Sharm El Sheikh : White Island and Ras Mohamed Trip

If you’re planning a visit to Sharm El Sheikh and crave a day filled with vibrant marine life and stunning scenery, the White Island and Ras Mohamed trip might catch your interest. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. It promises a full day of snorkeling, relaxing boat rides, and breathtaking views—all for a surprisingly affordable price of around $16.50 per person.

What stands out about this experience? First, the chance to explore White Island’s pristine sands and clear waters. Second, the opportunity to see the diverse marine life at Ras Mohamed, a protected national park famous among snorkelers and divers. Lastly, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off plus a buffet lunch on board makes this a hassle-free option.

However, a key consideration is the admission fees that aren’t included—costing an extra $10 per person for park entry and $10 more for snorkeling equipment if needed. This can add up, especially if you’re keen on multiple dives or snorkel sessions. This tour best suits those looking for an affordable day of adventure with comfortable logistics, particularly travelers new to the area or those short on time but eager to see iconic spots.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $16.50, this tour offers good value, especially with included transport and lunch.
• Two Major Snorkeling Spots: Enjoy time at White Island and Ras Mohamed, both renowned for marine biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs.
• All-Inclusive Feel: The tour includes hotel transfers, soft drinks, and a buffet lunch, simplifying your day.
• Flexible Snorkeling Options: Certified instructors are available, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
• Additional Fees: Extra costs for park entrance and snorkeling equipment should be budgeted.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 30 travelers, you’ll likely get a more personal, relaxed outing.

Introduction: A Day of Water-Based Wonders in Sharm El Sheikh

This snorkeling trip from Sharm El Sheikh is often praised for offering a full day of exploration and relaxation on Egypt’s famed Red Sea. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the area’s underwater beauty without the hassle of organizing their own transport or meals. You’ll be whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle, heading to two of the most celebrated snorkeling locations in the region: White Island and Ras Mohamed National Park.

One of the most appealing aspects is the balance of guided activity and free time. You get to snorkel in two different spots, each boasting stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life, with a delicious buffet lunch served on the boat. The friendly staff and certified snorkeling instructors are also highlighted for making beginners feel safe and comfortable.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that some reviewers found the snorkeling sessions to be quite brief, with one mentioning they weren’t allowed more than 10 minutes at a time. So if snorkeling is your main focus, you might want to consider whether this tour offers enough time to truly enjoy the underwater scenery.

This experience appeals most to travelers seeking value-for-money and easy logistics. It’s suitable for first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting a taste of the Red Sea’s marine beauty without diving deep into the costs or planning.

Breaking Down the Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Hotel Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off early at around 8:00 am with hotel pickups, which are included, making the day seamless from the start. An air-conditioned vehicle whisks you from your accommodation to the departure point. Reviews indicate the groups are capped at 30 travelers, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger, crowded tours.

Stop 1: White Island

Your first stop is White Island, famed for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have approximately three hours to snorkel and explore. The island, being part of Ras Mohamed National Park, offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. However, note that admission tickets are not included, costing around $10 per person.

Reviewers like Andreea Karina praised the experience, saying, “It was great. Lovely people. Everyone tried to make the experience as pleasant as possible.” You’ll love the views of the secluded beaches and the chance to relax on powdery sands.

Stop 2: Ras Mohamed National Park

Next, the boat moves to Ras Mohamed, a protected park known for its diverse marine ecosystem and striking landscapes. Expect roughly three hours here for snorkeling and exploring. The park offers a mix of desert landscapes, mangroves, and coral reefs. Again, park fees are not included and are approximately $10 per person.

From reviews, we learn that the crystal-clear waters teeming with fish make this a highlight. One reviewer mentioned that staff do their best to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, even if snorkeling is new for some.

Onboard Experience: Lunch and Drinks

A highlight for many is the buffet lunch served onboard, which features a variety of dishes and is included in the price. Soft drinks and mineral water are also provided, allowing you to stay refreshed after your underwater adventures.

Return and Drop-off

Post exploration, the boat heads back to Sharm El Sheikh, with the total tour lasting around 8 hours. The hotel drop-off completes your day, leaving you with memories of spectacular colors and marine life.

The Authenticity and Real Experiences from Reviews

While most reviews are positive, a common concern is the short snorkeling times. One traveler, Javier S, pointed out that the allocated time was under 10 minutes per stop, which might not satisfy those wanting prolonged underwater exploration. Yet, he still appreciated the quality of the food and the friendly instructor.

Another reviewer, Sian A, emphasized the good staff and relaxing atmosphere onboard, highlighting that the boat was comfortable and the crew attentive. These insights suggest that, despite some limitations on snorkeling duration, the overall vibe is friendly and accommodating.

The tour also seems to attract a range of travelers, from beginners to seasoned snorkelers, with the certified instructor ensuring safety and guidance. The small group size helps foster a more relaxed, personalized experience, which many find valuable.

Transportation, Pricing, and Extras: What to Keep in Mind

The cost of $16.50 offers a good starting point, especially considering the hotel transfers and lunch included. However, the additional costs—such as $10 for park entry and $10 for snorkeling equipment—should be factored into your budget. If you’re planning to snorkel extensively or want your own gear, bringing your equipment or budgeting for the extras is advisable.

The timing of the tour, beginning at 8:00 am and lasting around 8 hours, makes it suitable for travelers who want to maximize their day. The group size cap of 30 travelers means you’ll likely receive better attention from guides and a more relaxed atmosphere than larger tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager to explore two iconic spots in the Red Sea without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited for those new to snorkeling or visiting with family, thanks to the presence of certified instructors and the calm, guided environment.

If you prefer longer snorkeling sessions or more in-depth marine exploration, you might find this tour a bit limited in duration. However, for a quick, scenic, and relaxing day, it hits most marks. The inclusion of lunch, soft drinks, and transportation makes it a hassle-free choice, especially for first-timers or those with limited time in Sharm El Sheikh.

Final Words: Is This Tour Worth It?

This snorkeling trip offers solid value for travelers wanting an uncomplicated day of marine discovery. The combination of beautiful scenic spots, friendly guides, and good logistics makes it an appealing option for many.

While snorkeling times may be brief, the opportunity to see White Island’s stunning sands and Ras Mohamed’s marine diversity in one day is hard to beat at this price point. Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, especially with the small group size and attentive staff.

This experience really shines for those wanting a budget-friendly introduction to Egypt’s underwater landscapes, or travelers seeking a convenient, all-in-one day trip that doesn’t require much planning.

FAQs about the White Island and Ras Mohamed Trip

• What is included in the tour?

Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, two snorkeling spots, a buffet lunch, soft drinks, and mineral water are included.

• Are snorkeling equipment and park fees included?

No, snorkeling equipment costs an additional $10 per person, and park entrance fees are also $10 per person.

• How long is each snorkeling stop?

Most reviewers mention snorkeling sessions are about 10 minutes per stop, which might be brief for some.

• Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, with certified snorkeling instructors onboard, beginners can feel safe and guided.

• What time does the tour start?

The tour begins at 8:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours.

• How many people typically join?

The group size is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

• Can I cancel this tour?

Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

• What should I bring?

Bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

• Are the beaches and snorkeling spots crowded?

The tour’s small group size and popular spots like White Island tend to be manageable, but expect some fellow travelers in the water.

• Is there any age restriction?

Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t detailed. Check with your operator if traveling with very young children.

In essence, if you’re seeking a cost-effective, well-organized day in the Red Sea, this tour offers a good mix of scenic beauty, marine discovery, and easy logistics. It might not satisfy those craving extended snorkeling or diving sessions, but for a glimpse into Egypt’s underwater charm, it’s a solid choice.