Honest Review: Sharm El Sheikh Ras Mohamed & White Island Boat Trip

So, you’re thinking about that boat trip from Sharm El Sheikh to Ras Mohamed and White Island, huh? Well, I went there, and I thought I should tell you almost everything you might wanna know before you actually book that thing. This is that trip where you envision yourself cruising turquoise waters, swimming with all those colorful fishes, and sinking your toes into really, really white sand. But, like, is it really all that the pictures are showing you? Let’s find out.

Booking and First Impressions

Okay, so, the booking part. Actually, it was pretty smooth. Lots of tour operators around Sharm offering the same thing, that boat trip, you know? I booked through my hotel because, you know, it just felt simpler, and, I gotta say, it was a little pricier doing it that way. If I were to do it again, I’d probably check out those local agencies, you know, the ones right outside the hotel, that sometimes can get you that very deal. The morning of the trip, a bus, like, a small one, picked us up. Pretty much on time, too. First impressions? Well, the bus, a bit crowded. But you’re excited, you know? Ras Mohamed, here we come! Well, maybe not so fast.

The Boat Experience

When we arrived at the marina, like, there were tons of boats, just all lined up, ready to go. The boat we were on was reasonably spacious. There was a sundeck up top, places to sit that are shaded, and, yeah, toilets. Now, the music. They were playing really loud Arabic pop music, which, I have to admit, that I wasn’t complaining about too much at all, because it definitely set, that vibrant mood, that kind of party thing. The crew, too, seemed alright; you know, friendly enough, giving instructions in multiple languages. That first stretch of sailing? Gorgeous. Just all that crystal sea under the beautiful sunshine. That’s that photo you frame and hang on your wall.

Ras Mohamed National Park: Snorkeling and the Reefs

The main event, and, really, the reason I was interested in this particular trip, was to experience, first hand, the reefs at Ras Mohamed. The boat usually makes, just maybe, two or three stops, very near to different spots within the park. Getting into that water? Absolutely worth it! Even though the provided gear was a bit, you know, worn, that view beneath the surface was spectacular. The coral was just bursting with colors. I got to see tons of fish, every shade you can possibly think of, and different sizes, too. Now, if you are into scuba diving, then this trip, yeah, it might just leave you wanting a little more, actually. The snorkeling spots, just beautiful. But I think they cater to casual snorkelers rather than experienced divers. But hey, I actually did spot a turtle! That actually made my day. So it all came together nicely in the end.

White Island: A Surreal Experience

Next, like, it was on to White Island, and this is definitely something special. So picture that; a sandbar right in the middle of this sea. You jump off that boat, wading through ankle-deep waters that are, you know, warm and just clear. Then, all of a sudden, you’re on an island composed entirely of sugar. The contrast, you know, that pure white sand with that bright, really blue sky and water, just out of this galaxy! I guess that is what the moon is like, if it had an ocean and that ocean was warm. It’s kind of amazing just to walk around and get some really neat photos. Keep in mind, though, that there’s really, very little to actually no shade at all, so, maybe bring a hat and some sunblock. So very quickly, your skin will start to burn like toast on fire!

Food and Drink

Okay, lunchtime! That meal served on board was okay, you know? They served a buffet-style lunch with, like, grilled chicken, rice, salads, and some local dips. It wasn’t a five-star meal, okay? But it actually did the job. I think it was sufficient fuel just to keep you energized throughout that rest of the day. Drinks were available all day long: soft drinks, water, tea, that kinda thing. Just do not expect gourmet coffee, or that imported fizzy drink you just love to binge! That’s just not happening on this tour, in fact. But really, you can’t moan. The view? Amazing. All these friendly people around, too. A friendly crew and all that music that plays loudly? This experience is hard to beat at any price, and no lunch could ever spoil it, even if it tasted like that one I ate!

What to Bring With You

You are going to need these, seriously. Sunscreen is actually the first thing; really, really strong sunscreen, you will not find a second chance later when your skin starts burning. That sun just beams down hard! You’re also going to need sunglasses, as well as a hat just to protect your eyes and face. And something you actually may want to remember is, well, a towel. Yes, the boat provides some, but they are typically a little thin and overused. You might just appreciate having one of your very own, soft, comfy towels. A waterproof camera or maybe a phone case; very handy for taking photos underwater! Really remember a little cash for tips. It’s kinda customary to tip that crew, especially if you felt like they were great.

Potential Drawbacks and Things to Consider

Okay, let’s be realistic now. This trip? Really popular, very. That actually means that it can get crowded, that is not what all of those glossy brochures show, in fact. Both on the boat itself and also at all those snorkeling spots. If you go, you know, expecting that all-alone Robinson Crusoe experience, you’re in for a bit of a shock, in a way. Another thing; if the weather is, you know, not all that cooperative, like too windy, the sea actually can get a bit rough, especially if it’s one of those that gives you those nasty motion sickness issues, be sure you carry some medicine or those anti-nausea wristbands with you! That tour? Well, it isn’t really so friendly for all those who may have mobility issues, as getting on and off that boat, in and out of that water, might need some agility, in reality.

Overall Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, should you go ahead with this adventure to Ras Mohamed and White Island from Sharm El Sheikh? Without a second doubt. Yes! Maybe if you adjust just your expectations just a little bit, okay? This is really a memorable day trip. Seeing that marine life is spectacular. Really gorgeous scenery and swimming around on that snow white island, unforgettable. Sure, those boats get crowded, the lunch actually is just average, and you aren’t exactly the only tourist out there in the whole wide Red Sea. But the overall experience is seriously worth that cash. Very worth that effort in fact.

Think of that day as, well, a package, not a five-star luxury thing, but it’s a cool mix, it has sun, it has sea, adventure, something that needs ticking off that Bucket List! Very simple! Just grab those sunnies and let your day unfold. So glad I took the tour, I will seriously take the same tour any day.

Don’t hesitate; go for it. I guess you should, very, very quickly!

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