Introduction

Beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea surrounding Sharm El Sheikh lies a vibrant underwater paradise that ranks among the world’s most spectacular marine environments. With its exceptional visibility, warm waters, diverse coral reefs, and abundant sea life, Sharm El Sheikh has rightfully earned its reputation as a premier snorkeling destination that rivals even the most celebrated tropical locations.

Unlike scuba diving, snorkeling requires minimal equipment and training, making it accessible to almost everyone—from young children to seniors. This accessibility, combined with the Red Sea’s remarkable underwater visibility and shallow reef systems, creates perfect conditions for visitors to witness the kaleidoscopic beauty of coral gardens and encounter fascinating marine creatures without the complexity of dive certification.

This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh—from the best locations and seasonal considerations to equipment recommendations and conservation practices. Whether you’re planning your first-ever snorkeling experience or you’re a seasoned enthusiast seeking the region’s hidden gems, this guide will help you make the most of your underwater adventures in this extraordinary corner of Egypt.

Why Sharm El Sheikh is a World-Class Snorkeling Destination

Exceptional Marine Biodiversity

The Red Sea boasts some of the highest marine biodiversity outside of Southeast Asia, with several factors contributing to its remarkable underwater ecosystem:

  • Endemic species: Over 20% of fish species in the Red Sea are found nowhere else on Earth
  • Coral diversity: More than 200 species of hard and soft corals create complex reef structures
  • Fish abundance: Over 1,200 species of fish have been recorded in the Red Sea
  • Invertebrate life: Countless species of crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms inhabit the reefs
  • Megafauna presence: Seasonal visits from dolphins, turtles, and even whale sharks

The waters around Sharm El Sheikh specifically benefit from their location near the meeting point of the Gulf of Aqaba and the Red Sea proper, creating diverse habitats within short distances of each other.

Perfect Snorkeling Conditions

Several natural factors combine to make Sharm El Sheikh ideal for snorkeling:

  • Exceptional visibility: Water clarity often exceeds 30 meters (100 feet), allowing snorkelers to see deep reef sections from the surface
  • Comfortable water temperatures: Ranging from 21°C (70°F) in winter to 29°C (84°F) in summer
  • Minimal tidal variation: Limited tidal changes mean consistent water depths and currents
  • Fringing reef systems: Coral reefs often begin just meters from the shoreline
  • Protected bays: Numerous sheltered locations offer calm water conditions
  • Varied reef topography: Combination of shallow reef flats, drop-offs, and coral gardens suitable for different experience levels

Accessibility and Infrastructure

Beyond natural advantages, Sharm El Sheikh offers practical benefits for snorkelers:

  • Developed tourism industry: Well-established snorkeling tour operators with multilingual guides
  • Marine protected areas: Much of the coastline falls within Ras Mohammed National Park and other protected zones
  • Shore and boat access: Options for both beach entry and boat trips to offshore sites
  • Year-round season: Suitable conditions for snorkeling throughout the year
  • Equipment availability: Numerous rental shops offering quality gear
  • Safety standards: Increasing focus on proper guidance and safety protocols

Top Snorkeling Locations

Shore-Accessible Sites

These locations can be reached directly from beaches without requiring a boat:

Ras Um Sid

Location: Southern edge of Sharm El Sheikh, near Hadaba Access: Short walk down steps from clifftop hotels Highlights:

  • Spectacular coral wall starting in shallow water
  • Exceptional gorgonian fan corals
  • Frequent sightings of lionfish and moray eels
  • Good chance of encountering turtles
  • Suitable for all experience levels with careful entry

Best time: Morning for calmest conditions Facilities: Limited—bring your own equipment and water

Shark’s Bay

Location: Northern hotel zone, between Nabq and Naama Bay Access: Entry from hotel beaches or public beach Highlights:

  • Gentle slope with scattered coral formations
  • Excellent for beginners and families
  • Protected conditions with minimal current
  • Abundant small reef fish
  • Occasional eagle ray sightings in deeper sections

Best time: Any time of day, particularly good at sunset Facilities: Restaurants, equipment rental, and shaded areas available

Ras Katy (Temple)

Location: Near the Hyatt Regency in Gardens Bay Access: Shore entry from hotel beach (day passes available) Highlights:

  • Shallow reef plateau with diverse coral formations
  • “Amphitheater” coral formation resembling ancient ruins
  • Rich fish life including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish
  • Protected from winds, suitable for less experienced snorkelers
  • Underwater “roads” between coral formations easy to navigate

Best time: Late morning when sun illuminates the reef Facilities: Full resort facilities with equipment rental

Naama Bay

Location: Central Sharm El Sheikh Access: Multiple entry points along the public and hotel beaches Highlights:

  • Convenient location near many hotels
  • Shallow, sandy entry points ideal for beginners
  • Patch reefs with good coral coverage despite heavy use
  • Variety of colorful reef fish
  • Protected from strong currents

Best time: Early morning before beaches get crowded Facilities: Complete tourist infrastructure with equipment rental, instructors, and facilities

Far Garden

Location: Between Hadaba and Naama Bay Access: Rocky shore entry (some climbing required) or through hotels Highlights:

  • Less crowded than other shore sites
  • Healthy hard coral formations
  • Deep blue water beyond reef edge
  • Good chance of pelagic fish sightings
  • More challenging entry suitable for confident snorkelers

Best time: Mid-morning with incoming tide Facilities: Limited—best to bring all necessary equipment

Boat-Accessible Sites

These premier snorkeling locations require boat transportation but offer superior experiences:

Ras Mohammed National Park

Location: Southern tip of Sinai Peninsula, 30-40 minutes by boat Sites: Yolanda Reef, Shark Reef, Jackfish Alley Highlights:

  • Egypt’s first and most famous marine protected area
  • Spectacular wall drops with snorkeling along the edges
  • Exceptional biodiversity and fish abundance
  • Possibility of current for drift snorkeling
  • Encounters with large pelagic species
  • Historic shipwreck remains at Yolanda Reef

Best time: Early morning boat trips Facilities: Basic national park facilities at entry point; boats provide essential services

Tiran Island Reefs

Location: Strait of Tiran, 45-60 minutes by boat Sites: Gordon Reef, Thomas Reef, Woodhouse Reef, Jackson Reef Highlights:

  • Four major reef systems with distinctive characteristics
  • Strong currents bringing nutrient-rich water and marine life
  • Exceptional coral health and diversity
  • Frequent sightings of larger fish species
  • Dramatic drop-offs visible from the surface
  • Shipwreck remains visible from snorkeling depth

Best time: Morning trips before afternoon winds Facilities: Boat-provided facilities only

Ras Ghamila

Location: North of Sharm El Sheikh, near Nabq Protected Area Access: Boat trip (20-30 minutes) Highlights:

  • Extensive shallow reef system perfect for snorkeling
  • Less visited than southern sites
  • Seagrass beds attracting dugongs (rare) and turtles
  • Unique coral formations including table corals
  • Gentle conditions suitable for all experience levels

Best time: Any time with calm sea conditions Facilities: Boat-provided facilities only

The Blue Hole (Dahab)

Location: Near Dahab, approximately 100 km north of Sharm El Sheikh Access: Full-day trip from Sharm El Sheikh Highlights:

  • World-famous site with unique topography
  • Shallow coral gardens around rim suitable for snorkeling
  • Exceptional water clarity
  • Distinctive blue water color over the deep central shaft
  • Rich marine life along accessible edges

Best time: Full-day excursions from Sharm El Sheikh Facilities: Basic facilities at Bedouin camps along the shore

Dunraven Wreck (Beacon Rock)

Location: Near Ras Mohammed, 40 minutes by boat Access: Boat trip only Highlights:

  • Historic shipwreck with parts visible to snorkelers
  • Rich marine life using wreck as artificial reef
  • Combination of wreck, coral reef, and open water environments
  • Opportunity to see larger fish species
  • Interesting underwater topography

Best time: Morning trips with good visibility Facilities: Boat-provided facilities only

Hidden Gems and Less-Known Spots

For those seeking less crowded experiences:

White Island

Location: Offshore sandbar north of Ras Mohammed Access: Longer boat trip (60+ minutes) Highlights:

  • Unique experience of a submerged sandbar
  • Crystal clear waters with exceptional visibility
  • Surrounding reef systems with healthy coral
  • Feeling of snorkeling in the open sea
  • Often less crowded than main sites

Best time: Calm sea days only, as site is exposed Facilities: None—boat-provided facilities only

Mangrove Channel (Nabq Protected Area)

Location: Northern coast of Sharm El Sheikh Access: Specialized tours only Highlights:

  • Unique ecosystem combining mangroves and coral reefs
  • Different species composition than typical reef sites
  • Juvenile fish nursery areas
  • Bird watching opportunities combined with snorkeling
  • Educational value about diverse marine ecosystems

Best time: High tide periods Facilities: Very limited—specialized tours only

Local Gardens (Gardens Bay)

Location: Between Naama Bay and Ras Nasrani Access: Shore entry from hotels (day passes sometimes available) Highlights:

  • Series of interconnected reef systems
  • Less visited than main tourist sites
  • Healthy coral coverage despite proximity to hotels
  • Easy conditions suitable for beginners
  • Convenient location requiring minimal travel

Best time: Any time with calm conditions Facilities: Varies by access point—hotel facilities or none

Seasonal Considerations

Weather and Water Conditions

Sharm El Sheikh’s climate creates different snorkeling experiences throughout the year:

Winter (November-February)

  • Water temperature: 21-24°C (70-75°F)
  • Air temperature: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
  • Visibility: Excellent (30m+)
  • Conditions: Occasional windy days, some sites may be inaccessible
  • Crowds: Lower tourist numbers
  • Recommended for: Serious snorkelers who prioritize marine life over water temperature

Spring (March-May)

  • Water temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)
  • Air temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F)
  • Visibility: Excellent (30m+)
  • Conditions: Generally calm with occasional wind
  • Crowds: Moderate
  • Recommended for: Ideal balance of conditions, marine life, and comfortable temperatures

Summer (June-August)

  • Water temperature: 27-29°C (81-84°F)
  • Air temperature: 35-40°C (95-104°F)
  • Visibility: Very good (20-30m)
  • Conditions: Reliable calm seas
  • Crowds: High season with more boat traffic
  • Recommended for: Those who prefer warmest water temperatures and reliable conditions

Fall (September-October)

  • Water temperature: 26-28°C (79-82°F)
  • Air temperature: 30-35°C (86-95°F)
  • Visibility: Excellent (25-30m)
  • Conditions: Generally calm
  • Crowds: Moderate
  • Recommended for: Excellent overall conditions with fewer crowds than summer

Marine Life Seasonal Highlights

Different seasons offer opportunities to see various marine species:

Winter Highlights

  • Increased chance of dolphin encounters
  • Occasional whale shark sightings (December-January)
  • Manta ray season (November-December)
  • Better visibility for photography
  • More pelagic (open water) species

Spring Highlights

  • Peak coral spawning events (April-May)
  • Increasing fish activity as waters warm
  • Turtle nesting season begins
  • Plankton blooms attracting filter feeders
  • Good balance of species diversity

Summer Highlights

  • Maximum fish activity and species diversity
  • Turtle hatching season
  • Extended comfortable water time without chilling
  • Reliable boat trip schedules due to calm conditions
  • Best conditions for night snorkeling

Fall Highlights

  • Return of migratory species
  • Less plankton for better visibility
  • Still warm waters without summer crowds
  • Spawning events for some fish species
  • Good overall marine life balance

Equipment and Preparation

Essential Snorkeling Gear

Quality equipment significantly enhances the snorkeling experience:

Mask

  • Most important piece of equipment
  • Should create perfect seal without discomfort
  • Tempered glass with silicone skirt recommended
  • Consider models with purge valves for easier clearing
  • Prescription masks available for those needing vision correction

Snorkel

  • Semi-dry or dry-top models recommended for Red Sea
  • Flexible tube section increases comfort
  • Purge valve at bottom helps clear water
  • Comfortable mouthpiece prevents jaw fatigue
  • Consider models with splash guards for choppy conditions

Fins

  • Essential for efficient movement and safety
  • Full-foot fins sufficient for warm Red Sea waters
  • Split fins reduce leg strain for longer sessions
  • Shorter fins better for maneuvering in reef environments
  • Mesh bags useful for carrying fins during shore entries

Additional Recommended Items

  • Rash guard or UV protective top (prevents sunburn)
  • Neoprene socks for comfort with full-foot fins
  • Reef-safe sunscreen for exposed skin
  • Snorkel vest for additional flotation and safety
  • Waterproof bag for personal items
  • Underwater camera to document experiences

Rental vs. Bringing Your Own

Considerations when deciding whether to rent or bring equipment:

Advantages of Bringing Your Own

  • Guaranteed proper fit (especially important for mask)
  • Known hygiene standards
  • Familiarity reduces stress for beginners
  • More time in water rather than fitting rental gear
  • Often more economical for trips longer than a week
  • Higher quality than standard rental equipment

Advantages of Renting

  • No need to transport bulky equipment
  • Opportunity to try different models
  • Easily replaced if damaged
  • Guidance from rental staff on proper use
  • Less investment for occasional snorkelers

Hybrid Approach (Recommended)

  • Bring own mask and snorkel (personal items, compact to pack)
  • Rent fins and other bulky equipment
  • Consider local purchase of inexpensive items like mesh bags

Physical Preparation

Snorkeling is accessible to most people but some preparation helps:

  • Practice swimming and floating comfortably
  • Learn to clear your mask and snorkel before the trip
  • Build some leg and core strength for finning efficiency
  • Practice controlled breathing through a snorkel
  • Consider a refresher swim session before traveling
  • Ensure any medical conditions are stable and compatible with water activities

Safety Considerations

Even in ideal conditions, safety awareness is essential:

General Safety Practices

  • Never snorkel alone—always use the buddy system
  • Inform someone of your snorkeling plans and expected return
  • Stay within your comfort and skill level
  • Be aware of boat traffic in popular areas
  • Check weather and sea conditions before entering
  • Know your entry and exit points before starting
  • Conserve energy and don’t overexert yourself

Sun Protection

  • Apply reef-safe sunscreen 30 minutes before entering water
  • Reapply sunscreen after extended water time
  • Consider full-body coverage with rash guards and leggings
  • Wear a hat during surface intervals
  • Schedule breaks from sun exposure
  • Stay hydrated before and after snorkeling

Emergency Preparedness

  • Learn universal distress signals
  • Carry a whistle attached to your BCD or snorkel
  • Know basic first aid for marine stings and cuts
  • Understand local emergency procedures
  • Consider snorkeling with guided groups if uncertain

Snorkeling Tours and Experiences

Types of Snorkeling Excursions

Various tour options cater to different preferences:

Half-Day Boat Trips

  • Duration: 3-5 hours
  • Typically visit 2-3 sites
  • Often include light refreshments
  • Suitable for families and those with limited time
  • Usually depart morning or afternoon
  • Price range: 350-600 EGP ($11-20 USD)

Full-Day Boat Trips

  • Duration: 6-8 hours
  • Visit 3-4 different sites
  • Include lunch and refreshments
  • More relaxed pace between sites
  • Access to more distant locations
  • Price range: 600-900 EGP ($20-30 USD)

Specialized Snorkeling Tours

  • Focus on particular marine life or environments
  • Smaller groups with expert guides
  • Educational component about marine ecosystems
  • Often include underwater photography assistance
  • More personalized experience
  • Price range: 900-1500 EGP ($30-50 USD)

Private Charters

  • Customizable itinerary
  • Exclusive boat for your group
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Personalized service
  • Access to less-visited sites
  • Price range: 3000+ EGP ($100+ USD) depending on group size

Shore Snorkeling with Guide

  • No boat required
  • Focus on technique and marine identification
  • Great for beginners learning skills
  • Flexible duration
  • Convenient access from hotels
  • Price range: 300-600 EGP ($10-20 USD) per person

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Quality varies significantly between operators; consider these factors:

Safety Standards

  • Life jackets/flotation devices available
  • First aid equipment onboard
  • Guide-to-snorkeler ratio (ideally 1:8 or better)
  • Pre-snorkel safety briefings
  • Clear communication about procedures
  • Boat condition and maintenance

Environmental Practices

  • Mooring buoy use rather than anchoring on reef
  • Briefings about responsible reef interaction
  • No feeding or disturbing marine life
  • Proper waste management
  • Support for local conservation initiatives

Guide Qualifications

  • Marine knowledge and identification skills
  • Languages spoken
  • First aid/rescue training
  • Teaching ability for beginners
  • Local knowledge of conditions and sites

Group Size and Experience

  • Smaller groups provide better experience
  • Separation of different experience levels
  • Appropriate site selection for group ability
  • Adequate supervision for beginners

Value Considerations

  • Included equipment quality
  • Food and beverage quality
  • Time actually spent in water
  • Number and quality of sites visited
  • Transportation arrangements
  • Photos/videos provided

Recommended Tour Operators

While quality can change over time, these operators have maintained good reputations:

Camel Dive Club & Hotel

  • Professional operation with strong safety record
  • Small groups with qualified guides
  • Quality equipment rental
  • Good vessel maintenance
  • Environmental focus
  • Slightly premium pricing

Emperor Divers

  • Established operation with dedicated snorkeling boats
  • Knowledgeable guides with language options
  • Good site selection for snorkelers
  • Comfortable vessels with facilities
  • Reliable scheduling
  • Mid-range pricing

Sinai Blues

  • Specialized in smaller group experiences
  • Strong environmental focus
  • Visits less-crowded sites
  • Excellent marine life knowledge
  • Underwater photography assistance
  • Mid to premium pricing

Oonas Dive Club

  • Family-friendly approach
  • Patient guides good with beginners
  • Flexible itineraries based on conditions
  • Comfortable boats with shade
  • Good food quality
  • Competitive pricing

Red Sea Diving College

  • Despite name, offers excellent snorkel trips
  • Professional operation with safety focus
  • Quality equipment rental
  • Good for mixed snorkel/diver groups
  • Reliable scheduling
  • Mid-range pricing

Conservation and Responsible Snorkeling

Environmental Challenges

The Red Sea faces increasing pressures that snorkelers should understand:

  • Climate change: Rising sea temperatures causing coral bleaching events
  • Coastal development: Increasing sedimentation and pollution
  • Tourism pressure: Physical damage from inexperienced visitors
  • Plastic pollution: Marine debris affecting wildlife
  • Overfishing: Disruption of reef ecosystem balance
  • Boat damage: Anchor damage to reef structures
  • Invasive species: Non-native organisms disrupting ecosystems

Responsible Snorkeling Practices

Individual snorkelers can minimize their impact:

Physical Interaction

  • Never stand on or touch coral
  • Maintain proper buoyancy control
  • Keep safe distance from marine life (2-3 meters minimum)
  • Avoid touching or chasing any creatures
  • Do not collect shells, coral fragments, or souvenirs
  • Control your fins to prevent accidental contact

Behavioral Practices

  • Do not feed fish or other marine life
  • Avoid loud noises or splashing
  • Follow all marine protected area regulations
  • Report environmental violations to authorities
  • Choose less-visited sites when possible
  • Limit time at heavily-used reef sections

Consumption Choices

  • Use reef-safe sunscreen (oxybenzone and octinoxate free)
  • Avoid single-use plastics on boat trips
  • Do not purchase coral or shell souvenirs
  • Choose seafood from sustainable sources
  • Support businesses with environmental commitments
  • Consider carbon offset for your travel

Supporting Conservation Efforts

Visitors can contribute to protecting the Red Sea:

  • Participate in organized reef clean-up activities
  • Support local marine conservation organizations
  • Choose eco-certified tour operators
  • Report coral damage or illegal activities
  • Share knowledge about reef conservation
  • Consider “citizen science” programs collecting data during your snorkeling

Local Organizations to Support:

  • Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA)
  • Chamber of Diving and Water Sports (CDWS) environmental initiatives
  • Red Sea Environmental Centre
  • Project AWARE Foundation activities in Egypt
  • Local beach and reef clean-up events

Enhancing Your Snorkeling Experience

Marine Life Identification

Learning to identify common species enhances appreciation:

Common Fish Families

  • Butterflyfish: Colorful disk-shaped fish with distinctive patterns
  • Angelfish: Similar to butterflyfish but larger with different fin shapes
  • Parrotfish: Large, colorful fish with beak-like mouths that “crunch” coral
  • Wrasse: Elongated fish often seen darting around reef structures
  • Surgeonfish: Oval-shaped with sharp spines near tail
  • Lionfish: Distinctive striped pattern with venomous spines
  • Groupers: Large-mouthed bottom-dwellers, often curious about snorkelers
  • Clownfish: Orange and white striped fish living in anemones

Coral Types

  • Hard corals: Reef-building species with calcium carbonate skeletons
  • Soft corals: Flexible structures often resembling plants
  • Table corals: Flat, horizontal growth pattern
  • Brain corals: Rounded with maze-like surface patterns
  • Fire corals: Not true corals but hydrozoans with powerful sting
  • Gorgonian fans: Tree-like structures filtering plankton from water

Other Marine Life

  • Giant clams: Large bivalves with colorful mantles
  • Sea turtles: Primarily hawksbill and green turtles in Red Sea
  • Rays: Stingrays, eagle rays, and occasionally manta rays
  • Moray eels: Often seen with heads protruding from reef crevices
  • Octopus: Masters of camouflage, rewarding to spot
  • Nudibranchs: Colorful sea slugs for keen-eyed spotters

Photography Tips

Capturing underwater memories requires specific techniques:

Equipment Considerations

  • Action cameras (GoPro, etc.) offer good value for casual photographers
  • Dedicated underwater cameras provide better quality but higher cost
  • Smartphone housings work for shallow, calm conditions
  • Red filters help restore colors lost underwater
  • Wide-angle settings capture reef scenes effectively

Technique Tips

  • Get close to subjects (while maintaining safe distance from marine life)
  • Shoot slightly upward for better composition
  • Use natural light—avoid flash when possible
  • Take multiple shots of moving subjects
  • Include snorkelers in some shots for scale and interest
  • Stabilize yourself before shooting to reduce blur
  • Consider split-shots showing above and below water

Common Challenges

  • Backscatter from suspended particles
  • Color loss at depth (reds disappear first)
  • Fogging inside housing
  • Proper exposure with bright surface/dark depths
  • Camera flooding risks
  • Distraction from the actual experience

Snorkeling with Children

Family snorkeling creates lasting memories with proper preparation:

Age Considerations

  • Children as young as 4-5 can try snorkeling in ideal conditions
  • Ages 6-8 typically ready for proper snorkeling with supervision
  • Ages 9+ often capable of regular snorkeling activities
  • Individual comfort with water more important than specific age

Equipment for Children

  • Full-face snorkel masks often easier for beginners
  • Properly sized masks crucial for comfort and safety
  • Shorter fins appropriate for small legs
  • Flotation vests highly recommended
  • Wetsuits or thermal protection even in warm water (children chill quickly)

Best Practices

  • Start in shallow, protected areas
  • Practice in swimming pools before ocean entry
  • Keep sessions short (30-45 minutes maximum)
  • Choose sites with easy entry/exit points
  • Focus on fun rather than distance covered
  • Consider guided programs specifically for children
  • Maintain close supervision at all times

Child-Friendly Sites

  • Shark’s Bay: Gentle slope and protected conditions
  • Ras Katy: Interesting formations in shallow water
  • Naama Bay: Easy entry and exit points
  • Hotel house reefs with platform access

Snorkeling for Seniors and Limited Mobility

Adaptations make snorkeling accessible to most people:

Equipment Modifications

  • Flotation devices reduce exertion
  • Full-face masks eliminate mouthpiece issues
  • Prescription masks address vision concerns
  • Shorter fins reduce leg strain
  • Noodles or other flotation aids provide security

Site Selection

  • Locations with easy water entry
  • Sites with minimal current
  • Areas with entry platforms or gentle slopes
  • Locations with assistance available
  • Protected bays with calm conditions

Tour Considerations

  • Private or small group experiences
  • Guides experienced with mobility challenges
  • Vessels with easy boarding facilities
  • Flexible scheduling allowing adequate time
  • Clear communication about physical requirements

Practical Tips

  • Consider morning snorkeling when energy levels are higher
  • Use boat entries rather than shore entries when possible
  • Plan shorter sessions with rest periods
  • Ensure medications and medical needs are addressed
  • Communicate clearly with guides about limitations

Beyond Basic Snorkeling

Night Snorkeling

Experiencing the reef after dark reveals a different world:

What to Expect

  • Different species active than during daytime
  • Hunting behaviors not normally observed
  • Coral polyps extended for feeding
  • Bioluminescence in some areas
  • Unique atmosphere and experience

Safety Considerations

  • Only attempt with experienced guides
  • Use quality underwater lights (primary and backup)
  • Stay closer to entry/exit points
  • Maintain closer group formation
  • Choose protected, familiar sites

Recommended Sites

  • Ras Katy: Easy navigation and protected conditions
  • Shark’s Bay: Gentle topography and minimal current
  • House reefs of major hotels with proper supervision

Equipment Additions

  • Primary underwater torch/light
  • Backup light source
  • Chemical light sticks for group identification
  • Reflective strips on snorkel or mask strap
  • Signal light for emergency identification

Snorkeling and Freediving

For those wanting to explore deeper:

Basic Freediving Techniques

  • Proper breathing techniques to maximize breath-hold
  • Equalization methods for deeper descents
  • Streamlined body position for efficient movement
  • Relaxation practices to reduce oxygen consumption
  • Safety protocols for buddy diving

Equipment Differences

  • Longer, more powerful fins
  • Low-volume masks to ease equalization
  • Weight systems for neutral buoyancy
  • Wetsuits for extended time at depth
  • Specialized snorkels or no snorkel

Training Options

  • Introductory freediving courses in Sharm El Sheikh
  • AIDA or SSI certification programs
  • One-day experiences for basic techniques
  • Dedicated freediving centers for serious training

Safety Emphasis

  • Never freedive alone
  • One up, one down buddy system
  • Strict adherence to depth and time limits
  • Proper recovery between dives
  • Recognition of risk factors

Extended Snorkeling Safaris

For dedicated snorkelers seeking more extensive experiences:

Liveaboard Options

  • Multi-day boat trips visiting remote sites
  • Sleeping onboard between snorkeling locations
  • Access to sites rarely visited by day boats
  • Multiple snorkeling sessions daily
  • Typically 3-7 day itineraries

Land-Based Safaris

  • Traveling to multiple snorkeling destinations
  • Combining Sharm El Sheikh with Dahab, Nuweiba, or Marsa Alam
  • Experiencing different marine ecosystems
  • Cultural experiences between snorkeling
  • Flexibility to adjust based on conditions

Planning Considerations

  • Season selection for optimal conditions
  • Equipment needs for extended trips
  • Health and fitness requirements
  • Budget allocation for comprehensive experience
  • Balancing snorkeling with other activities

Practical Information

Costs and Budgeting

Financial planning for snorkeling activities:

Equipment Rental (Daily Rates)

  • Basic mask, snorkel, fins set: 100-150 EGP ($3-5 USD)
  • Quality equipment set: 150-250 EGP ($5-8 USD)
  • Full-face mask: 200-300 EGP ($7-10 USD)
  • Underwater camera: 300-600 EGP ($10-20 USD)
  • Wetsuit: 150-250 EGP ($5-8 USD)

Tour Pricing

  • Shore snorkeling guide: 300-600 EGP ($10-20 USD)
  • Half-day boat trip: 350-600 EGP ($11-20 USD)
  • Full-day boat trip: 600-900 EGP ($20-30 USD)
  • Specialized tours: 900-1500 EGP ($30-50 USD)
  • Private charters: 3000+ EGP ($100+ USD)
  • National park fees: 150-250 EGP ($5-8 USD) additional

Money-Saving Tips

  • Package deals for multiple days of equipment rental
  • Group discounts for families or friends
  • Hotel package inclusions (many resorts offer free or discounted trips)
  • Early booking discounts with operators
  • Combination deals with other activities
  • Bringing your own basic equipment

Health and Medical Considerations

Staying healthy while enjoying the water:

Pre-Existing Conditions

  • Consult physician before traveling if you have respiratory or cardiac conditions
  • Epilepsy requires medical clearance and buddy awareness
  • Diabetes management requires planning for water activities
  • Ear problems may require special precautions
  • Skin conditions may be affected by salt water and sun exposure

Common Snorkeling Ailments

  • Sunburn: Use reef-safe SPF 30+ and reapply frequently
  • Dehydration: Drink plenty of water before and after sessions
  • Ear infections: Consider using preventive ear drops
  • Mask squeeze: Equalize mask pressure regularly
  • Chafing: Use anti-chafing products for mask and fin straps

Medical Facilities

  • Sharm El Sheikh has several quality medical clinics
  • Sharm International Hospital for serious concerns
  • Hyperbaric chambers available for diving emergencies
  • Many resorts have on-site medical staff
  • Travel insurance with water activities coverage recommended

Combining Snorkeling with Other Activities

Maximizing your Sharm El Sheikh experience:

Complementary Water Activities

  • Introductory scuba diving (no certification required)
  • Glass-bottom boat tours
  • Semi-submarine experiences
  • Parasailing for aerial reef views
  • Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding over reefs

Land-Based Pairings

  • Desert safari adventures between snorkel days
  • St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai trips
  • Bedouin dinner experiences in the evening
  • Quad biking in the desert
  • Star-gazing tours (desert skies are spectacular)

Relaxation Balance

  • Schedule rest days between intensive snorkeling
  • Consider morning snorkeling with afternoon relaxation
  • Alternate full-day boat trips with shorter sessions
  • Utilize resort spa services for muscle recovery
  • Balance active snorkeling with leisurely beach days

Conclusion

Snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh offers an unparalleled window into one of the world’s most vibrant marine ecosystems. The combination of exceptional water clarity, diverse coral reefs, abundant marine life, and well-developed tourism infrastructure creates opportunities for underwater experiences that remain etched in memory long after returning home.

Whether you’re floating above the technicolor coral gardens of Ras Mohammed, drifting alongside a graceful sea turtle at Shark’s Bay, or marveling at the schools of fish dancing around Tiran Island’s reefs, snorkeling in the Red Sea connects you with the ocean in an immediate and profound way that few other activities can match.

By approaching your snorkeling adventures with proper preparation, responsible practices, and an eagerness to learn about the marine environment, you’ll not only maximize your enjoyment but also contribute to the preservation of this extraordinary ecosystem for future generations of snorkelers to discover.

The underwater world of Sharm El Sheikh awaits—a realm of color, movement, and life that offers new discoveries with every visit and remains one of the true natural wonders accessible to anyone with a mask, snorkel, and sense of adventure.

This guide was last updated on May 18, 2025. Information, prices, and conditions may change, so we recommend confirming details before planning your snorkeling activities.