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Egypt, Nile River, Sanctuary Sun Boat IV

What is it about rivers and stories of adventure and intrigue? From The African Queen to Fitzcarraldo and The Long Good Friday, every river has a tale to tell.

There is one river, however, that speaks of the past like no other. The Nile.

This October, film-goers will be whisked to Egypt for the remake of Death on the Nile, starring Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot. But the real star will be the river itself.

Indeed, with the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum scheduled to open this year, enticing new itineraries, plus plenty of new and refurbished ships, later this year is looking like a serendipitous time for Egypt to find its feet again.

Egypt, Nile River, Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, Felucca

“Egypt is the world’s fastest-growing travel destination according to the World Tourism Organisation,” said Pieter van der Schee, Global Director of Sales and Marketing for travel company, Sanctuary Retreats, which has been operating luxury river cruises on the Nile River for almost two decades.

“The country has experienced an extraordinary level of renewed interest from both consumers and agents over the past couple of years.”

Now is definitely the time to plan ahead if you are contemplating a visit.

River ships aren’t huge and the dahabiyas, intimate, characterful sailing vessels that are unique to the Nile, are smaller still.

At the luxury end, Sanctuary Retreats offers a choice of four vessels: Sanctuary Sun Boat IV and Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, both of which have enjoyed extensive makeovers over the past two years; Sanctuary Sun Boat III, currently undergoing a multi-million dollar refurbishment and relaunching later this year; and the bespoke, exclusive-use dahabiya,Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau, accommodating just 12 guests.

Egypt, Nile River, Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, Philae Temple

All feature a range of cruise itineraries and bespoke charters, which are perfect for testing the river in style.

Following the river from Aswan to Luxor right through the heart of Egypt, cruises take in some of the best-known highlights, including the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Unfinished Obelisk, Philae and Luxor.

Sanctuary Retreats also provides ample opportunity for its guests to explore the more remote, but equally spectacular Denderah, Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples along this section of the river, with expert Egyptologists on hand to bring history to life on all shore excursions.

With prices starting from just USD1307 per person twin-share for a four-night cruise aboard the Sanctuary Sun Boat IV and the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, and with affordable flights from Australia daily via a range of airlines including Emirates and Qantas, Egypt offers up an easily accessible – and truly unforgettable holiday destination for Australians.

Written by JOHN ROZENTALS