In the 1970s, while immersed in the splendor of Egypt, Abercrombie & Kent founder Geoffrey Kent found himself at the iconic Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, then known as the Old Cataract Hotel, during the filming of Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile.” It was over dinner with esteemed British actor David Niven that Kent conceived the idea of crafting riverboats destined to redefine luxury on the Nile. “To be the most luxurious vessels on the Nile, with panoramic windows, lavish marble detailing, and a swimming pool,” he reminisced on Instagram.
In 1977, Abercrombie & Kent launched its maiden Nile cruise, setting the stage for an unparalleled journey through Egypt’s storied landscapes. Fast forward four decades, and Kent continues to push boundaries, unveiling plans for the company’s fifth Egyptian riverboat, a bespoke vessel that promises to set a new standard in Nile cruising.
Currently in development at Egypt’s Massara Shipyard, with an inaugural voyage scheduled for the fall of 2025, the riverboat will feature 32 opulent cabins, each adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows and Juliet-style balconies. Marble bathrooms and 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets ensure unparalleled comfort, while the two presidential suites boast private decks with outdoor hot tubs.
Beyond luxurious accommodations, the riverboat will offer an array of onboard amenities, including indoor and outdoor dining venues, a spa, gym, swimming pool, sundeck, and communal spaces. Promising the “most immersive Nile cruise experience yet,” Abercrombie & Kent’s statement emphasizes that the vessel will be staffed by a hand-picked crew of Egyptian experts, providing guests with unparalleled insights into the mysteries of ancient Egypt.
Far more than a mere cruise, the riverboat experience will serve as a gateway to Egypt’s timeless wonders, offering VIP experiences such as after-hours access to the Pyramids of Giza and private dinners within ancient temples. Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, expressed pride in the company’s legacy of pioneering luxury Nile cruises. “Every year, we continue to elevate this enchanting voyage, offering extraordinary experiences accompanied by Egyptologists and storytellers who breathe life into Egypt’s luminous history,” she remarked.
