While Nile cruises have been depicted in popular culture, from movies to Agatha Christie's detective novel, the real-life experience is unlike anything else. Here are four different ways to see the nation by boat, all of which include vistas of spectacular landscapes and Pharaonic ruins.

The Flâneuse du Nil is the most intimate

The Flâneuse du Nil tour provides passengers an authentic excursion into Ancient Egypt aboard this historic dahabieh, which resembles the sailboats employed by ancient pharaohs. Over the course of five days, travelers can explore the most attractive surrounding attractions, including the Edfu Temple and Kôm Ombo, as well as El Kaab hamlet, from Esna to Aswan. The boat glides across the narrow straits thanks to its slim form.

The modest yet elegant Nile River cruise has seven cabins, allowing you to tour Egypt with only your closest friends and family.

The Oberoi Zahra is the most opulent

The Oberoi Zahra boat is designed to look like a floating castle, ensuring that your Nile trip is as relaxing as possible. The ship has a variety of suites, sundecks with views of the water, and a top-of-the-line restaurant serving the best of Egyptian cuisine. There's also an infinity pool for sunbathing, as well as a spa where you can have a Balinese massage. Passengers will be able to explore all of the wonders that exist between Aswan and Quena while being surrounded by all of the aforementioned luxuries.

Nour El Nil is the most culturally diverse

The trio at the helm of Nour El Nil is well-versed in local customs and offers a culturally fascinating Nile trip. The journey is extensive: the dahabieh begins its journey in Esna, where passengers can see the Khnum Temple and the ancient market. After that, travelers will visit El Kab, Ancient Egypt's capital, where they will see the Horas Temple in Edfu, Gebel Silsileh, and Kôm Ombo... in short, an abundance of ancient sites are to be expected before arriving in Aswan. The onboard accommodations are formal and luxurious, and the deck is adorned with colorful banquettes from which to enjoy the stunning Egyptian scenery.

Steam Ship Sudan is the most traditional

The Steam Ship Sudan makes Nile cruise dreams come true. The boat's decorating scheme of wood and Egyptian cotton evokes a Belle Epoque-style ambiance. The Agatha Christie and Lady Duff Gordon suites, respectively, are designed with golden cane beds, valuable materials, and parquet floors. The cruise is one week long, and it travels from Luxor to Aswan or vice versa. Passengers see several stunning Ancient Egyptian monuments while aboard the ship, while also enjoying traditional dinners and cocktails on the deck or in the quiet lounges.

For Agatha Christie fans, S Sudan is the best option

This legendary 19th-century steamer previously hosted Agatha Christie aboard, making it one of the most historic and atmospheric vessels to traverse the Nile's waterways. It's usually assumed that her trip to Egypt with her husband on an archaeological mission in 1933 laid the way for one of her most accomplished murder mysteries. With Kenneth Branagh's adaptation of Death on the Nile likely to be released soon, the SS Sudan is poised to take center stage. From the teak decks and parquet flooring to the cooper bed frames in the 23 staterooms, the boat emanates period charm. Guests also have access to a network of skilled archaeologists who can help them bring the ancient ruins to life.