TUI River Cruises has launched six new excursions for its Nile River fleet, giving travelers more ways to explore Egypt’s ancient sites and cultural spots during the winter 2025 season. This move comes as the company adds a second ship to double its capacity on the Nile, meeting rising demand for deep dives into Egyptian history.
Why the Expansion Matters Now
Travel experts note a surge in interest for Egypt tours, driven by fresh attractions like the soon-to-open Grand Egyptian Museum. This museum, set to debut in late 2025, will house over 100,000 artifacts, including the full Tutankhamun collection, drawing crowds from around the world.
The timing aligns with global trends in adventure travel. Recent data shows a 15 percent rise in bookings for cultural cruises in the Middle East over the past year, fueled by social media buzz and easier access to historic sites. TUI aims to tap into this by offering flexible options that blend luxury with authentic experiences.
For passengers, this means more than just sightseeing. The new program focuses on immersive activities that let people connect with Egypt’s past and present, from sunset teas to pyramid visits.
Details on the New Excursions
The six additions cover key spots in Aswan, Cairo, and Giza, designed for full-day or half-day outings. Each one builds on TUI’s existing Nile sailings, which run from Luxor and include flights for some trips.
One highlight is the Sunset Tea at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan. This historic spot, known for hosting figures like Agatha Christie and Winston Churchill, offers traditional afternoon tea on a terrace with Nile views. Guests enjoy premium teas, pastries, sandwiches, and local treats while watching the sun set over Elephantine Island.
Another standout is the full-day Cairo and Giza tour. It starts with a flight from Luxor to Cairo, followed by a visit to the Giza Plateau. There, travelers see the Great Pyramids and the Great Sphinx up close, with time for photos and guided insights.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the excursion heads to the Grand Egyptian Museum. This massive site features a grand staircase with 64 key artifacts, showcasing Egypt’s timeline from pharaohs to modern times.
Here are the six new excursions in brief:
- Sunset Tea at Old Cataract Hotel: Relax with tea and views in Aswan.
- Cairo and Giza Pyramids Full Day: Flight to Cairo for pyramids and museum.
- Authentic Local Dining Experience: Taste Egyptian cuisine in a family-style setting.
- Nile Felucca Ride with History Talk: Sail on a traditional boat with expert guides.
- Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple: Explore engineering marvels and ancient worship sites.
- Luxor Night Market and Street Food: Evening stroll with local flavors and shopping.
These options start at around 50 pounds per person, varying by duration and inclusions.
Impact on TUI’s Nile Fleet
TUI River Cruises is set to double its Nile capacity with the launch of TUI Bahareya in November 2025. This new ship joins TUI Al Horeya, allowing more sailings and larger groups.
The vessels feature Arabic-inspired designs, with amenities like pools, spas, and onboard dining. Cabins offer Nile views, and itineraries span seven to 14 nights, focusing on sites like Luxor, Aswan, and Edfu.
This growth reflects TUI’s push into river cruising. The company reported a 20 percent increase in Egypt bookings for 2025 compared to last year, thanks to improved safety perceptions and marketing efforts.
Passengers benefit from all-inclusive packages, covering meals, drinks, and select excursions. The expansion provides more choices, letting people customize trips based on interests like history or relaxation.
How This Fits into Broader Travel Trends
Egypt’s tourism sector is booming, with visitor numbers expected to hit 15 million in 2025, up from 13 million in 2024. Factors include new infrastructure, such as the museum’s opening and upgraded airports.
Recent events, like the restoration of Philae Temple, add to the appeal. Social media posts from travelers highlight unique experiences, boosting word-of-mouth promotion.
For cruise lines, this means adapting to demands for sustainable and cultural tourism. TUI emphasizes small-group tours and local partnerships to minimize impact on sites.
| Feature | TUI Al Horeya | TUI Bahareya |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2024 | 2025 |
| Passenger Capacity | 150 | 150 |
| Key Amenities | Pool, Spa, Dining Halls | Pool, Spa, Arabic Decor |
| Starting Price per Person | £1,200 for 7 nights | £1,300 for 7 nights |
| Popular Itinerary | Luxor to Aswan | Aswan Roundtrip |
This table compares the two ships, showing similar setups with slight price differences due to the new build.
Experts predict this expansion will help TUI capture more of the growing market for experiential travel. As interest in ancient civilizations rises, programs like this offer safe, guided ways to explore.
What Travelers Should Know Before Booking
Planning a Nile cruise requires considering the season. Winter 2025 runs from November to March, with mild weather ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot, so winter slots fill up fast.
Health and safety tips include staying hydrated and following guide instructions at crowded sites. Visas are needed for most visitors, and TUI handles much of the paperwork.
Costs vary, but budget for extras like optional excursions. Many passengers opt for packages that include flights from the UK, starting at about 1,500 pounds for a week.
Recent traveler feedback praises the blend of comfort and adventure. One common tip is to book early for popular add-ons like the pyramid tour.
If you’re thinking about a trip, check TUI’s site for deals. Share your thoughts in the comments below or pass this article to friends planning travel. What Egypt spot excites you most?
