Glass Boat & Snorkeling with day use of Berenice Beach Club

Exploring Aqaba’s Red Sea: A Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the stunning underwater world of Aqaba without getting your hair wet (or simply want a relaxing day by the sea), the Glass Boat & Snorkeling experience offers a solid option. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it strikes a nice balance between adventure, relaxation, and value.

What we love about this trip is the chance to see coral reefs and wrecks from a glass-bottom boat, enjoy guided snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun at Berenice Beach Club. It’s perfect for first-time snorkelers, families, or anyone wanting a taste of the Red Sea without the hassle of full diving excursions.

A possible consideration is the timing and group size, which could affect how personalized or relaxed your experience feels. The 4:00 PM start makes it ideal for those spending the day exploring Aqaba, but early risers or night owls might prefer different schedules.

This experience suits travelers seeking a cost-effective, fun, and scenic day out, especially if marine life and beach relaxation are high on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price point at $35 per person offers good value for both the boat ride and beach access.
• Includes guided snorkeling, coral viewing from the boat, towels, snorkeling kits, and soft drinks — everything you need for a relaxed day on the water.
• Accessible transportation from Aqaba city makes it convenient, especially for those not renting a car.
• Two snorkeling stops provide chances to see vibrant marine life and underwater wrecks.
• Day pass to Berenice Beach Club means unlimited access to pools, loungers, bars, and the beach itself.
• Flexible booking options with pay-later policies and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance add peace of mind.

Diving Into the Details: What to Expect from This Tour

The Itinerary & Highlights

Starting at 4:00 PM, the tour begins with a shuttle bus pickup from central Aqaba, typically around 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, depending on your choice. This makes it easy to combine with daytime activities or sightseeing beforehand. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your crew, including knowledgeable guides like those praised in reviews, who ensure you’re comfortable and informed.

The main event is the 1-hour glass-bottom boat ride. We love the way this allows for a no-pressure view of the coral reefs and wrecks—like The Tank, the Sunken Airplane, and the Japanese Garden Reef—without getting wet. Reviewers confirm the views are stunning, with many mentioning the clarity of the water and the variety of marine life visible from the boat.

Following this, you’ll head out for two snorkeling stops. These are typically guided, giving you the chance to explore vibrant coral gardens and schools of colorful fish. Reviewers like Francois highlight how the underwater life is amazing, and guides like those from Sindbad Marine are praised for their helpfulness and expertise, making snorkeling accessible even for beginners.

The Beach & Relaxation

After the underwater adventures, you gain full access to Berenice Beach Club. This part of the experience is often highlighted as a major bonus, with guests appreciating the comfortable loungers, pools, bars, and the chance to unwind.

Many reviews mention how the beach area is a highlight, with some expressing a wish they could spend more time lounging instead of walking to the boat. The beach is well-maintained, and the inclusion of towels and soft drinks makes this segment of the day quite relaxing and hassle-free.

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Transportation & Timing

The round-trip transport is included and generally runs smoothly. The reviews praise the timely pickups and the helpfulness of the staff. The tour’s 4:00 PM start is ideal for those who want to enjoy the morning in Aqaba or visit other attractions earlier in the day.

What’s Missing?

While the trip offers a fantastic overview of the Red Sea’s marine environment, it does not include food or alcohol, so packing snacks or planning to dine elsewhere afterward is recommended. Also, some reviews note that the boat ride itself is about 35–40 minutes, which is a relatively short trip but packed with scenery.

Practical Tips for an Enjoyable Day

• Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the reef and your skin.
• Beachwear is obviously essential, plus a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
• If you’re into birdwatching or spotting distant boats, binoculars could be handy.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early for check-in and boarding.
• Consider your comfort: if prone to seasickness, take necessary precautions as the trip involves open water.

Accessibility & Language

The experience is offered in English and Arabic, making it accessible for most visitors. It’s suitable for families, couples, solo travelers, and foreign visitors—the boat crew and guides are experienced with different groups.

Booking & Flexibility

Booking is flexible, with options to reserve and pay later. If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind to your booking.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler appreciated the transport arrangements, mentioning that “transport to and from the venue was arranged free of charge,” which adds to the overall value. Another pointed out the stunning underwater views but also mentioned some dissatisfaction with the boat’s short duration and the change in tour timing, highlighting the importance of confirming details beforehand.

A critical review noted dead corals and questioned the authenticity of the reef viewing, but overall, most visitors find the coral and wreck sights to be worth the trip. The difference in experiences underscores the importance of managing expectations and understanding what the tour can realistically deliver.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a great introduction to Aqaba’s underwater world with minimal hassle. The glass-bottom boat ride is a unique way to see coral reefs and wrecks, especially if you’re not keen on full snorkeling or diving. The day access to Berenice Beach Club turns the experience into a full leisure day, letting you soak up the sun after your aquatic adventure.

The value for money is evident, considering the inclusive snorkeling gear, soft drinks, and beach access for just $35. It’s a flexible, family-friendly option that suits travelers wanting a combination of gentle adventure and relaxing beach time.

If you enjoy marine sights, easy-paced activities, and a scenic setting, this trip will likely meet your expectations. Just remember to confirm the schedule, arrive early, and pack essentials for a smooth and enjoyable day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families looking for a safe, guided water adventure, couples wanting a romantic yet laid-back day, or solo travelers eager to explore the Red Sea’s beauty without diving deep. It’s also suitable for those who value convenience and inclusive amenities, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those new to Aqaba.

If marine life, coral reefs, and beach relaxation tick your boxes, this tour provides a balanced, cost-effective way to enjoy Aqaba’s renowned waters.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, a free shuttle bus picks you up from Aqaba city at scheduled times and returns you at the end of the trip.

What’s the best time to book?
The trip starts at 4:00 PM daily; booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Are there age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for families, couples, girls, and foreign visitors. It’s not explicitly stated but generally accessible for all ages able to snorkel or enjoy the boat ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, towels, snorkel gear (provided), and binoculars if desired.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. Pack snacks or plan to eat at Berenice Beach Club or nearby restaurants.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat trip lasts approximately 35 to 40 minutes, providing ample time for coral viewing from the glass bottom.

Is the experience suitable for seasick travelers?
It’s not explicitly stated, but if you are prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions, as the water can be choppy at times.

In sum, the Glass Boat & Snorkeling with day use of Berenice Beach Club offers a scenic, affordable, and well-rounded day out for anyone wanting a taste of Aqaba’s underwater magic combined with beachside relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: