Sharm El Sheikh: Ras Mohamed and White island cruise

If you’re planning a day trip from Sharm El Sheikh to explore the Red Sea’s most stunning spots, this cruise to Ras Mohamed National Park and White Island offers a perfect mix of snorkeling, sunbathing, and delicious food. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, it’s a popular choice among travelers looking for an affordable, well-rounded experience, especially given its competitive price of just $26 per person.

What really draws us to this tour are the opportunities for snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs and the chance to relax on White Island’s pristine sands. Plus, the all-inclusive buffet lunch sounds like the perfect way to fuel up after a morning in the water.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention disorganization and long waits at the port, which can temper the smoothness of the experience. This trip suits travelers who enjoy being on the water, want a straightforward day with guides, and are looking for a cost-effective way to see some of Egypt’s most famous marine sites without diving deep into complex activities.

Key Points

• Affordable price with good value, especially considering lunch and park entry fees are included.
• Multiple snorkeling spots offer chances to see diverse marine life, perfect for both beginners and experienced swimmers.
• The white sands of White Island provide a tranquil beach escape.
• The modern yacht offers comfortable amenities, including sun decks and air-conditioned areas.
• Some travelers report organizational issues and long waits, so patience may be necessary.
• The delicious buffet lunch is a highlight, with substantial Egyptian staples like chicken, kofta, and pasta.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from your hotel, you’ll be picked up and driven to the Egypt Sunmarine Fleet dock at Watanya Marina. From there, the journey begins aboard a modern yacht, equipped with a spacious sun deck for viewing and relaxing in the sun, alongside an air-conditioned lower deck for cooler comfort. This balance allows you to enjoy the sea breeze or escape the heat when needed.

Sailing to Ras Mohamed National Park takes roughly an hour, during which you might enjoy views of the Sinai coastline or simply unwind on deck. Once at the park, the boat anchors at two main snorkeling sites, like Yolanda Reef and Shark Reef. These locations are famous for their colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life, including various fish species, sea turtles, and, if you’re lucky, even sharks.

Your guide will be on hand to assist with snorkeling gear—either rented onboard or brought along—ensuring everyone feels comfortable exploring the underwater world. The second snorkeling stop might include spots like South Bereika Bay or Marsa Ghozlani, both known for thriving ecosystems.

After working up an appetite, you’ll return to the boat to enjoy a buffet lunch. Expect a generous spread featuring salad, rice, pasta, potatoes, chicken, and Egyptian kofta—a satisfying meal that many reviewers say is surprisingly good. Throughout the day, hot drinks and soft drinks are available, helping to keep you refreshed.

Next, the boat heads to White Island, which is often highlighted as a highlight due to its white sand beaches and calm, clear waters. Here, you can lounge on the beach, swim, or simply soak up the sun. The visit to White Island is subject to tide conditions, so timing and patience might be needed if the weather or tides are uncooperative.

Finally, the journey back to Sharm El Sheikh begins, with the boat returning to the marina where your transfer to your hotel awaits. The entire day is designed to be leisurely, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Snorkeling in the vibrant reefs is undoubtedly a major draw. Travelers commonly mention the diverse marine life and the opportunity to see colorful fish, coral, and possibly small sharks, which makes this a rewarding activity for all levels. One reviewer noted, “Overall, a good trip. The wait for departure in the morning was very long at the port, and drinks on the ship were very expensive. However, it was a good trip with a relaxed crew and delicious food,” underscoring that while minor logistical frustrations exist, the core experience remains positive.

The buffet lunch frequently receives praise. Many describe it as “delicious,” with a variety of Egyptian and Western-style dishes. This is a significant bonus, as some similar tours only offer snacks or simple meals. For many, it turns the trip into a full-day outing rather than just a boat ride.

Customer service varies. One reviewer mentioned excellent guides and helpful staff, while another pointed out disorganization that hampered the experience. It’s clear that expectations for smooth logistics may need adjustment. Arriving early, being patient during waiting periods, and understanding that coordination can sometimes be inconsistent will help.

The boat itself receives mixed reviews. Some enjoy the modern design, spacious decks, and comfortable amenities, while others mention long waits and expensive drinks. It’s wise to bring your own water or snacks if you’re sensitive to prices onboard.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation to and from the marina is included only if you select the “Option 2” package. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer, or simply arrive by taxi. The meeting point, Egypt Sunmarine Fleet at Watanya Marina, is straightforward to locate, especially if you show your ticket to the staff wearing yellow shirts.

Timing is important. Expect a pickup roughly one hour before the trip, and the entire day can last around 8 hours, making it a full but manageable outing. The trip includes visits to the national park and White Island, with snorkeling stops in between, followed by a buffet lunch.

What to bring: Towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and your passport or ID (a copy is accepted). Be prepared to get in the water, so waterproof gear and comfortable footwear are handy.

Restrictions: Alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard, aligning with local regulations and safety protocols.

Language: Guides and crew typically speak English, German, and Russian, making communication accessible to most travelers.

Cost and value: At $26 per person, this trip is quite affordable considering the included park fees and lunch. However, reviews suggest that drinks onboard can be pricey, so bringing your own water might be wise.

Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

One traveler summed it up as “Very nice guide Ahmed, snorkeling, food, boat was excellent,” highlighting the importance of good guides and tasty food. Conversely, a review labeled it a “nice experience but ruined by the total Egyptian disorganization,” reminding us that logistics can sometimes be a challenge.

Many mention that the delicious buffet is a highlight. The variety and quality of food, combined with the opportunity to relax on the boat and soak up the sun, make this trip a well-rounded, enjoyable day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits budget-conscious travelers who want a full-day adventure with snorkeling, scenic views, and a relaxed vibe. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being on the water and appreciate good food after some underwater exploration.

It’s also a solid choice for families, groups, or solo travelers seeking an authentic experience in the Red Sea’s marine environment. If you’re looking for a quick, affordable, and scenic outing with opportunities for relaxing and snapping photos, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you’re sensitive to organizational hiccups or long waits, or if you prefer a more luxurious or smaller-group experience, you might want to explore other options with better reviews on logistics or exclusivity.

The Sum Up

This Ras Mohamed and White Island cruise offers a practical, value-packed way to experience some of Egypt’s most renowned natural attractions. The snorkeling opportunities are a highlight, enabling you to enjoy the vibrant marine life without diving gear or certifications. The delicious buffet provides a satisfying meal that keeps you energized for the day’s activities.

While some travelers experience organization hiccups and long waits, most agree that the scenery, food, and snorkeling make up for these frustrations. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly choice that gives you a solid taste of the Red Sea’s underwater beauty and island serenity.

This trip is best for adventurous, laid-back travelers who want a cost-effective day out with plenty of opportunities to relax and explore. If you’re after a no-fuss, enjoyable outing with friends or family that offers authentic wildlife encounters and stunning scenery, this cruise is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you choose the “Option 2” package, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Watanya Marina.

How long does the trip last?
The entire day usually lasts around 8 hours, including pickup, travel, boat time, snorkeling, lunch, and return.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and your passport or ID card (a copy is accepted). Waterproof gear and comfortable sandals are also recommended.

Can I snorkel without experience?
Yes. The guides are experienced and will assist you with gear and safety. Snorkeling stops are suitable for beginners and experienced swimmers alike.

Is the lunch vegetarian?
The menu includes chicken, kofta, and likely some vegetarian options, but specific dietary requests should be clarified in advance.

Are drinks included?
Hot drinks and soft drinks are available onboard, but reviews mention they can be expensive. Bringing your own water is advisable.

What if the weather is bad?
Tide and weather conditions can affect White Island visits. The trip can be subject to cancellation or rescheduling if conditions are unfavorable.

In short, this cruise offers a fantastic way to enjoy the Red Sea’s highlights on a budget, with plenty of opportunities for fun, relaxation, and discovery. Just prepare for the occasional logistical hiccup and come ready to enjoy some of Egypt’s most beautiful marine scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby