Your FAQs Answered for Sonesta Moon Goddess Cruise – Sailing the Nile in Style:
A journey down the Nile River is often a dream trip, gliding past millennia-old temples and soaking in the timeless landscapes of Egypt. Choosing the right vessel is key to making this dream a reality.
The Sonesta Moon Goddess is a popular choice, known for offering a deluxe cruising experience between the historic cities of Luxor and Aswan.
If you’re considering booking this cruise, you likely have questions. Here, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Sonesta Moon Goddess to help you plan your unforgettable Egyptian adventure (Information current as of April 2025).
Q. What are the typical itineraries offered on the Sonesta Moon Goddess?
A: The Sonesta Moon Goddess typically operates itineraries between Luxor and Aswan. The most common durations are: 4 Nights / 5 Days: Luxor to Aswan (often departing Mondays) 3 Nights / 4 Days: Aswan to Luxor (often departing Fridays) 7 Nights / 8 Days: Round trip from either Luxor or Aswan. Always check the specific departure day for your chosen itinerary length when booking.
Q: How can I book a cruise on the Sonesta Moon Goddess?
A: You can book through several channels: Directly via the Sonesta main seller in Egypt NileCruisen.com or the reservations department of Nile Cruisen.
Q: What facilities can I expect onboard?
A: The Sonesta Moon Goddess is equipped for comfort and relaxation. You’ll typically find: A main restaurant serving meals. A lounge bar for drinks and socializing. A spacious Sun Deck with loungers and a swimming pool. Sometimes a small gift shop. Often basic fitness equipment (gym) and massage services are available (may be extra cost).
Q: What is the general atmosphere like onboard?
A: Expect an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s a 5-star deluxe-rated vessel, attracting international travelers. While comfortable and casual during the day for sightseeing, evenings (especially dinner) lean towards smart casual. It’s refined but not overly formal.
Q: Is there entertainment provided?
A: Yes, Nile cruises typically offer nightly entertainment. Common events include: A Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party. An Egyptian Belly Dance show. A Nubian Folkloric show. A “Galabiya Party” where guests on board can dress in traditional Egyptian attire. Music in the lounge bar during the evenings. Cabins & Comfort
Q: What are the standard cabins like?
A: The cabins on the Sonesta Moon Goddess are a key feature. They are comfortably furnished deluxe cabins typically equipped with: Air conditioning Private ensuite bathroom with shower (and often a hairdryer) Satellite TV Mini-bar (contents usually extra) Safe deposit box Most notably, private balconies with sliding glass doors, generally large enough for seating, allowing excellent private views of the Nile.
Q: Are suites available if I want more space or luxury?
A: Yes, the Sonesta Moon Goddess usually features a small number of larger Presidential Suites which offer significantly more space, separate lounge areas, and potentially enhanced amenities or services.
Q: Is food included in the cruise price?
A: Yes, Nile cruises on the Sonesta Moon Goddess are typically sold on a Full Board basis. This means breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included daily in the main restaurant.
Q: What kind of food is served on the Nile Cruise board?
A: You can expect a mix of international dishes and Egyptian specialties, often served buffet-style, though some meals might be set menus. Quality is generally high, catering to diverse palates.
Q: Are drinks included?
A: Generally, drinks are not included in the standard full board price, except perhaps tea/coffee during breakfast. Bottled water, soft drinks, juices, coffee/tea outside meal times, and alcoholic beverages will usually incur an extra charge added to your cabin bill. Complimentary bottled water is often provided during shore excursions.
Are the sightseeing tours (shore excursions) included?
A: Yes, a key part of the Nile cruise experience is the included daily shore excursions to the major ancient sites along the route. These typically include visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon (in Luxor), Temple of Horus in Edfu, Temple of Sobek & Haroeris in Kom Ombo, and the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple (in Aswan).
Q: Are licensed guides and entrance fees included in the excursions?
A: Yes, The cruise package typically includes transportation to the sites, entrance fees, and the services of a qualified Egyptologist guide. However, it is crucial to confirm exactly what is included when you book.
Q: Is the trip to Abu Simbel included?
A: The excursion to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel (south of Aswan) is usually offered as an optional extra tour. It requires a very early start and involves either a flight or a long bus ride, incurring an additional cost. You can typically book this onboard or in advance.
Q: Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
A: Yes, Wi-Fi is usually available but often comes at an extra charge. Connectivity relies on mobile signals along the Nile, meaning it can be slow and intermittent, especially while sailing between towns or through the Esna Lock. Don’t expect seamless high-speed internet.
Q: What currency should I use onboard?
A: The official currency on board is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While onboard bills for extras (drinks, Wi-Fi, laundry) are often charged to your cabin and settled at the end in EGP or sometimes by credit card, major foreign currencies like USD or EUR might be accepted for settling bills or for tips, but it’s wise to have some EGP for smaller purchases or tips off the boat.
Q: What should I pack during the Nile Cruise? What’s the dress code?
A: Pack light, comfortable clothing (cotton is ideal) for daytime sightseeing, along with comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. For evenings onboard, smart casual attire is appropriate (e.g., trousers/skirts, nice top/shirt). You might want one slightly dressier outfit for the Captain’s cocktail. Remember modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful when visiting religious sites.
Q: Is tipping expected? How is it handled?
A: Tipping (known as baksheesh) is customary and expected in Egypt for services rendered. Onboard the cruise, tips for the ship’s crew (housekeeping, restaurant staff, boat crew etc.) are usually collected towards the end of the cruise. The cruise director will typically advise on the suggested amount per person per day, often collected in an envelope. You should also budget for tips for your tour guides and drivers during excursions.
We hope these FAQs provide a clearer picture of what to expect on a Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile cruise. It offers a wonderful blend of historical exploration and relaxing travel through the heart of ancient Egypt. For the absolute latest details on schedules, inclusions, and pricing, always confirm directly with Sonesta or your chosen travel provider before booking. Enjoy your journey on the timeless Nile!
See you soon on board with Nile Cruisen
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