Customer Beware!
This operator appears at first to offer reasonable packages, but what you see is not what you get. I inquired about a 2-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, which appeared in all my browser searches and got rave reviews on Trip Advisor. As time didn’t allow for the usual 5-day cruise, I was glad to find the option of ‘hopping aboard’ for the two days of sailing only. Initially quoted $200/person for two nights on full board basis with included sightseeing on the deluxe class cruise, and $300/person for the luxury class. I thought, “Sounds good.”
But a week later, when we were getting closer to our travel date, we were told we would need to pay an additional “upgrade’ price for the “luxury” class, and that there had been a mistake in our understanding of “deluxe” vs. “luxury.” The cost would now be $700 for us two in the double, and $550/person for our guest in a single cabin for the two nights.
When I balked, I was offered a ‘discount.’ The rep sent me an ‘invoice’ on a WhatsApp link, with the cost breakdown. At this point, since time was of the essence, I said, “The important thing is to be on a first-class vessel.”
I received a link for online payment, which I admit was a bit suspicious. It had no identification as to ownership. A fool and his money are soon parted. Oh, how I wish I’d done more homework.
Upon arriving in Luxor, I had to haggle about even getting transferred from our hotel to the vessel, although it’s included in the package. Then, the night before embarkation, I received a WhatsApp from the operator telling me the vessel I’d had my heart set on (quoted in the “Luxury” class) had a case of COVID on board, so we would be moved to another vessel.
Once aboard, we were not impressed by the condition of the vessel. The bathroom smelled of sewage, the doorknobs and surfaces were grimy, and the mini-fridge wasn’t cold. The standard of guests on board was unimpressive, which made me wonder how most of them would agree to pay such a price for the 5-day cruise they had taken.
I called the sales office for the ship we were originally booked on, and asked what the price per person/per night full board was. Imagine my shock when the rep told me $80. So, does that mean I’m paying this operator $90 per person for hotel to boat transfer, and a tour guide for two days??
But there’s more:
Imagine our outrage when we found the boat we’d originally booked on, moored beside us at the dock the first night after we sailed!
Because the rep kept sending me links for different cruises that belonged to different websites (other than Here Egypt) I had read that entrance to the temples was included in the price. But when we arrived at the ticket office, our guide told us we must pay. Unfortunately, I only found this out later. Another thing I found out later that the discount wasn’t reflected in the credit card charge posted by my bank.
I learned my lesson. Always avoid the middle man whenever possible. Never deal with an outfit that only does business via WhatsApp. At least know what the initial rates are, before signing up with an aggregator or operator. Because they will gouge you for as much as they can.
This activity isn’t bookable for now.!
Luxor
Pickup offered
Mobile Ticket
Offered in: العربية
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