Glide through the world’s longest river, the Nile, just as the ancient Egyptians used to do thousands of years ago. One a Felucca Ride, let the breeze, aromas of the fresh air and sounds of the river tickle your senses to give yourself an unforgettable escape. Watch as some of Cairo’s remarkable landmarks become the backdrop to your astonishing experience – just steps away from the hotel.
An Unforgettable Cairo Experience
You’ll see them along the Corniche el Nil, the main thoroughfare that runs along the Nile. Their stark white sails and simple construction stand in contrast to the colourful, bustling shops and restaurants lining the river’s shore. They’re called feluccas, and many say that a trip to Cairo is not complete without taking a ride on one.
History of the Felucca
These long wooden sailing boats once carried everything from pharaohs and military troops to food and supplies. Their construction is somewhat of a miracle, given that few large trees were available at the time. Instead, workers lashed together a series of reeds and small wooden planks, covering the entire structure with tarred cloth. They then added a wooden mast and a sail made of cotton or linen to power the boat, with a series of oars serving as backup when winds failed to blow.
Landmarks on the River Nile
As you sail along one of Cairo’s most prominent landmarks, several other landmarks will cross your path – the Cairo Opera House with its famous evening lights, Cairo Tower with its notorious sparkle, the long-standing Cairo Yacht Club and a number of palaces – some that have been repurposed as embassies and consulates such as Kasr Al Mounira, Kasr Al Amira Iffat and Kasr Kamal Al Din. Make sure to ask your captain to dock while the landmarks become your backdrop for the perfect photo opportunities.
Evening Felucca Tours
We recommend you make the trip at dusk to take in the sky’s colour spectrum. Stick around a little longer, and you’ll get to witness the night’s sparkling stars.