We have all read stories and seen films that were based around the River Nile, which has captivated so many peoples interest over the years. Explorers, artists and poets such as Giovanni Belzoni, Francis Frith and Flaubert to name but a few all took voyages in a Dahabeeyah ‘Golden Boat’ as their Nile modus operandi.
To take a voyage along the Nile is a magical experience and to be able travel on an ancient Dahabeeyah is a private luxurious portal to Egypt’s classic past.
Our associate partner company in Egypt, with 20 years experience to their credit, have beautifully restored two of these rare and antique Dahabeeyahs to their former glory. The ‘Dongala’ boat dates back to 1835 and was the original private yacht for Sultan Hussein and with a capacity for up to 8 clients this is an ideal boat for small private groups and families. Its sister boat , the aptly named ‘Giraffa’ dates back to 1840 and is one of the longest authentic Dahabeeyahs still surviving on the Nile today . It is 50 metres long with A/C and has a capacity for up to 18 clients: This is an ideal boat for larger parties and special events. Both boats invite you to join them to savour the sights and sounds of “The Great Nile Journey.”
Through our Associate Partners, we are able to offer 21st Century Luxury, complete with Air Conditioned Ensuite Double Cabins, sailing from Luxor to Aswan over the course of 7 nights and 8 days. Each voyage is full board and includes the services of an experienced and fully qualified guide, entrance to all sites of historical interest and transfers. It is also possible to charter one of the Dahabeeyahs privately to suit any personal requirements.
The crew of 8, including the Captain and Chef, work tirelessly to create an Ambience of Luxury and Comfort for your trip and the Dinner by Candlelight on the upper deck at sunset will be an experience you will never forget.
Perhaps you would like to celebrate a special Anniversary or Birthday or just enjoy a unique and romantic voyage with your loved one? Whatever the reason for your voyage, it will be the trip of a lifetime and one that you will never forget.
We have included a small selection of testimonials from clients relating their own voyage experiences and if you would like to learn more about the voyages, current availability and prices, please contact us on +44 (0) 8456 445 343 for complete information.
Testimonials from clients
“…Atelier Egypt certainly goes that extra distance to make your Egypt experience everything it should be…..The Dongola is spotless, the staff hospitality warm and responsive, the food appealing and creative, and again the guide made a huge difference in the breadth and depth of understanding of all aspects of the breathtaking antiquities as well as modern Egypt……”
“….The Dongola 1835 was perfect for the group , which has travelled from very basic to “Five Star / Jet Set” mode. The Dyers couldn’t have been more pleased with the cleanliness, maintenance , food and staff…….I loved the crew; the cook really wanted us to enjoy the meals , the Captain turned into my buddy, they are a good crew even staging an impromtue football match for our enjoyment…..” The Dyers, Sherbrookes, Tague & Cole, USA January 2008
“ …….Life on board the Dongola was a delight.The day began with a generous breakfast eaten leisurely on the Top Deck whilst gliding South under sail.We felt sorry for people on the large “sky scraper – sized” cruise ships who looked
on with envy…….. One felt like a 19th Century traveller to Egypt and sometimes the practicalities reflected that….If you want to leave your cares and responsibilities behind , this is the only way to see Egypt….” M Price & G Seidmann, Oxford, UK December 2007
“The sailing was just magical; the scenery is spectacular, and you just feel exactly like in films we saw about sailing on the Nile, except this time , you are not the viewer , you are part of the whole experience.The boat is very beautiful and well maintained .The crew is kind and reliable (I felt safe on the whole trip), and the food was fresh and delicious.” M Scheffer, Canada Novemeber 2007