A Nile cruise is one of those journeys you feel it imperative to take, at least once in a lifetime. Trips generally run in just the 210-Kilometers stretch between Luxor and Aswan of four or five days for the one way or of eight days for the two ways, with long periods spent tied up at night at the ports of Luxor and Aswan, or at one or more of the most important cities lying between those cities like Esna or Edfu.
There are many different ships to choose from, ranging from traditional steamer Nile Cruises (best suited to those that value history and authenticity) to luxurious modern cruise ships (geared towards those for whom creature comforts are a priority).
The itineraries of the vast majority of Nile Cruises are the same, including these stops, whether southbound or northbound: Luxor, Edfu, Kom-Ombo, Esna and Aswan. Then there's a side trip to Abu-Simbel, south of Aswan and beyond the High Dam there by plane or bus.