooms with bathtubs, modern fittings, and generous space—particularly notable in Deluxe and Family Suites.
Noise Advice:
Soundproofing is good overall; light sleepers may prefer mid-ship cabins away from engine areas.
Food & Dining
Dining:
Open-buffet dining with a rotating menu of Egyptian and international cuisine, served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dishes are prepared by an experienced onboard chef and enjoyed alongside sweeping Nile views.
Bars & Lounges:
Lounge Bar: Cocktails, beverages, and light snacks
Piano Bar: Elegant setting with curated drinks and relaxed evening ambiance
Sundeck Bar: Refreshments served throughout the day while sailing
Guided Tours & Excursions
More Than Just a Cruise:
Tamr Henna offers a fully guided Nile experience, combining luxury cruising with in-depth exploration of Egypt’s most iconic sites.
The Guides:
All excursions are led by licensed Egyptologist tour guides, ensuring expert historical insight and smooth logistics.
Itineraries & Schedule:
Duration: 3 or 4 Nights
Departure:
Every Friday from Aswan (3 Nights)
Every Monday from Luxor (4 Nights)
Pricing & Value Analysis
Verdict: Very Good Value
Starting From: $1,089 per person
3-Night Winter Prices:
Double Cabin: from $1,299 per person
Single Cabin: from $1,799 per person
Comparison:
Compared to other large 5-star Nile cruises, Tamr Henna stands out for suite size, renovation quality, and inclusions. While boutique dahabiyas offer more intimacy, Tamr Henna provides superior onboard facilities and space—often at a comparable overall cost once excursions and services are factored in.
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.