The Oberoi Philae
Named after the famous temple of Philae, which was relocated stone by stone to the island of Agilika during the construction of the Aswan Dam, The Oberoi Philae is one of the most elegant ships on the Nile. Originally built for 100 passengers, the 72-meter-long vessel has been extensively renovated and now offers only 22 cabins and suites – significantly more space and privacy than the hull originally provided. Floor-to-ceiling windows can even be opened in many cabins, making it seem as if the river flows right into the room. On the sun deck, you will find one of the largest pools of any Nile cruise ship, surrounded by sun loungers and an open-air restaurant. Upon arrival in Aswan, guests are traditionally welcomed with Nubian music and dance – a memorable start to a journey where 5,000 years of Egyptian history come alive on board.
Details
Country
Egypt
Region
Aswan - Luxor
Price
from approx. €600 per night/person
Best travel time
October - April
Cabins
The 22 cabins and suites of the Oberoi Philae are spread over four of the five decks and feature a bright, natural color scheme. The standard cabins offer around 26 square meters, while the suites provide up to 50 square meters, some with their own terrace and heated whirlpool. Floor-to-ceiling windows – even some in the cabins can be opened – ensure daylight and a direct connection to the passing Nile, even from the bathroom. Free high-speed Wi-Fi for up to four devices is included, along with attentive cabin service.
Culinary
On board the Oberoi Philae, you will find a daily changing à la carte menu featuring Western, Indian, Asian, and Middle Eastern influences. In the elegant main restaurant, guests dine with panoramic views of the Nile, while the pool restaurant on the sun deck offers a more casual dining experience in the open air. In the evenings, the bar, library, and cigar lounge invite you to unwind, while often a performance of Nubian music and dance brings ambiance upon arrival in Aswan.
Onboard life & excursions
The amenities of the Oberoi Philae include a heated pool on the sun deck, a 24-hour fitness room, a spa with exclusive Oberoi treatments, a cinema, a library, and a hair salon. The four- or six-night trips between Luxor and Aswan take you to the most significant archaeological sites of Upper Egypt, including the Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Edfu, and of course the Temple of Philae near Aswan. Experienced tour guides accompany all land excursions, ensuring that history comes alive on this journey.
Route
The Oberoi Philae operates between Luxor and Aswan, with fixed weekly departures for four- or six-night trips in both directions. The Temple of Philae, after which the ship is named, had to be relocated stone by stone to the higher island of Agilika during the construction of the Aswan Dam – a UNESCO rescue project that took about nine years. Both departure points, Luxor and Aswan, are accessible via their respective international airports, which are also serviced by direct flights from Cairo. As with all Oberoi ships, a private dock at each stop ensures that you do not have to disembark over other boats.
Contact person
CEO / Managing Director
