Online Check-In

AmaWaterways’ online Cruise Check-In process is intended for the convenience of our valued guests. We require that each step of your Cruise Check-In is completed to board our ships. To complete, visit our website at www.amawaterways.com/welcome-check-in. In addition to providing the information required for embarkation, the Cruise Check-In process: 

• Ensures your personal information, as it appears on your passport, is correct
• Provides us with an emergency contact in the unlikely event of an emergency

What to Pack

Your Essential Egypt River Cruise Packing Guide

Comfort and convenience are key when you pack for your Egypt and Nile River cruise. As Egypt, Jordan and UAE are primarily Muslim countries, we kindly ask that you adhere to local customs and traditions appropriately. Rest assured you can prepare with ease – our unveiled secrets to pack for this worthwhile experience are listed below. Your main suitcase should not exceed 23kg/50lbs., otherwise excess weight charges will apply and are payable directly to the airline at check-in. 

• Lightweight clothes. Packing light for your Nile River cruise will be no problem as a majority of what you pack into your suitcase will be lightweight clothing items. The average local temperature in Egypt ranges between 90°F and 107°F (32-41°C) from late April-June and Sept-mid Oct. Breathable clothes will be your answer to most of your outfits. We suggest cotton or linen tee shirts as well as short and long sleeves.
• Scarf or shawl. You should plan to dress modestly to respect the local traditions of the mosques and temples you will be visiting. A lightweight pashmina scarf, veil or shawl is ideal for additional sun protection and as women will need to cover their shoulders and arms. Men can opt for collared shirts and lightweight pants. 
• Breathable trousers or pants. In Egypt, men typically wear trousers or pants despite the hot weather. Pack a pair of lightweight trousers or convertible pants that can transform into shorts. Please be mindful of certain ancient sites where you may want to avoid wearing shorts.
• Sturdy and versatile sandals or walking shoes are ideal to withstand any terrain when visiting temples. Sandals can provide extra comfort as well as breathing room for your toes.
• The ultimate daypack or fanny pack can hold all your daily essentials throughout your excursions including your water, pocket-sized bug spray, tissues/wet wipes, sunscreen, a hat, and any medications you may need to travel with.
• SPF products. Strong sunscreen (40 SPF or higher). Try to include SPF into as many items that you use in your daily routine for skin care. It is usually sunny, so protect your skin with lip balm, moisturizer, or other beauty products with sun protection.  
• Polarized sunglasses or a hat with wide brim for further sun protection as you enjoy your thrilling excursions. 
• Cooling scarves and bandanas can be helpful as extra protection for your neck or head from the sun.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for those cooler times at the end of the day. Temperatures during the nighttime vary dramatically and can reach as low as 35-45° F (2-7°C) during the winter
• On board your river cruise, women are more than welcome to bring their casual dresses, shorter skirts, shorts, and swimsuits to enjoy the pool on the Sun Deck. We typically follow a “casually elegant” dress code on board.
• Binoculars. Binoculars are not allowed in Jordan or Egypt for security reasons. They will be confiscated on arrival.

Here are a few pro tips when visiting a temple or religious monument…

• Try to be as respectful as possible of the local traditions, especially during religious holidays such as Ramadan (e., refrain from eating snacks in public if avoidable and save them for the motorcoach ride).
• When visiting religious sites, women and men should refrain from wearing clothing that bares their legs and upper arms.
• Be prepared to take your shoes off when visiting a mosque. 

Other items to consider:

• Do not bring binoculars. Having binoculars will result in extended searches by airport security, which will result in multi-hour delays and/or confiscation
• Swimsuit, cover-up, and flip flops
• Small flashlight
• Camera equipment and extra batteries, memory cards, chargers/accessories
• Converter and electrical adapter 
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb or hairbrush, razor, insect repellent, feminine products, and cosmetics
• Prescription medications in original containers (to be packed in carry-on bag, not checked luggage)
• Face masks
• Hand sanitizer, tissues, and anti-bacterial/disinfectant wipes
• Small first aid kit with aspirin, antibacterial cream, etc.
• Money belt or other secure place to keep passport and cash
• Proof of vaccination or negative Covid-19 test, if required

Mobile Phones

Please contact your service provider for information on overseas usage and any additional fees prior to leaving on your trip.

Important: Pack a sufficient supply (including two weeks beyond your planned return) of any medications you are taking, copies of the prescriptions and the telephone/fax numbers of your doctor. Some countries require prescription drugs be carried in their original container with the label clearly visible. 

For Your Travels

Tips for Long Flights 

• Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Alleviate ear pressure by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing or gently blowing your nose.
• Periodically walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You can also do a few isometric exercises while seated.
• Try to sleep during your overnight flight – an eye mask, noise cancelling headphones and a light sweater or scarf may help you to be more comfortable and sleep so you can acclimate to the local time more quickly.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight, as recirculated cabin air tends to dry them out.

Airport Security and Check-in
It is recommended you be at the airport at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights. This allows enough time to check your baggage, present your passport and other forms required including proof of vaccination or related tests, confirm seat assignments and boarding passes, and clear security procedures before proceeding to the boarding area. Most airlines offer online check-in 24 hours prior to departure, which can help you avoid long lines once at the airport. If permitted, this is also a chance to request seating assignments or buy an upgrade if available. Airport security regulations require that sharp objects of any kind be stored inside your checked luggage, not in your carry-on bag. You may be asked to put your shoes and/or coat through an X-ray scanner, so be prepared to remove them.

TSA Secure Flight Program 
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to provide Secure Flight passenger data when reserving airline travel. This includes your full name, date of birth and gender as it appears on non-expired government-issued travel documents (e.g., passport, re-entry permit, alien registration card, “green card,” photo ID, etc.). Any missing or incorrect information can cause unnecessary delays at the airport. If you reserved your airline tickets through AmaWaterways and have not yet provided us with this Secure Flight passenger data, please contact our office as soon as possible at 800-626-0126 or 818-428-6198 (if dialing from outside of the U.S.). Please refer to your local transportation authorities for more information. 

Late or Missed Flights 
If you miss a flight, immediately advise an airline representative that you are a cruise passenger bound for a specific location/date/time to meet your ship. If your flight is cancelled, await instructions from the airline regarding alternate travel arrangements.

Travel Protection Insurance 
We strongly recommend you purchase travel protection insurance that includes coverage related to Covid-19. If you purchased travel protection insurance, please make sure to write down important information such as the insurance company’s telephone number and your policy number. 

Baggage 
Airlines have become very strict about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please check your airline’s website to confirm specific allowances prior to your departure. Most airlines allow one piece of checked baggage and one carry-on per person. General guidelines: 

• International (trans-Atlantic) flights: In general, if traveling in Economy class, each checked bag should not exceed overall dimensions of 62 inches/158 cm and weigh more than 50 lbs. (23 kg). If traveling Business class, check with the airline you are flying as policies vary.
• Cruise and full land package passengers: Checked bag(s) on Intra-Egypt flights cannot exceed a total of 50 lbs. (23 kg).
• All passengers: Your carry-on bag should not exceed overall dimensions of 42 inches/118 cm and must weigh less than 17 (8 kg).

Jordan Luggage Restrictions (Flights between Amman and Cairo)

• Checked baggage must not exceed 23kg/50 lb in weight and overall dimensions of 62in/158 cm. Carry-on must be no heavier than 17 lbs. (8 kg).

*Extra fees will apply for overweight and/or each additional piece of checked in luggage and payable directly to the airline in cash. Maximum weight of checked luggage is 70 lbs. (32 kgs).   

Note: Please check airline websites for specific baggage weight, baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or overweight baggage charges all your flights (both international and intra-Europe).

Delayed Baggage 
Baggage can sometimes be delayed during air transport. Pack a change of clothing in your carry-on bag or your traveling companion’s bag just in case. Place a copy of the hotel and ship contact info inside each piece of checked luggage, as this will help the airline locate you should your bags be delayed. Please note that it is the responsibility of the airline to deliver any delayed bags to you. Claims for reimbursement for delayed luggage should be submitted directly to the airline. Fill out a claim form at the appropriate airline desk before leaving the airport. 

Important: AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air-carriers. In addition, during your cruise and when traveling by motorcoach, storage space may be limited and porters may decline to carry extra heavy suitcases for health and safety reasons. We recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per guest. Luggage tags and travel wallets will be delivered to your stateroom on board. We also suggest putting your contact information, such as your name, cell phone number and email as well as the hotel and/or ship contact information inside your bags, just in case they are delayed. 

Health & Safety

Vaccines & Medications

All North American residents should consult the latest vaccine recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Visit www.cdc.gov or call 1-800-232-4636 (toll free in the U.S.). Residents of other countries should contact the appropriate government agency in their home country to determine what, if any, vaccinations are recommended.

Depending on your health history, your physician may also recommend certain booster shots, such as tetanus and/or Hepatitis A and B. Antidiarrhea/upset stomach medicine may also be advised in case you are sensitive to certain spices or unfamiliar ingredients commonly used in Egypt/Middle East.

Physical Limitations 
AmaWaterways’ land packages and shore excursions in Egypt, Jordan, and Dubai require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking. Streets, temple complexes, docking locales, and other sites have steps and/or uneven terrain. Walking tours of temples can last between one and two hours. Most temples do not have sitting areas, ramps, or handrails.

Some of the embarkation/disembarkation points between ship and shore are not be able to accommodate passengers with mobility issues and who use wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or any other mechanical devices. Facilities and services for passengers with physical limitations are sometimes limited or non-existent. 

We kindly request guests requiring special assistance be accompanied by a companion who is physically able to provide such assistance. Transfers and shore excursions adhere to a set schedule and cannot be adjusted for unexpected delays due to physical limitations. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, motorcoaches, local guides/operators, or other independent suppliers. 

Health & Safety Protocols

Our teams are experienced with enhanced health and safety protocols and are ready and eager to safely welcome you on board. Our experienced Cruise Managers and crew have undergone special training and will be advised and guided by a Public Health Officer. As always, our crew will be on hand to take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your much-anticipated river cruise vacation.

Medical Conditions 
There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. Please consult your physician prior to traveling if you have a medical condition that might pose limitations during your trip. Please advise us at time of the booking if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip

Handicapped Facilities 
AmaDahlia is not equipped with handicapped facilities. Motorcoaches, boats, and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions also are not handicap-accessible.

Special Diets 
Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, with the resources available to us.

Drinking Water 
We advise using bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth when traveling through this part of the world.  A supply will be readily available on board during your cruise. If you visit a restaurant on your own during your journey, always request bottled drinks opened at the table (to ensure purity) and refuse ice cubes. Drink often to avoid dehydration, too.
All water on board is purified and filtered with a Reverse Osmosis system (consists of Softener, Carbon Filter and UV lamp) as well as chlorinated and suitable for washing. Water quality is within the standard recommendations of the WHO (World Health Organization) and Egyptian code. However, we do not recommend drinking the tap water. Complimentary bottled water will be provided to you daily for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Street Food 
Please be cautious when sampling any food purchased from street vendors, as hygiene standards may not be up to Western standards. It is best to avoid dairy products, salads, and any food that is uncooked or fruit that you have not peeled yourself. In general, it is advisable to avoid street food throughout your experience.

Luggage Restrictions

Intra Egypt flights (Cairo/Luxor/Cairo), flights between Amman and Cairo (Jordan extension)

Checked baggage must not exceed 23kg/50 lbs. in weight and overall dimensions of 62in/158 cm. Carry-on must be no heavier than 17 lbs. (8 kg).

*Extra fees will apply for overweight and/or each additional piece of checked in luggage and payable directly to the airline in cash. Maximum weight of checked luggage is 70 lbs. (32 kgs).

Important: AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air-carriers. In addition, during your cruise and when traveling by motorcoach, storage space may be limited, and porters may decline to carry extra heavy suitcases for health and safety reasons. We recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per guest. We also suggest putting your contact information, such as your name, cell phone number and email as well as the hotel and/or ship contact information inside your bags, just in case they are delayed.

Air with AmaWaterways

• Excellent Fares
• Trusted Airlines
• Quality Experience
• Transfers (to and from airport are included)
• Peace of Mind

Learn About Your Destination

It may be helpful to do some reading up on the locations you plan to visit. You might wish to learn a few key words and phrases too, especially if you plan to do any exploring on your own. 

• Click here to read our Egypt blog articles

Time Zones

 Egypt – UTC +2 hours

 Jordan – UTC +2 hours

 UAE (Dubai) – UTC +4 hours

*UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)

Average Temperatures

Average Temperatures and Rainfall*    

EGYPT - Cairo

EGYPT - Aswan

JORDAN – Amman

JORDAN – Petra

UAE - Dubai

           *Temperatures in Fahrenheit and rainfall measurements are in inches.

For current weather conditions in Egypt as well as the Middle East, check out www.weather.com or www.accuweather.com

Here are a few pro tips when visiting a temple or religious monument… 

• Try to be as respectful as possible of the local traditions, especially during religious holidays such as Ramadan (e., refrain from eating snacks in public if avoidable and save them for the motorcoach ride).
• When visiting religious sites, women and men should refrain from wearing clothing that bares their legs and upper arms.
• Be prepared to take your shoes off when visiting a mosque. 

Airport Information

For your convenience, your airport information will be included in your electronic travel documents to ensure you have the latest information pertaining to your journey.

Cairo International Airport

Cairo Airport is located approximately 16 miles/25 km from the Four Seasons Residence Inn.

Meeting place: You will be met by an AmaWaterways representative holding an “AmaWaterways” sign who will be waiting before Customs and Immigration.

There is no AmaWaterways Welcome Desk at this airport.

Queen Alia International Airport (Amman)

Queen Alia Airport is located approximately 22 miles/35 km from the St Regis Amman.

Meeting place: You will be met by an AmaWaterways representative holding an “AmaWaterways” sign as you exit baggage claim.

There is no AmaWaterways Welcome Desk at this airport.

Dubai International Airport

Dubai Airport is located approximately 9 ½ miles/15 km from the Marriott Marquis Hotel.

Meeting place: You will be met by an AmaWaterways representative holding an “AmaWaterways” sign as you exit baggage claim.

There is no AmaWaterways Welcome Desk at this airport.

Transfers

International Airport Transfers (Cairo Arrivals) 

Transfers are included for all guests arriving on Day 1 after 6am or have purchased extra nights through AmaWaterways. It is essential we have your flight arrival information at least 60 days prior to your vacation start date.  

On arrival in Cairo, you will be met by an AmaWaterways airport representative holding a sign before you reach Customs and Immigration, and they will be with you through airport formalities. Please advise the Representative if you have your Egypt visa in hand or need to purchase on arrival. See VISA section for more information 

For guests arriving in Amman or Dubai, transfers are also included on day 1 or if you have purchased extra nights through AmaWaterways. In Amman, you will be met prior to immigration where you will receive your included visa. In Dubai, you will be met after you have cleared Customs and Immigration. 

International Airport Transfers (Departures) 
Airport transfers are included on the last day or your journey to the airport as well as those guests that have purchased extra nights through AmaWaterways. Your AmaWaterways Cruise Manager will notify you of your pick-up time for the last day of the journey.  

First & Last Days

First Day

You can arrive in Cairo, Amman, and Dubai at any time on Day 1 of your journey. Transfers are included and will be available 24/7.

Transfers are included with a few exceptions:

a. When guests are deviating
b. When guests are arriving on Day 1 between 12:01am and 6am and an extra night has not been booked through AmaWaterways

It is essential we have your flight arrival information.

Last Day

You can depart anytime from Cairo and Dubai at any time. Transfers are available 24/7 and will be coordinated with your flight departure time.

Docking Locations

While in Luxor and Aswan, AmaDahlia and AmaLilia will be moored at a private dock. While cruising between Luxor and Aswan, local river authorities are responsible for allocating docking spaces and locations may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. Ships typically moor facing upstream, against the current. There may be times when multiple ships are tied together and views from your stateroom are temporarily restricted. These are typical situations beyond the control of AmaWaterways. Docking locations may also change without notice.

Hotel Information

The official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, your luggage can be dropped off at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later. 

Check-out times vary but are typically between 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, most hotels have a room where you can store your luggage until you depart for the airport.

Travel Money Tips

Local Currency

Egypt: Egyptian Pounds (EGP)

Jordan: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

United Arab Emirates: Emirati Dirham (AED)

Settling Your Bill On Board
The day before your cruise ends, you will receive an invoice for any charges you have made since boarding the ship. Please make sure all charges are correct before settling your account at the reception desk. All onboard charges are in EGP (Egyptian Pounds) and may be paid in cash or with Visa, Master Card or American Express. Your credit card company will convert your onboard charges into your home country’s currency at the current exchange rate and service fees may apply. You can also request your credit card be charged in US$. Debit cards and pre-paid credit cards are not accepted.

Safety Precautions

Stay Alert 

As in many touristic destinations, pick-pocketing is something to remain vigilant of while traveling worldwide. It is not advisable to have passports or other valuables (i.e. jewelry, money) on your person during excursions. Stay alert while venturing out on your own or in the evening, especially if traveling solo. 

It is not advisable to carry your passports or other valuables (i.e., jewelry, money) in person during excursions. Whenever possible, valuables should be kept in the safe available in your hotel room or stateroom.

For additional safety reasons, please be mindful of the pets and animals at the destination you’ll visit.

Motorcoach Safety

When touring by motorcoach, especially in Cairo, please remain seated and, if available, always fasten your seat belt. We strongly advise against using the onboard washroom while in motion; please be advised that doing so will be at your own risk. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained from failing to heed these safety precautions. Carry-on bags, purses and other bulky items should be safely stowed in the overhead luggage racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Please do not stow heavy items overhead. Take a moment to note all emergency exits and please be careful whenever entering and exiting the motorcoach.

During Your River Cruise

Reception
Should you need any assistance during your cruise, please contact the ship’s reception desk.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. Please note that at times while the ship is cruising in an isolated region of the Nile River, access may be sporadic.

Cell/Mobile Phone Service
For the most part, cell phone access is available in Cairo as well as in the ports of Luxor and Aswan. While cruising, phone service may be limited at times. Please contact your service provider for information on overseas usage and any additional fees prior to leaving on your trip.

Onboard Staff
The onboard staff consists of 65 crew members. Key English-speaking personnel include the Cruise Manager (Tour Director), Egyptologist, Hotel Manager, and those at the Reception Desk.

Smoking
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the ship, only outside in the designated area.

Ship Schedule
Your ship will promptly depart each port of call according to its cruising schedule. We are unable to delay departure for passengers who may not be back on board in time. Unless you are on a shore excursion accompanied by your AmaWaterways Egyptologist or appointed guide, you will need to make your own way back to the ship at a subsequent stop. AmaWaterways is not liable for any costs incurred if you miss the ship’s departure for any reason.

Stateroom Information

In-room Entertainment
Each stateroom has a 43” flat-panel TV that features news, sports and movie channels via satellite.

Telephone
Each stateroom has a telephone that may be used to make calls within the ship.

Climate Control
All staterooms are equipped with air conditioning with individual climate control.

Electricity
The electricity onboard is 220v/50hz with European 2 pin power outlets. The cabins will also have standard US/Canada 120 V plugs and USB plugs next to the beds. You may need an adapter and/or converter for any electrical appliances you bring with you.

Stateroom Amenities
Each stateroom provides bathrobes, slippers, a hair dryer, and spa quality toiletries including soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotions.

Water
All water on board is purified and filtered with a Reverse Osmosis system (consists of Softener, Carbon Filter and UV lamp) as well as chlorinated and suitable for washing. Water quality is within the standard recommendations of the WHO (World Health Organization) and Egyptian code. However, we do not recommend drinking the tap water. Complimentary bottled water will be provided to you daily for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Ironing
For safety reasons, the use of traveling irons is prohibited on board the ship. Clothes may be pressed for an additional fee.

Safe
All staterooms are equipped with a safe. We recommend placing your passport and other valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room. Oversized items may be stored in the ship’s safe at the reception desk.

Wi-Fi
To access the ship's secure complimentary Wi-Fi on your personal device (such as a laptop, tablet, or cell phone), you simply choose AmaDahlia@Guest network and agree to the terms and conditions. Or if you are aboard the AmaLilia choose AmaLilia@Guest network and agree to the terms and conditions.

Onboard Facilities & Amenities

Salon & Massage Services
Hair styling services and massage treatments are available on board. Please inquire at the reception desk for a menu of services and to schedule an appointment. Please note, these services are available for a fee and can be paid for in cash or with a credit card at the time of purchase or at the time you settle any of your onboard charges prior to disembarkation from the ship.

Fitness Room & Pool
AmaDahlia has a fitness room with a limited selection of exercise equipment, as well as towels and bottled water. There is also a refreshing pool located on the Sun Deck. Please note there is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is solely at your own risk. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the fitness room or pool.

Sun & Jasmine Decks
The Sun Deck has a bar, lounge chairs and pool and on the Jasmine Deck, there is an Al Fresco (outdoor) restaurant. For safety reasons, there may be times when access to the Sun Deck is restricted, such as late evening or during inclement weather.

Main Lounge
Your ship has a large, comfortable lounge with a full-service bar on the Jasmine Deck. This lounge serves as a gathering spot for friends and family for the Sip & Sail cocktail hour before dinner, nightly entertainment as well as announcements and lectures.

Key Cards
At check-in, your photo will be taken. This is registered within our onboard computer system and synchronized to your magnetic key card. This key card is used for onboard purchases, entering and exiting the ship, and for your stateroom.

Gift Shop
The gift shop sells accessories, souvenirs, gifts, and a limited selection of toiletries. Typical hours are usually from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily except on embarkation and disembarkation days.

Laundry
Onboard laundry is available for a fee. A price list can be found in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship.

Printer
Each ship is equipped with a dedicated laser printer for printing airline boarding passes. You may send the print job from your stateroom computer. Please ask the reception desk for information and assistance.

Medical Facilities
As there is no doctor or nurse on board, in the event you need medical assistance, the closest medical facility will be contacted. We strongly urge you to obtain adequate travel insurance to cover any medical treatment and/or medical evacuation while overseas. If medical services are required, such assistance is the financial responsibility of the guest.

Onboard Dining

Onboard Dining

All meals on board are included in the brochure price and are served in the Main Restaurant in a single seating. Open seating allows you to sit wherever you wish and to meet fellow passengers. Table reservations are not accepted. However, for dinner at our Chef’s Al Fresco restaurant, reservations are required as there is limited seating capacity. Please contact the reception desk staff for reservations before 2:00 P.M. on your preferred day (first-come, first-served basis).

All meals while cruising are prepared by our executive chefs and we offer a choice of Western and Egyptian/Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are served a la carte, and dinner is a multi-course meal with a selection of entrées including vegetarian.

Beverages 

Complimentary fresh drinking water is available throughout the cruise and your room will be restocked each day. Coffee and teas are available free of charge any time of the day. At lunch and dinner, local wine and beer, soft drinks, bottled water and specialty coffees and teas are available on an unlimited and complimentary basis. In the evening, enjoy our "Sip & Sail" cocktail hour. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are also available outside of mealtimes for an additional charge.

Special Diets 
Please let us know prior to your departure date if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your request with the resources available to us.

Onboard Staff

The staff consists of approximately 68 Egyptian crew members.

Captain
The ship’s highly qualified and licensed Captain was carefully selected for his/her vast knowledge of the Nile River, attention to safety and ability to command the ship and crew.

Cruise Manager
Specifically selected for their knowledge, experience and friendly personalities, AmaWaterways Cruise Managers are resourceful, well-traveled and multilingual travel professionals. They are responsible for coordinating all daily activities both on and off the ship.

Hotel Manager
The ship’s Hotel Manager oversees all hotel operations on board, including the dining room, reception and housekeeping.

Ship Crew
All AmaWaterways crewmembers, from the nautical crew to stateroom stewards, are thoroughly trained to ensure you enjoy the best vacation possible.

Shore Excursions

Daily Activities

The ship’s Daily Program contains updated information about each day’s scheduled activities, shore excursions, tour departure times and more. It is available at the reception desk. Full day sightseeing is including in Cairo and involves both touring by coach as well as walking.

While cruising along the Nile River, your tours of temples and/or tombs involve mostly walking. Walking tours range from one to two hours and, for the most part, temples do not have seating, step handrails or ramps. You should expect to stand and walk for up to two hours. Be sure to pack good walking shoes as surfaces tend to be uneven and or rocky. Each tour is led by a licensed English-speaking Egyptologist. A Personal Audio Device with headset will be provided. You may also bring your own personal headset to plug in to this device. Note that scheduled activities and tours are always subject to change.

Religious Sites
When visiting religious sites, particularly in Cairo, we kindly ask guests to be respectful of the local culture and its customs. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and some sites may require you to remove your shoes upon entry. Shoes that can easily be slipped on and off are useful during these excursions. Your Egyptologist will advise you in advance should attire need to be adjusted.

Optional Visit to Abu Simbel

On Day 6 as part of your Secrets of Egypt & the Nile river journey, you have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit one of the world’s most magnificent archaeological treasures, Abu Simbel. This more than 3,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most active of Egypt’s pharaohs, also includes a smaller temple dedicated to his beloved chief wife, Queen Nefertari. Seize the day and be among an exclusive group of travelers to experience the wonders and delights of this ancient site.

If you wish to see Abu Simbel, please reserve this optional tour in advance with AmaWaterways and no later than at final payment for your Egypt vacation. This will be the only way to guarantee a seat on this half-day outing that includes a roundtrip flight between Aswan and Abu Simbel. If you wait until you board your river cruise to reserve, we cannot guarantee seats will be available and the cost will be higher.

Motorcoach Safety

When touring by motorcoach, especially in Cairo, please remain seated and, if available, always fasten your seat belt. We strongly advise against using the onboard washroom while in motion; please be advised that doing so will be at your own risk. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained from failing to heed these safety precautions. Carry-on bags, purses and other bulky items should be safely stowed in the overhead luggage racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Please do not stow heavy items overhead. Take a moment to note all emergency exits and please be careful whenever entering and exiting the motorcoach.

Docking Locations

While in Luxor and Aswan, AmaDahlia and AmaLilia will be moored at a private dock. While cruising between Luxor and Aswan, local river authorities are responsible for allocating docking spaces and locations may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. Ships typically moor facing upstream, against the current. There may be times when multiple ships are tied together and views from your stateroom are temporarily restricted. These are typical situations beyond the control of AmaWaterways. Docking locations may also change without notice.

Daily Cruiser Newsletter

We recommend carrying each day’s onboard newsletter with you whenever going ashore, as it contains the ship’s docking address, All Aboard times and your Cruise Manager’s and ship telephone numbers.

Recommended Gratuities

Although we leave gratuities to your discretion, many of our guests have asked for general tipping guidelines. Gratuities may be charged on a credit card or given in cash.

Total suggested gratuities for the 11 night Secrets of Egypt & the Nile is $250/C$330 per person. This includes:

Cairo Pre- and Post-River Cruise: $130/C$170 per person, which supports the services of your Cruise Manager, Egyptologists, drivers and other land-based staff.

7-Night River Cruise: $120/C$160 per person, which supports the Hotel Manager and additional AmaDahlia and AmaLilia crew.

Optional Land Package:

• Local Guide: US$5-$7 per day per guest
• Driver: US$3 per day per guest

Contact Information

Your final travel documents contain important phone numbers and other information you may need during your vacation.

Helpful Calling Information
Calling Egypt and the Middle East from the US and Canada:

- Dial the US/CAN long distance code 011

- Dial the country code (such as 20 for Egypt)

- Dial the area code

- Dial the number

For example, to dial an Egyptian phone number, such as 012 274 10 477, you dial the following: 011 20 12 274 10 477

Contact Information

Our representatives are available to help with any needs that may arise during your vacation. Please refer to the phone numbers below and/or on your travel documents and advise the ship of any delays or changes to your schedule.

AmaWaterways Headquarters
1-800-626-0126 or 1-818-428-6198
Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Pacific Standard Time
Saturday: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Pacific Standard Time

If a travel emergency occurs once you arrive in Jordan, Egypt, or Dubai, please call the following numbers: Egypt (20) 12 274 10 477 (local dial 012 274 10 477)

Contact: Mr. H Rashad – Wings Egypt

Jordan (962) 79 966-3383 (local dial 079 966 3383)

Contact: Mr. M Awadat – Dakkak Travel

Dubai (971) 55 636 5250 (local dial 055 636 5250 )

Contact: Mr. I Rabie – Wings Dubai

Emergency email address: emergency@amawaterways.com (Please put “EMERGENCY” in the subject line of your email.) Our emergency email is monitored 24/7.

Hotel Information

Hotel Arrival & Departure Information
The official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, your luggage can be dropped off at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later.

Check-out times vary but are typically between 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, most hotels have a room where you can store your luggage until you depart for the airport.

Hotel Contact Information

Please refer to your cruise vouchers to verify which hotel you are staying at.

Cairo

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence

35 Giza Street

Giza

12311

Egypt

Tel: +20 (2) 3567 1600

Amman

St Regis Amman

5th Circle

Shafiq Al-Hayek Street

Amman 11185

Jordan

Tel: +962 (6) 400 0500

Dubai

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road

Business Bay

Dubai, 121000

United Arab Emirates

Tel: 971 (4) 414 0000