Experience Ancient Egypt Aboard the MS Presidential Commodore
Experience Ancient Egypt Aboard the MS Presidential Commodore
Cruising the Nile is widely considered the most relaxing way to experience the history of Egypt. The river acts as a timeline, flowing past ancient temples and modern villages, offering a view that has changed little over millennia. Among the various vessels operating on this historic waterway, the MS Presidential Commodore is a popular 5-star option for travellers. This ship offers a blend of classic hospitality and modern convenience, serving as a floating hotel that transports you comfortably between Luxor and Aswan. This review examines the onboard facilities, dining options, and sightseeing opportunities to help you determine if this vessel suits your holiday plans.
Accommodation and Onboard Amenities
The cabins on the MS Presidential Commodore are constructed to serve as a private sanctuary after long mornings of walking through archaeological sites. Most cabins are positioned to offer external views, featuring large windows that allow natural light to flood the space. You can watch the feluccas and riverbanks drift past without leaving your room. The interior design typically follows a classic aesthetic, utilising warm wood tones and patterned fabrics to create a cosy atmosphere. Standard amenities include air conditioning, which is essential during the warmer months, along with satellite television, a mini-fridge, and a private en-suite bathroom equipped with a bathtub or shower.
Beyond the cabins, the ship offers several communal areas designed for relaxation. The upper sundeck is often the most popular spot on the boat. It features a swimming pool where you can cool off after a morning excursion, surrounded by sun loungers and a bar service. It is the ideal place to read a book or simply watch the sunset over the West Bank. Inside, there is a spacious lounge bar where guests gather in the evenings for drinks and conversation. For those who wish to stay connected or pick up essentials, the ship usually houses a small bazaar and offers internet access, though connectivity can vary depending on the ship’s location on the river.
Dining on the Nile
Food is a central part of the cruising experience, and the MS Presidential Commodore aims to cater to a diverse range of international palates. Meals are served in the main restaurant, which is spacious enough to accommodate all guests in a single sitting. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are typically served buffet-style, allowing you to sample a wide variety of dishes. The breakfast spread usually includes eggs cooked to order, pastries, fruit, and cereals.
Lunch and dinner buffets offer a mix of international favourites and local Egyptian specialities. This is a great opportunity to try dishes like koshary, tahini, or locally prepared fish without having to find a restaurant on land. The culinary team works to keep the menu varied throughout the week. The dining atmosphere is casual but refined, and strict dress codes are rarely enforced, though most guests choose to dress smart-casual for dinner. During the sailing, the crew often organises a traditional Egyptian night, where the menu features exclusively local cuisine and guests are encouraged to wear traditional galabeyas.
Excursions and Sightseeing
The primary purpose of the cruise is to visit the monuments of Upper Egypt. The MS Presidential Commodore follows a standard itinerary that covers the major historical sites between Luxor and Aswan. In Luxor, the itinerary generally includes the West Bank, home to the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut, as well as the colossal Karnak and Luxor Temples on the East Bank.
Is This Nile Cruise Right for You?
The MS Presidential Commodore offers a comfortable and well-organised way to see the highlights of ancient Egypt. It removes the logistical challenges of arranging transport and meals, allowing you to focus entirely on the history and the scenery. If you are looking for a vessel that balances 5-star standards with a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere, this ship is an excellent choice for your Egyptian voyage.
