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Felucca In Egypt

Explore Egypt's rich heritage and serene Nile vistas aboard traditional felucca boats. Experience ancient history and cultural immersion on tranquil journeys between Luxor and Aswan.

Felucca In Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

Summary

  • A traditional wooden sailing boat, the felucca embodies Egypt's history and allure, offering tranquility and beauty while sailing on the Nile.
  • Dating back to ancient Egypt, feluccas were vital for transportation and trade, symbolizing cultural exchange across the Mediterranean.
  • Popular among tourists, feluccas provide an authentic experience, inspiring artists like Agatha Christie and offering serene cruises along the Nile.
  • Despite modern alternatives, feluccas remain active for Nile transportation and are easily found in tourist areas across Egypt.
  • Best experienced between Luxor and Aswan, a felucca journey unveils archaeological wonders, offering picturesque views, cultural immersion, and serene outings for travelers.

Felucca in Egypt is the key to enjoying all the natural allure, culture, and history of Egypt. This article's main goal is to provide every traveler with all the information about Felucca in Egypt. This article was written by a very experienced team of tour guides and travel consultants. One of the oldest means of transportation around the Mediterranean is a traditional wooden sailing boat called Felucca, which is basically a rig that consists of one or possibly two lateen sails.

It used to exist around countries all across the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, which includes Egypt, Tunisia, Malta, Sudan, and Iraq. There is no better way to enjoy the magical breeze of a hot summer night than onboard a felucca and feel the essence of tranquility, beauty, and peace.

What Is Felucca

What Is Felucca - Egypt Tours Portal
What Is Felucca - Egypt Tours Portal

Felucca is a small boat made of wood entirely except for the sails which are made of native cotton and other natural fibers. The boat is usually furnished with cushions and a table fixed in the middle and surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of the Nile from all directions. A felucca can usually board ten passengers with a crew that can consist of up to two or three people.

Felucca Boat History

Felucca Boat History - Egypt Tours Portal
Felucca Boat History - Egypt Tours Portal

The history of the Felucca is as old as the time when every ancient Egyptian was able to sail across the Nile River, which is the longest river on earth and became the main source for the rise of the greatest civilization in existence since 2570 BC. They were crafted by ancient Egyptians with wood, often with a single mast and a lateen sail. The felucca was crafted by skilled artisans, and it involved hand-carving wooden planks and employing age-old boat-building techniques. They held great mythological value when the god ruler of the underworld and regeneration "Osiris" was killed by his evil brother and then brought back to the world of the living by the powers of the Nile River and his wife, Isis. It was the main vessel for transportation for the purposes of travel and trade in ancient Egypt to the point where it spread across the Mediterranean region and was adopted by various cultures for fishing, transportation, and leisure.

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Felucca Ride on the Nile in Aswan

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It became the carrier for both art and culture, reflecting the historical significance of sailing and trade in both Egypt and the Mediterranean. The felucca has inspired travelers and artists from all over the world, like Agatha Christie, who wrote her novel "Death on the Nile" while sailing across the Nile River. Feluccas have become popular among tourists, offering fun cruises along the Nile and in other scenic water bodies that provide an authentic experience of magical sailing. Some felucca designs have incorporated modern materials or technologies with time, thus providing a more enchanting and memorable travel adventure.

Felucca Purpose

Felucca Purpose - Egypt Tours Portal
Felucca Purpose - Egypt Tours Portal

The felucca is very common in Egypt and remains a very active means of transportation across the Nile between Luxor and Aswan despite the availability of motorboats and ferries.

They are very popular among travelers who wish to explore all the allure and wonder of the Nile in total harmony and relaxation. A Felucca can be easily found anywhere across the Nile in all the tourist towns.

Felucca Places

Felucca Places - Egypt Tours Portal
Felucca Places - Egypt Tours Portal

The best places to enjoy a Felucca are between Luxor and Aswan, which are the wonders of the time of Pharaohs. The felucca takes a multi-day journey across Upper Egypt where everyone will discover a number of archaeological monuments that carry a lot of history like Nekheb (or El Kb), which was the capital of Upper Egypt prior to the construction of the Pyramids and the Double Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the two gods Sobek (the crocodile god), Philae Temple, Edfu Temple, and Harveris (the sun god).

Felucca Activities

Felucca Activities - Egypt Tours Portal
Felucca Activities - Egypt Tours Portal

The felucca is able to offer a serene, magical experience, which is available through all the major cities that sit across the Nile, like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. They are the perfect way to fully witness all the wonders of this immortal civilization while enjoying the simple pleasures onboard. The felucca is the ideal vessel to have an unforgettable picnic-style lunch and dinner. Being on a Felucca will be a very spiritual and enriching experience showcasing the best of what ancient Egypt and the Nile River have to offer: brilliance, grandeur, and allure.

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Aswan Felucca Tour by Night

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Everyone will get to enjoy the marvelous sights of the epic sunset and sunrise bouncing across the legendary ancient Egyptian temples and landmarks along the riverbanks. Everyone will get to discover the most amazing times of leisure and recreation by taking the best photos of stunning landscapes, wildlife, and local life along the riverbanks. Boarding a felucca will be a magnificent chance to enjoy the local culture and traditions of this marvelous area across the Nile River.

Felucca Travel Tips

Felucca Travel Tips - Egypt Tours Portal
Felucca Travel Tips - Egypt Tours Portal
  • On Board: There are no toilet facilities, so you will need to go to the toilet overboard or find somewhere private when you stop onshore. Some captains now travel with basic toilet tents – really no more than a screen and a hole in the sand.
  • Check that the captain is operating a decent, river-worthy boat filled with all the essential gear like blankets, cooking implements, and a sunshade.
  • Agree on a price before boarding the Felucca and make sure you are getting exactly what you have paid for.
  • Make sure you know the number of passengers on board the Felucca.
  • Decide on the drop-off point before you set sail; many felucca captains stop 30km south of Edfu in Hammam, Faris, or Ar Ramady.
  • Don’t hand over your original passport. Captains can use a photocopy to arrange the permit if one is needed.
  • Bring all the comfort essentials you may need, like a sleeping bag. Insect repellent is a good idea. A hat, sunscreen, and plenty of bottled water, and anything else you may need.

Aswan Day Tour Experiences

While being in Aswan, there are many Aswan day tours to do. Riding Felucca in the Nile is one of the best things to do. You will experience a true adventure while sailing in the lifestream of Egypt and witnessing the stunning beauty of Aswan. Check our Aswan day tours below and let the dream begin.

Day Trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan by Private Vehicle - Egypt Tours Portal From: US$70
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Day Trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan by Private Vehicle

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Aswan Sightseeing Tour - Egypt Tours Portal From: US$60
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Aswan Sightseeing Tour

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Day Trip from Aswan to Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples - Egypt Tours Portal From: US$80
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Day Trip from Aswan to Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

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Day Trip from Aswan to Cairo by Plane

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a felucca?

The felucca is a sailing vessel, lateen-rigged on two masts, used in the Mediterranean Sea, across the Nile in Luxor & Aswan, and along the Spanish and Portuguese coasts. The Felucca carries from 1 up to 10 persons comfortably and the deck is filled with soft colorful cushions and rugs and equipped with a canopy that offers magical shade and protection from the sun.

Who invented the felucca?

The ancient Egyptians are known to have been the first people to invent the Felucca.

What is an Egyptian sailboat called?

An Egyptian small boat with a large triangular sail is called a Felluca.

Where is felucca located?

The Felucca is a marvelous traditional wooden sailing boat, used in the eastern Mediterranean around Malta, Tunisia, Egypt, Sudan, and Iraq.

How does a felucca work?

The Felucca relies on the wind and the river currents for propulsion, and all the sleeping bags and meals are found onboard.

Where do you sleep on a felucca?

Some felucca has a sleeping arrangement that are filled with all the basic sleeping quarters for all overnight trips, while some don’t have and others need to have their own sleeping bags where everyone will get to cast their eyes on the heavenly beauty of the stars.

What to pack on board a felucca?

Sleeping bag, Sun-tan Lotion, Bug Spray, Personal towels, Beach attire, Cotton T-Shirts. Toilet paper/ sanitary products, medications for Diarrhea and Vomiting, and anything else you may need.

How long will you be on the felucca?

One or two nights is more than enough time to the natural allure of the Nile in Luxor and Aswan.

What can you see from the felucca?

Some of the most majestic and enchanting views can be seen from the felucca across the heavenly city of Aswan home to the most incredible attractions.

What Are Feluccas Used For?

The feluccas are magnificent traditional wooden sailing boats that go around the Nile River, which for ages have been used as an ultimate means of transportation, cruising for the Nile River, and, of course, fishing.

What Do You Wear On A Felucca?

Everyone can wear whatever they want to while being on the felucca, which depends on the weather and personal preference, but it is always advised to wear comfortable and lightweight clothing like shorts, T-shirts, and hats, which are suitable for daytime sailing and during the evening, it is also good to wear warmer layers clothes due to the drop in the temperatures.

How Much Is The Felucca Boat In Egypt?

The price of the felucca depends on a number of different variations, which include the duration of the trip, the level of services, the size of the boat, amenities, and, of course, negotiation skills.

What Are the Finest Destinations to Visit in Egypt?

The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.

What Are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.

What Is the Top Traditional Egyptian Food?

Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.

What is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Why Book With "Egypt Tours Portal"?

We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.

Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt?

You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.

What to Wear While in Egypt?

Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.

What are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

What are Egypt Festival and Public Holidays?

There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.

What are Special Advice for Foreign Women in Egypt?

Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

What are the Official Languages of Egypt?

Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.

What is the Transportation in Egypt?

The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What are the Reasons That Make You Visit Egypt?

It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.

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