The blessing ceremony took place onboard the river ship with a traditional ‘Prayer to Hapi’, the god of the Nile River, blessing the ship on safe and prosperous voyages. Guests were invited to make a personal wish with one of the 100 biodegradable candles set in coconut shells and also received a papyrus gift inscribed with “TUI Al Horeya” in Arabic, crafted by local Egyptian artists. These candles were then placed into the river to signify the blessing before it sailed to Luxor Temple.

Throughout the night, TUI Al Horeya was a hive of activity with a live sand artist showcasing the story of the river Nile, traditional Egyptian acts of Whirling Dervishes, a gala dinner and live entertainment from TUI River Cruises’ entertainment team.

TUI River Cruises’ newly refurbished five-star ship, TUI Al Horeya, will now sail on its maiden voyage along the River Nile. The exciting expansion means that the river cruise line will operate a seven-night, all-inclusive round-trip sailings from Luxor. TUI Al Horeya will accommodate 141 passengers and offers 72 cabins including singles, standard cabins and suites and hosts a hybrid multi-functional Top Deck, which is home to a swimming pool and two hot tubs by day, and al fresco dining space, Felucca, by night. Each sailing will include two Egyptologists onboard, live entertainment from the TUI River Cruises team and live traditional whirling dervishes and Nubian acts. The Legends of the Nile’ itinerary will call at: Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan and return to Luxor.