Sanctuary Sun Boat III
Ship Facts
Occupancy: 36
Crew: 45
Tonnage: 800
Length: 61 m
Beam: 14 m
Decks: 4
|
 
|
 Treasures of Egypt Luxury Gay Tour & Nile River Cruise
9 nights cruise & tour from/to Cairo, Egypt
January 16 – 25, 2027
Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III
 An Exclusive Journey Through Egypt’s Timeless Wonders!
The pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Luxor’s temples, the Valley of the Kings—these timeless wonders have sparked our imagination for centuries. In 2027, you’ll walk in their shadow, feeling the ancient energy of Egypt beneath your feet. Cruise the legendary Nile aboard a luxurious vessel, guided by expert Egyptologists who bring history to life. Stand before colossal monuments, wander through hieroglyph-covered temples, and witness a civilization that continues to inspire awe.
Be Among the First to Enter the Grand Egyptian Museum. A highlight of this journey is exploring the new Grand Egyptian Museum—the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization. For the first time, the complete collection of King Tut’s treasures will be displayed together, offering an experience unlike any other.
Guided by passionate Egyptologists who are not only experts in their field but also gifted storytellers, you’ll uncover the mysteries of this ancient land and bring history to life.
But this is more than just an educational experience. This luxury Nile River cruise is also a chance to connect with fellow gay travelers who share your passion for exploration and adventure. You’ll dine under the stars, toast to new discoveries, and share unforgettable experiences.
And as you revel in the opulence of luxurious accommodations, indulge in world-class cuisine, explore historic sites, and experience the warmth of Egyptian hospitality, you’ll understand why this journey is truly fit for pharaohs, kings, and queens – including you.
This is your chance to step beyond the pages of history and into the heart of a civilization that has fascinated the world for millennia. Are you ready?
Egypt Gay Cruise & Tour Highlights
• 4 Night Luxury Nile River All-Gay Cruise on a private charter of Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III
• Be among the first to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures
• Discover the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, including the famed Mummies Room
• Explore the magnificent Valley of the Kings and royal tombs
• Visit breathtaking temples, including Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae
• Fly to the iconic Abu Simbel to see Ramses II’s imposing twin temples
• Experience a felucca sail on the Nile in Aswan
• Travel with private Egyptologists throughout the journey
• Optional hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings
Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza Hotel
Perched on the banks of the Nile, the Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza offers sweeping views of the river and the city’s skyline. Your spacious Nile-view room is a serene retreat, featuring elegant décor, plush bedding, and marble bathrooms designed for indulgence.
Lounge by the palm-fringed pool, unwind with a rejuvenating treatment at the world-class spa, or delight in exceptional cuisine at one of the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants and bars. With its prime Garden City location, you’re just minutes from Cairo’s cultural treasures, yet worlds away in comfort and calm.
Here, timeless Egyptian hospitality meets modern luxury—an unforgettable sanctuary to begin and end your days in Cairo.
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa facing the West Bank, our resort rests on the edge of the river Nile, less than seven kilometers from central Luxor via shuttle. We have traditional felucca sailing and horseback and camelback tours of the riverbanks, with both Karnak and Luxor temples within four kilometers. Perks include our holistic spa, two infinity pools, Wi-Fi, and restaurants.
This tranquil oasis offers a respite from the city’s bustle, yet is just a short shuttle ride away from Luxor’s heart. Indulge in holistic spa treatments, unwind by the infinity pools with panoramic Nile views, and savor delicious cuisine at the resort’s restaurants. Your private balcony, with views of the Nile, provides the perfect setting for reflection and relaxation.
Welcome Aboard Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III The elegant Sanctuary Sun Boat III has just 18 cabins, offering a luxurious yet relaxed cruise on the Nile. Decorated in a contemporary style, the ship’s design combines modern Egyptian culture with seven thousand years of heritage. Add gourmet cuisine as well as sightseeing experiences with the country’s most experienced Egyptologists, this is a taste of genuine 5-star luxury on a timeless river.
Evoking the heyday of Egypt’s past, the Sanctuary Sun Boat III has several times been voted among the top 100 most beautiful boats in the world by Condé Nast readers. Modelled on the opulent era of the 20s and 30s, this graceful cruiser has exquisite facilities from delicious gourmet dining in the restaurant to sipping refreshing cocktails around the pool area on the sun deck, or enjoying afternoon tea in the stunning lounge.
 The Sun Boat III blends contemporary Egyptian culture with authentic character, a blend of East and West. The extensive sun deck areas, with their elegant teak floors, include private cabanas around the pool area, the perfect spot for relaxing while taking in the scenery. Best of all, the Sun Boat III will be our ship for 4 nights.
With 12 standard cabins, two royal suites and two presidential suites, the Sanctuary Sun Boat III is an intimate river yacht representing pure luxury on the Nile. Style, comfort and refinement are reflected throughout, with subtle white and ecru tones combining to create sophistication and warmth. The vessel accommodates up to 32 guests in its Luxury Cabins that include bathrooms with showers, as well as Suites that feature bathrooms complete with a shower and bath.
Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis Hotel
The new Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis redefines luxury in the heart of Egypt’s capital. Contemporary elegance blends seamlessly with timeless sophistication in your spacious Deluxe Room, complete with indulgent details and modern comforts. Spend your day unwinding by the landscaped pool, rejuvenating at the spa, or sampling fine dining in one of the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants. With its central location, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy Cairo’s vibrant culture and history—before returning to the calm and refinement of this exceptional urban sanctuary.
 Included in this Journey
• 5-star accommodations throughout Egypt
• Daily Breakfast in Cairo
• Lunches while on tour in Cairo
• Welcome Dinner in Cairo
• VIP Airport Transfers with fast-track
• All meals aboard the Sanctuary Sun Boat III
• Private airport transfer in a modern air-conditioned vehicle with the service of tour guides
• All tours, as described in the program, will be led by a private English-speaking Egyptologist throughout the entire trip.
• All admissions for the sightseeing stated in the program
• Portage at airports and hotels
• Fully escorted gay group tour & cruise
 Not Included in this Journey
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Expenses of Personal Nature
• International Flights
• Domestic Flights within Egypt ($320, subject to change)
• Optional excursions, such as hot air balloon rides in Luxor
• Gratuities for guides, drivers, and crew of the Sun Boat III ($400)
• Alcoholic beverages on consumption aboard the Sun Boat III
• Entry visa for Egypt (currently $30 subject to change)
• Post Trip Extension to Jordan (Details to follow)
• Covid-19 Test Expenses (if needed)
• Please keep in mind that travel insurance is highly recommended and an essential part of your trip
|
|
Treasures of Egypt
Luxury Gay Tour & Nile Cruise
Itinerary
|
|
Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 16 Jan |
Cairo, Egypt |
|
PM |
| 17 Jan |
Cairo, Egypt |
|
|
| 18 Jan |
Cairo - Giza |
|
|
| 19 Jan |
Cairo / Luxor |
|
|
| 20 Jan |
Luxor, Egypt |
|
|
| 21 Jan |
Luxor / West Bank |
|
|
| 22 Jan |
Edfu / Kom Ombo |
|
|
| 23 Jan |
Aswan, Egypt |
|
|
| 24 Jan |
Aswan / Abu Simbel / Cairo |
|
|
| 25 Jan |
Cairo, Egypt / Departure |
AM |
|
Day 1 - Cairo, Egypt
Arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI), where you’ll be greeted by our private Tour Coordinator and escorted through the airport for a seamless transfer to your hotel.
Today is yours to relax and unwind. Settle into your elegant Nile-view room at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or enjoy the hotel’s sweeping views of the Nile.
This evening, join your fellow travelers for a festive Welcome Dinner, the perfect start to our Egyptian adventure.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza Hotel, Cairo
Day 2 - Cairo
Trace the story of ancient Egypt through the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where highlights include the fascinating Mummies Room—a rare opportunity to come face-to-face with ancient royalty.
Next, we’ll be among the first to experience the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization. Here, the complete treasures of King Tutankhamun will be displayed together for the very first time, alongside masterpieces like the colossal statue of Ramses II.
After this immersive journey through antiquity, we’ll return to the hotel with the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza Hotel, Cairo
Day 3 - Cairo - Great Pyramids
Journey to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of King Zoser—the first pyramid ever built and the world’s oldest freestanding stone structure.
After lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge, stand in awe before the Great Pyramids of Giza —the last surviving wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the enigmatic Sphinx. These ancient wonders still defy time and imagination.
The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure back at the hotel.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza Hotel, Cairo
Day 4 - Cairo to Luxor
Wander the narrow lanes of Old and Coptic Cairo, where ancient churches and the historic Fortress of Babylon reveal Egypt’s deep Christian heritage, including the Church of St. Sergius, said to be built on the site where the Holy Family once found refuge.
Later, we’ll fly south to Luxor—the ancient city of Thebes—and visit the magnificent Temple of Luxor, dedicated to Amun-Ra. As evening falls, the temple glows under soft lights, its Avenue of Sphinxes creating a magical introduction to Upper Egypt.
Accommodation: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, Luxor
Day 5 - All Aboard the Sunboat III
Step aboard our private charter of the Sanctuary Sun Boat III, welcomed with a lively Zaffa of drums and flutes. After settling into your elegant cabin, relax on the sundeck and watch the Nile drift by.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore the awe-inspiring Temple of Karnak, a sprawling complex dedicated to Amun and expanded over a period of two millennia.
Back on board, enjoy afternoon tea, followed by cocktails and canapés with complimentary Egyptian wine and local beer. Tonight, gather with fellow travelers for a gourmet Welcome Dinner as we begin our journey along the Nile.
Accommodation: Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III, Nile River Cruise
Day 6 - Luxor West Bank
Beneath the golden sands of Luxor’s West Bank lies a treasure trove of tombs and temples, where discoveries are still being made. In the legendary Valley of the Kings, pharaohs were laid to rest with treasures for the afterlife—many tombs so exquisitely preserved they look untouched by time.
We’ll also visit the Valley of the Queens, including the dazzling tomb of Queen Nefertari, and the majestic Temple of Hatshepsut, built for Egypt’s female pharaoh. The colossal statues of Memnon stand watch as they have for millennia.
Adventurous travelers may opt for a hot air balloon ride over this ancient necropolis—a breathtaking view of temples, tombs, and desert.
Back aboard the Sun Boat III, enjoy lunch as we sail toward Esna, followed by afternoon tea. Tonight, relax with dinner and a movie night under the stars.
Accommodation: Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III, Nile River Cruise
Day 7 - Edfu to Kom Ombo
Glide along the Nile to the Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus and famed as one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. Continue sailing to Kom Ombo, where a rare dual temple honors both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Back on board, learn the flavors of Egyptian cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. Tonight, join the joyful Egyptian Night celebration—dress in traditional galabeyyas, dance to lively music, and feast on a buffet of local specialties in one of the most unforgettable evenings of your journey.
Accommodation: Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III, Nile River Cruise
Day 8 - Aswan & Abu Simbel
Take a flight to the magnificent Abu Simbel, where four colossal statues of Ramses II rise from the cliffs above Lake Nasser. Standing before this masterpiece, it’s easy to feel the power and ambition of a pharaoh who sought to leave an eternal mark.
Back in Aswan, enjoy lunch on board before drifting along the Nile on a traditional felucca, sailing past Elephantine Island, Lord Kitchener’s lush Botanical Gardens, and the Agha Khan Mausoleum. Later, sip afternoon tea on deck while an Oud trio sets the mood with timeless melodies.
The evening brings our grand finale: a Farewell Gala Dinner with white-gloved service, gourmet cuisine, and dazzling performances by whirling Dervishes and a graceful belly dancer—a magical send-off to our journey along the Nile.
Accommodation: Sanctuary Retreats Sun Boat III, Nile River Cruise
Day 9 - Aswan - Cairo
Bid farewell to the Sun Boat III as we disembark in Aswan for one last morning of discovery. A short motorboat ride carries us to the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully set on Agilika Island. We’ll also visit the immense Unfinished Obelisk, an ambitious project left incomplete in the granite quarries.
Afterward, fly back to Cairo, where the evening is yours to relax and reflect on the journey.
Accommodation: Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis Hotel, Cairo
Day 10 - Cairo / Departure
Your Egyptian adventure may be ending, but it doesn’t have to stop here. Continue with us on a 4-night/5-day extension to Jordan (January 25–29, 2027) - from the rose-red city of Petra to the starlit desert skies of Wadi Rum, and finally to the soothing waters of the Dead Sea.
If you’re not joining the extension, this is your final day in Egypt. May the spirit of this ancient land travel home with you, inspiring a lifelong passion for discovery and a yearning to return. Safe travels—and until our next adventure together.
|
|
