Tiran Island Full Day Boat Trip With Lunch from Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re dreaming of spending a day on the Red Sea, this Tiran Island full-day boat trip from Sharm El Sheikh offers an accessible and scenic escape. While we haven’t personally taken this particular tour, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a good sense of what you can expect. Think vibrant coral reefs, clear waters, and a chance to snorkel in some of Egypt’s best marine environments—all for just $29 per person.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the relaxed pace that allows multiple snorkeling opportunities. Second, the knowledgeable guides who are praised for their professionalism and safety awareness. Third, the delicious onboard lunch that adds value to the experience. However, a potential consideration is the need to rent snorkel equipment separately, which adds a bit of extra planning.

This experience seems ideal for travelers eager to explore Egypt’s underwater treasures without breaking the bank, especially those who enjoy group tours, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides. If you’re looking for a day of sun, sea, and colorful marine life, this trip might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Affordable pricing at $29, with options to book 18 days in advance
• Snorkeling opportunities at multiple sites, including Tiran Island and Blue Laguna
• Includes lunch and drinks, making it a convenient day trip
• Group size limited to 25, ensuring a more personal experience
• Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh
• Requires rental of snorkeling equipment, not included in the price

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This full-day outing begins early, with a 7:00 am pickup from your hotel, so prepping for an active day is key. The tour is approximately 8 hours, including transportation, boat time, snorkeling, and lunch. Here’s a closer look at each stop:

Departure and Journey to Blue Laguna

The trip kicks off with a scenic drive through Sharm El Sheikh, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the morning vibe. The boat departs after a 2-hour sail across the Gulf of Aqaba, known for its impressive depth of over 1800 meters. You’ll cruise northeast along the coast, enjoying views of the Red Sea and the surrounding mountains.

This initial stretch is a good time to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, and get excited about the day ahead. The boat itself is comfortable, with enough space for 25 passengers, providing a semi-intimate setting for the journey.

Snorkeling at Blue Laguna

The first snorkeling stop is at Blue Laguna, a tranquil site perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. Despite its shallow waters, the coral reefs here are teeming with marine life. Reviewers mention that the guides are attentive and helpful, especially for those new to snorkeling—something to keep in mind if you’re a first-timer.

Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed National Park

Next, the boat sails toward Tiran Island, which is part of the Ras Mohammed National Park, one of Egypt’s most renowned marine protected areas. Here, you’ll find some of the best underwater landscapes Egypt has to offer. The reefs near Tiran are famed for their vibrant coral and abundant fish, providing a spectacular backdrop for snorkeling or swimming.

One reviewer noted, “The trip was beautiful, and the corals amazing.” The guides are praised for their professionalism and ability to keep everyone safe and comfortable, especially important in open water.

Lunch on Board

After the first snorkeling experience, it’s time to refuel with a complimentary lunch served on the boat. The menu typically includes a variety of hot and cold dishes, and many appreciate the effort put into making the meal satisfying after a morning in the water. Drinks like soda and water are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Optional Snorkeling and Relaxation

Post-lunch, you’ll have another chance to snorkel near Tiran Island, making this trip particularly appealing to those wanting multiple underwater experiences. Reviewers have expressed delight at the diversity of marine life and the clarity of the water, which is ideal for photos and simply floating and enjoying the view.

Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat heads back towards Sharm El Sheikh, providing a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire trip lasts around 8 hours, including travel time, so be prepared for a full but rewarding day.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Many guests have shared positive remarks about the guides and the scenery. One review praises the “fabulous” day, noting that the onboard guides are “professional, safe & kind,” which adds to the overall comfort and enjoyment. The coral reefs leave strong impressions—“the corals were amazing”—making this a highlight for snorkelers.

That said, not all feedback is glowing. Some travelers mention that the food quality could be improved, describing it as “horrible,” and highlight the need to rent snorkel gear separately because it’s not included. Others have experienced logistical issues, like missed pickups, which emphasizes the importance of confirming details with the tour provider.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the package are the hotel pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned vehicle, a hearty lunch, water and sodas, snorkeling guides, and a panoramic view of Tiran Island. The main extras are the cost of snorkeling equipment and the admission fee to Tiran Island, which are not included in the base price.

Tip: If you plan to snorkel a lot, consider bringing or renting your own gear in advance, as some reviewers found renting on-site a bit inconvenient or costly.

Practical Details

The tour starts at 7:00 am, so early risers will get the most out of the day, especially if you want to avoid the crowds. Pickup is arranged from your hotel, making it a seamless experience, and the maximum group size of 25 ensures you won’t be lost in a sea of travelers.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants being able to join, provided they are comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling. The confirmation process is straightforward, and the tour is canceled free of charge if the weather turns bad or if minimum numbers aren’t met.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest describes their day as “nice and friendly,” praising the guides for their helpfulness. Another emphasizes the “beautiful trip” with “fabulous” snorkeling and highlights that the guides are “particularly good, professional, safe & kind.”

However, there are experiences of frustration, such as a reviewer who mentions that “the taxi didn’t even come,” which underscores the importance of confirming pickup details and arriving on time.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, especially if you’re on a budget but still want a taste of Egypt’s underwater magic. The $29 price point is hard to beat, considering the inclusion of lunch, boat ride, and snorkeling opportunities. The trip is well-suited if you’re looking for a day of underwater discovery, scenic views, and relaxed group atmosphere.

For families or beginners, the shallow reefs and helpful guides make it accessible. For seasoned snorkelers, the variety of sites offers enough diversity to keep you engaged. Just keep in mind that some reviews note the food quality could be better, and snorkel gear is an extra expense.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, fun, and affordable way to explore the Red Sea’s vibrant marine life, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
You’ll need to rent snorkeling gear separately, as it’s not included. Many guests recommend bringing your own if possible for comfort and convenience.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 7:00 am, so early mornings are part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the guides are praised for their helpfulness and safety, making it suitable for most skill levels.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to Tiran Island takes about two hours each way, with some stops for snorkeling along the way.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, water and sodas, snorkeling guides, and panoramic views.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this Tiran Island boat trip offers fantastic value for travelers eager to explore Egypt’s underwater world without overspending. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and casual group adventures. While the food may not win awards and gear rental is an additional step, the chance to float above stunning reefs and see vibrant marine life makes this a worthwhile day out. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned underwater enthusiast, this trip provides a memorable, accessible peek into the Red Sea’s vibrant ecosystem.