SS Misr, A Royal Steamer Restored

Sir Frederick Arrow was invited by the Viceroy of Egypt to be an honoured guest during special ceremonies on the occasion of the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. Transiting the canal on the Egyptian vessel El Misr he noted, “a large, powerful screw vessel, fitted as a passenger vessel, but loaded with gilding and beautiful wood carving, her occupation being, about once a year, to take the Viceroy’s entourage for a sniff of the briny.” He became an informal chronicler of these events in a delightful little pamphlet called ‘Fortnight in Egypt’, relating the reactions of an amiable, humorous and possibly typical 19th-century Englishman to one of the great events of the century.

This admittedly more recent incarnation of the SS Misr endeavours to provide the same level of luxury but for a slightly wider audience. Originally constructed in Preston by the Royal Navy in 1918, it was purchased and later converted into a luxury Nile steamer for King Farouk. It is further recorded as the venue for the King’s birthday celebrations: “On the occasion of the Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Farouk I, The Governor of Cairo requests the honour of your company on board the Misr Nile Steamer at 8pm on February the 10th 1939.” This unique project was initiated by Voyages Jules Verne in co-operation with our Egyptian associates following joint discussions with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism to obtain permission to rebuild and relaunch this historic vessel in traditional style with a high level of luxury. Our association with this complex restoration project was felt appropriate as a cruise on a Nile steamer as a leisure pursuit was indeed pioneered by British tourists in the late 19th century looking for a comfortable way to visit Egypt’s ancient sites. The addition of every possible modern comfort now allows today’s traveller to enjoy luxurious surroundings and a historic ambiance in the wake of the last reigning king of Egypt.

VJV Exclusive Event - Luxor Temple Reception
Those who rediscovered ancient Egypt in the 18th and 19th centuries enjoyed magical overnight stays and this has prompted us to arrange private evening access to the Luxor temple, enhanced by striking illumination, to savour the unique night-time atmosphere. A private reception has been arranged at the temple exclusively for the guests of Voyages Jules Verne. Enjoy a cocktail served by staff in pharaonic uniform at the illuminated Luxor Temple before strolling through the temple unimpeded by other visitors. A recording of Verdi’s Aida, once staged in the temple, will provide a musical background to the occasion and local musicians will play the Egyptian ‘takht’ music. Note: During May-Oct, a cocktail reception at the Old Winter Palace followed by a visit to the illuminated Luxor Temple.

†From May 2010, we have included access to a UK airport lounge on departure.