The Sirius has completed its maiden voyage along the Nile, marking Travelmarvel's return to Egypt after a break from the market. Guests boarded in Luxor after starting their trip in Cairo, and the first sailing took in some of the country's headline sites: Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings and Queens, Philae Temple and the mighty rock temples of Abu Simbel.
The ship belongs to The APT Travel Group, whose CEO David Cox framed the launch as a response to surging American interest in Egypt, a destination he said is climbing back to the top of travellers' wish lists. The Sirius is purpose-built for the Nile, with a design that nods to Egyptian history and culture, and its name continues the line's tradition of star-themed ships — fitting, since Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky and Egypt's ancient astronomers knew it well.
Onboard, it's a fairly standard premium river cruise formula adapted to Egyptian conditions: several dining venues, local entertainment, and a sun deck with a pool for those long, hot stretches between temples. The bigger differentiator may be on shore — every itinerary runs through Tour Directors who are qualified Egyptologists, which matters a lot when you're standing in front of 3,000 years of history and want more than a plaque's worth of context.
Itineraries are pitched at a relaxed pace, with generous time at each stop rather than a box-ticking rush. Sailings for 2028 are already open for American travellers to book, with the line positioning the product as premium river cruising at a price point aimed at the US market.
Why it matters: Nile cruising is one of the most efficient ways to see Egypt's great sites — Luxor, Aswan and the temples in between — without repeated packing and long road transfers. A new, purpose-built ship entering the market means more choice and competitive pricing for anyone planning an Egypt trip, particularly travellers from the US who now have a fresh 2028 option on the river.
