Abercrombie & Kent marked a significant milestone as it laid the keel for its second newbuild luxury riverboat on the Nile.
The ceremony took place at The Arab Contractors shipyard in Egypt, formally commencing construction of the sister vessel to Nile Seray, An A&K Sanctuary.
The keel laying ceremony, a centuries-old maritime tradition marking the joining of a vessel's first structural components, formally marked the beginning of construction for the as-yet-unnamed riverboat.
According to Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) chief executive Cristina Levis: "Celebrating this keel laying represents another important step in our commitment to Egypt. The construction of this second vessel reflects both the tremendous interest we've seen from travellers and our confidence in Egypt's enduring appeal as a destination. Working with The Arab Contractors demonstrates our dedication to Egyptian craftsmanship and supporting the local economy."
A&K senior vice-president for Egypt and the Middle East Amr Badr added: "Egypt's position as a premier luxury destination continues to strengthen, and this milestone reflects the confidence we see from discerning travellers worldwide. These vessels represent the finest in Egyptian craftsmanship and our commitment to offering experiences that honour the country's extraordinary heritage whilst setting new standards for river travel."
The milestone likewise holds particular significance for AKTG executive chairman Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio whose family has deep roots in maritime excellence spanning generations.
This heritage of shipbuilding expertise and passion for the sea now extends to A&K's expansion on the Nile, bringing decades of maritime knowledge to luxury river cruising.
Exclusive Egyptian luxury
Scheduled to launch in 2028, this new vessel will mirror the sophisticated design and spacious accommodations of Nile Seray, featuring 32 elegant suites for just 64 guests.
Like its sister ship, the new vessel will offer suites with a minimum area of 33sqm, floor-to-ceiling windows, and waterside Juliet balconies as standard.
Two magnificent suites will boast full private balconies with outdoor spa pools overlooking the ancient river.
The vessel will also feature two restaurants helmed by world-class chefs, a spa with two treatment rooms, a well-equipped gymnasium, and a stunning top deck with canopied daybeds, swimming pool, and outdoor bar with wraparound views of the Nile valley.
With regard to what guests can expect from the voyage, expert Egyptologists will accompany every excursion aboard the new vessel, bringing thousands of years of history to life through expert storytelling.
Like Nile Seray, every booking will include access to Egypt's most coveted archaeological sites as standard: the magnificent tombs of Nefertari, Seti I, Ramses VI, and King Tutankhamun on the West Bank of the Nile.
The new riverboat will sail carefully curated four-night voyages between Aswan and Luxor, visiting the magnificent temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Aswan, alongside authentic cultural experiences including felucca sailing, Egyptian cooking classes, and traditional entertainment.
