The new Mövenpick M/S Royal Lotus, operating between Aswan and Luxor, has been declared 'The Best Nile Cruise Ship' by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism.
The high-ranking award was presented in Cairo. The award was based on a number of key criteria such as the safety and comfort on board, the modern design, outstanding gastronomy, and first-class service combined with Swiss hospitality, said a spokesman.
"We're very proud to have been honoured by the Egyptian ministry of tourism with this prestigious award," says vice-president, operations, Egypt Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Hubert Klemenz.
"Our flagship has been widely praised for its comfort and the spacious layout of both the passenger cabins and the public areas."
"Over the past 10 months the Mövenpick M/S Royal Lotus has been exceptionally well received by its guests," said chairman of the owning company Nile Exploration Corporation Nagui Erian.
"On the strength of this resounding success we are planning to commission another Nile cruiser in 2007, the M/S Royal Lily. We are currently negotiating with Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and hope that the international hotel chain will agree to take over the management of this vessel as well."
The Mövenpick M/S Royal Lotus is a floating luxury hotel with four decks. The 62 tastefully appointed and spacious cabins (22 sqm) offer every comfort and are located on the upper decks so guests on board are always guaranteed perfect views of the stunning landscape surrounding the Nile. For those in search of even more luxury, there are two Royal Suites (45 sqm) for the ultimate in comfort, the spokesman added.
The main restaurant serves a variety of trademark Mövenpick buffets and menus with Egyptian and international specialities, to satisfy even the most discerning palate. The elegant Salon Deck with its panoramic windows comprises a lounge, bar and dance floor. The Sun Deck includes a swimming pool, whirlpool, pool bar and a canopied area. An internet corner and a fitness centre complement the on-board facilities.