Snorkeling by Boat to Ras Mohamed and White island excursion in Sharm

If you’re headed to Sharm el Sheikh and want to explore some of Egypt’s most stunning underwater scenery, a snorkeling trip to Ras Mohamed and White Island offers an appealing mix of vibrant marine life, picturesque sandbars, and a hassle-free experience. This tour, available at $75 per person, promises a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing — all with the convenience of hotel transfers and included gear. While it’s not a private charter, it’s a well-organized outing suited for travelers eager to enjoy the Red Sea’s best without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

What we love about this trip is the combination of high-value activities: the chance to snorkel in Ras Mohamed’s renowned waters, the Instagram-worthy White Island sandbar, and a hearty onboard lunch. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge helps uncover hidden marine highlights, making the experience more meaningful. The inclusion of snorkel gear and soft drinks keeps things simple and stress-free. That said, it’s worth noting that the trip is around six hours, which might feel a bit tight if you prefer more time at each spot. This tour is especially perfect for those looking for a straightforward, fun-packed day with authentic underwater views.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transfers, snorkel gear, lunch, and drinks make this a hassle-free option.
• Diverse Locations: Visit Ras Mohamed’s top snorkeling sites along with White Island’s scenic sandbar.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides enhance the experience with tips on marine life and best spots.
• Good Value: At $75, it offers a comprehensive day out with equipment and meals included.
• Limited Personalization: As a group tour, it may not suit those seeking a private, more tailored experience.
• Time Constraints: Expect about six hours, so plan accordingly if you prefer longer exploration time.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transport

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh, usually around 8 am, though timing can vary depending on the bus schedule. The transfer is via air-conditioned vehicle, which sets a comfortable tone for the journey ahead. This transportation detail is especially appreciated since it eliminates the need to organize taxis or rental gear, making the experience notably stress-free.

Once onboard the boat, you’re greeted by a lively crew and fellow travelers, creating an immediate sense of camaraderie. The boat itself is well-equipped, with snorkel gear (fins, masks, and life jackets) ready for use, and plenty of bottled water and soft drinks to stay refreshed. The crew is generally friendly and attentive, with many reviewers highlighting the guides’ local knowledge and helpfulness. They often spot marine life and point out interesting coral formations and fish, adding an educational element to the fun.

Ras Mohamed National Park: Underwater Wonderland

The first major stop is Ras Mohamed National Park, known worldwide for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea life. Expect to spend part of the morning exploring several different spots within the park. Reviewers like Josef praise the organization and the good snorkeling tour provided, noting the “nice lunch on the boat” as a highlight.

What makes Ras Mohamed special isn’t just the visibility—though many visitors mention the clear waters—but the variety of marine creatures. Bright-colored fish, turtles, and rays are common sights, making it a feast for underwater photographers and snorkelers alike. We loved the way guides help beginners feel confident, with clear instructions on how to use the gear and navigate the waters. However, some mention that the start can be a bit chaotic, with a lot of boats arriving at the harbor around the same time. Still, once you’re in the water, the stunning scenery makes up for that initial bustle.

White Island Sandbar: A Picture-Perfect Stop

After a few hours snorkeling, the tour heads to White Island—a striking sandbar emerging from the sea that provides a perfect backdrop for photos. Many reviewers describe it as “marvellous” and “gorgeous,” with Rainer noting how the colorful coral and fish are a highlight. The sandbar itself is small but offers enough space for relaxation, picnicking, or simply soaking in the views.

Here, the guides often encourage taking photos, and the shallow waters are excellent for wading and relaxing. It’s worth noting that this stop is mainly visual and for taking a break from snorkeling, so if you’re looking for extensive beach time, you might find it a tad brief. The scenery is truly striking, and many guests appreciate getting a chance to walk on the sandbar and snap some Instagram-worthy shots.

Lunch and Refreshments Onboard

A key benefit of this tour is the included buffet lunch served on the boat. Reviewers frequently mention the tasty barbecue-style meal, which provides enough fuel for the day’s activities. Soft drinks and bottled water are plentiful, helping you stay hydrated during the excursion. The onboard meal is a simple but satisfying addition, especially after a morning in the water.

Return and Safety

The trip wraps up with a smooth transfer back to your hotel, usually by early afternoon. The overall organization is praised for its professionalism and attentiveness, with many reviewers appreciating the safety measures and helpful guides. The maximum group size of around 25 travelers ensures it doesn’t feel overcrowded, and the guide’s local insights often enhance the experience.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple guests have shared positive impressions, emphasizing the value and friendliness of the crew. One reviewer noted, “Great trip, good snorkeling, and tasty food on the boat,” while another appreciated the “lively group” and the inclusive equipment. The guides’ local knowledge and their ability to spot marine animals like turtles and rays often stand out, making the underwater experience more engaging.

However, not all feedback is glowing. One guest mentioned the initial chaos at the harbor, and another expressed concern about the lack of private options. Still, even critics acknowledged that the overall experience was enjoyable and well-organized.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 6 hours, perfect for a full-day activity but may feel rushed if you want more leisure time.
• Price: $75 per person, including transfers, gear, lunch, and drinks, representing good value for such a comprehensive package.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended, particularly for snorkeling and swimming.
• Group Size: Limited to around 25 travelers, maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Booking: Confirmations are received upon booking, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Child Policy: Discounts apply when sharing with two adults, but check age restrictions if traveling with kids.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling adventure is ideal for travelers who want an easy, all-in-one day of exploring Egypt’s underwater riches without the hassle of organizing gear or transport. It suits those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy being in the water and appreciate knowledgeable guides. Families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a lively, friendly atmosphere will find this tour particularly appealing.

If your priority is hassle-free convenience, great value, and the chance to see colorful marine life, this trip checks all those boxes. Just remember, if you’re after long, secluded beach relaxation, you might want to consider other options or extensions.

FAQs

What’s included in this tour?
The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, boat transfers, snorkeling gear (fins, masks, life jackets), soft drinks, bottled water, and a buffet lunch on board.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately six hours from pickup to return, allowing enough time for snorkeling, sightseeing at White Island, and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. Discounts are available for children sharing with two adults.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Not necessarily. Guides are there to help beginners and ensure everyone feels comfortable. Basic swimming skills are helpful.

What marine life might I see?
Expect to spot corals, colorful fish, and possibly turtles or rays, based on reviews describing vibrant underwater scenes.

Are there any optional extras or private options?
This tour is a group experience, and no private boat or customized options are mentioned. It’s designed to be a shared, social outing.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The boat provides gear, but you might want your own waterproof case for valuables.

Is alcohol available on the boat?
The reviews mention soft drinks and water, but no mention of alcohol. Check with the operator if you’re interested in bringing or purchasing alcohol.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The provided buffet lunch is a standard barbecue, so consider informing the tour operator in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if plans change.

This ride to Ras Mohamed and White Island offers a balanced blend of vibrant underwater scenery, scenic sandbars, and tasty onboard meals. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to enjoy the Red Sea’s marine diversity without the complications of planning every detail themselves. The knowledgeable guides and inclusive setup make it a reliable choice, especially for first-timers or those short on time.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a private, leisurely day or extensive beach time, it delivers excellent value, lively atmospheres, and memorable oceanic views. Whether you’re capturing photos of colorful corals or just relaxing with a soft drink on deck, this tour is a dependable way to make the most of your time in Sharm el Sheikh.

In essence, if you’re ready for a lively, well-organized day of snorkeling with friendly guides and stunning scenery, this trip will not disappoint.

Note: Always check current availability and confirm details with the tour provider before booking, especially if you have specific concerns or needs.