Happiness on Lake Nasser: A Journey to the Horizon and Beyond with Dabuka Blue

Happiness on Lake Nasser: Do You Love to Travel?
So do I. And for a long time, I thought I had experienced so much that nothing could really impress me anymore. Perhaps you know this feeling too? My mother once told me, “The first palm trees are the tallest,” but this time, I found my “first palm trees” again.

A Dream Becoming Reality – Happiness on Lake Nasser

My husband and I own a small travel company in Cairo, where we offer trips to Africa and the Middle East. Until now, our specialty has been desert trips with our off-road vehicles. Recently, we added a new dimension to our offerings: our safari boat, the Dabuka Blue. This boat is a converted fishing vessel that sails on Lake Nasser between Aswan and Abu Simbel.

The Seed of an Idea

It all began about 1.5 years ago during a visit to Aswan. While we were there, we observed the ships anchored in the harbor. Perhaps the idea had been lingering beneath the surface for a while—to do something new, to take a different direction. At that moment, however, the idea became crystal clear. I had a vision: we would buy a ship, build it, and operate it.

Making it Happen

Turning this vision into reality required a lot of work. We needed licenses, permits, and a solid design concept. We gathered materials, made plans, and began construction near Alexandria. The project wasn’t complete until we reached Aswan, after a long journey where the ship had to be pulled across the Nile and through a dam and several locks. Deadlines shifted more than once when unexpected challenges arose. But finally, we were ready.

The Big Day: Setting Sail

On Sunday, September 8, 2024, Dabuka Blue set sail for the very first time. My husband, son, two friends, and I stood in the harbor, watching as our boat approached. I will never forget that moment. The boat was more than just a vessel. It was something we had imagined, created, and brought to life. As the boat moved closer, something inside me clicked.

Embarking on the Adventure

Our journey began, and the boat’s motor gently hummed as we crossed the lake. Sometimes, the lake was mirror-smooth, while at other times, it rippled with small waves. The heat was intense, but the breeze on deck kept us cool. We eagerly explored every corner of the boat. We greeted the cabins, which had private bathrooms and air conditioning, and the middle deck, with its beautiful blue furniture. The sun deck, adorned with cushions, invited us to imagine tea times, aerobics sessions, and stargazing nights.

Small Details, Big Pride

We took pride in every little detail, from the ice cube machine that quietly produced ice to the espresso maker that kept us energized. These machines, imported from Germany, had traveled across many borders to reach us. And now, they stood as if they had always belonged there, part of our floating home.

Sunsets and Rituals

During the day, the boat was bright and colorful. In the evening, the sun set in a spectacular display of reds and oranges, coloring the sky long after it disappeared. It became a ritual for us to gather at the bow of the boat, legs dangling over the water, to watch the sunset and enjoy the peaceful beauty.

The Heart of the Trip: Our Crew

Our Nubian crew truly made the experience unforgettable. In a world where friendliness is often associated with paid service, their warmth felt genuine. They were joyful, helpful, and always ready with a smile. The cook amazed us with delicious meals, while our guide shared stories about the region and gave us ideas for things to do. The crew anticipated our every need, ensuring we always felt comfortable. Even during shore excursions, discreet helpers were there to assist us. Happiness on Lake Nasser was also created by our team.

Exploring Ancient Temples

Of course, we visited many temples, especially those that larger boats couldn’t access. At these less-visited sites, we could feel the presence of history. We had these incredible places all to ourselves. Even Abu Simbel felt intimate, as if Ramses II and Nefertari were personally hosting us. This wasn’t just a lucky off-season occurrence; it was part of our concept to visit these places when other visitors weren’t around. Happiness on Lake Nasser has different faces.

Swimming in Lake Nasser

You might think swimming in Lake Nasser is impossible because of crocodiles. But that’s not true. While there are crocodiles in the lake, we only saw one from a distance. In fact, we went on wildlife observation trips, spotting birds, gazelles, and crocs from afar. There are also sandy beaches where it’s safe to swim, and we took full advantage of them, diving into the cool water whenever we could.

Happiness on Lake Nasser: The Luxury of Space

The sense of space, both on the boat and in the landscape, felt like the ultimate luxury. Whether walking on shore or swimming in the lake, I felt an exhilarating joy bubbling inside me, much like little air bubbles rising to the surface of the water.

A Journey that Stays with You

Like all journeys, this one had to come to an end. But even now, I can still feel the gentle sway beneath my feet. The memory of the trip lingers, not just in my mind but deep in my body. Since then, we’ve come up with many ideas for themed trips on the Dabuka Blue. There’s so much potential for new adventures, and we’ll be sure to keep you posted.

A Lingering Longing  – Happiness on Lake Nasser.

Even though we’re back, I still feel a bit like I’ve been “knocked out of the nest.” There’s a quiet longing within me—a yearning for the light, the water, and the laughter that echoed softly . above it all. But the Dabuka Blue is real. She’s waiting in Aswan, ready for new voyages. Her cabins are open to anyone willing to embark on this journey to the horizon and beyond