Sharm El Sheikh: Ras Mohamed and White island cruise

Travelers looking for a full-day adventure on the Red Sea will find this Ras Mohamed and White Island cruise a tempting option. Offered by Egypt Sun Marine Fleet, this trip combines the thrill of snorkeling with the relaxation of pristine beaches, all wrapped up in a modern boat experience. While it’s an affordable way to explore some of Egypt’s most iconic marine landscapes, it’s worth noting that some reviews highlight organizational hiccups and long waits.

What sets this tour apart are the spectacular snorkeling spots, the chance to unwind on White Island’s white sands, and the inclusive buffet lunch that’ll keep you energized. You’ll spend your day cruising around one of the world’s most beautiful national parks, with plenty of time to soak up the sun, explore underwater, or relax on deck. However, a few travelers mention that the trip can sometimes be a bit disorganized or crowded, so patience and a flexible attitude are key.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a budget-friendly day of adventure, especially those eager to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs and visit the famous White Island. It’s a good choice if you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even with family, thanks to the mix of active and relaxing elements. Just keep in mind that the trip involves a fair amount of boat time, so if you’re prone to seasickness, bring your meds.

Key Points

• Affordable price point ($26 per person) offers good value for a full-day tour.
• Multiple snorkeling stops provide a close-up look at the Red Sea’s biodiversity.
• Relaxing White Island visit with sunbathing on white sands and clear waters.
• Buffet lunch and drinks included, featuring Egyptian dishes and soft drinks.
• Potential for disorganization, as some reviewers noted waiting times and logistical issues.
• Boat comfort is generally appreciated, with spacious decks and a modern vessel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Booking

Your day begins with hotel pickup (if you choose the transfer option), which is quite convenient. The meeting point is at the Egypt Sunmarine Fleet dock, located in Watanya Marina. Once there, look for the crew in yellow T-shirts who will assist you in boarding the boat. The organizers offer flexible options: you can reserve your spot with the pay-later option, giving you a bit of peace of mind before finalizing plans. The entire process is straightforward, but be aware that the pickup can take about an hour before the trip, so punctuality is important.

The Boat and Onboard Facilities

The vessel used for this cruise is described as modern and spacious, with a large sun deck perfect for lounging and sunbathing. For those who prefer a respite from the sun, the lower deck offers air conditioning and seating. Travelers often comment on the boat’s comfort, which makes a difference on a full-day trip. You’ll also find hot drinks and soft drinks available throughout the day, ideal for rehydrating after snorkeling or just relaxing with a view.

Ras Mohamed National Park: The Marine Marvels

Once out at sea, the first major stop is Ras Mohamed National Park, renowned worldwide for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The crew, led by guides like Ahmed (who’s mentioned as very helpful in reviews), will take you snorkeling at multiple sites, including Yolanda Reef, Shark Reef, and South Bereika Bay.

Expect to see a variety of fish, corals, and possibly larger marine creatures like sharks or rays—though no guarantees, of course. The reviews reveal that many visitors appreciated the opportunity to see the marine biodiversity firsthand, with one traveler describing it as “an excellent chance to explore the underwater world.”

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Snorkeling Stops and Marine Wildlife

The itinerary includes two snorkeling stops at popular spots. Reviewers mention that these locations are chosen for their rich underwater life, making it worthwhile for snorkelers of all levels. Some reviews highlight that the guides go out of their way to help less experienced swimmers and point out interesting sights beneath the water.

White Island: Pristine Sand and Sun

After snorkeling, the boat heads to White Island, a highlight of this trip. Here, you’ll have the chance to walk on the white sands, lounge under the sun, or take a dip in the clear waters. It’s a relaxing break from the busy snorkeling spots and offers excellent photo opportunities. According to reviews, the beach is truly stunning, with one reviewer describing it as “perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun.”

Lunch on the Boat

A definite plus of this tour is the buffet lunch, which includes salads, rice, pasta, potatoes, chicken, and Egyptian kofta. Several travelers, including one who called it “delicious,” appreciated the quality and variety of the food. The buffet is served on the boat, providing a communal atmosphere and a chance to chat with fellow travelers. Hot drinks and soft drinks are available throughout, helping you stay refreshed during the day.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

After a full day of adventure, the boat sails back to the marina, where your transfer (if booked) will take you back to your hotel. The trip usually ends in the late afternoon, leaving travelers with plenty of time to relax or explore more of Sharm El Sheikh.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring essentials: towels, sunscreen, beachwear, and your passport or ID. A swimsuit underneath your clothes makes changing easier.
• Prepare for the sea: if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand.
• Arrive early: despite the pickup being roughly an hour before departure, arriving at the dock a little earlier helps avoid last-minute stress.
• Snorkeling gear: you can rent gear as an add-on if you don’t have your own.
• Disorganization concerns: some reviews mention long waits and logistical hiccups, so patience is key. Pack your own snacks or water if you’re concerned about costs or availability on the boat.

What Reviewers Say

The overall reviews give this experience a solid 4.5 out of 5. Many appreciated the delicious food and helpful guides like Ahmed, who was praised for his informative and friendly approach. Conversely, some noted the disorganization at the port and the expensive drinks on board, which can be a minor downside for those on a tight budget.

A traveler named Simone mentioned that the trip was “nice but ruined by total Egyptian disorganization,” highlighting that patience and flexibility are necessary. Meanwhile, Alja’s review praised the snorkeling, food, and boat quality—calling it an “excellent trip.”

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of snorkeling, sunbathing, and beach relaxation in Egypt. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to explore the underwater ecosystem without diving deep into logistics or high costs. Families and groups will enjoy the mix of activities and the relaxed pace.

However, if you’re someone who prefers perfectly organized tours or has specific needs regarding timing, the occasional reviews of disorganization might give you pause. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting a straightforward, accessible way to see some of Egypt’s most beautiful marine environments.

Final Thoughts

This Ras Mohamed and White Island cruise offers a practical and enjoyable way to spend a day in Egypt’s Red Sea. With snorkeling at some of the best reefs, relaxing on a stunning white sand beach, and indulging in a tasty buffet, it provides a good mix of adventure and leisure. While minor organizational issues have been noted, most travelers find the experience worthwhile, especially considering the reasonable price.

For those eager to see vibrant marine life, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and relax in the sun, this tour hits the right notes. It’s an excellent option for travelers seeking value, ease, and authentic moments in Sharm El Sheikh.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The cruise includes the boat trip, hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), visits to White Island, an open buffet lunch, national park entry fees, and snorkeling gear as an add-on.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts roughly a full day, with boat departure and return times coordinated via WhatsApp after booking. Expect a relaxing but busy day on the water.

Do I need my own snorkeling equipment?
You can rent snorkeling gear on the boat if you haven’t brought your own. It’s recommended to rent gear in advance if you’re particular about fit or quality.

Can I visit White Island if the tide conditions aren’t ideal?
Visits to White Island are subject to tide conditions, so it’s possible that the timing may vary depending on the weather and sea state.

What should I bring?
Pack a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, your passport or ID, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Water and snacks can be bought on the boat but bringing your own ensures you stay hydrated.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is suitable for most ages, especially if you enjoy snorkeling and beach relaxation. However, very young children should be supervised, and seasickness might be a concern.

Are drinks included?
Hot drinks and soft drinks are available throughout the day. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the tour, aligning with safety regulations.

In summary, this cruise strikes a balance between affordability and adventure, offering a memorable day exploring Egypt’s stunning Red Sea scenery. With some patience for potential logistical issues, you’ll likely walk away with fantastic photos, new underwater friends, and a sense of relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: