Once vassals to pharaohs, the Kushite kings of Nubia took control of Egypt for almost a century. Embracing Egyptian rituals, they created a culture that influenced both civilizations.

Here’s what it’s like to sail on the new ship Poppee, a dahabiya operated by Nour el Nil, a brand that specializes in Egyptian hospitality, style, and splendor.

Consider three big examples: the evidence for cosmic design in the fundamental laws and structure of the universe; the ...