Destination Guide

What Is a Dahabiya? The Traditional Egyptian Nile Boat

Destination Guide

Jun 5, 2026

What Is a Dahabiya? The Traditional Egyptian Nile Boat

A dahabiya is the traditional Egyptian Nile sailing boat, carrying 16 to 20 guests under a lateen sail on a shallow wooden hull. This guide covers what sets it apart from a standard Nile cruise, the three dahabiyas we sail, what a trip costs, and what the journey looks like day by day.

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