This New 236-Foot Luxury River Ship Will Launch on the Nile This Fall

The 236-foot "AmaNubia" will begin sailing in November.

By Rachel Cormack | August 12, 2026

There will soon be a new king, or pharaoh, rather, on Egyptian waters.

AmaWaterways, which currently offers cruises through Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa and South America, plans to launch a new luxury river ship on the Nile River this autumn. The 236-foot AmaNubia will allow travellers to take in towering ancient wonders in comfort and style. River cruises are one of the safest ways to travel around Egypt, industry experts say, because you dock right near attractions and all excursions are chaperoned.

“The Nile is one of the most beautiful rivers on earth, and sailing down it feels like travelling through time, with one iconic site after another bringing a history we’re all familiar with to life before our eyes,” AmaWaterways CEO Catherine Powell said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to see such strong renewed interest in Egypt, as travellers seek to experience its extraordinary history, vibrant culture and warm hospitality.”

The lobby.
Photo: AmaWaterways

AmaNubia can accommodate up to 76 guests across 23 staterooms and 15 spacious suites, resulting in a somewhat intimate cruising experience. (The standout is the full-beam owner’s suite, which spans 525 square feet on the upper deck.) The boat offers many of the same venues and amenities as the 236-foot AmaLilia that launched in 2024 but has a distinctive layout and design. The interiors, for example, are inspired by the artistry, textures and colours found throughout ancient Egypt.

While onboard, guests can savour fresh, local cuisine at either the main restaurant or the more intimate Chef’s Table, relax on the sundeck, at the club or by the pool, and recharge in the wellness area or fitness centre. Engaging lectures are also on the cards, with dedicated Egyptologists on every sailing.

As for the journey itself, AmaNubia will sail the Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary. It includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, as well as an exclusive private tour of the historic Abdeen Palace in Cairo. It also includes a stay at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence on the west bank of the Nile River, ensuring the same level of comfort and service both on water and land.

The owner’s suite.
Photo: AmaWaterways

Guests can also choose to tack on optional experiences, including a visit to the magnificent Abu Simbel temple and high tea at Aswan’s historic Sofitel Legend Old Cataract hotel. You can even decide to go further afield to Alexandria, Dubai and Jordan, creating a Middle Eastern adventure.

“With AmaNubia, we’re continuing to elevate the guest experience through beautifully designed ships, enriching experiences led by expert Egyptologists, and partnerships with some of Egypt’s most prestigious hotels, creating a seamless luxury journey from the moment guests arrive in Cairo to the end of their cruise,” adds Powell.

AmaNubia will begin sailing in November. For more information or to reserve a cruise, contact your preferred travel agent or visit the AmaWaterways website.

View more photos below


Cover image: AmaWaterways

This story was previously published on Robb Report USA.

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