Ras Mohammed Revealed: A Red Sea Day of Coral, Current, and Close Encounters
A day‑trip from Sharm el‑Sheikh that puts you face to face with the Red Sea’s richest reefs
At dawn the boat slips away from Sharm el‑Sheikh under a wash of pearled light. The shoreline falls back, Na’ama Bay shrinking to a smear of hotels and palms, and the sea takes the lead—open, blue, and already busy with birds. By midmorning, you’re skimming toward the spine of Sinai where the land ends and the Gulf of Suez and Gulf of Aqaba exhale. Ras Mohammed is a punctuation mark on the map: a jagged cape of granite and sand crowned by a ribbon of coral reef that drops away into throats of cobalt where currents mix nutrients with life. The day is a series of sudden, small revelations—surge channels that seem to push you forward, a turtle unhurriedly planting itself against the current, a school of fusiliers shivering like silver in the sun.
Trail Wisdom
Book Morning Departures
Mornings typically have calmer seas and brighter underwater visibility—aim for the first boat out.
Use Reef‑Safe Sunscreen
Choose mineral-based sunscreen or a rashguard to protect coral from chemical damage.
Bring Your Own Mask
A well‑fitting mask avoids leaks and fogging; rental masks can be hit or miss.
Respect Currents
Follow guide instructions for drift snorkels and avoid fighting the current—let it move you with the reef.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small mangrove channels and tidal lagoons near the Sinai tip that support juvenile fish
- •Less crowded snorkel points on the park’s eastern side—your guide can time stops away from the busiest floats
Wildlife
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Napoleon Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus)
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to use reef‑safe products, avoid anchoring on coral, and follow park guidance to minimize impact on fragile marine ecosystems.
Ras Mohammed was established in 1983 as Egypt’s first national park to protect its coral reefs, mangroves, and bird habitats.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Warm water, Clear visibility, Wildlife sightings
Challenges: Occasional winds, Tourist crowds during Easter
Spring brings warming seas and excellent clarity; be prepared for occasional wind that can roughen the surface.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Calm mornings, Comfortable night temperatures
Challenges: High air temperatures, Strong midday sun, Busy resorts
Summer heats up both air and water—plan snorkels for early mornings and stay hydrated and shaded between stops.
fall
Best for: Moderate temperatures, Excellent visibility, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Transient storms
Fall is a sweet spot—water still warm, air cooling, and reef visibility often at its best.
winter
Best for: Cooler air for on-deck time, Quiet beaches
Challenges: Cooler water temps, Possible choppy seas
Winter brings cooler water; a thin wetsuit or hot drinks on deck make the day more comfortable.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Mask and SnorkelEssential
A personal mask improves fit and visibility and is more hygienic than rentals.
Reef‑Safe Sunscreen or RashguardEssential
Protects skin and the coral; a long‑sleeve rashguard reduces sun exposure.
Water Shoes
Useful for rocky shore entries and protecting feet on wet boat decks.
Dry Bag (small)
Keeps phone, documents, and a light layer dry while you swim.
Common Questions
Is the trip suitable for first-time snorkelers?
Yes—most operators provide basic instruction, life jackets, and gentle guided stops suitable for beginners.
Are park entrance fees included?
Sometimes—confirm with the operator; many tours include the Ras Mohammed park fee in the published price, but check ahead.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect coral reef fish, parrotfish, angelfish, sea turtles, and occasionally larger species like Napoleon wrasse.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in open water and able to float with a snorkel; life jackets are usually available for less confident swimmers.
How should I protect the coral?
Avoid touching or standing on coral, use reef‑safe sunscreen, and follow guide briefings about entry and exit zones.
What is the cancellation policy?
This specific tour flags free cancellation—confirm the exact window with the operator at booking.
What to Pack
Mask and snorkel for fit and hygiene; reef‑safe sunscreen or rashguard to protect skin and coral; water shoes for rocky entries and boat decks; small dry bag for valuables.
Did You Know
Ras Mohammed National Park was declared Egypt’s first national park in 1983 to protect its unique coral reefs, mangrove forests, and bird habitats.
Quick Travel Tips
Depart early to avoid midday heat; confirm that park fees and gear are included; bring cash for tips and small purchases; choose reef‑friendly sunscreen and reapply with a towel while on the boat.
Local Flavor
After a day on the water, head back to Sharm el‑Sheikh’s Na’ama Bay or SOHO Square for fresh grilled fish, mezze platters, and mint tea. For a quieter finish, find a seaside cafe near the marina or join a short Bedouin evening tour to learn local stories and tea rituals.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Sharm el‑Sheikh International Airport (SSH). Departure point: Marina/harbor in Sharm el‑Sheikh (Na’ama Bay area). Driving from central Sharm: ~20–40 minutes depending on pickup. Cell service: reliable in town, limited in protected parts of the park. Permits/passes: Park entrance fee often included—confirm with operator.
Sustainability Note
Ras Mohammed’s reefs are fragile—use reef‑safe sunscreen, don’t touch coral or feed fish, follow the park’s marked anchoring zones, and pack out all trash to protect marine life.
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