Excursion to the White Island & Ras Mohammed National Park from Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re eyeing a day out on Egypt’s Red Sea, this White Island & Ras Mohamed National Park tour offers a fantastic glimpse into some of the most beautiful underwater sights and unspoiled scenery. Though we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a well-organized adventure that balances snorkeling, sightseeing, and comfort.

What we love about this experience is its convenient hotel pickup, the opportunity to explore multiple snorkel spots, and above all, the included meals and soft drinks—making it a fuss-free way to enjoy the Red Sea. The only thing to keep in mind? Snorkel gear and park entry fees are not included, so a little extra preparation is needed. This trip suits travelers looking for a value-packed day of water-based activities with comfort, friendly guides, and plenty of chances to see Egypt’s vibrant marine life.

Key Points

• Seamless pickup and transportation ensure a relaxed start and end to your day.
• Multiple snorkeling stops provide varied underwater views, with helpful guides and friendly staff.
• Lunch onboard is plentiful, tasty, and takes the hassle out of planning meals.
• Price offers great value considering the activities, snacks, and comfort included.
• Expect busy snorkeling spots, especially during high season, which can affect the experience.
• Guides and crew are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

This tour is designed for those who want a full day of adventure with minimal logistical worries. Booking includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, lunch, soft drinks, and coffee or tea. The boat ride takes you across the Red Sea to White Island and Ras Mohammed, with stops for snorkeling that are highlighted as a major highlight and opportunity for vibrant underwater encounters.

However, it’s important to note that snorkel gear and park entry fees are not included. You might find this an inconvenience if you don’t bring your own equipment, or prefer to have everything included upfront. Some reviewers also expressed concern about crowded snorkel spots, especially during peak season, which could limit time at each location.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Transfer

Most travelers are picked up from their Sharm El Sheikh hotels on time, making the start of the day stress-free. The comfortable, air-conditioned bus whisks you to the port, where the adventure begins. Expect a friendly crew to greet you, and you might even remember the boat’s name (“La Luna,” as some reviews mention), which adds a touch of familiarity.

The Boat Ride & Snorkeling

Once aboard, the boat is generally praised for being spacious and clean, with some travelers noting it’s a comfortable place to lie on the deck and relax. The crew, led by experienced guides, provides safety instructions and helps with snorkeling gear.

The trip to White Island is approximately a couple of hours, during which you’ll have the chance to snorkel up to three times at different reef spots. Reviewers emphasize the diverse marine life—colorful fish, coral reefs, and underwater scenery—that makes this part of the day memorable. One reviewer mentions, “Plenty of time at each stop to enjoy snorkeling/diving,” highlighting the well-paced schedule.

White Island & Ras Mohamed

White Island is known as the “Invisible Island” because it appears only at low tide, surfacing from the water like a hidden gem. During high tide, it’s submerged, giving it a mysterious allure. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling due to its abundant marine life. Reviewers note that it can be crowded, especially during peak season, but still worthwhile for the views and underwater encounters.

Ras Mohammed, at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, offers some of the most scenic and vibrant coral reefs in Egypt. The underwater scenery is often described as stunning, with reviewers mentioning “beautiful coral formations” and “diverse fish species.” Some have pointed out that the second snorkeling stop can sometimes be underwhelming or crowded, but overall, the marine environment is praised.

Lunch & Refreshments

Lunch is served on board and is consistently described as “tasty” and “plenty of food,” with many reviewers appreciating the fact that it’s included in the price, saving the hassle of finding meals during the day. Soft drinks, coffee, and tea are also provided, helping guests stay hydrated after snorkeling.

Return & Drop-off

After a full day of water fun, the boat heads back to the port, and the air-conditioned bus whisks you back to your hotel. Several reviews commend the punctuality and friendly service during the return journey, making the entire experience smooth and enjoyable.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many travelers have shared that the crew and guides are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. One review highlights staff as “extremely friendly and helpful at all times,” and another mentions that the crew was “great at telling you everything you need to know.” This kind of personalized attention elevates the experience, especially for first-time snorkelers or those unfamiliar with the area.

Some reviews mention the boat’s cleanliness and comfort, which is a key factor when spending hours on the water. It seems that the boat’s condition and the crew’s professionalism create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families and groups of friends.

However, several reviewers noted that during high season, the snorkeling spots can become congested, with many boats in the water. This can affect the overall experience, making some snorkeling less peaceful or limiting the time at each site. A few also mentioned feeling that certain stops prioritized divers over snorkelers, which might be frustrating for those mainly interested in reef viewing.

The Value for Money

At $26.65 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the full-day duration, multiple snorkeling stops, lunch, and transport. The reviews consistently praise the generous lunch and friendly staff as adding extra value, along with the opportunity to see stunning underwater scenes at an affordable price.

Potential Drawbacks

While the price and overall experience are outstanding, some guests find the crowded snorkeling conditions less ideal, especially if you’re seeking tranquility or a longer, more exclusive underwater experience. Also, since snorkel gear isn’t included, bringing your own or renting gear beforehand might be advisable to avoid additional costs or inconvenience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive day of snorkeling and sightseeing without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited for families, first-time snorkelers, and groups looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive experience.

If you enjoy marine life, scenic boat rides, and delicious meals in a casual setting, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, those seeking quiet, uncrowded reefs or private snorkeling experiences may want to consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

This White Island and Ras Mohamed tour delivers a well-rounded adventure packed with snorkeling, scenic views, and comfort. The guides and crew are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making it ideal for a carefree day on the Red Sea. The inclusion of meals and drinks elevates the experience, setting it apart from more basic options.

While it’s not without its crowds and minor inconveniences, the overall value and the chance to see Egypt’s underwater treasures make it a strong contender for anyone eager to explore the vibrant marine life and iconic scenery of Sharm El Sheikh.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, fun-filled day with friendly staff, good food, and plenty of snorkeling, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s best suited for travelers eager to enjoy the natural beauty of the Red Sea without fuss.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most travelers are picked up from their Sharm El Sheikh hotels, making the start of the trip easy and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup to return to your hotel.

Are snorkel gear and park entry fees included?
No, snorkel gear and the park entry fee are not included. You may want to bring your own gear or rent it locally.

What is the quality of the boat?
Reviews describe the boat as spacious, clean, and comfortable, with attentive staff and a friendly crew.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a tasty lunch is served onboard, along with soft drinks, tea, and coffee, providing good value.

How crowded are the snorkeling spots?
During peak seasons, spots can be busy with many boats, which sometimes makes the snorkeling less peaceful.

What marine life can I expect to see?
Expect colorful fish and diverse coral reefs, often described as vibrant and stunning.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially with the included meals and easy-paced schedule.

Can I participate if I’ve never snorkeled before?
Absolutely. The crew is helpful, and many reviews mention their positive experiences as beginners.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 19 days in advance; early booking helps secure a spot, especially in high season.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this trip fits your vacation style. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just looking to enjoy a full day on the water, this tour offers a wonderful way to see Egypt’s underwater wonders and scenic landscapes with ease and comfort.