Orbital Travel, MS Stephanie Reviews

Click here if this is your business
Orbital Travel, MS Stephanie
★★★★★
4.7
95.0% of users recommend this
Click here if this is your business
  • Food - quality & variety

  • Entertainment on board

  • Value For Money

? Ask our helpful community of experts about this product or company
Orbital Travel, MS Stephanie - Ask a question now

Media Gallery for Orbital Travel, MS Stephanie

Refine your search

  • Average Rating Over Time
  • Within the last month ***** (From 0 reviews)
  • Within the last 6 months *** (From 0 reviews)
  • Within the last 12 months * (From 0 reviews)

Latest Reviews

“fantastic holiday”

★★★★★

written by winston9 on 19/10/2012

We had our cruise from the 26/9/12 - 3/10/12 and were originally booked on the Monica but informed a week before departure that we where being transferred to the Stephanie. From the time we arrived in Luxor we were met by the staff and quickly and efficiently booked in and transferred to our cruise ship. Although the ship was a bit tired looking it was spotlessly clean and the room cleaners were very inventive with what they could do with the towels, amazing, the animals and art work created, their talents are wasted. The staff were unbelievably friendly and helpful, they could not do enough to make our holiday perfect. What can I say about our guide Romany, he was beyond fantastic, his knowledge and enthusiasm made the history of Egypt come alive, he made it fun by re-enacting history with us guests as the actors, He must be such an asset to you as a company and very popular with his group. The food was superb and varied, the chefs went over and above as there was several birthday's and the birthday cakes and music to mark their occasion must of been very special to them and us. Peter Barnett our tour manager was always on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly, he had his finger on the pulse all of the time, he was approachable and very informative. We would recommend this trip, you certainly never feel threatened by the recent troubles in Egypt. The Country is full of History and the people are extremely friendly and welcoming.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We had booked the MS Monica but had to change to the...”

★★★★★

written by Ozricman on 31/08/2012

We had booked the MS Monica but had to change to the Stephanie. From the moment we arrived at Luxor we were in the very capable hands of Orbital reps. A very swift transfer to our boat where we were greeted by our Egyptologist Waleed who turned out to be the most informative guide you could possibly wish for. His passion for all things Egypt both ancient and modern was highly infectious. It was impossible to not be charmed by his friendliness and gentle humour. Most of the trips were fantastic even though some of them are very early starts, you'll be rewarded with a visual feast. The entire staff were faultless and nothing was too much trouble. We even looked forward to the "towel art" each evening. Apart from the overpowering hassle of the street sellers, the locals were very friendly and welcoming and you soon learn the art of haggling. If anybody thinks Egypt is too unstable to visit, think again. It's the perfect time to go, the tourist sites are empty so there's no queuing anywhere. Go now, you wont regret it and if, like me, you'll be wanting to go to Egypt next year

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“Fantastic Holiday”

★★★★★

written by ShaznRich on 20/08/2012

Booked MS Monica but were informed the week before we went that we had been switched to MS Stephanie. We were a little worried as the reviews for this ship were not as good. NO NEED TO WORRY!!!!! From being met at Luxor airport everything was organised to perfection. We were immediately made aware of everything we had to do to ensure our wellbeing and everything we would need on our tours. This was our 5th visit to Egypt and Adel (our tour guide/holiday rep) was the best we'd ever had. So passionate and informative about his countries history ancient and modern. The included trips were excellent and the optional ones were varied and reasonably priced. Most tours were early to avoid the heat of the day, so don't expect too many sleep ins. The food was excellent, a little repetitive, but it's not exactly a cruise liner! The all inclusive package is a steal and the local drinks are good quality. Even got packaged meals for those trips when you were off the boat for meal times. All the public areas were very clean and maintained to a good standard and the reception area is very grand. Yes the cabins are a little bit tired. But the beds are very comfy, the aircon works a treat and there is a hairdryer, TV and fridge. What more do you need! The sunbeds are very comfy, lots of shade and the drinks service was fine. The staff could not do enough for us, wake up calls and late breakfasts were arranged upon request. Towel art left on your beds every night. Waiters got to know what we drank so we didn't even have to ask. The evening entertainment was limited to when we were docked, but their enthusiasm is infectious and you can't help but join in. The onboard shops are cheap and they very helpful and honest!!! A big thank you to Adel who called and treated us like his family. The troubles in Egypt have all but gone and have not affected this area. Tourism is down by 80% and they are struggling. Don't be afraid folks, now is the time to go, it's quiet and relatively cheap and it's guaranteed sun.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“Fantastic Holiday”

★★★★★

written by on 10/08/2012

My husband and I have just returned from a Nile cruise on board Ms Stephanie and it was fantastic. We were originally booked on the Ms Monica but was changed to Ms Stephanie. We were a bit unsettled by the reviews that had been written but when we arrived we were very happy, the boat is very very similar to the Ms Monica. Our cabin was very clean and our housekeeping boys were so kind making us figures with the towels in the evening and everything we asked for it was of no trouble to them The food was good and their was always something different on the menu with a good choice. We could not fault all the arrangements that were made and as for the guide we had he was absolutely fantastic. This holiday we could not fault I would highly recommend it.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.

Ajlevens's Comment

Written on: 20/08/2012

Just returned from a week on board ms stephanie,really wonderfull,couldnt praise it enough. The staff were all lovely,and could not do enough for us.Our rep, and guide, ADEL, was a fantastic person , and knew about everything,long may he continue.We cant wait to go back again.

Reply to this comment
If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“Littler England on the Nile!”

★★★★★

written by NeilsHolidayTravels on 09/08/2012

Just returned from a weeks cruise on the Nile and a week at the Red Sea. Newly refurbished boat (could still smell the varnish!0. This boat and staff are highly recommended and we would do the cruise again tomorrow!!! Early starts for the visits to the the temples and late nights spent drinking on the deck. All inclusive stay was well the extra upgrade as no-one was on full board. Had a super week. The company was ace. Only about 50 people on the week we went (25th July 2012)and all English. Felt like a little family. Children,teenagers, middle aged and older! Everyone got along and the bar was drunk dry. All visits well worth it, even the optional trips. Food was hot and plentiful and always a choice. The wine at lunch times was very nice. The service excellent. Rooms basic but had everything you needed. Towel art different every night. Galabeya night is a must. Much fun and fancy dress was brill as everyone joined in. Every night the guides and staff provided entertainment such as brought in shows, live music and Egyptian night. You'll not be disappointed with this boat.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“Did Ayman write those reviews I have just read,no they...”

★★★★☆

written by on 29/03/2011

Did Ayman write those reviews I have just read,no they are genuine.My group had his colleague George for most of the site tours including Abel Simbel,he was equally qualified to explain things in a way that was easy to comprehend and brought the Temples to life.
Having come to Eygpt and done the same trip about 16 years ago I was very pleased to find things for the tourist are improved(especially the airport). Thanks to all the staff on board MS Stephanie and also at our second weeks location at the Stella Mikadi.
Maybe I won't wait 15 years before my next visit!!!!

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“An amazing and value for money experience. Cairo for 3...”

★★★★★

written by on 27/02/2011

An amazing and value for money experience. Cairo for 3 nights at the Meridien Pyramids was excellent,with a knowledgeable guide and a well planned itinerary. MS Stephanie cruise for 7 nights was an equally amazing experience made all the better by our guide Aymon who was able to make Egyptology both informative and entertaining. My return to the UK was affected by the protest problems, but local Orbital staff were on hand throughout to give help advice and information whilst other bigger company's reps vanished into thin air. The UK office were equally helpful, even though the situation was beyond their control. A brilliant company giving value and service and who will go the extra mile when needed.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We have just returned from a fantastic 7 nights Nile...”

★★★★★

written by on 12/02/2011

We have just returned from a fantastic 7 nights Nile cruise on the MS Stephanie.The experience was amazing from the first day until the last.Our guide Ayman, made all the difference.Everything was really well organised.Despite the early starts, he made all the tours interesting and informative,and he has a great sense of humour.The food was good,as was the accomodation.The staff were very helpful and worked hard to ensure that everyone enjoyed their holiday,I cant wait to return.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We have just spent amazing 3 weeks in Egypt, topped...”

★★★★★

written by on 26/11/2010

We have just spent amazing 3 weeks in Egypt, topped off by a most delightful week travelling from Luxor to Aswan on the ms Stephanie There is nothing more to say - everything was perfect from the first to the last minute of our stay!

Many thanks to stephaniie's General Manager and his crew as well as to our fantastic guide ayman, who was capable of captivating us with his sound knowledge of ancient and modern Egypt. They made our last 7 days in Egypt unforgettable!

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“I have just come back from Egypt after 1 week on the...”

★★★★★

written by on 15/10/2010

I have just come back from Egypt after 1 week on the MS Stephanie and then 3 day's in Cairo the cruise was fantastic the staff were brilliant the food was excellent this was my first time to Egypt and going on the Nile my mum and me couldn't have picked a nicer boat the tour guide ayman was great and very helpful was great at his job explaining about the history and taking us on the tours the Egyptian night was brilliant also I would recommend this cruise to any one who has never been on the Nile as I really enjoyed myself

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“ ”

★★★★★

written by on 29/05/2010


I have been in Egypt 4 times on the Nile this has been the best, so organize in a friendly happy way.
Wonderful holiday, made very special by staff, guide was excellent, very knowledgeable, and helpful. Staff went out or there way to make fun, exciting. . Food very good varied but we put on too much weight .this holiday was in memory, highly recommend, thank you.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“My husband and I have just returned from an absolutely...”

★★★★★

written by on 03/05/2010

My husband and I have just returned from an absolutely fabulous week on the MS Stephanie. Having read the previous reviews, we were a bit dubious about going but I can assure you that we had nothing at all to worry about. The cabin was spotless. The towels were changed twice a day and were arranged into a different animal every time. The food was ok - always hot. The crew were all very friendly and went out of their way to help us. The tours were excellent and, for anyone wanting to know, they have just started the balloon rides again. Whilst there hubby celebrated his 50th birthday and at dinner the crew got everyone in the party mood by singing and drumming as well as doing a conga round the room parading the birthday cake - fabulous fun! We met some lovely new friends-they know who they are-"Dancing with the Captain", which made it one of the best holidays we've ever had. We would definitely recommend this holiday to anyone

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We have just returned from a cruise on the MS Monica...”

★★★★☆

written by on 16/04/2010

We have just returned from a cruise on the MS Monica with Orbital Travel. I was really looking forward to the trip and was not disappointed. The crew were, without exception, helpful and polite. The service by Joseph at every meal was fantastic and his daily magic trips added a bit of fun to every evening meal. Our giude Alla was superb and he made the holiday for us.He was so knowledgeable and brought the history of Egypt alive. Let's face it, you go on these holidays to see the fabulous temples and tombs, without such a fantastic guide I wouldn't have known what I was looking at. From talking to others on our trip, all the guides were brilliant,friendly and prepared to answer any questions you had. It was a holiday never to be forgotten.

Ignore the whinging comments by some people about the state of the ship, the food etc. This ship was excellent. We never noticed the engine noise and the quality of food could not be bettered. The variety of food is not fantastic but there was always something different and we had no complaints. The breakfasts were superb.

If you want a fabulous holiday where you see the most mind blowing sights then you've got to go.

Thanks for a wonderful time
Tom And Louise

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We've Just returned from our first trip to Egypt...”

★★★★☆

written by on 16/03/2010

We've Just returned from our first trip to Egypt sailing on the MS Stephanie. We both had a fantastic week, Peter and his team looked after everybody on board excellently. We travelled on the all inclusive package and I would recommend this to anybody as it includes all your drinks (alcoholic and soft from 11.30am - 23.30). Remember to get you bottled water for the next day the night before. Please bear in mind that although the MS Stephanie has been classed as a 5 star ship it is not 5 stars. I would say a 3 star hotel due to the cabins decoration. However, the cabin was cleaned every day and fresh towels twice a day. The buffet food on board was in plentiful supply with a large variety, however I'm sad to say that it was on the whole quite bland. The itinerary is very well planned and organised (our tour guide was Walid and he was excellent!) I have to say the biggest treat of the week was our visit to the temple of Karnak. With regards to the optional trips I thought Abu Simbil was a bit expensive at £65 (the entrance fee is LE80 £10 if that) and you spend 5 hours on the coach (2.5 hours each way and 2 hours at the temple which is ample), you are also not allowed to take photo's inside the temple. Likewise no photography is permitted in the Valley of the Kings and Queens, if the security guards see you with a camera they will take it off you. With regards to shopping you will get hassled to buy all sorts of merchandise from the markets, just keep your head down low, don't make eye contact and keep saying 'no thank you' If you are tempted to purchase anything remember to haggle. Our guide Walid gave an excellent talk about the art of shopping and haggling. For this trip we took 1000 Egyptian pounds and the rest in Sterling cash (you will need to pay for any optional excursions, the tip and your visa in cash sterling). The tip works out at £28 per person for the week and this is entirely justified. On the whole I found all the people I met were really friendly and made the week a really enjoyable experience. I would recommend this trip to anyone, although on your trips remember your alcohol hand gel, always have a bottle of water with you and wear a sun hat and try and keep to the shade between 11.00 - 14.00 to minimise sun stroke and don't forget to wear sun screen, sensible shoes are also a must as some of the flooring in the temples is very uneven. Hope this helps.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“Just returned from aNile cruise ,On M/S Stephanie ...”

★★★★★

written by on 11/03/2010

Just returned from aNile cruise ,On M/S Stephanie Great experience all round Many thanks to all at ORBITAL for been so well organised,Our tour for the week was WALLID ( Pharaohs) as we were called ,Not forgetting the helpful staff on board many thanks

From the BUXTON 4

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We have just returned from our first trip to Egypt.We...”

★★★★★

written by on 18/02/2010

We have just returned from our first trip to Egypt.We would like to say a huge thank you to all at Orbital for making this such a memorable trip.It was so well organised,the staff on board M/S Stephanie were very polite and so helpful. We thought the food was very good and we were pleased we had decided to go all inclusive.M/S Stephanie was a very impressive looking boat, we loved returning to our cabin each evening to see what design we in "towel sculpture".Our Egyptian guide "Waleed" made our trip for us,he was so passionate about his country and its history that he made it come to life.Our Orbital rep David looked after us all and made sure everything was o.k.Once again a big thank you to all concerned and we will definitely use Orbital Travel again.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“I have just returned from a most wonderful and magical...”

★★★★★

written by jjaayyddee on 19/01/2010

I have just returned from a most wonderful and magical experience and I am sad to have left it and all the wonderful people I met behind! We have just had 7 days on MS Monica on the Nile and 7 days in Luxor staying at the Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel.

We could not have been looked after and cared for any better by all the crew on MS Monica and our Egyptologist guide, Walid, really made our holiday an absolute joy, he was just a perfect gentleman, he speaks very good English and is full of knowledge about his beloved country which he put across in a way which was as interesting to my 18 year old nephew Evan as well as the older people on our trip. Walid is a star with such a lovely way about him so kind, polite and gentle with an infectious laugh and a lovely face I'm sure all our group feel the same. He has made me want to learn more about Egypt and I will return as we didn't manage to go to Abu Simbel or Cairo so I will look forward to that day.

We were all put into groups, which means that you stay in your group of about 25 people for all the trips, we were in the 'Pharaohs' it was really great, lot's of fun and laughter.

Entertainment in the evening is just as delightful, Belly Dancer night, Whirling Dervish night, Egyptian night when you dress, walk and dance like an Egyptian (my favorite), Nubian night, Treasure Hunt (very funny) and an Elegant night when you dress in your best and you are served at the table instead of going to the buffet.

One of my strongest memories of the whole trip was sitting on the top deck with afternoon tea and cake surrounded by attentive crew, my new friends and my wonderful family and taking in the sights and sounds of the River Nile as we sailed into the sunset and marvelled at what we had seen that day, excitedly wondering what tomorrow had in store for us.

Two more family members joined us at our hotel in Luxor for our 2nd week. The hotel was immaculate, gorgeous room overlooking the Nile, we celebrated my sister Hazel's 50th birthday (1.1.10) in style by enjoying a fantastic New Year's Eve Gala dinner which was just fabulous the work and effort the chefs had put into the food and the displaying of it was breathtaking. I could not say one bad thing about our stay there. Completely different week than the first one, although it was good the first week was the best for me.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped to make this holiday so special for my family and myself. Thank you to everyone at Orbital & Holiday Elite we didn't have a single hitch, each and every one of the crew from the talented towel art boys, our fab waiters Abraham and Bishu(wrong spelling I think), all the chefs, the videographer and all the crew who worked behind the scenes to all the people on our table especially Dianne, Lynne & David. Jean & Don, Dave & the Scouse group, Ian & the Opera Singing group not forgetting the brave man who saved my sister from falling down the Nile steps into the Nile! - you all know who you are it has been lovely to meet you all.

I thank the Egyptian people who have left their mark on me, the children shouting 'Welcome' and waving from the banks of the Nile, the trustworthy callash drivers in Luxor, all the boys from Sinbad Balloon flights and all the villagers who smiled and waved at us from their rooftops as we flew over, even the market traders will respect you if you say 'No thank you!' in a determined manner with a smile for them.
Thank you to the other guides on board MS Monica, George and Habibbi (sorry H only know you as this!)who were also brilliant.

I embrace Egypt it's in my bones, thank you Walid for just being you I embrace you and miss you.


Janet Davies and Family - Hazel, Tony, Colin & Evan. Wesley & Rochelle who joined us in the 2nd week.

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“We have just returned from a 7 day Nile Cruise on the...”

★★★★★

written by on 16/01/2010

We have just returned from a 7 day Nile Cruise on the Monica through Orbital Travel and have enjoyed every second of it!

Our Holiday got off to a 'bumpy' start having lost a day, with delays due to the snow at Gatwick, the staff in the Orbital Office went out of their way to ensure that the rest of the journey went smoothly.

As soon as the flight had landed at around 4am, we were met by the Orbital rep, who assisted us all with our visa's and the coach journey to the boat. Once on board, the staff had laid out a beautiful breakfast in each of our rooms.

The staff ensured that even though we had lost a day, that we didn't miss a single excursion, and added extra trips on the iternery to ensure that no-body missed out!

The rooms were lovely, double doors lead to a balcony which is just wide enough to stand on.. the towel decorations were a tad random..but funny all the same!

The food was varied, with alot of diiferent local dishes..entertainment was great..and I was really impressed with the top deck of the boat...looking at other boats sailing past - I actually felt lucky - I reckon Monica is probably one of the best boats on the Nile..

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“ after booking a holiday with orbital travel 3 nights...”

★★★☆☆

written by on 10/11/2009

after booking a holiday with orbital travel 3 nights in cairo and nile cruise we were some what disapionted in the cruise part we first booked the king tut 3 as been on this boat before but 10 days before departing we was told that it was changed to ms stephine and flight times had also changed from cairo to luxor . with no one to meet us at luxor we had too wait for over one hour until picked up then what a let down when we got to the boat it was very old and dated and needed repair in many places the floor in our cabin was cracked and uneven and the decor old and tired the shop was small comparied to the king tut and dineing room cramped at times we have complained to orbital travel when we returned on 12th oct but had no reply as yet . but the good part was cairo great guides we had exelant food on cruise very good staff very good done every thing for you and guide very entertaining and as for the staff who done our room and left us little figuires ie made from towels he was always pleasent , smileing and even went out of his way to assist in any way

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

“booked my Orbital Travel, MS Stephanie cruise with...”

★★★★★

written by shine117 on 01/06/2009

booked my Orbital Travel, MS Stephanie cruise with www.getawayholidays4u.co.uk excellent cruise food very good drinks included so knew my budget had cabin on higher deck which had good views excursions wonderful and not too tiring Egyptologist excellent and knew everything we asked Paid tipping estra oboard otherwise everything was budgeted for

If you are commenting on behalf of the company that has been reviewed, please consider upgrading to Official Business Response for higher impact replies.
Was this review helpful? 0 0

Do you have a question about this product or company? Simply type it in the box below and one of our community will give you an answer

Our helpful community of likeminded people will be happy to answer any questions that you have.

Thanks for asking a question.

Once we've checked over your question we will put it live on the site and our strong community of experts will hopefully give you some great answers that you find useful.

We will email you when the question is on the site

overview