Glass Boat & Snorkeling with day use of Berenice Beach Club

Introducing the Glass Boat & Snorkeling with day use of Berenice Beach Club

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day by the Red Sea, this tour offers a charming combination of underwater discovery and beachside leisure. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience for those seeking gentle adventure and some downtime.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the stunning views of coral and marine life from the glass-bottom boat seem to impress most travelers. Second, the convenient access to Berenice Beach Club means you can relax on the sand, swim in pools, or grab a drink without leaving the area. Third, at just $33 per person, the price offers a solid balance of value and experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the overall explanation during snorkeling and the boat tour isn’t very detailed—some reviewers mentioned a lack of guidance or commentary. Still, if you’re looking for a laid-back, family-friendly outing with a mix of boat views and beach relaxation, this tour is likely to suit you.

This experience works best for families, couples, and ladies seeking a peaceful day out with light activity and plenty of time at the beach. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who enjoy simple, scenic outings without the need for extensive instructions or adventure.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers great value for a combined boat, snorkeling, and beach day.
• Stunning coral views from the glass-bottom boat, perfect for photography and marine appreciation.
• Relaxing beach access at Berenice Beach Club with pools, bars, and sunbathing options.
• Limited explanation during snorkeling might leave those wanting educational insight wanting more.
• Transportation and amenities are well-organized, with air-conditioned vehicles and provided gear.
• Limited to specific groups—recommended mainly for families, couples, and women only.

What to Expect From the Tour

This tour offers a compact, roughly two-hour adventure that balances boat time and beach relaxation. It begins with a pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from a designated meeting point in Aqaba and ends back there, making it convenient for most travelers.

The Boat Journey and Coral Viewing

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy approximately one hour on the glass-bottom boat, during which you’ll marvel at the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The boat features a transparent bottom, allowing you to see the underwater world without getting wet. The route includes sights like the tank, airplane, and Japanese Garden—these are man-made structures that add interest to the coral scenery.

While reviews mention the boat is well-maintained, some travelers noted a lack of commentary from staff. As Ana_O pointed out, “there was no explanation by the personnel,” which might be disappointing if you’re hoping to learn more about what you’re seeing. Still, the views themselves tend to speak volumes, with many visitors capturing stunning photos of colorful coral and fish.

Snorkeling Experience

After the boat tour, you’ll have about 40 minutes to snorkel in the Red Sea. The provided snorkeling gear and towels make it easy to jump straight in and explore the underwater park. Expect to see more marine life and coral close-up, though some reviewers observed that the snorkeling experience is fairly straightforward with no guided instruction or detailed info about the marine ecosystem.

One reviewer remarked, “the fish and corals were visible, but with no explanation,” emphasizing that this part is more for casual snorkelers rather than serious underwater enthusiasts. The snorkeling kit is said to be usable and comfortable, which adds to the overall value.

Beach Club Access

The tour includes full-day entry to Berenice Beach Club, a private spot with pools, bars, and loungers. This is a highlight for many: after the boat and snorkeling, guests can lounge, swim, or enjoy food and drinks at their leisure. The club’s facilities mean you can relax in comfort, far from crowded public beaches.

From reviews, we gather that the club offers a decent standard of amenities, though it’s not a luxury resort. It’s perfect for those who want a day of sun and sand without the hefty price tag.

Additional Perks

• Soft drinks and water are available on the boat, keeping you refreshed.
• Towels and snorkeling equipment are included, saving you from extra expenses.
• Transportation is air-conditioned, making the overall experience comfortable.
• The tour is family-friendly and suitable for most, including service animals.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $33 per person, the tour delivers good value, especially considering the all-included transportation, snorkeling gear, beach access, and the boat ride. For families or groups, this makes for a budget-friendly day out that combines light adventure with ample leisure.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts around two hours, with the boat ride taking an hour and snorkeling about 40 minutes. With a maximum group size of 40 travelers, you get a relatively intimate setting, though some reviews suggest the experience could feel somewhat rushed or impersonal at times.

Location and Meeting Point

The trip starts at the Visitor Center on unnamed road in Aqaba, with easy access via public transportation or taxis. The convenience of a designated meeting point and transportation is a plus, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Weather Dependency and Cancellation

Like all outdoor activities, this tour depends heavily on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. The booking process is straightforward with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, which adds peace of mind.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One of the more candid reviews, from Ana_O, highlights some downsides: “The boat was good, and you could see the fish and corals, but the lack of explanation was disappointing.” This suggests that while the experience is visually engaging, it isn’t particularly educational or guided.

Another reviewer confirmed the view of coral and fish but pointed out the absence of detailed commentary or guided insight, making this more suitable for casual viewers rather than marine enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.

Regarding the beach club, travelers loved the accessibility and convenience but noted that the overall standard is “nothing exceptional,” though comfortable enough for a relaxing day.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a pleasing blend of underwater visuals and beachside relaxation at a very reasonable price. The glass-bottom boat provides a scenic window to vibrant coral reefs, while the snorkeling gives a closer look at marine life in a calm, friendly environment. The full-day access to Berenice Beach Club enhances the experience, allowing you to unwind in pools or on loungers after your aquatic adventures.

It’s a solid choice for families, couples, or ladies wanting a peaceful day out without complex logistics or strenuous activity. If you’re after detailed marine education or highly exclusive experiences, this might fall a little short. But if you enjoy spontaneous, laid-back days with stunning views and easy access to amenities, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and children can enjoy the boat ride, snorkeling, and beach access. Just ensure they are comfortable with water activities.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
No, snorkeling gear is provided, and the experience is casual. However, some reviewers mentioned that no guidance was given, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, swimwear, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided.

Can I buy alcohol during the trip?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are available on the boat for purchase, but they are not included in the price.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately one hour, offering coral viewing through the glass bottom.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up and drop you off at the meeting point.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour offers a straightforward but enjoyable way to see the Red Sea’s underwater beauty and relax at a private beach club, making it a practical choice for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day in Aqaba.