There's no better way to appreciate the easy pace of life on the Nile than to join a Felucca sailtrek. The Felucca has been the most popular vessel on the Nile for centuries and is still widely used today. About 11m long and rigged with a tall lantern or triangular sail, it has no motor and relies on the steady north wind. We use up to three feluccas for our leisurely sailtrek from Aswan downstream towards Luxor.

Relaxed pace of Life

The relaxed pace and outdoor nature of our journey means that no fixed stops are possible - these depend largely on the elements. A canvas canopy acts as a sunshade during the day and keeps the dew off at night, when we sleep on deck on mattresses. Food is bought at village markets along the way and cooked on board by our crew, Egyptian Style. Our luggage is stored below deck.

A Typical Day

We enjoy the easy rhythm of life on the river, occasionally stopping to walk through fields and villages, or visit one of the ancient sites. At lunchtime we may furl the sails and raft the feluccas together, to enjoy a buffet style meal while drifting down the river. Often a brisk north wind picks up in the afternoon and we make exhilarating progress; sometimes the wind drops and we moor up for a leisurely swim stop. We aim to find an overnight mooring before dusk, usually at one of the mid-river islands, before settling down for a three-course dinner. A relaxed evening around the camp fire follows, when our Nubian crew will often bring out their drums to sing and dance under a star-filled sky.

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Our Nile cruise onboard M/S Doma, offers a combination of the style and comfort you would normally associate with a large cruise ship, with the relaxed and intimate atmosphere of a smaller vessel. Chartered for the exclusive use of Explore and with only 14 passenger cabins, life on board M/S Doma is easy-going and informal: the perfect base from which to explore the sites of the Nile.

About M/S Doma

Laid out over three decks, the boat is fitted out to a high standard throughout. All cabins are air-conditioned and have private en-suite showers, washbasins and WC's, plus large picture windows. On the middle deck are a spacious dining area, bar and lounge - also fully air conditioned - and from the upper deck there are fine, uninterrupted views across the Nile. There is no better way to enjoy the Nile sunset than sitting in the open air, perhaps with a drink from the small 'Deck Bar'. All meals are included whilst onboard the riverboat, prepared by our cooks and normally served in the dining room - though occasionally a buffet may be organised on deck. The cuisine is Egyptian-style and consists of 'continental' breakfasts, light lunches and three-course dinners.

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It is also possible to join our Egyptian Adventure with your family and marvel at the wonders of Egypt on this fascinating tour. Highlights include the Pyramids of Giza, Aswan, the Valley of the Kings, snorkelling... The list goes on.

If you would like to stay on the riverboat then the Land of the Pharaohs tour is best for you. With 6000 years of history Egypt has a fascinating collection of wonders for all to enjoy and this tour gives you the chance to enjoy the highlights with your family.

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