Egypt Cruises

Yes, Australian travellers typically need a visa to enter Egypt, including when arriving as part of a cruise itinerary. Australian passport holders can generally apply for an e-Visa before departure or obtain a visa on arrival for tourism visits, subject to the latest entry requirements.

Entry requirements for Egypt are subject to change. Please check Smartraveller for the latest travel advice before departure. Remember to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, carry all required documentation and confirm the entry requirements for every destination on your itinerary.

The best time to cruise Egypt is between October and April, when cooler temperatures provide comfortable conditions for exploring ancient landmarks, vibrant cities and iconic attractions.

December to February is particularly popular for visiting sites such as the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor and Aswan, while October to November and March to April offer a great balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Egypt cruises operate year-round, and travelling during the warmer months from May to September can offer excellent value and a more relaxed sightseeing experience.

Most Egypt cruises depart from overseas ports. However, getting there is easy with a perfectly packaged cruise holiday. With My Cruises, you’ll enjoy international flights to your cruise, often combined with handpicked pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, so you can relax and explore your departure city before embarking on your Egyptian adventure. From there, you’ll discover ancient wonders, vibrant cultures and some of the world’s most fascinating historical treasures.

Popular cruise lines offering ocean cruises to Egypt include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Virgin Voyages and Explorations by Norwegian. These itineraries typically visit Egypt as part of a broader Mediterranean, Middle East or Africa voyage, with ports such as Alexandria providing access to iconic attractions including the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and Cairo’s ancient treasures.

For travellers seeking a more immersive experience, specialist operators such as AmaWaterways offer Nile River cruises between Luxor and Aswan, giving you the chance to discover ancient temples, historic monuments and some of Egypt’s most treasured cultural landmarks.

When packing for your Egypt cruise, be prepared for warm days, cooler evenings and plenty of sightseeing. You’ll likely want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat and sunglasses. Modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees can also be useful when visiting religious sites and cultural attractions. During the cooler months, a light jacket or jumper can be useful for evenings and early mornings.

You may also want to pack a camera for capturing Egypt’s remarkable landscapes and ancient monuments. Consider the shore excursions included in your itinerary and pack accordingly. A practical daypack can be useful for carrying water, sunscreen and other essentials while exploring ashore, while a reusable water bottle can help you stay hydrated throughout your journey.

Finally, always double-check that you’ve packed the essentials: your passport, visa where required, travel insurance, cruise documents, tickets, prescription medications and any other important travel documentation.