Dahabeya
Egypt

All inclusive

"Dahabeya" in Arabic means "golden boat" and this was exactly how they used to call the sultans’ and pashas’ boats in the 18th century, which were painted gold, to imitate the splendour and wealth of ancient Egypt. Typical two-mast sailing boats, Dahabeyas also carried the 167 scholars who accompanied Napoleon to discover the art, culture and science of Ancient Egypt. And it was on such “queens of the Nile” that adventurers and writers used to navigate throughout the last century. Specially created to reconstruct a by-gone atmosphere, our Dahabeya will be able to take you on a journey through time, culture and nature.

From its convenient decks you will be able to admire the fascinating contrasts of this generous and welcoming land: the luxuriant green vegetation growing along the banks, with the desert to be glimpsed at just a few hundred metres, the gloomy silence of the city of dead contemplating the opposite bank with its teeming souk and cocktail of colours, perfumes and voices. You will feel like true 19th century explorers, but without having to do without the comforts of modern living; in keeping with the colonial style from which it draws its inspiration, the Dahabeya drifts along on the gentle breeze cooling hot Egyptian days but, should it be necessary, it is also equipped with engines. This mode of travel is discreet and personalised, far from the chaos and frenzy of mass tourism: a unique opportunity to savour each moment of an unforgettable holiday. 37 metres long, the craft has 6 cabins. From the prow, two flights of steps lead to the upper deck: partially shaded to afford shelter from the African sun, it is furnished with comfortable deckchairs, while suntan enthusiasts may take advantage of the large oriental-style cushions on the open deck area.  The communal areas are all equipped with adjustable air-conditioning and here guests may relax with a wide selection of Italian books, cards, chess and board games at their disposal. A lounge with a flat screen plasma TV offers the possibility to watch Italian channels or choose from the selection of DVDs provided by the Dahabeya.