The Aswan to Wadi Halfa ferry should be a real luxury for the amount we have paid. We should be cruising in style down lake Nasser with a swimming pool and silk sheets on the beds in our cabin. The truth alas is that we have a patch of deck space next to the bridge and we have an 18 hour crossing to look forward to with no bed, no silk sheets and no swimming pool.

We set off from Adams Camping (2km south of the suspension bridge on the west bank for those looking for it) a little late due to a flat battery. We handed in our licence plates at the traffic police office and set off to find fuel, water and money. I don't think we shall see a working ATM for a while, working ones are rare enough in Aswan.

In true Egyptian style, the ministry of pointless paperwork has a firm stranglehold on Aswan port. We soon linked up with the Germans from the campsite and the 3 German guys from Luxor.

Bill has now taken a firm lead in our pranging competition. His latest effort is certainly the most spectacular and most visible. The barge was at a funny angle from the dock and the two German 4x4's were on without a hitch. I could see some problems coming with a 6 inch lip on one side and the possibility of the rear wheel missing the ramp entirely. I videoed at a distance after stacking sheet metal and sleepers to smooth the way. With my nerves jangling, Bill finally managed to get the front wheels up on to the ramp. He drove on at speed, with one of the rear wheels hanging over the water 5 feet below. My heart was in my mouth and it was too late to shout. Thank God we have 2 wheels on each side at the back or the bus would currently be on its side in Aswan harbour.

The rear wheels bounced up on to the ramp, the rear panel caught the ramp and was pulled off. The side rear panel also got caught on a chain, ripping it away from its hinges. Our poor bus. I guess we'll need more gaffer tape.

I suppose it is technically only one prang, but it was such a good effort I think we should award Bill at least 4. He's got some repair work to do at the other end.

So, we are now sat in the shade.. Ricks thermometer is registering just over 100 degrees. Our barge is yet to depart and so are we. Roll on Sudan.