7-night cruise from Vilshofen, Germany to Budapest, Hungary
August 19-26, 2024
Discover the destination and its culture through its locally-sourced cuisine, including regional specialties and Western favorites. Choose from the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Al Fresco specialty restaurant; and enjoy unlimited complimentary local beer and wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board.
AmaDahlia features 16 magnificent suites, which includes a wealth of amenities that will surprise and delight you. Each suite offers marble bathrooms with both a bathtub and multi-jet shower and most accommodations feature our signature view-enhancing twin balconies which provide you with the perfect vantage point to marvel at the scenery along the Nile River.
Stay fit by partaking in an exercise class with your professionally trained Wellness Host or work out in the well-equipped fitness room. For a gentler approach to wellness, take a dip in the sun-deck pool, soothe your muscles with a rejuvenating massage or treat yourself to hair and nail services at the salon.
You can always count on your floating hotel to provide you with all the amenities and conveniences you need to make your time in Egypt as comfortable as possible. Take in views of the Nile River from the Sun Deck or gather in the main lounge with fellow adventurers. With only 72 guests on board, enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and connect with loved ones.
Arrive in Cairo, you’ll be met by an AmaWaterways representative who will help you with your luggage and the customs and immigration process. With your baggage and customs taken care of and a new stamp in your passport, you will now be driven to your hotel.
A full day of captivating attractions await, beginning with the exquisite Egyptian Museum, with its 120,000 artifacts on display. Home to some of the greatest masterpieces ever crafted, its unique collection of Pharaonic art includes mummies and the priceless treasures of Tutankhamen, the Boy King. Then, visit the Mosque of Muhammad – also known as the Alabaster Mosque – which majestically sits on the summit of the Citadel of Saladin's courtyard. From the arcaded courtyard, enjoy the breathtaking view across the city to the Pyramids of Giza. Inside the Mosque, marvel at an ornate interior and a splendid array of lamps suspended from the intricately decorated ceiling. Afterwards, head to Al-Azhar Park in the heart of Old Cairo for a welcome lunch at the Studio Msr Restaurant, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views – especially of the majestic Citadel. (B, L)
Discover the monuments at the UNESCO-designated ancient capital of Memphis. You’ll visit the huge statue of Ramses II, the Alabaster Sphinx and the necropolis of Sakkara – site of the famous step pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest pyramid on earth. You’ll then go to the Great Sphinx and the iconic Giza complex, which consists of three large pyramids built between 2589 BC and 2504 BC. Today’s adventure includes a lovely lunch at the famous Mena House, a historic palatial hotel, based in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza. (B, L)
After checking out of the hotel, take a morning flight south to Luxor—formerly known as Thebes, the capital city of the New Kingdom of Upper Egypt. Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to two astonishing temples—Karnak and Luxor. Be welcomed aboard the AmaDahlia to begin your Nile River Valley cruise. Later this afternoon, you will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. After your visit, continue to experience Egyptian magic with a traditional folkloric-style belly dance on board the AmaDahlia. (B, L, D)
Visit the tombs of ancient Egypt in the Valley of the Kings— one of the most famous archeological sites in the world. The spectacular rock-cut tombs located on the west bank of Luxor include that of the enigmatic King Tutankhamun, whose mummified remains are still here on display. Afterwards, go to Deir el-Bahri to see the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most successful pharaohs and its first female ruler. Next, you’ll visit the Valley of Queens, home to the mummified remains of more than 30 queens and princesses, including Nefertari’s Tomb, where you’ll enjoy exclusive access. Your day’s adventure concludes with an up-close view of the Colossi of Memnon—two gigantic statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Once back on board the AmaDahlia, cap the day off with a Captain’s Welcome Cocktail. (B, L, D)
The city of Edfu is best known for one of Egypt’s most remarkably preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Built in 230 BC, it is the second-largest temple in Egypt and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with walls that display compelling details about the religion and language of the country’s Greco-Roman period. After visiting Edfu, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Aswan. (B, L, D)
Board a motorboat and cruise to the colorful Nubian Village of Hessa. Meet the warm and friendly Nubian people who will welcome you to their village. Savor a local lunch here and explore the UNESCO-designated Philae Temple complex, with one of the most stunningly restored and preserved hieroglyphs in Egypt, built between 380 BC and 362 BC and dedicated to the goddess Isis, the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. Later in the day, take a peaceful ride in a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, around the beautiful Elephantine Island which locals say is the home to legendary Egyptian god Khnum. Cap the day off with an optional late afternoon tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, a 19th-century Victorian Palace crafted in rose granite. Delight in an authentic “high tea” experience and revel in the stunning views of your oasis – Aswan and Elephantine Island. Tonight, there is an optional outing to a sound and light show at Philae Temple. (B, L, D)
Enjoy free time in Aswan or go on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel (must be prebooked). If you purchased the optional excursion, you’ll take an early morning flight over Lake Nasser to the more than 3,000-year-old Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most active of pharaohs, along with the smaller temple dedicated to his chief wife Queen Nefertari. The front of the main temple has four gargantuan statues of Ramses II on his throne, each measuring nearly 70 feet high and discovered half buried in sand in 1813. During the afternoon, cruise to the Great Temple of Kom Ombo, where its soaring columns dramatically rise above the Nile River. Unique in Egypt, this temple is dedicated to two gods—the crocodile god, Sobek, sitting on the right; and the falcon-headed Haroeris, “The Good Doctor.” After visiting Kom Ombo, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Esna. In the evening, join your crew outside on the Sundeck in a celebration of local customs with the chance to don a Galabeya, traditional Egyptian attire, and toast to the rich culture and history of the Nile River Valley. (B, L, D)
Guests can reserve the optional tour to Abu Simbel at time of booking your Nile adventure.
Spend the morning with scenic cruising along the glistening Nile River. Relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise from Esna back to Luxor. First, explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt and one of the largest in the world, covering about 200 acres in a vast network of columns, hieroglyphics, obelisks, sphinxes and colossi—even a lake. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel and filled with its roof blocks, supported by colossal 134 columns standing at 70 feet high, with 12 larger columns standing at 80 feet high lining the central aisle. It is still the largest room of any religious building in the world. Then Ddiscover the art of papyrus making with a museum visit and learn how the ancient Egyptians used this special plant that flourished in the Egyptian Delta and Nile River Valley. Made from the aquatic papyrus plant, also known as paper plant, this unique writing material served many purposes in ancient times from sails, cloth, food and especially paper for important documents and texts. (B, L, D)
Set sail to Qena to explore its ancient Egyptian heritage. You’ll go to Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Temple of Hathor – the Goddess of Love, to whom the powers of joy, feminine love and motherhood were attributed. The temple was built by Ptolemy and a group of Romans who worshipped her; so don’t miss the back of the temple where there is a relief depicting Cleopatra with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor who brought us the months of July and August. Following your visit here, sail back to Luxor. (B, L, D)
Disembark the ship in Luxor and fly back to Cairo where you will be taken to the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered one of the most luxurious palaces in the world. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Silver Museum; the Arms Museum; the Royal Family Museum; a Presidential Gifts Museum and a Historical Documents Museum, which is a relatively new addition. It is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, be treated to a very special lunch at the palace. Finally, you’ll explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located. (B, L)
Bid farewell to Cairo and prepare for your flight home. (B)
EGYPT OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
Enhance your bucket-list cruise and land adventure and make the most of your time in this incredible region of the world before or after your 11-night Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary.
ADD 3 NIGHTS DUBAI PRE-CRUISE
Explore the vibrant city of Dubai, home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and a cultural focal point in the Middle East known for luxury shopping, modern architecture and a lively nightlife.
Arrive at the Dubai International Airport where you’ll meet an AmaWaterways’ representative and transfer to the award-winning JW Marriott Marquis.
Visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest existing building in the city, and a must-visit for a taste of old Dubai. Afterwards, you’ll drive through Al Fahidi historic district, commonly referred to as Al Bastakiya; and then enjoy a boat trip down the massive Dubai Water Canal past many of the city’s luxury hotels and landmarks. Next visit the Gold Souk, Dubai’s most famous and visited souk, offering a huge selection of jewelry made from gold, silver, diamonds as well as the Spice Souk, where countless flavors, fragrant herbs and colorful spices will greet you at every turn. You will then visit Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In the afternoon, enjoy a desert safari in a 4x4 where you’ll experience the beauty and customs of the desert, such as henna painting, belly dancing and more, followed by a barbecue dinner. (B, D)
Start the day with a visit to Zayed Grand Mosque, the biggest one in the country as well as being known for its grand chandeliers. After your visit here, you’ll drive past Emirates Palace and the sprawling Presidential Palace in Ras Al Akhdar with stops at each for photos. Then make your way to see Heritage Village, where you can shop, explore artifacts and watch artisans making pottery, blowing glass and weaving fabric on a loom. You’ll conclude your day’s adventure with a visit to Yas Marina, one of Abu Dhabi’s finest marinas, which includes dining, fitness and leisure facilities. (B)
Check out of the hotel and transfer to the Dubai International Airport for your onward flight. (B)
ADD 4 NIGHTS JORDAN PRE-CRUISE
Discover the fascinating jewels of Jordan, including its capital, Amman, and the UNESCO-designated "Rose City" of Petra; and cap off your journey in Wadi Rum, the timeless "Valley of the Moon."
Upon arrival and after you have cleared customs and immigration, an AmaWaterways’ representative will meet you and transfer you to the 5-star St. Regis Amman, now an established landmark in Jordan's capital city.
Since Jordan was once part of the Roman Empire, it is home to a legacy of Roman architectural treasures. Begin your day with a visit to the old city of Amman – Jordan’s capital and largest city. Enjoy a guided a tour into the city of rolling hills and explore historical sites such as the Citadel and Roman Theatre. You’ll have lunch at Kan Zaman Castle, offering an atmospheric setting in a historic caravanserai. Afterwards, you’ll be taken to the extremely well preserved Jerash, dating back 6500 years, and considered one of the best examples of Roman influence in the Middle East outside of Italy. Then continue westward to Saladin's 12th century Arab castle, Qalaat al Rabad (Ajloun), one of the finest examples of military architecture. (B, L)
This morning, head to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era. Then, you’ll visit Mt. Nebo, one of the most revered sites in Jordan where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. Next, explore the ancient lost city of Petra where you’ll check into The Old Village Hotel and Resort, situated on the outskirts of Wadi Musa, overlooking the Shaharah Mountains, and home to the rose-red ruins of Petra. (B, L)
After breakfast, you’ll be off to the ancient ruins of Petra. You’ll visit the Siq, a nearly ¾-mile narrow passageway carved into sheer rock walls. While the Treasury is the most well-known ruin in Petra, it’s not the only one. You’ll also see the 4,000-spectator Theater, the Courts, Qasr Bint Pharaoun, Temple of the Winged Lion and other monuments. After your visit here, you’ll return to your hotel for dinner. (B, D)
With its red-pink sands, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings, Wadi Rum, “Valley of the Moon,” is a romantic and timeless place. Then, it’s on to the Lawrence Springs named for T.E. Lawrence – “Lawrence of Arabia," for a jeep tour of this oasis. You’ll have lunch en route to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo. (B, L)
ADD 4 NIGHTS ISRAEL POST-CRUISE
From the Dead Sea to mesmerizing sacred wonders, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall, there’s no shortage of ways to uncover Israel’s enthralling past and captivating present.
Fly from Cairo, Egypt via Istanbul, Turkey to Tel Aviv, Israel in the morning. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by an AmaWaterways representative and you’ll transfer to Jerusalem. After checking into your hotel, enjoy lunch in your room. Later this afternoon, you’ll visit the Israel Museum which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest biblical manuscripts in the world as well as rare early medieval biblical manuscripts. (L)
Tour the Jewish quarter and visit the Byzantine Cardo. Not far from here, lies the Western Wall, which surrounds the Temple Mount, the holiest site for Jews. Follow Via Dolorosa, the path where Jesus walked to his crucifixion, arriving at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus was said to have been crucified. (B, L)
Drive through the Judean Desert to Masada. You will take a cable car to the top where you will explore the ancient ruins of Herod’s 2,055-year-old palace fortress. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Dead Sea where you can enjoy swimming and lunch. On your return to Jerusalem, we’ll visit Qumran, a historic archeological site where the legendary Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient Jewish texts, were found. (B, L)
Take a short motorcoach ride to the West Bank to visit Bethlehem, King David’s hometown and Jesus’ birthplace. You’ll tour Manger Square and the UNESCO-designated Church of the Nativity, built above the cave where Jesus was born. The tour continues underground to the Gihon Spring, the major water source of Jerusalem for over 1,000 years and crucial to the city’s survival. From Jerusalem, venture to Tel Aviv to tour one of the most vibrant cities in the world offering sandy Mediterranean beaches with a world-class nightlife, a buzzing cultural scene and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, embark on a colorful culinary journey to Carmel Market, also called theshuk, the largest, most beautiful and happening market in Israel. Continue the day with a visit toOld Jaffa, an 8000-year-old port city, which showcases Tel Aviv’s urban tapestry. (B, L)
Bid farewell to Jerusalem with a transfer to Tel Aviv airport. (B)
*** NOTE: Intra-Air in Jordan and Israel extensions included in the above prices.