I spent an amazing week aboard the AmaDahlia, which is a sister ship to the AmaLilia in the AmaWaterways fleet cruising along the River Nile. With space for 72 guests, the experience felt both cosy and intimate. The dining room on the top deck is a real treat and dinners are served with table service, making it feel special each night. For breakfast and lunch, you can enjoy a tasty buffet with lots of options to choose from. Plus, there’s even a chance to enjoy the delightful Chef’s Table! One of my favourite moments was dining at Al-Fresco under the stars in the warm night air.
Accommodation on AmaDahlia
The accommodation aboard AmaDahlia has 36 elegantly staterooms, 16 of which are exquisite suites, each boasting with luxurious amenities. Among the standout features are a heated sun-deck swimming pool and bar, perfect for unwinding as you take in the stunning Nile views. You’ll also discover the Chef’s Al Fresco Restaurant, a hair and nail salon, and two serene massage rooms. Could you ask for anything more?
While we were onboard, we had the pleasure of staying in a delightful French & Outside Balcony stateroom on the Lotus Deck, Category SB. It was such a spacious room, with both a French balcony and an outdoor balcony that let us soak in the gorgeous views of the Nile River. The modern décor and all the little luxuries it had to offer were my favourite touches. Our room had a comfy seating area, a queen-size bed which felt like sleeping on a cloud, and a lovely spacious bathroom with a rain shower.
French and Outside Staterooms
Excursions
When we arrived in Luxor, we were greeted with a seamless transfer arranged by AmaWaterways, making our journey feel effortless from the very start.
On our second day, we went on an exhilarating tour of the Valley of the Kings, one of the most renowned archaeological sites in the world. Exploring the rock-cut tombs which are located on the west bank of Luxor, we marveled at the burial sites of Tutankhamun and Seti. The deeper we explored into the ancient chambers, the more we were amazed by the detailed carvings dating back to around 1200 BC and the captivating stories the tour guide which was explained to us in great detail by our tour guide.
The Valley of the Kings
Over the next few days, we continued to visit various archaeological marvels, all included in the cost of our cruise. Our tour guide was brilliant! The passion he had for history showed through as he ensured we took in everything around us. The various insights he gave us, added layers of understanding and appreciation for such rich history we were around.
We also chose to take an additional tour to the spectacular Abu Simbel, a temple complex with a truly fascinating history. We took a quick flight from Aswan Airport took us to Lake Nasser, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Abu Simbel, now over 3,000 years old, towers majestically.
The Valley of the Kings
To top off, we visited the iconic Cataract Hotel in Aswan. The hotel was absolutely stunning, boasting a luxurious atmosphere, soaring ceilings, and elegant chandeliers that added a touch of grandeur.
Around the AmaDahlia
One of my favourite spots on the AmaDahlia was definitely the sundeck. It featured a lovely swimming pool along with various seating arrangements, including beds and shaded chairs for those who preferred to escape the sun. This area was perfect for enjoying a meal while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Nile during sunrise and sunset.
Pool Deck
The onboard dining options were very diverse. The main restaurant served cuisine inspired by the region, always incorporating fresh local ingredients. There was also the Al-Fresco Dining option, where you could savor freshly prepared meals outdoors while taking in panoramic views of the river. Furthermore, the Chef’s Table offered a unique dining experience with a tasting menu paired with fine wines which wine lovers will really enjoy!
Al-Fresco Dining Area
For wellness enthusiasts, there is a Wellness Program that include fitness classes, a fitness centre, and yoga sessions. Entertainment aboard was equally fun, throughout multiple nights were cultural performances, guest speakers, and themed evenings.
Reflecting on this trip, several things stood out for me, especially the rich history of ancient Egypt and the extraordinary food. The ship itself was fantastic, and the crew provided attentive service, making both onboard and off-ship experiences truly memorable.
For more information, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0808 239 6075.
