About
Ship & Crew
A Historic Ship with Timeless Elegance
Built around 1850, the Eugenie is one of the last original Dahabiyas still sailing the Nile.
With a riveted steel hull and a superstructure made of Egyptian acacia, she combines durability with traditional craftsmanship. Measuring 28 meters in length and 5.5 meters in width, the vessel maintains its authentic charm while offering modern comforts.
Year of construction: around 1850
Hull: riveted steel
Superstructure: Egyptian acacia
Length: 28 metres
Width: 5.50 m
Tonnage: 26 t
Technical details
Sail: settee sail, similar to the European lateen sails
Sail area: ca. 240 m2
Mast height: 21 m
20 KWH solar system
17 KW power generator (only for extreme loads)
Room layout
4 Passenger cabins (3 double, 1 single)
3 Bathrooms
(Toilet, Shower, Washbasin)
1 Saloon
Large deck
A Crew with Decades of Experience
A Crew with Decades of Experience
The Eugenie is not just a boat; she is a home at sea, run by a dedicated crew with decades of experience. Captain Mohamed has steered the vessel for 35 years, ensuring smooth sailing through the river’s timeless landscapes. Boat manager Mr. Mustafa oversees every detail, while Chef Assab, onboard for 30 years, prepares exquisite meals that reflect the flavors of Egypt.
Providing attentive service is Mr. Tayeb, alongside sailor Mr. Ahmed and three other experienced sailors who skillfully navigate the dahabiya’s sails. A mechanic and a motorboat captain complete the team, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey on the Nile.
The Owners’ Vision – Preserving a Legacy, Fulfilling a Dream
Over 30 years ago, our friend Didier rescued the Eugenie from being scrapped. With great passion and attention to detail, he brought this boat back to life and was one of the first providers of sailing trips on the Nile at the time.
In 2024, this piece of Nile history became our property and we are proud to continue Didier’s tradition of hospitality and exceptional travel quality.
As managers and partners of the Marsam Hotel, it has always been our dream to operate a Dahabiya on the Nile at some point, but previous co-operations with Egyptian boat owners failed due to the very different concepts. A modern ship was never an option for us – we see the ‘Eugenie’ as a gift.
We are friends of soft tourism and declared opponents of mass tourism. We love the Nile and the landscape it has shaped and, of course, the Pharaonic civilisation. Today’s Egyptians are cheerful people and passionate hosts. This all fits together perfectly and all we really need are guests who share this philosophy of travelling and experiencing.
Florence Nightingale (1820–1910)
British nurse and social reformer
