Cairo Dinner and Night Cruises

Two to three hour evening cruises on the Nile in Cairo with dinner, music and folkloric shows, the easiest way to enjoy the river in the capital.

Dinner cruises are one of Cairo’s most popular evening outings. Large restaurant boats moored along the Corniche in Garden City, Giza and Maadi sail up and down the river for around two hours while guests eat and watch entertainment as the city lights glide past.

What to expect

• Dinner: usually an open buffet or set menu of Egyptian and international dishes; drinks are often extra.
• Entertainment: a tanoura (whirling Sufi-style dancer) performance, an oriental dancer and live music are standard on most boats.
• Views: the Cairo Tower, the bridges, Zamalek and the illuminated skyline.

Boats range from mass-market vessels carrying several hundred guests to more upscale restaurant boats with fine dining. Smaller private motor yachts can be chartered for groups. Some boats also operate lunch cruises.

How to book

Reserve through your hotel, a travel agency or the boat operator, and confirm the boarding time, location and whether hotel transfers are included. Dress is smart-casual. Departures are usually around 7.30 to 8.30 in the evening.

Tips

Choose a window table on the upper deck for the best views. The cruises run all year; spring and autumn evenings are most pleasant on the open deck. If you prefer quiet, a sunset felucca ride is a simpler alternative.

Last checked October 2026. Prices are rough guides and change by season and operator; book with a licensed operator. Sources: .