Safety on the Nile Cruise

Taking a Nile River cruise is totally safe. In fact, it’s one of the safest ways to explore the ancient wonders of the Nile. The best Nile cruises are run by operators who follow strict international safety standards and employ a team of well-trained staff who will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the journey.

Still, like any tourist activity, it is always a good idea to be mindful when going on a Nile River cruise. You must educate yourself on some simple precautions before you embark on your journey. 

Whether it is your first time trying out the Nile cruise or you have done it many times, these practical tips can help you stay safe.

Safety Tips for a Smooth Nile Cruise Experience.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

1 – Follow Crew Instructions.

Staff of Nile cruises are trained to ensure the safety of guests onboard. Therefore, you must follow their instructions. Pay close attention to the safety briefing at the start of your cruise. Take note of the things you must do in case of an emergency. The briefing will also cover essential details, such as where the life jackets are, how to safely move around the vessel, and more.

While cruising, the crew might also give reminders about safety protocols, so make sure you adhere to them for your safety.

2 –  Use Caution on Decks.

You may have heard of horror stories about people falling off the decks of a cruise ship. While these are very rare incidents, it’s still important that you use caution while on the deck. When taking Nile cruises in Egypt, you’ll likely be spending plenty of time on the outdoor decks since this is where you’ll enjoy the best views of the Nile. But be very careful while here.

The decks can get slippery early in the morning after they are cleaned. To avoid slipping, wear shoes that have a good grip and always watch your step, especially when you’re close to the railings.

3 – Keep a Copy of Your Travel Documents.

Have backup copies of your important documents, such as your passport and visa. You are going to present them when boarding the Nile cruises in Egypt. Also, these are the documents that the Egyptian Immigration authorities will require from you when you enter the country. Losing these documents is sure to spoil your trip, as it can be a hassle to get them replaced.

Leave the original copies of these documents in your cabin instead of carrying them with you during sightseeing. Bring printed or digital copies of your passport and visa, which you can present just in case they ask for your identification.

4 – Secure Valuables.

Although your belongings will be generally safe in your cabin, especially if you book the best Nile cruises, it’s wise to take precautions to ensure the safety of your valuables. Thankfully, many cruise ships have in-cabin safes, which you can use to store your passport, jewelry, and other expensive items.

Do not leave things unattended in public areas on the ship, such as the lounge, sundeck, and dining areas. When it’s time for sightseeing, bring only those things that you are going to need. Carry a crossbody bag or a money belt to secure your wallet, mobile phone, etc.

5 – Be Protected from the Sun.

When booking Nile cruises in the off-peak season, you’re going to have to deal with the intense sun, which Egypt is known for. Keep yourself protected from sunburn by regularly applying sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that have UV protection. Wear clothes made of light and breathable fabric, so you’ll feel comfortable, especially when going out.

It’s also crucial to stay hydrated when cruising the Nile under the intense heat. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and drink from time to time. Even if you do not feel thirsty, make it a habit to drink water.

6 – Know Where the Life Jackets Are.

One of the most important safety tips for Nile cruises is to know where the life jackets on the ship are located. In fact, this is usually part of the safety briefing at the start of the cruise. Even though it is extremely rare to encounter emergencies on Nile cruises in Egypt, you must be aware of where to grab your life jacket just in case.

In most cabins, the life jackets are usually stored in a clearly marked area, so finding them should be easy when the need arises. You could find them inside the wardrobe or right below your bed. Listen to the safety briefing to find out the exact location of these lifejackets. If you are traveling with kids, it may be a good idea to also educate them about the use of lifejackets, especially if they are already old enough to comprehend these things.

7 – Stay Aware During Sightseeing.

Nile cruise packages include shore excursions and activities like sightseeing in temples, museums, markets, and city streets. While most locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors, there are instances of scams and petty theft in some tourist areas.

Always be vigilant when going around. Keep your valuables close, ideally inside a money belt or zipped bag. Avoid flashing valuables when sightseeing in busy areas.

Be cautious of people approaching you with “gift offers” or offering to take your photo. Politely decline and move on with your tour group.

8 – Practice Good Hygiene.

To ensure you remain in good health during your cruise, always practice good hygiene. This includes regularly washing your hands before and after your meals. When going for your shore excursions, consider bringing hand sanitizer. Some of the best Nile cruises in Egypt provide sanitizer in common spaces and dining areas, so make sure to use it.

If you don’t feel well, inform the crew immediately. Most cruises on the Nile have a medical officer onboard as well as a designated first aid area. The crew is trained to assist with medical emergencies and even minor illnesses. For the more serious health concerns, they could arrange your transfer to the nearest hospital on land.

9 – Stay Informed About Health Advisories.

Before your Nile cruises in Egypt,  take the time to do your research on the latest health advisories and travel notices about traveling to Egypt. Find out if there are any news reports about seasonal illnesses, and that there may be health-related entry requirements that you must adhere to, such as vaccinations.

Although the Egypt Nile cruises are generally well-stocked with medicines and can provide you should you need one, it’s a good idea to bring some basic medications with you. These include drugs for common issues like upset stomach and colds. When bringing prescription medicines, make sure you also bring a copy of your doctor’s prescription with you.

Final Tip: Book with a Reputable Nile Cruise Company

To guarantee a safe and enjoyable cruising experience on the Nile, use a trusted source when booking Nile cruises in Egypt. Nile Cruisen is the best platform to use when it comes to this. If you book through us, we’ll connect you with reliable and top-rated Nile cruise operators to ensure your safety. We only feature companies that have met the high safety and service standards in cruising, so you can book with confidence.