I went on a five-star easyJet cruise — I didn't even know such a thing existed

I've always labelled myself as a never-cruise kind of person. My image is the polar opposite; I'm that guy who'd trek my family across Europe for a thousand miles in one week, brave camping in Scotland during the chilly month of March.

We're notorious for missing ferries, delaying flights, and cramming too many activities into the limited hours of a day. Sitting still isn't exactly in my nature.

I reckon I'm not the only one who feels this way. A cruise seemed to be the complete opposite of what I considered a holiday or any form of "relaxation".

Thus, (easy)Jetting off to an obscure airport, on a flight route only established two weeks prior to jump aboard a cruise was definitely not something I envisaged for 2024.

But it turns out there's quite a bit I wasn't aware of. For instance, I had no clue that the 330ft sumptuous "motor ship" Iberotel Crown Emperor could offer the most efficient journey to witness some of the worlds most breathtaking views.

Nor did I know what to wear on such an occasion (turns out, casual attire like youre visiting the local pub works fine), which is just as well because I hadn't realised easyJet allows for a generous 23kg of free hold luggage.

I certainly wouldn't have guessed that the budget airline could deliver an opulent, five-star experience - such as its newly inaugurated Nile river cruise. Unbeknownst to me was the fact that enforced relaxation amidst tranquil scenery, complemented by attentive service, is precisely what I needed to learn to unwind or how much I'd thoroughly enjoy every moment of it.

After a chilly farewell to the UK, our early winter arrival in Luxor was greeted with a breathtaking sunset and warm air, as well as a friendly easyJet representative who welcomed us with