Sharm: Banana, Sofa Boat or Parasailing watersports & pickup

Sharm: Banana, Sofa Boat or Parasailing watersports & pickup offers a lively way to spend a day on the water in South Sinai. Whether you’re craving the adrenaline of flying above the Red Sea or just want a relaxing ride with spectacular scenery, this tour covers all the bases. Priced at around $33 per person, it’s an accessible option for many travelers seeking an active outdoor experience in Sharm El-Sheikh.

What makes this tour appealing? For starters, the hotel pickup means no fuss about transportation, making it easy to get straight to the water. The variety of options—parasailing, banana boat, or sofa ride—means you can tailor your adventure to your comfort level and thrill preferences. Plus, the views of Sharm El-Sheikh and Hadaba are truly worth the ride, providing excellent photo opportunities with minimal effort. However, some reviews point out that the duration of the actual rides can be quite brief, which might leave thrill-seekers wanting more.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy water sports, are looking for a fun and quick activity, or want a hassle-free way to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a straightforward, guided adventure. Just be prepared to follow safety guidelines and bring your sun protection—this is Egypt, after all.

Key Points

• Accessible for most: hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.
• Multiple options: choose from parasailing, banana boat, or sofa ride.
• Spectacular views: enjoy aerial vistas of Sharm El-Sheikh and Hadaba.
• Short but exciting: rides last about 4 minutes, providing quick bursts of adrenaline.
• Family friendly: suitable for children with adult supervision, but not for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.
• Value for money: at $33, it’s an affordable way to add water sports to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Water Sports Experience

Easy and Convenient Pickup

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a real plus—especially after a long flight or prior sightseeing. The transfer time can vary depending on traffic, but generally, you’re on your way to the beach within a reasonable window. The comfort of having your transportation sorted means you can relax and focus on the fun ahead.

The Water Sports Options

Once at the beach, you’re greeted with a choice. Each activity offers a different kind of thrill:

• Parasailing: Flying high above the Red Sea for about 4 minutes gives you an incredible bird’s-eye view of the coastline and cityscape. It’s a gentle yet exhilarating experience, especially for first-timers. Reviewers mention that it’s a perfect way to get a breathtaking perspective without the extreme heights of skydiving—more of a controlled, smooth glide.

• Banana Boat: A classic water activity that’s perfect for groups or families. Being pulled swiftly by a speedboat, you’ll feel the wind and splash of the sea. It’s a lively ride, often described as fun and energetic, though some found it to be a brief thrill. One reviewer noted, “This was the first time we tried it, and it was a good experience.”

• Sofa Ride: Similar to the banana boat but with a more relaxed vibe, the sofa ride often seats multiple people on a large inflatable. It’s a good option if you want a shared experience without the feeling of falling off. Some guests appreciated this choice for its comfort, especially families or groups seeking a more laid-back adventure.

The Actual Ride

The rides are usually pulled by a speedboat, which adds a smooth, controlled element to each experience. The 4-minute duration might seem short, but it’s enough to satisfy the adrenaline craving and capture some memorable photos. One review even mentioned, “The pull could last longer,” indicating that some guests might wish for extended fun.

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Safety and Equipment

All necessary equipment—harnesses, life jackets, and safety gear—is included, ensuring peace of mind. Participants are expected to be able to swim and follow safety instructions. For children, adult supervision is required, and activities are not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with heart conditions or back problems.

Scenery and Views

Aside from the water thrill, the highlight is the spectacular scenery. From above, you’ll see the sprawling city of Sharm El-Sheikh and the lush Hadaba area, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the landscape. Reviewers loved the views, with Francesca describing it as “a good experience,” emphasizing the visual aspect.

Post-Activity Relaxation

After the rides, a convenient transfer back to your hotel wraps up the experience. The return trip is typically smooth, but timing may vary depending on traffic and the time of day.

Pricing and Value

At $33 per person, the price seems quite reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off and all necessary equipment. Compared to more expensive water sports elsewhere, this package offers a quick, fun experience with minimal hassle. However, given that some reviews mention the rides are quite short, travelers should weigh whether a brief adrenaline rush matches their expectations.

Additional Cost Considerations

Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water, snacks, or enjoy a meal afterward. Also, baggage such as hats, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen are recommended to maximize comfort and safety.

Authentic Review Insights

From the mixed reviews, it’s clear that while the experience is generally fun, some guests encountered issues. One traveler shared a less-than-pleasant encounter where they couldn’t get on the boat to parasail due to age restrictions, despite paying extra. The tour guide’s attitude was described as unfriendly, and language barriers (no Italian speakers) caused frustration.

Another reviewer was disappointed by the brief duration of the parasailing—only about 3 minutes—leading to feelings of being shortchanged. Conversely, others praised the professional equipment and smooth transfers, emphasizing the overall convenience. The tour seems to thrive on the scenic views and simple thrills, but the ride duration and service quality can vary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect for first-time water sport enthusiasts or those wanting a quick, accessible thrill without complicated logistics. Families with children will appreciate the relatively safe and supervised environment, provided the kids are comfortable with water activities. It’s also ideal for travelers with limited time who want to tick off a fun experience without spending hours on the water.

However, if you’re a thrill-seeker craving longer rides or more intense experiences, you might find this tour a bit too brief. Likewise, those with medical issues or pregnant women should skip this activity for safety reasons.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy some water-based fun in Sharm El-Sheikh. The inclusion of hotel transfers makes it easy to fit into busy itineraries, and the variety of water sports means there’s something for all—whether you’re soaring high or bouncing on a sofa. The scenery and quick adrenaline bursts make it a memorable addition to your Egyptian holiday.

While the ride duration may leave some wanting more, the overall experience delivers on its promise of fun, convenience, and beautiful views. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free, active break that’s light on the wallet but big on enjoyment.

This experience suits casual thrill-seekers, families, and those short on time but eager to get their feet wet with water sports in Sharm El-Sheikh. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a smile.

FAQ

What water sports are included in this tour?
You can choose from parasailing, banana boat, or sofa ride, depending on your preference booked during the reservation.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes convenient hotel transfers in Sharm El-Sheikh, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long do the rides last?
Typically, each ride lasts about 4 minutes, providing a quick burst of excitement and great photo opportunities.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Participants need to be able to swim.

Are there any health restrictions?
Activities are not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart conditions or back problems.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected during the activity.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or enjoy a meal afterwards.

In the end, this water sports tour provides a simple, enjoyable way to experience the Red Sea’s beauty and add a splash of adventure to your Sharm trip. With the right expectations, it’s a fun, hassle-free activity suitable for a range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: