Sharm el-Sheikh: Snorkeling at White Island & Ras Mohamed

Sharm el-Sheikh: Snorkeling at White Island & Ras Mohamed – An In-Depth Review

Exploring the Red Sea’s vibrant underwater world and stunning landscapes is a must when visiting South Sinai. This tour, offered by Sun Pyramids Tours, promises a full day of marine beauty, scenic vistas, and relaxing sunshine—all for an accessible price of just $52 per person. From the moment we looked into it, what stood out were the promise of snorkeling with an incredible variety of fish and corals, the chance to visit one of Egypt’s top national parks, and the chance to relax on boat decks soaking up the sun.

One thing to keep in mind is that while the tour covers some of the most picturesque parts of the Red Sea, it’s a packed day—so if you’re looking for a slow, leisurely experience, you may want to set your expectations accordingly. This experience suits travelers eager to see the underwater diversity of Egypt’s marine parks, enjoy scenic island stops, and relax on a boat rather than on crowded beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning marine life and coral reefs at Ras Mohamed and Yolanda Reef
• Unique experience walking on White Island, where the Suez and Aqaba Gulfs meet
• All-inclusive price with transfers, entrance fees, lunch, and soft drinks
• Ideal for snorkelers and those seeking scenic boat rides
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• A well-organized day trip offering both adventure and relaxation

What to Expect on Your Snorkeling Adventure

This tour offers a comprehensive day exploring Egypt’s most famous marine reserves with a mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and laid-back sunbathing. It begins early, with pickup around 8:00 am (confirmation of exact timing will be provided locally). You’ll travel comfortably by air-conditioned van, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. Once at the jetty, you’ll embark on a boat that will take you directly to the highlights of Ras Mohamed and White Island.

The Journey to the Red Sea’s Crown Jewels

The boat is the core of the day, and it’s generally well-reviewed for its smooth sailing and good onboard service. Expect to stop at two key sites: Yolanda Reef and White Island. These are the moments to don your snorkel gear and explore the underwater spectacle. The reefs are reported to host more than 130 species of coral and over 1,000 varieties of fish, so expect vibrant colors and fascinating marine life.

Travelers have mentioned that the boat crew is friendly and helpful, often providing snorkel equipment if needed, but it’s wise to bring your own if you prefer a perfect fit. The boat typically offers plenty of space on the sundeck, where you can lounge, soak up the sun, and take in the stunning views of the Red Sea.

White Island – A One-of-a-Kind Landform

White Island is the highlight for many. It’s a small, soft-sand plateau where the Suez and Aqaba Gulfs meet, creating an island in the middle of the sea. Walking on the white sand feels almost surreal, and the views of the meeting of these two major gulfs are remarkable. The island offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs between snorkeling sessions.

Reviewers mention that the sand here is impressively soft and white, a welcome contrast to the colorful reefs below. It’s an excellent spot for relaxing, taking photos, or just enjoying the vastness of the sea.

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Snorkeling at Yolanda Reef & Other Spots

The reefs at Yolanda Reef and other stop-offs are celebrated for their diversity and clarity. Expect to see a wide array of fish darting around colorful corals, with many describing the underwater scenery as breathtaking. Some guests have shared that this was their first time snorkeling in such vibrant waters, and the experience exceeded expectations.

While snorkeling is the main activity, the tour also emphasizes relaxation—many travelers appreciate the chance to float on the surface, watch the fish, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, the tour doesn’t include snorkeling equipment, so bringing your own ensures comfort and convenience.

Lunch, Refreshments, and Relaxation

A barbecue lunch is included, often described as delicious and filling enough to keep you energized for the day. Soft drinks are also provided, making it easy to stay hydrated during the sun-soaked hours. Guests mention that the lunch is well-prepared, with enough variety to satisfy different tastes.

The boat’s sundeck is a popular spot for many, where you can lie back, sunbathe, and let the gentle sea breeze wash over you. The views of the Red Sea are simply stunning, especially during the mid-morning and afternoon when the sunlight accentuates the colors of the water and the reefs.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day starts with your hotel pickup around 8:00 am, with a comfortable transfer by air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to the jetty takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to relax and get excited about the day ahead. Once at the port, board your boat and set sail for the national park.

Ras Mohamed National Park

Ras Mohamed is recognized globally for its incredible coral diversity and marine life. According to reviews, over 130 types of coral and more than 1,000 species of fish call these waters home. The park’s location at the junction of the Suez and Aqaba Gulfs means the marine environment here is particularly vibrant and protected, which is part of why snorkeling here is so rewarding.

Guests have appreciated the well-organized stops at Yolanda Reef, known for its colorful fish and coral formations, and White Island, where the scenery is equally captivating. The boat typically makes two stops at different sites, giving you ample time to snorkel, explore, and take photos.

White Island – The Unique Landform

Walking on White Island offers a feeling of stepping onto another world, with powdery white sand underfoot and panoramic sea views. It’s not only a beautiful place to relax but also a great spot to appreciate the meeting of two major waters—the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

For snorkeling, expect calm, clear waters with abundant marine life. Reviewers report that the reefs are vibrant, with plenty of fish and corals to marvel at. If you’re new to snorkeling, don’t worry—the crew is generally friendly and helpful, and you can rent equipment if needed.

Beyond the water, many guests enjoyed lounging on the boat’s sun deck, soaking up the sun while gazing at the horizon. It’s a peaceful way to connect with the scenery and recharge between snorkeling sessions.

Return and Disembarkation

After a full day of exploration, the boat heads back to the jetty in the late afternoon. The transfer back to your hotel is smooth and usually arrives by early evening, giving you time to relax and recount the day’s highlights.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Pricing and Value: At $52, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—transfers, park entrance, lunch, and soft drinks are all included. Considering the cost of similar tours, this is quite a good deal for the variety of activities and the quality of the sites visited.

Transport & Group Size: The transfer is by air-conditioned van, making the journey comfortable. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for personalized attention from guides, though it can vary based on demand.

Snorkeling Equipment: It’s not included, so bringing your own gear ensures a good fit and comfort. Many reviewers have highlighted that the reefs are well worth exploring, so snorkeling gear is a must.

Cancellation & Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—perfect if your plans change unexpectedly.

Languages & Guides: The tour is conducted in English and Arabic, with guides knowledgeable about the marine environment and local history, adding context to your experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers eager to see Egypt’s underwater marvels without diving deep into complicated arrangements. It’s also perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, unique landforms, and relaxing on the water. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a full-day adventure that balances activity and leisure will find plenty to enjoy here.

Nature lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the vibrant reefs and marine diversity, while those wanting a taste of scenic isolation will love walking on White Island. If your goal is to soak up the beauty of the Red Sea in a well-organized, affordable package, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling day trip in South Sinai offers a compelling blend of underwater exploration, scenic island walking, and comfort. For just $52, you get access to world-class reefs, a unique island formation, and a delicious barbecue lunch—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

While it’s a pretty full day, the balance of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing makes it a standout choice for those who want to maximize their Red Sea experience without fuss. The natural beauty of Ras Mohamed and White Island, combined with the friendly crew and well-organized itinerary, makes it a memorable outing.

In essence, this tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic natural environments, enjoy marine activities, and want a hassle-free way to explore Egypt’s marine treasures. If you’re ready to see the vibrant colors of the Red Sea and walk on a surreal white island, this trip should be on your list.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All transfers by air-conditioned vans, entrance fees to the national park, a barbecue lunch, and soft drinks are included in the $52 price.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
No, snorkeling equipment is not included, so it’s recommended to bring your own gear for maximum comfort and convenience.

What time will I be picked up?
Pickup is usually around 8:00 am, but exact details are confirmed locally, so it’s best to be ready a little earlier just in case.

How many stops are made during the boat trip?
The boat generally makes two main stops: Yolanda Reef and White Island, giving ample time for snorkeling and exploring.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews highlight that the reefs are accessible for all levels, and crew members are helpful if you need assistance.

What is the best way to prepare for the day?
Bring your own snorkeling gear if you have it, wear sunscreen, and pack a hat and sunglasses for sun protection while relaxing on the boat.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience, including transfers and stops, typically lasts around a full day, returning to your hotel by late afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely—families with older children who enjoy marine environments often find this tour both fun and educational.

This snorkeling trip to White Island and Ras Mohamed offers a fantastic chance to experience Egypt’s incredible underwater world and scenic beauty in a practical, enjoyable way. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply eager to see vibrant coral reefs and walk on a surreal white island, it’s a day well spent.

You can check availability for your dates here: