Sharm: Pirates Sailing Boat cruise with transfers & lunch

If you’re heading to Sharm El Sheikh and craving a day on the water exploring the stunning coral reefs and turquoise waters of the Red Sea, a Pirates Sailing Boat cruise might just be on your list. While this trip promises an adventure filled with snorkeling, views, and a fun pirate theme, what you get can vary quite a bit depending on your expectations and the details you care about most.

We’ll take you through what this experience offers, the highlights that make it stand out, and some of the hurdles you might encounter. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply want a relaxing day on a beautifully decorated boat, this tour aims to deliver a memorable outing — but like all things, it’s not perfect.

What we love about this trip include the beautifully crafted pirate ship aesthetic and the chance to snorkel at iconic spots like Ras Mohamed and White Island. Plus, the buffet lunch, served in style, adds value to the day. On the flip side, some reviews point out the less glamorous reality of unfulfilled expectations, especially about children’s activities and equipment requirements.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic day out with good food and marine views, and don’t mind a few surprises along the way, this cruise is likely to suit you well.

Key Points

• Beautiful, luxurious vessel with three decks and authentic pirate decor.
• Two snorkeling stops at world-famous reefs, with guided marine viewing.
• Delicious buffet lunch with seafood and local dishes included.
• Transfers and entry fees are covered, simplifying logistics.
• Mixed reviews about kids’ activities and pirate theme; some feel it’s less engaging for children.
• Great for those seeking scenic relaxation, snorkeling, and good value for a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Boat and Atmosphere

One of the standout features of this tour is the pirate-themed vessel. It’s a three-masted, wooden ship that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook — perfect for snapping photos and setting a fun tone. The boat boasts luxury marble and wood interiors and offers a fully air-conditioned salon where you can relax comfortably, especially during the buffet lunch.

Its three decks — including a spacious upper sun deck — provide ample space for sunbathers and scenic views. You’ll find a cozy lower deck with more comfort and, supposedly, some kids’ entertainment, although reviews suggest this area is underwhelming in that regard.

The Itinerary and Stops

The trip kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickup and transfers coordinated by the operator. Departing around 9 am, the boat begins its cruise along the Sinai coastline, a scenic hour-long sail toward the Ras Mohamed National Park — a protected marine area renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

The first snorkeling stop is typically at Ras Mohamed, where the guided experience promises approximately 45 minutes in the water. Expect to see coral reefs teeming with fish, and according to reviews, the snorkeling experience is generally good, with many appreciating the professionalism of guides.

The second stop is at White Island, a small, uninhabited slice of paradise famous for its clear waters and white sands. Here, you can snorkel again, often with time to relax on the island itself. One review notes a desire to spend more time on White Island, highlighting how stunning and inviting it is.

Snorkeling: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes life jackets and guided snorkel sessions, but you need to bring your own gear if you want to snorkel comfortably. The reviews reveal some disappointment: one traveler was refused entry into the water because they lacked a mask (which isn’t clearly stated as a requirement). This highlights the importance of checking gear beforehand — it’s best to bring your own snorkel and mask if you want to avoid extra charges.

Wetsuits are available for purchase at around $10 each, which can be worthwhile if the water feels cooler than expected. A key point for families: supervision is provided, but children may find the gear requirement frustrating if unprepared.

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Food and Beverage

The buffet lunch is a highlight for many. Served in the elegant salon, it features seafood soup, various salads, and a hot selection of shrimp, calamari, fish, chicken, and kofta. The meal is complemented by seasonal fruit and soft drinks, offering good value for the price of $80 per person.

Guests commonly praise the quality and variety of the buffet, and some say it surpasses expectations for a boat trip. The lunch duration also provides a much-needed break, making the journey more relaxed.

Kid-Friendly Aspects and Entertainment

The tour touts full entertainment programs for kids, but reviews indicate this isn’t always delivered as promised. One traveler remarked that no pirate-themed activities or dress-up sessions materialized, which disappointed children and parents alike. Others noted that the lower deck was dedicated to children’s activities and animation, but this area was underwhelming.

This inconsistency suggests that if your kids are mainly interested in snorkeling and enjoying the boat, they might be satisfied. But if they expect themed pirate adventures, you may need to temper expectations.

The Overall Experience and Value

At $80 per person, including transfers, entry fees, and lunch, this cruise offers solid value—especially given the scenic views and marine adventures. Guests seem to agree that the guided snorkeling and beautiful boat justify the cost for many visitors.

That said, some reviews point out the importance of being well-prepared — bringing your own snorkel gear and managing expectations about children’s activities. Also, timing can be tight if you’re hoping to spend more time on White Island, as the schedule can feel rushed, especially if delays occur.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to snorkel comfortably, especially masks for children or glasses wearers.
• Pack sunscreen and a towel; the sun can be intense, and the boat doesn’t provide shaded areas all day.
• Arrive early for pickup, as transfers are usually coordinated well, but punctuality ensures smooth sailing.
• Expect a structured schedule; while the scenery and marine life are impressive, the stops are brief, so manage your expectations accordingly.
• Consider dietary preferences if you have specific needs — the buffet offers a range of options, but communication with the operator in advance is advisable.
• Kids’ activities may be limited, so consider whether your children are mainly interested in snorkeling and relaxing on the boat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who value scenic beauty, marine snorkeling, and good food. It’s particularly appealing if you want a luxury boat experience with a fun pirate theme, ideal for families with children who enjoy water activities.

However, if your children are mainly interested in themed pirate entertainment or extensive activities, be aware that this aspect might be less developed than anticipated. Swimmers who want to spend more time in the water or on White Island should also consider the schedule, as some guests feel it’s a bit rushed.

Those seeking a relaxed, visually stunning day on the Red Sea, with easy logistics and guided snorkeling, will find this tour offers good value and a memorable experience.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying your day.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
While life jackets are provided, you should bring your own snorkeling mask and fins if you have them. Wetsuits are available for purchase if needed.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience from departure to return is roughly 7 hours, with snorkeling stops, lunch, and scenic cruising.

Are there activities for children?
The tour claims to have children’s entertainment, but reviews suggest these were limited or not as advertised, so manage expectations.

What does the buffet lunch include?
A range of seafood, salads, hot dishes like shrimp, calamari, fish, chicken, and kofta, along with seasonal fruit — quite a satisfying meal.

Can I stay longer on White Island or the reefs?
No, the schedule is quite fixed, and the stops are approximately 45 minutes each, so if you want more time, consider other options.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Guided snorkeling is included, but if you’re uncomfortable in water, you might prefer to enjoy the boat’s views from the deck or opt for other excursions.

This Pirates Sailing Boat cruise from Sharm El Sheikh stands out for its beautiful vessel, scenic snorkeling spots, and hearty buffet lunch. It delivers a solid day of marine exploration and relaxation, especially for those who appreciate a themed adventure with quality food and comfort.

While the pirate theme isn’t fully realized and some activities for children fall short, the experience’s core — the marine scenery, guided snorkeling, and luxurious boat — remains appealing. It’s a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized, enjoyable day on the Red Sea.

If you’re prepared for a schedule that’s a bit tight and are realistic about the kids’ entertainment, this tour can provide a memorable, value-packed day. Just remember to bring your gear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure — the Red Sea’s underwater world is worth it.

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