Nile Crystal — Restaurant in Cairo

We were told to be there 30 minutes early, but we arrived even before that. It was easier for us to find it than we had expected. The surrounding area is a slum so neither worth nor safe walking around in. We walked along the river's edge and sat down on a bench to watch the sunset.

There are two levels on the ship, but they appear to be identical. We were seated and once dinner started, a man and woman began singing various songs (Arabic and non-Arabic with recorded music played in the background). They sang while we ate. The woman had an impressively beautiful voice. The food was good. There was rice, potatoes, vegetables, various meats, a salad bar, bread with different dips, and a nice desert spread. Drinks (even water) was not included. I'm unsure of other drinks, but juice was 25 EGP. So, BYOB or bring enough to cover the additional cost.

When people started to finish eating, many headed upstairs to look outside on the deck.

We passed the other dining room and there was a belly dancer doing a show. It was not clear that they would come to our dining room later. We watched briefly and then went outside. The deck was very small (just over the aft, not spanning the whole ship) and could not hold all the people that eventually came, wanting to sit and take pictures and look around. After we had a few minutes, and it became crowded, we went back inside and down to our dining room.

When we got downstairs a belly dancer was dancing to Arab music played by a live band. It was wonderful. After doing a few dances, she went around the room taking photographs with patrons which to my surprise were handed out on the ship just a few minutes later. (Very impressed.)

After she finished her dance, we watched tanoura (whirling dervishes essentially). It was only one man in a very small space, but he did an incredible job! He did several interesting tricks and then walked around the room (he was holding and spinning the "skirt?" on top of his head) letting people stand underneath him and have pictures taken.

When he was finished, the belly dancer returned in a different outfit and with two male dancers. They danced while a different singer than earlier in the night sang in Arabic, accompanied by the band. Just as they finished, the boat docked.

The timing was impeccable and the evenings' festivities were well organized. Although they don't announce which pieces of entertainment will happen when, they all came to each dining room, so go briefly to the deck, but return to your own dining room so that you don't miss any of the shows.

Minuses: the deck is very small, you have to pay for drinks, and the dining room was over-air conditioned. Bring a sweater AND scarf!

Overall, it was an incredible experience and definitely worth the money! :) Bring extra money if you want drinks...

I'm from the USA. I had an egyptian restaurant or entertainment around when I was younger. I saw belly dancing here in the USA in the late 70s, and that is what I was expecting. I saw in 70s a woman wearing something that had her face covered and things on her fingers and something around her waist and made music with her body. Now, if my memories are wrong or the person I saw doing it wrong, there isn't a way to fact-check, so i am very disappointed what I saw on Nile Crystal. I thought it was cheesy. Beautiful girls who know how to move their bodies to the music. It's just not what I was looking for. Food is not that good. Some food is barely warm. Drinks are separate prices you pay on the spot. They worked the farthest tables first and worked their way to inside tables. It took a long time to get my drink. The men who did the dance i had never seen, so i enjoyed his tricks better. Now, with all that said for the initial price, I would see if i could ride the top deck during the afternoon cruise. For the price, it was definitely a bargain. There were no tips given, which was shocking. I would eat 1st, then do it again just to ride on the Nile River. Reservations are required. You can do that even through Facebook. If you read this review, would you please give me a thumbs...

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Nile Crystal Dinner Cruise in Cairo, and it was a delightful evening that combined scenic views, delectable cuisine, and captivating entertainment. The two-hour cruise along the Nile River offered a unique perspective of Cairo’s illuminated skyline, creating a serene and picturesque ambiance.

The buffet dinner featured a variety of dishes, allowing guests to sample traditional Egyptian flavors alongside international options. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

The entertainment was a highlight of the evening. Guests were treated to performances by talented belly dancers and a mesmerizing Tanoura dancer, whose vibrant display added to the cultural richness of the night. The live music further enhanced the atmosphere, making the cruise both lively and enjoyable.

Overall, the Nile Crystal Dinner Cruise offers a memorable blend of dining and entertainment, providing an excellent way to experience the beauty of the Nile River and the vibrant culture of Cairo. I highly recommend this cruise to anyone seeking a unique and enjoyable evening...