Ocean cruises often treat the ship itself as the main destination, whereas river cruises are entirely focused on the places you visit. Because river boats are smaller, they can dock right in the heart of historic cities and ancient towns. This means you can step off the ship and immediately start exploring, completely skipping the long queues, sea days, and tender boats associated with mega-liners.

You can safely leave the seasickness patches at home. River cruise ships sail on calm, narrow inland waterways rather than the rolling waves of the open ocean. Because you are always close to land and the waters are flat, you will barely feel the ship moving at all, making it an ideal choice for anyone worried about getting seasick.

While every cruise line has a slightly different policy, premium river cruises are famously inclusive. Your upfront fare almost always covers your stylish accommodation, all onboard meals, selected wine and beer with lunch and dinner, Wi-Fi, and a curated schedule of daily shore excursions. This makes it much easier to manage your budget without worrying about hidden extras.

A major perk of river cruising is that a main guided excursion is typically included at almost every port of call. You will be guided through the highlights of the destination by local experts. However, if you ever feel like sleeping in or exploring a town entirely on your own schedule, you are always free to step off the boat and wander independently.

The prime window to sail the Nile is between October and April. During these months, the daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm and perfect for walking around open-air monuments, while the desert evenings turn beautifully crisp. The summer months bring extreme desert heat, making midday exploration quite intense.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Onboard the ship, the vibe is relaxed and smart-casual. When stepping ashore to visit ancient temples, it is respectful to dress modestly by keeping your shoulders and knees covered. Most importantly, bring sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes, as temple floors are often uneven and sandy.

To truly enjoy the ancient sites, you will want a moderate amount of stamina. Most tours take place early in the morning to beat the midday sun. You will be doing a fair amount of walking over dusty terrain, climbing ancient stone steps, and navigating inclined ramps inside subterranean tombs. The pace is manageable, but you can always choose to skip a tour and relax by the pool if you need a break.