Steam Ship Sudan – History & Onboard Facilities
A Living Piece of Nile History
The Steam Ship Sudan was built in 1885 for the Egyptian royal family and converted into a cruise liner in 1921. She fell into decline over the following decades until French travel company Voyageurs du Monde purchased and fully restored her between 2000 and 2001. Today she is the last of the great Nile paddle steamers still in operation, sailing under Voyageurs du Monde and their UK partner Original Travel.
The Agatha Christie Connection
In 1933, Agatha Christie and her husband sailed aboard the Sudan, an experience that inspired her to write “Death on the Nile.” The 2004 ITV television adaptation starring David Suchet filmed scenes on location aboard the very same steamer, cementing its reputation as one of the most storied ships on the river.
Cabins & Suites
The Sudan carries just 18 cabins and 5 suites, 23 accommodations in total, laid out over two decks, with comfortable sunbeds and chairs on the upper deck for relaxing between excursions.
Nile Cruise Itinerary
The Sudan operates a 4-night journey between Luxor and Aswan and a 3-night journey between Aswan and Luxor, with daily shore excursions led by a resident Egyptologist to the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Edfu, Karnak Temple, Philae Temple and Kom Ombo. Full private hire of the vessel is also available.
Why Choose the Steam Ship Sudan
Travellers who want to sail the exact vessel that inspired “Death on the Nile,” with only 23 cabins and suites and genuine 1920s character, find the Sudan an unmatched, once-in-a-lifetime way to experience the river.
Book Your Nile Cruise
Contact Egypt Nile Cruise Hub to check availability for the Steam Ship Sudan, including private hire options, and to plan your Luxor and Aswan touring.
Steam Ship Sudan – Frequently Asked Questions
The Steam Ship Sudan was built in 1885 for the Egyptian royal family and converted into a cruise liner in 1921. After decades of decline, French operator Voyageurs du Monde purchased and fully restored her between 2000 and 2001, and she remains the last of the great Nile paddle steamers still sailing.
Agatha Christie and her husband cruised aboard the Sudan in 1933, an experience that inspired her to write “Death on the Nile,” and the 2004 television adaptation starring David Suchet filmed scenes aboard the actual steamer.
The Sudan carries just 18 cabins and 5 suites, 23 accommodations in total, laid out over two decks, making it one of the smallest and most exclusive vessels sailing the Nile.
Other Nile Cruises
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Bus, Car
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Full board
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3, 4 or 7 Nights
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Luxor or Aswan
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Aswan or Luxor
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English, Spanish, French, German
Steam Ship Sudan Overview
Built in 1885 and restored in 2000–2001, the Steam Ship Sudan is the last great Nile paddle steamer still sailing, the very ship that inspired Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile.”
Steam Ship Sudan facilities
- Built 1885, restored 2000–2001, last Nile paddle steamer
- Inspired Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile" in 1933
- Just 18 cabins and 5 suites over two decks
- 4-night Luxor or 3-night Aswan itineraries, private hire available
