Steam Ship Sudan

The stretch of the Nile between Luxor and Aswan is home to some of the most remarkable sites in antiquity, from the tombs of the Valleys of the Kings and Queens to the vast temples of Karnak, Edfu and Kom Ombo. Choose to cruise on the venerable Steam Ship Sudan and the immersion in history doesn’t stop when you’re back aboard because she is the last remaining paddle steamer from the golden era of Egyptian travel between the World Wars. A cruise on SS Sudan is a genuine slice of time travel and was even the inspiration for Agatha Christie to write Death on the Nile.

Settle into the beautiful saloon as the immaculate crew, adorned in their liveried costumes and fezzes, serve evening drinks; take a tour of the engine room with the chief engineer or watch the banks of the Nile drift lazily by as kingfishers dart across the water and children lead oxen down to the water’s edge to drink, much as they have for thousands of years.

What to Expect From the Steam Ship Sudan Experience

Belle Epoque Charm: SS Sudan is an authentic, turn-of-the-century steamship. When she was restored, no expense was spared. Step back in time to the Golden Era of travel. Each suite maintains its original woodwork and Belle Epoque aesthetic, and linens, textiles, and decor were curated to maintain the nostalgia. Uniquely, each suite was customized and named after people related to the history of Egypt or the ship—so no two are the same.

Small Ship Experience: SS Sudan consists of just 18 cabins and 6 suites spread across three levels, meaning your experience will feel private and intimate.

Warm Hospitality: Step on board the floating home of a longstanding, charismatic crew. Many members have sailed the SS Sudan for more than 10 years. With fewer than 50 guests at any one time, service is delivered on a first-name basis by people who truly love their job.

Slow Travel: The epitome of slow travel, imbibe Egypt’s kaleidoscope of landscapes at the languid pace of the Nile. Catch views from your suite or sit on the upper deck and drift past the green banks and arid mountains of the Nile Valley.

Expert-Led Visits to Iconic Temples & Sites: On a multi-day cruise, you’ll visit some of Egypt‘s most sublime temples and sacred sites with high-caliber Egyptologists. Let these experts decipher the mysteries of the ancients while introducing you to antiquity’s most interesting personalities.

Exclusive Experiences: SS Sudan is the only boat to sail north of Luxor to the town of Qena, where guests visit the sacred city of Abydos and the Temple of Hathor in Denderah.