General Info
Booking facts
- All rates are based on private tours for two (2) or one (1) person. However, if you are a family or group traveling together, our tour consultant will provide a discounted price according to the number of people you book for.
Sailing schedules
Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile Cruise Ship: A Comprehensive Review and Guide
The Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile Cruise is a luxurious and elegant vessel that offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore the majestic Nile River. With its reputation for superior service, state-of-the-art amenities, and a variety of itineraries, the Sonesta Moon Goddess stands out as one of the finest choices for a Nile cruise. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the ship, its offerings, and its suitability for various types of travelers.
The Cruise Line Sonesta
The Sonesta International Hotels Corporation, which owns and operates the Sonesta Moon Goddess, is renowned for its commitment to luxury and exceptional service. The company has a strong reputation in the hospitality and cruise industries, particularly in Egypt, where it operates several high-end Nile cruise ships.
Insider Tips That Only a Guide Would Know
- Tip 1: Book early to secure a presidential suite, as these are in high demand.
- Tip 2: Bring comfortable walking shoes for day excursions.
- Tip 3: Take advantage of the Captain's Welcome Cocktail Party to meet other passengers and the crew.
Features
Sonesta Moon Goddess is a 5-star luxury Nile cruiser that offers unmatched luxury. In addition to luxurious, yet tastefully decorated, accommodations and public areas, spacious cabins with private balconies give you the chance to enjoy life with the Nile scenery when you are on board the Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile Cruise.
In-depth Description of the Ship
The Sonesta Moon Goddess is a 5-star luxury cruise ship that was built in 2000 at the Maasara Shipyard in Cairo, Egypt. Designed by Belgian interior designer Jose Vanden Bossche, the ship combines modern elegance with traditional Egyptian charm. It measures 72 meters in length and 12 meters in width and features four decks. The ship has a passenger capacity of 106 and is staffed by a crew of 50, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail.
What Differentiates This Ship from Other Similar Ships
The Sonesta Moon Goddess distinguishes itself from other Nile cruise ships through its focus on luxury and exclusivity. Key differentiators include:
- Private Balconies: Unlike many other Nile cruise ships, every cabin on the Sonesta Moon Goddess features a private balcony, allowing passengers to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Nile.
- Presidential Suites: The ship offers four Presidential Suites, each with a private lounge and additional space, catering to travelers seeking the utmost luxury.
- Onboard Amenities: The ship boasts a range of high-end facilities, including a restaurant, discotheque, bars, a jogging track, a gym, nightly entertainment, a spacious sun deck with a swimming pool, and guided excursions.
- Ultra-Luxury Rating: While the ship officially holds a 5-star rating from the Egyptian Tourism Authority, it is often considered an "Ultra Luxury" cruise by industry standards.
- Cultural Immersion: The itineraries include guided excursions to some of Egypt's most iconic historical sites, such as the Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Edfu Temple, ensuring a blend of luxury and cultural exploration.
Who Would Most Enjoy This Cruise?
The Sonesta Moon Goddess caters to a wide range of travelers, from families to solo adventurers, and is particularly well-suited for those seeking a luxurious and culturally enriching experience.
Families
The ship is family-friendly, with accommodations and amenities that cater to both adults and children.
Kids
Children under the age of 2 can travel free of charge, and those aged 2 to 12 are eligible for a 50% discount on adult rates. However, the ship allows a maximum of one child sharing a cabin with two adults, making it ideal for smaller families.
Handicapped Access
While the ship provides luxury and comfort, it is important to note that accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges may be limited due to the design of the ship and the nature of Nile excursions.
Accommodations
The ship features 49 luxurious cabins, including 4 Presidential Suites, all of which are equipped with private balconies. This makes the Sonesta Moon Goddess one of the few Nile cruise ships to offer such exclusivity. The en-suite bathrooms are fitted with full-size bathtubs, and the cabins are equipped with modern amenities such as individual climate control, direct-dial telephones, mini-bars, safety deposit boxes, and satellite televisions.