General Terms

These Terms & Conditions govern your participation in any Karma Karnak Nile Cruise. By booking or boarding the vessel, you agree to be bound by these terms. Karma Karnak reserves the right to update these terms at any time; the version applicable is the one in force at the time of your cruise.

• Karma Karnak operates as a river cruise experience and is not responsible for delays, itinerary changes, or disruptions caused by Nile water levels, weather, government regulations, security situations, or force majeure events.
• All guests must be respectful of Egyptian culture, local customs, and religious sites visited during shore excursions.
• The Captain and the staff on-board have final authority on all matters relating to safety and onboard operations.
• No pets are permitted onboard.
• Karma Karnak is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or limited mobility. The vessel and shore excursion sites do not have wheelchair access. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to consult Karma Concierge before booking.
• Transfer to Ship: Approximately 45 minutes from Aswan Airport.
• Boarding Location: The vessel’s docking location in Aswan is not fixed and may vary depending on operational requirements. The boat is generally moored near McDonald’s in Aswan and the Aswan Kayaking & Rowing Club

Onboard Policies

• Conduct: Members and guests are expected to behave respectfully toward other guests, crew, and the vessel. Disruptive, abusive, or illegal behavior may result in removal from the cruise at the member’s/guest’s expense.
• Smoking: Smoking (including e-cigarettes and shisha) is permitted only in designated outdoor areas. Smoking inside cabins or public indoor areas is strictly prohibited. You may contact the staff on-board for further information post check-in.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is served according to Egyptian licensing laws. Excessive consumption that affects member/guest safety or comfort is not permitted. Guests may not bring their own alcohol onboard.
• Dress Code: Modest attire is required when visiting temples and during daytime shore excursions. Swimwear is restricted to the pool deck. Smart casual attire is recommended for evening dining, with lightweight fabrics such as linen and cotton ideal for warm weather.
• Photography & Drones: Photography for personal use is encouraged. Commercial photography requires prior written permission from Karma Karnak. Use of drones is strictly prohibited.
• Lost & Found: Items left behind will be held for 30 days. Karma Karnak is not liable for lost or stolen items.
• Children: Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times, especially near the pool and railings.

Food & Beverage Policy

• Most meal plans (Full Board or All-Inclusive) include breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurant. Exact inclusions are specified in your booking confirmation.
• Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, etc.) must be notified at least 14 days prior to departure. While we make every effort to accommodate, we cannot guarantee all requests.
• Karma Karnak operates buffet-style dining across all meals with no à la carte service. As access to emergency assistance is restricted while sailing, guests with significant food allergies are strongly advised to contact Karma Concierge to discuss suitability and dietary requirements before confirming their booking.
• Guests with severe food allergies must inform at the time of booking and also inform the restaurant manager upon boarding.
• Outside food and beverages may not be brought into the main restaurant or lounge areas. Picnics for shore excursions are permitted if arranged through the cruise kitchen. Kindly contact the boat manager post check-in for more details.
• Room service may be available at an additional charge depending on the package.
• Tea, coffee, and mineral water are available throughout the day and included as part of the package.

Cabin & Occupancy Policy

• Cabin is allocated based on the category booked. Upgrades are subject to availability and additional charges.
• Maximum occupancy per cabin is strictly enforced (2 adults + 1 child, depending on cabin size). Extra occupants without prior approval will be refused boarding or charged accordingly.
• Cabins are serviced daily. Members/Guests are requested to leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign if they do not wish to be serviced.
• Members/Guests are responsible for any damage to cabin fixtures, linens, or equipment beyond normal wear and tear. Charges will be applied to the booking card.
• No redecoration, moving of furniture, or hanging of items on walls is permitted.
• Late check-out requests are subject to availability.

Booking, Cancellation & Membership Rules

• Bookings: All reservations must be confirmed by you, the Karma Concierge department.
• Cancellation Policy: Please notify Karma Concierge at least 30 days prior to check-in to receive a full refund, or the amount may be kept as credit for future use.
• Name changes (if required) to know more options, kindly contact Karma Concierge 30 days prior to your check-in dates.
• Karma Karnak is not responsible for travel insurance. Guests are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation.

Check-in & Identification

• Valid government ID required at check-in (Driver’s License, Passport, etc.).
• Admission may be refused if the ID does not match the reservation details.
• Check-in and check-out timings are aligned with cruise schedules.
• For international members and guests, a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity is required. Egyptian entry visas (if needed) are the responsibility of the member and guest.

Health & Safety

• Guests must follow the swimming pool rules and wear appropriate swimwear.
• Policies are in place to maintain hygiene, safety, and members/guests comfort.
• All guests must comply with onboard safety briefings and emergency drills.
• Life jackets are provided in cabins and must be used during emergency situations as directed by the crew.
• The vessel operates in a river environment – children and non-swimmers must wear life vests when near open deck areas if required by the Captain.
• Members/Guests with pre-existing medical conditions must inform Karma Concierge at the time of booking. Karma Karnak reserves the right to refuse boarding if a guest’s health condition poses a risk to themselves or others.
• Medical assistance can be arranged while the vessel is docked; however, it is not available while sailing. Serious medical emergencies may require evacuation at the guest’s expense.

Travel & Baggage Policy

Domestic flight allowance:

• 20 kg checked baggage
• 5 kg hand baggage
• Excess baggage is subject to airline charges (payable directly by the member/guest).
• Karma Karnak is not liable for loss or damage to baggage. Members/Guests should keep valuables in the cabin safe.
• Large suitcases may be stored in designated areas during embarkation/disembarkation.
• Prohibited items include weapons, illegal substances, flammable materials, and drones (without permission).

Additional Charges

• A refundable security deposit or damage fee may be charged at check-in.
• Gratuities (tipping) for crew are not included and are at the member’s/guest’s discretion.
• Any onboard purchases of soft drinks and alcohol, etc., will be charged to your cabin account and settled at check-out.
• All prices are quoted in USD or EUR unless otherwise stated. Currency exchange onboard is subject to daily rates.

*If you have any concerns regarding these terms and conditions, please reach out to your Karma Concierge.

How many days does a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take?
A standard one-way trip lasts 4-5 days from Luxor or 3-4 days from Aswan.

What are the main stops and sites visited along the way?
In Luxor, visits include Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut Temple, with optional tours such as a Balloon Ride and the Karnak Sound and Light Show. On the route to Aswan, stops often include Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and in Aswan, Philae Temple, the High Dam, and optional tours like Abu Simbel or Nubian village.

Are all meals included in the cruise package?
Meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner are charged separately. Drinks and snacks, beyond basic tea, coffee, or water, are extra.

What’s the best time of year to go on a Nile cruise?
We do not sail in July and August due to temperatures reaching 42°C to 45°C or higher. Cruises run from early September to the end of June. January and February are slightly cooler, with daytime temperatures averaging around 22°C, but nights can drop to as low as 12°C.

Is the drinking water on the boat safe?
Tap water isn’t safe — it’s recommended to stick to sealed bottled water, even for brushing teeth. Water is provided at mealtimes and from water dispensers throughout the day.

How much are drinks and tips on the ship?
Drinks are paid for separately, with bar prices clearly displayed. Tipping is optional; envelopes are available at reception if you wish to thank staff and crew. Guides are separate, and gratuities are at your discretion.

Do I need to book excursions separately or are they included?
Excursions are not included. The standard package covers guided visits to main temples, as mentioned above. Additional excursions, such as Abu Simbel, Nubian Village, hot air balloon rides, or sound and light shows, cost extra. Details are available from the Karma Concierge in advance.

Is it safe to swim in the Nile from the boat?
It’s mixed — some areas near Nubian Village have cleaner, flowing water with no reported issues and may allow swimming. However, swimming is rarely offered due to pollution risks.

What should I pack for a Nile cruise?
Light clothing, modest outfits for temple visits, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, toilet paper or wipes, and small cash for tips and vendors.

Are laundry services available on board?
Yes, there is a laundry service on board for washing and ironing clothes, which is very reasonably priced.

Are there doctors or medical facilities on board?
The boat does not have a clinic onboard, but a doctor is on call when docked. For emergencies or serious health issues while sailing, protocols are in place; however, if you have serious health concerns, travelling may not be advisable since emergency services can take time to reach the boat. Reliable hospitals and doctors are available in Luxor and Aswan.

How hot does it get, and is the boat air-conditioned?
Temperatures can be very high during peak season. The cruise boat is fully air-conditioned in cabins and public areas.

Do I need a visa, and how do I get one?
Most European visitors receive a visa on arrival at the airport for about $25 USD. Visitors from other nations should apply for a visa in advance. Please consult your Karma Concierge representative for further details.