Excursion to Tiran Island by boat

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring Egypt’s vibrant underwater world without the hassle of long boat rides or hefty prices, the Excursion to Tiran Island by boat might be just what you need. While the island itself remains off-limits (as it belongs to Saudi Arabia), this tour offers a fantastic day of snorkeling, great scenery, and a touch of adventure—all on a comfortable, well-organized boat.

What makes this experience shine? We love the variety of snorkeling spots, the knowledgeable guides, and the value for money—all combined to make it a compelling choice for water lovers. The main consideration? The trip’s structure, including the long wait times reported at the port by some guests, may not suit travelers craving a perfectly smooth, seamless day.

This excursion is ideal for those wanting to enjoy multiple snorkeling opportunities, a relaxed day on the water, and a chance to see some of the most colorful marine life in the Red Sea. It’s perfect for families, beginners, and experienced snorkelers alike, provided you’re comfortable with a full day of excursions.

Key Points

• Multiple Snorkeling Spots: Enjoy 2-3 different areas, including near Tiran Island, with diverse corals and fish.
• Inclusive Food & Drinks: A hearty onboard lunch with soft drinks, coffee, and tea makes for a well-rounded day.
• Comfortable Transportation: Hotel pickups and return transfers keep logistics simple.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, enhance the experience.
• Value for Money: At roughly $31.40, the tour offers a comprehensive day with snorkeling, lunch, and transportation.
• Some Logistics Flaws: Long waits at the port and limited time in some snorkeling spots are common criticisms.

Starting the Day: Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh, usually with an air-conditioned vehicle—making the start of the day smooth and comfortable. Most travelers confirm their bookings around 12 days in advance, indicating good planning and availability.

Once at the port, guests often face a wait—some reviews mention up to two hours of waiting in the heat before boarding the boat. This is a noted area for improvement, but once on board, the mood shifts to relaxation. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, with enough space for the group (up to 50 travelers). The crew, often praised for being friendly and helpful, ensures everyone feels comfortable and safe.

The Boat: Comfort and Facilities

The vessel is designed for a day trip, with shaded areas and plenty of seating. The onboard amenities include a delicious lunch, soft drinks, coffee, and tea—covering all the essentials for a full day at sea. Guests frequently comment on the quality of the food, describing it as “yummy” with enough variety to satisfy different tastes.

A notable highlight from reviews is the staff’s attentiveness; they go out of their way to include solo travelers or those less confident in the water. The boat’s size, though adequate for most, sometimes feels a tad small for the number of guests, especially during peak times.

Snorkeling: Highlights and Challenges

This tour’s core is the snorkeling. You’ll get the chance to snorkel near Sharm el Sheikh at attractive sites, with two courses included, and a third session near Tiran Island itself. The stops are carefully selected to showcase the most colorful reefs and marine life.

Expect to see a variety of fish, corals, and perhaps turtles or rays—many guests describe the underwater world as “stunning” and “vibrant.” An added bonus is the chance to snorkel near a sunken ship, which some find particularly fascinating.

However, some reviews mention that the snorkeling time can be limited—only about 10 minutes per stop in some cases. One guest noted, “you might find the stops a little short,” but this is balanced by the fact that multiple stops mean you get several chances to enjoy the reefs.

Experienced guides often swim alongside snorkelers, pointing out interesting species and coral formations. One review highlighted an instructor who swam down to show fish and coral, shouting their names—a lovely personal touch that makes the experience more engaging.

Tiran Island and Surroundings

While the boat doesn’t land on Tiran Island (as it belongs to Saudi Arabia), the cruise to the vicinity offers spectacular views. The boat anchors in the best areas for reef exploration, giving you the chance to swim in some of the most beautiful underwater scenes.

Guests have raved about the diversity of marine life at these stops. Expect to see colorful fish, corals, and possibly even dolphins or turtles, according to some reviews. You’ll love the photos you can snap of the vibrant underwater landscape—ideal for social media or just memories.

One reviewer described the reefs as “the most beautiful they ever saw,” emphasizing the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life. Just remember, the island itself remains off-limits, but the surrounding waters more than compensate.

Lunch and Onboard Experience

The onboard lunch is consistently praised as a highlight. You can expect a generous meal—probably a mix of local and European flavors—accompanied by soft drinks, coffee, and tea. Reviewers mention that the food is plentiful and tasty, perfect for refueling after snorkeling.

Other comforts include friendly staff who make the day enjoyable. Many guests appreciated the crew’s attentiveness and willingness to help, especially those new to snorkeling or traveling alone.

Hot and cold drinks are always available, which is a real plus in the warm weather. Some travelers note that the food is “reasonably priced” and good enough for a day of active water fun.

Additional Highlights & Tips

• Diving options: Some reviews mention adding extra diving sessions, which are available at an additional cost, with professional instructors guiding groups.
• Marine wildlife: Guests have seen dolphins, turtles, and rays, which adds excitement to the day.
• Photo opportunities: The crew sometimes offers photography services, capturing moments underwater or on the boat—worth considering to preserve your memories.
• Group size: A maximum of 50 travelers helps maintain a lively but manageable atmosphere, ensuring everyone gets attention.

Practical tip: Since some reviews mention long wait times at the port, arriving early and being patient can improve your experience. Also, bring reef-safe sunscreen, water, and a towel—though these are not always provided.

Criticisms: What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are glowing, a few common issues pop up. The most significant is the lengthy wait at the port, with some travelers waiting over two hours before departure. This can make the day feel longer and the snorkeling stops seem shorter.

Some reviewers also noted that the snorkeling stops are sometimes brief, with only around 10 minutes in the water, which may not be enough for serious snorkelers. Plus, the boat can feel crowded during peak times, and some guests wished for more time at each reef.

A French reviewer even described the water as “having a petroleum taste,” though this appears to be an isolated incident and not a widespread complaint.

Finally, the food, although praised by many, received some criticism for being “so-so” and not particularly memorable—though it’s generally considered good value for the price.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For its price—around $31.40 per person—this tour delivers a solid experience packed with snorkeling, scenic views, and friendly service. The inclusion of multiple snorkeling spots, a hearty lunch, and convenient hotel transfers makes it an efficient way to enjoy the Red Sea’s underwater treasures without breaking the bank.

The tour’s flexibility to include additional activities like diving, plus the opportunity to see diverse marine life, adds value that many travelers find worthwhile. It’s especially suitable if you’re eager to explore several snorkeling sites in one day, with the comfort of guided support and good food.

While the port waits can be frustrating, the overall experience—based on reviews—remains enjoyable and memorable, especially for first-timers or families with children.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits travelers looking for a cost-effective, well-organized day on the water with multiple snorkeling opportunities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy underwater scenery, want a guided experience with knowledgeable staff, and are happy with a full day of activity.

Families, solo travelers, and snorkel enthusiasts will all find something to love here. It’s particularly great if you’re after a combination of good value, friendly service, and beautiful marine environments.

Those expecting a luxury, ultra-exclusive experience might find the tour a bit busy or rushed, but for most, the vibrant reefs and friendly guides more than make up for it.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $31.40 per person, which includes snorkeling, lunch, drinks, and transfers.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?
No, snorkeling equipment is not included, so you should bring your own or inquire if available for rent.

Is there a dress code or special gear needed?
Comfortable swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen are recommended; no specific dress code required. Bring a towel and possibly a waterproof camera.

How long is the whole tour?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, including pickup, boat time, snorkeling stops, and return transfers.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there is a 5 Euro entrance fee for the national park, payable on-site. Diving sessions are offered at an extra cost if you want to expand your underwater experience.

What if I don’t snorkel well?
Guides are friendly and helpful, and they often assist beginners. The tours are suitable for most skill levels, but comfort in water is helpful.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as clean and well-maintained, with shade and seating. Some guests find it slightly small during peak times, but overall, it’s adequate.

Will I see Tiran Island itself?
No, the island remains off-limits, but the cruise offers great views and snorkeling near its waters.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with kids enjoying the trip. Just ensure your children are comfortable with snorkeling and boat rides.

In brief, this snorkeling tour to Tiran Island offers a balanced mix of underwater adventure, scenic views, and good value. Perfect for those eager to explore the Red Sea’s marine wonders without over-complicating their day. While some logistical hiccups exist, the friendly staff, diverse snorkeling spots, and delicious onboard meals make it a memorable journey for water lovers.