Step aboard the MS Mövenpick Darakum and you’ll experience a five-star cruise on the mighty Nile River in Egypt, crafted to offer both luxury and authenticity. The ship was launched in 2008 and accommodates just 52 cabins and suites (for a total of around 104 passengers), giving you a truly intimate experience compared to larger vessels. Designed with a low draft, it’s able to navigate the full length of the Nile, allowing an itinerary that stretches between Cairo and Aswan — ideal if you’re looking for a bucket-list river journey. The décor is striking too, themed with Moroccan-inspired touches, sumptuous furnishings and refined finishes — you’ll find open-deck spaces, plenty of lounging areas and an ambience that emphasises comfort and style.
On board you’ll find that downtime is as well catered for as the excursions. The sun deck includes a pool (perfect for a cooling dip after sightseeing) and ample loungers and seating where you can relax and take in the views. Inside, the lounge-bar becomes a social hub in the evenings: you might enjoy a belly-dancer performance, a themed “galabiya” party, or simply sip a drink while unwinding in comfort. Fitness isn’t neglected either — there’s a small gym area and plenty of deck space to stroll or take fresh air while the river banks drift by. If you’re looking for a blend of relaxation and cultural immersion, this ship offers it.
Dining aboard the MS Darakum is designed to match the luxury of the environment. You’ll dine in a main restaurant that serves a wide selection of international and Egyptian-regional dishes, with buffets and set-menus that make the most of fresh ingredients and river-side ambiance. Morning meals begin with pastries, hot dishes and continental options, while lunch and dinner bring more variety and flavour, reflecting local cuisine and global tastes. With such a clientele size, the atmosphere remains calm and refined rather than rushed, meaning you can enjoy a leisurely meal with service to match the premium setting.
When it comes to your cabin, you’ll find comfort and design thoughtfully combined. Standard cabins on the Main Deck start at around 20 m² with large picture-windows facing the Nile and hotel-style twin or double beds. Suites offer even more space: for example, Senior Suites on the Upper and Top decks run to 34–40 m², include separate seating areas, richer furnishings and excellent views. All cabins include in-room tea/coffee making facilities, individually-controlled air-conditioning, minibar/fridge, safe, flat-screen TV, and en-suite bathrooms (often with a bath and shower combination) — so you’ll feel as though you’re staying in a boutique hotel rather than a standard cruise vessel.