Sharm El Sheikh: Ras Mohamed & White Island Snorkeling Cruise

Summary

Snorkeling Ras Mohamed’s reefs and drifting onto White Island sandbanks from Sharm el Sheikh

You’ll float above Ras Mohamed’s coral gardens with a local guide nearby, pause for two snorkeling stops, then share a fresh lunch on board before wandering barefoot across White Island’s pale sandbank. Hotel pickup and transfers make it easy to just show up and soak in the Red Sea air — you’ll probably remember those quiet underwater moments long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We were already squinting in the early light when the van pulled up outside our hotel in Sharm el Sheikh — I hadn’t even finished my coffee, but there was this quiet excitement buzzing around. At the marina, our guide (his name was Ahmed — he told us to call him “Captain,” which made everyone laugh) handed out fins and masks, checking that everyone had what they needed. The boat smelled faintly of sunscreen and engine oil, with that salty tang you only get by the sea.

The first stop at Ras Mohamed felt almost unreal. Ahmed jumped in first, waving for us to follow. I hesitated (I always do), but the water was warmer than I expected and clear enough that you could see these wild flashes of color darting between corals. He pointed out a parrotfish — I tried saying its name in Arabic and got it totally wrong; Ahmed just grinned and repeated it for me. There was this moment underwater where everything went quiet except for my own breath bubbling up — I still think about that.

Lunch on deck was simple but honestly perfect after swimming — grilled chicken, rice, something spicy I couldn’t quite place. People swapped stories while drying off in the sun. Then we drifted toward White Island, which is really just this pale sandbank floating in blue water. Walking barefoot there felt weirdly soft underfoot, like stepping on sifted flour or something. Some folks took a million photos; I mostly just stood there watching tiny crabs skitter sideways. On the way back, someone fell asleep stretched out under a towel — not gonna lie, I nearly did too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ras Mohamed snorkeling and White Island

• Hotel pickup around 8am
• Transfer to marina and meet guide
• Snorkel at first Ras Mohamed stop
• Snorkel at second Ras Mohamed stop
• Guide shows coral and marine life
• Visit calmer area near White Island
• Enjoy hot buffet lunch and soft drinks
• Free time to snorkel, swim, or relax
• Sail back to marina
• Transfer back to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Ras Mohamed & White Island boat trip?

Yes, transfers from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh are included both ways.

How many snorkeling stops are there during the cruise?

The tour includes two snorkeling stops at Ras Mohamed area before heading to White Island.

Are meals provided on board?

Yes, a fresh hot buffet lunch is served on board along with soft drinks.

Can beginners join the snorkeling part?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome and your guide will be in the water with you for support.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

You can rent snorkeling equipment and life jackets on board if needed.

Is this tour suitable for families or young children?

Yes, infants can ride in strollers and specialized infant seats are available; it’s family friendly.

Are there any accessibility options?

The transportation options are wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

How long does the day trip last?

You’ll be picked up around 8am and return later in the afternoon after sailing back to the marina.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transfers from your Sharm el Sheikh hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, two guided snorkeling stops at Ras Mohamed with all equipment available to rent if needed, a fresh hot buffet lunch served on board with coffee or tea, time to relax or swim at White Island sandbank, plus support from your Falcon guide throughout before returning comfortably to your hotel.