Short answer: a private boat is one of the easiest ways to spend a day at sea with children in Sharm El Sheikh, because the boat, the stops and the timing are only for your family. Choose a half day or a sunset trip for young children, ask for life jackets in their sizes when you book, and plan shade, snacks and rest between swims.
Why a private boat works for families
- No strangers on board, so children can move, nap and snack as they need.
- You set the pace: more swimming and fewer stops, or the other way round.
- The crew can choose snorkelling spots that suit beginners and young swimmers.
- If someone gets tired or seasick, you can ask to head back early.
Which trip length fits your children
- Toddlers and young children: a half day or a sunset cruise is usually enough. Shorter trips leave room for naps at the hotel.
- Older children who swim well: a full day gives time for two or three snorkelling stops and lunch on board.
- Teenagers who love the water: a snorkelling day with more time in the water.
Ask these questions when you book
- Life jackets in children’s sizes. Tell us each child’s age and weight, so the operator can confirm the right sizes before the day.
- Shade on deck. Ask how much covered space the boat has. Children feel the sun faster than adults.
- Easy way into the water. A swim platform or a ladder makes getting in and out easier for small swimmers.
- Toilet on board. Useful on any trip longer than a couple of hours.
- Food and drinks. What is included differs from boat to boat. Your quote lists it, and you can ask about simple food for children.
- Group size. Give the exact number of adults and children. The operator confirms the yacht’s licensed capacity for your group.
Safety in the water
- An adult watches each child in the water at all times, even with a life jacket on.
- Children stay inside the area the crew shows during the briefing.
- Try the mask and snorkel on deck before the first stop.
- Teach children not to touch or stand on coral. Read the reef rules together before the trip.
- The captain decides where and when it is safe to swim. See safety on board.
What to pack for children
- Rash guards and hats, plus sunscreen put on before you leave the hotel
- A dry change of clothes and a warm layer for the ride back
- Snacks and water they like, unless the boat already provides them
- Any medicine they need, including for seasickness, after you check with your doctor
- Swim nappies for babies
The full list is in what to bring on a private yacht day. For harbours, routes and park fees, see yacht charter in Sharm El Sheikh. To pick a season with warmer water, see the best time for a boat trip.
Booking and paying
Send a request with your date, the ages of the children and what matters to you. A concierge replies within 2 hours, 9:00 to 22:00 Cairo time, and tells you which yachts fit your family. To book, your concierge sends a secure payment link for the 25% deposit; the rest is paid to the operator before boarding. Day trips can be cancelled free of charge up to 72 hours before. We never ask you to pay into a personal account.
