Sharm El Sheikh: Luxury boat Cruise with Snorkeling & Lunch

When it comes to exploring the stunning underwater life of Egypt’s Red Sea, a luxury boat cruise from Sharm El Sheikh offers a fantastic way to enjoy a day of snorkeling, relaxing, and sightseeing. Based on various reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience balances adventure with comfort, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking authentic marine encounters without sacrificing convenience.

What we love about this tour are the beautiful coral reefs, the delicious onboard lunch, and the potential for adding scuba diving if you’re feeling adventurous. A common highlight is spending time on White Island, soaking up the sun and marveling at the turquoise waters. That said, some reviewers mention that it can be a long day with busy boat traffic, which might be worth considering if you’re sensitive to crowds or looking for a quieter experience.

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining snorkeling, scenic cruising, and excellent food—all at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for those eager to explore Ras Mohamed’s vibrant marine life or relax on a beautiful island, though it’s good to be prepared for the bustling, sometimes crowded conditions.

Key Points

• Stunning Marine Life: Explore vibrant coral reefs with professional guides.
• Comfortable & Flexible: Options to rent snorkeling gear or go for an introductory scuba dive.
• Scenic White Island: Relax on soft sands and take photos of the Red Sea’s sparkling waters.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Enjoy a tasty buffet while soaking in sea views.
• Affordable Price: At just $35, it offers good value for a full day of activities.
• Mixed Reviews: Some find the day long or crowded, so manage expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Easy Pickup and Smooth Start

Your day begins with a hotel pickup (if you select the transfer option), whisking you away to Watanya Marina, where the Egypt Sunmarine Fleet is based. The check-in process is straightforward—just find the staff wearing yellow t-shirts and show your ticket. This adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re staying in central Sharm El Sheikh.

Boarding the Yacht: Comfort Meets Adventure

The boat itself is described as a comfortable yacht, capable of handling a group of visitors keen to explore the Red Sea. While some reviews mention the boat’s theme being pirate-like or less luxurious than expected, most agree that the crew is friendly and professional. The journey to Ras Mohamed takes about an hour, offering time to enjoy the sea breeze and start unwinding.

Ras Mohamed: Snorkeling and Marine Marvels

Once at Ras Mohamed National Park, the main attraction begins. The guides are praised for their knowledge, helping newcomers and seasoned snorkelers alike navigate the coral reefs. You’ll get a chance to see vibrant fish, colorful coral, and an underwater landscape that many find mesmerizing.

Some travelers mention renting gear on-site for around 4 euros per item, making it easy to see more of the reef without lugging equipment from home. Others appreciate the chance to take two short swims in the clear waters, with some reviews noting only brief snorkeling sessions—so managing expectations for time spent underwater is wise.

More Great Tours Nearby

White Island: Sun and Sand

Next stop is White Island, a tiny sandbank in the Red Sea, perfect for relaxing and taking photos. Visitors highlight the soft sands and shallow waters as great for snorkeling or simply chilling under the sun. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out the island can be crowded, with many travelers wanting their Instagram shot.

Lunch on the Deck

After a couple of snorkeling sessions, you’ll gather on the yacht to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring rice, pasta, salads, grilled chicken, and fish. The food is described as tasty, with some reviewers calling it better than expected for a tour meal. Soft drinks are included, keeping you refreshed for the remainder of the day.

Return and Optional Extras

The cruise back to Sharm El Sheikh offers more sea views and a chance to relax. For those interested, upgrading to include a scuba introduction provides an additional thrill, especially for first-timers. Remember, scuba divers need to wait at least 12 hours before flying afterward, so plan accordingly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Marine Life & Snorkeling

We loved the vivid coral reefs and colorful fish, which are the main reasons most travelers choose this tour. Professional guides help ensure you see the best spots and stay safe, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. Rentals onsite make gear accessible, although some reviews note that the reef can get crowded with multiple boats, which might diminish the feeling of solitude that some seek.

Scenic Cruising & Relaxation

The cruise itself offers comfortable seating and the chance to enjoy the Red Sea scenery as the boat gently moves along. The experience of soaking up the sun and watching the horizon is a big plus, especially on a clear day.

Delicious Lunch & Value

The onboard buffet is well-received, offering a variety of tasty, filling options at a very reasonable price. For around $35, the package includes hotel pickup, park entry fees, snorkeling gear (if added), and lunch—making it a decent deal when you factor in the convenience.

Flexibility & Add-Ons

If you’re keen on trying scuba, the option to upgrade adds a memorable element. Reviewers note that guides are helpful and ensure safety, even for first-time divers. The flexibility to rent gear or explore at your own pace can enhance your overall experience.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

While many find this tour rewarding, some reviews highlight a few challenges. The trip can be quite busy, with multiple boats at the reef, which may impact the tranquility of your snorkeling or the chance to fully enjoy the marine environment. One reviewer mentioned that “there was chaos at the reef, and we didn’t dare go in the water”, which is a reminder that patience and flexibility are needed.

The long day—starting early with hotel pickup and returning in the late afternoon—might be tiring, especially if you prefer more relaxed or less crowded experiences. The small island stop can also be crowded, and some guests mention that the “so-called White Beach” feels more like a photo opportunity than a secluded hideaway.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Ras Mohamed’s marine life without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect if you want a full day of snorkeling, scenic cruising, and good food, all at a reasonable price point. It suits those eager to see vibrant reefs, relax on a tiny island, and enjoy a well-organized trip, especially if you appreciate having optional diving to add extra excitement.

However, if your priority is serenity or avoiding crowded spots, you might want to consider mornings or less busy times. The tour’s value lies in its combination of scenic views, snorkeling, and a tasty buffet, making it an overall solid option for most travelers.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and your passport or a copy. These essentials will help you stay comfortable and prepared for the day.

Can I rent snorkeling gear on-site?
Yes, snorkeling gear can be rented for about 4 euros per item if you didn’t bring your own.

Are there options to upgrade the experience?
Yes, you can add a single or double introductory scuba dive, which many find to be a memorable highlight.

How crowded does the reef get?
Some reviewers mention multiple boats at the reef, which can lead to a busy environment. Patience is key, especially during peak times.

Is there a dress code or restrictions?
No specific dress code, but be sure to wear beachwear, apply sunscreen, and avoid alcohol or drugs before snorkeling or diving.

To sum it up, the Sharm El Sheikh Luxury Boat Cruise with Snorkeling & Lunch offers a well-rounded day that balances marine exploration with comfort. It’s particularly suited for travelers keen to see colorful reefs and enjoy a scenic cruise at a fair price, while being comfortable enough for beginners. With friendly guides, tasty food, and the chance to upgrade to scuba, it delivers a memorable taste of Egypt’s Red Sea treasures—just be prepared for the occasional crowds and a full itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: