The Historic Dahabiya
Eugénie
Built in 1887
On the Nile to this day
The Historic Dahabiya
Eugénie
Built in 1887
On the Nile to this day
Traditional Dahabiya Nile Sailing Experience
Imagine you are standing on deck of the ‘Eugenie’, the wind fills the mighty sails and the ship glides silently along the Nile. No engine breaks the silence — only the gentle lapping of the water and the distant call of a heron accompany you. This is how explorers, writers and adventurers of the 19th century once travelled, and now you have the opportunity to sail in the footsteps of history and experience Egypt in a completely new way.
An Original from a Bygone Era
The ‘Eugenie’ was built around 1887 and is one of the last five real sailing ships of its kind on the Nile. While heavy cruise ships and modern Dahabiyas with glass facades and air conditioning lack the charm of times gone by, we still sail in the original way — in harmony with nature. Even a light wind is enough to propel the ship southwards against the current, just as it once did. Find out more about the fascinating history of this ship.
The Privilege of Slowness
In a world characterised by hustle and bustle, the ‘Eugenie’ invites you to slow down completely. Nature sets the rhythm. You finally have time again to read a good book, have long conversations or simply relax. You glide along this ancient river through a landscape that has been constantly changing for thousands of years and yet always remains the same. The desert approaches the Nile, and the lush green of the riverside vegetation is in perfect harmony with the golden sand.
In the Footsteps
of Famous Travellers
For centuries, the Nile has inspired travellers from all over the world. From Gustave Flaubert to Champolion, Amelia Edwards — they all fell in love with the stillness of the water, the pharaonic buildings and the golden light of the desert. On board the ‘Eugenie’, you will follow in their footsteps and experience the Nile with all its secrets and stories.
Florence Nightingale (1820—1910)
British nurse and social reformer
When Wind and Water Set the Course
When Wind and Water Set the Course
Our route leads from Luxor to Aswan, past the impressive temples of Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo. Places full of history and stories — no two days are the same, the wind determines our rhythm.
Thanks to the extremely shallow draught, we are able to moor anywhere. Perhaps we like a place so much that we stay longer, the next day a sandbank invites us to swim or we set sail before sunrise to take advantage of the morning wind. The journey does not follow a prescribed plan, is flexible from start to finish and of course depends on the wind. Find out what makes our Dahabiya Nile sailing so special.
An Exclusive Adventure on the Nile
The ‘Eugenie’ offers an exclusive and private travel experience that differs from any conventional Nile cruise. This ship is an experience, quite luxurious but not a floating luxury hotel.
Authenticity and slowness of movement is our motto. This is also the reason why we are travelling significantly longer than most other providers. In addition to the usual trip (six nights, seven days), we also offer a longer trip (nine days). This brings us closer to the original nature of a Dahabiya trip and gives us more time to linger.
The entire ship is only available for private charter. Either as a family trip or as a tour among friends. This gives travellers the opportunity to influence the whole experience and makes the trip very flexible in all aspects.
Preserving a Legacy, Fulfilling a Dream
Over 30 years ago, our friend Didier saved the ‘Eugenie’ from being scrapped and brought her back to life. In 2024, this piece of history became ours, and we are proud to carry on his legacy of authentic Dahabiya Nile sailing and warm hospitality.
We believe in slow, mindful travel — far from mass tourism. The ‘Eugenie’ is not just a boat; she is a gift, a way to experience the Nile as it was meant to be. Find out more about us.
Amelia Edwards (1831—1892)
writer, journalist and Egyptologist
