Dahabiya cruise

The Nile has always been Egypt’s main route for travel and communication throughout its ancient history. Everyone from kings and merchants to soldiers, explorers, and travelers has sailed its waters.

While no ancient Pharaohs ever sailed on a Dahabiya, these elegant sailing boats became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries for leisurely cruises and expeditions, before steamships took over.

Dahabiyas are known for their graceful lateen sails, and they used to have oars too, to help when the wind died down and they couldn’t make their way further south.

Traditionally, these boats had cabins and a large suite, all shaded by a deck with comfortable lounges. That basic layout hasn’t changed much over time, except now they have electricity, which allows for hot running water and adds modern comfort to these historic vessels. Even today, Dahabiyas don’t have engines. 

Their name comes from the Arabic word Dahab, meaning “gold,” because they were once richly decorated with gold leaf. That’s why they’re often called “golden boats.”