Glass Bottom Boat Excursion in Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re visiting Sharm El Sheikh and craving an easy, relaxing way to explore the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea without getting wet, the Glass Bottom Boat Excursion might just be what you need. Based on glowing reviews and detailed tour descriptions, this experience offers a beautiful glimpse into the underwater world from a comfortable vessel, making it perfect for families, seniors, or anyone who prefers not to snorkel or dive.

What we love about this trip are three standout features: the affordable price, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the insightful guides who enhance the viewing experience. That said, some travelers note that the tour duration on the water is about an hour, so if you’re expecting a longer adventure, you might want to plan additional activities. This tour appeals most to those seeking a laid-back, scenic, and informative underwater experience that fits easily into a busy itinerary.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money, with many praising the affordability for such a unique experience.
• Family-friendly and accessible, suitable for children, elderly, and non-swimmers.
• Professional guides and friendly staff enhance the overall experience.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel make logistics simple.
• Limited on-time on the water, with the boat ride alone lasting around an hour.
• Highly rated, with a near-perfect five-star rating from over 130 reviews.

Introduction: Why the Glass Bottom Boat Excursion Stands Out

Imagine gliding over the Red Sea in a comfortable boat, peering through a massive glass panel into a world bursting with colorful fish and coral reefs—all without getting your hair wet. That’s the core appeal of this glass bottom boat tour in Sharm El Sheikh. It’s a straightforward way to see the underwater beauty of Egypt’s famous Red Sea, especially if snorkeling or diving isn’t your thing.

Three things really catch our eye about this experience. First, the value for money is hard to beat, costing just $24 per person for around an hour of marine-viewing bliss. Second, the hotel pickup service makes it easy to enjoy without worrying about transportation logistics. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides help bring the underwater scene to life with interesting commentary and personal suggestions. However, keep in mind that the boat ride itself lasts about an hour, so if you’re craving a longer adventure, you might want to combine this with other activities.

This tour suits travelers who want a family-friendly, low-impact activity that’s both educational and relaxing. It’s perfect for those who prefer to stay dry but still want to experience the vibrant beauty beneath the waves.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Old Market & Departure Point

The excursion begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh, often praised for being punctual and friendly. Many reviewers mention that the driver is helpful and professional, setting the tone for a smooth experience. The boat departs from a location near the Old Market, which is also a good place to visit if you want to combine sightseeing or shopping.

The Boat: Comfort and Views

The vessel is described as a two-level boat, with the first level at sea level where you can sit and soak in the sunlight or cool down in the air-conditioned upper deck. The highlight, of course, is the large glass panel at the bottom of the boat, which offers an unobstructed view of the coral reefs and marine life below. Many travelers remark that this setup is ideal for kids and seniors who may not feel comfortable snorkeling or scuba diving.

Marine Viewing and Coral Reefs

The main part of the tour centers around seeing the underwater world from the boat. The coral reefs are described as gorgeous and teeming with fish, with some reviewers noting that the experience exceeds their expectations. A guide typically accompanies the trip and points out different fish and coral species, adding an educational layer. One reviewer, Nikhil, appreciated how the guide shared additional insights about the marine environment, making the trip more engaging.

Duration & Experience

While the overall tour lasts about two hours (including pickup and drop-off), the actual boat ride on the water is approximately 60 minutes. Reviewers like Johannes and Sarunas praise the duration for being just right—short enough to keep kids entertained but long enough to enjoy the scenery. Some, like Mashael, mention that the experience felt a bit rushed, especially the walk to the boat, which involves walking on sand and navigating a small dock.

Additional Features: Fish Feeding & Refreshments

A few reviews highlight options like fish feeding, which add an interactive element to the trip. Some travelers mention that soft drinks and snacks are available for purchase on board, allowing for a relaxed, leisurely cruise.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Guided Expertise and Friendly Service

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides and staff. Nabil, one of the operators, is singled out for being super helpful and making the experience seamless. The crew’s attentiveness, from helping with camera angles to ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable, adds significant value.

Accessibility and Family Appeal

The tour is widely regarded as kid-friendly and suitable for elderly travelers. The fact that you can see the reef without diving or snorkeling makes it an inclusive option for many. Dawn describes it as “absolutely fantastic” for families, emphasizing its relaxing and educational qualities.

Transportation and Booking Ease

Most reviews note the efficient pickup service and the simplicity of booking, often done 21 days in advance, which suggests high demand and trust. The included hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t need to worry about arrangements, and the overall process feels smooth.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is highly praised, some reviewers point out minor drawbacks. A few mention that the boat ride lasts about an hour, which might seem short for those expecting a longer adventure. Mashael notes that the dock and access to the boat could be better, describing the walk as uncomfortable with small children and on uneven surfaces.

Plus, there is a review citing perceived unethical behavior—allowing passengers to sit on the glass panels for closer views for extra charges—though that seems to be a rare concern and may relate to misunderstandings about what’s included.

It’s also worth noting that weather conditions can impact the experience, and the tour requires good weather to operate safely.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $24 per person, this experience provides excellent value for a quick but highly visual introduction to the Red Sea’s marine life. Many reviewers mention that for the price, the views and guides’ knowledge surpass expectations. It’s particularly appealing for families, as it combines safety, comfort, and entertainment.

Why it’s Worth Considering

If you’re short on time but still want a visual feast of colorful fish and coral, this tour hits the mark. It’s also a fantastic choice if you or your travel companions aren’t comfortable with snorkeling or diving, but still want to see the underwater beauty that Sharm El Sheikh is famous for.

Who Should Book This Tour

This excursion is ideal for families with children, elderly travelers, or anyone wanting a low-effort, high-reward activity in Sharm El Sheikh. Those looking for a quick, affordable way to enjoy marine life without the need for gear or physical exertion will find this trip perfect. It’s also suitable for travelers with a busy schedule who prefer a short, guided, and comfortable experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your While?

Absolutely. The Glass Bottom Boat Excursion in Sharm El Sheikh offers a scenic, educational, and relaxing way to enjoy the Red Sea’s underwater world. With friendly guides, convenient hotel pickup, and affordable pricing, it hits a sweet spot for many travelers.

While it’s not a long or dive-heavy trip, it’s a beautiful introduction to marine life that’s accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a family with young kids, or someone who simply wants a memorable, stress-free experience, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQs

How long does the boat ride last?
The actual marine viewing on the boat is approximately 60 minutes, with the full tour including pickup and drop-off lasting around two hours.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off services from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $24 per person, which many reviews consider very reasonable given the quality of the experience.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. The tour is described as perfect for children, elderly, and anyone who prefers not to snorkel or dive.

What should I bring?
You might want to bring a camera or phone for photos, sun protection, and possibly a light jacket if the weather is cooler.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, an expert guide will accompany you, providing interesting insights into the marine life and coral reefs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are drinks and snacks available?
Yes, soft drinks and snacks can often be purchased on board, allowing for a relaxing cruise.

How is the overall value?
Most reviewers agree it’s excellent value for money, especially considering the quality of the views and the knowledgeable staff.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book around 21 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

In essence, the Glass Bottom Boat Excursion in Sharm El Sheikh offers a friendly, affordable, and visually stunning way to explore the underwater beauty of the Red Sea—perfect for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly activity that doesn’t compromise on views or experience.