Short answer: on a private yacht, the crew takes your group to snorkelling spots that suit your level and gives a short briefing before you get in. The reef rules are simple: do not touch or stand on coral, do not feed the fish, and do not take anything from the sea. Swim with a buddy, wear a life jacket if you are not a confident swimmer, and always follow the crew.
Why snorkel from a private boat
- The stops are chosen for your group, not for a crowd.
- Beginners and children can take their time, and there is no rush to get back on board.
- You can ask for more swimming and fewer stops, or the other way round.
The reef rules
Much of the coast around Sharm El Sheikh is protected, including Ras Mohammed National Park. In Egypt’s protected areas, damaging or removing any living organism or natural feature is not allowed. In practice that means:
- Do not touch, kick or stand on coral. Coral is alive and breaks easily. Keep your fins away from the reef and float on the surface.
- Do not feed the fish. Feeding changes how fish behave and harms the reef.
- Take nothing. No shells, coral or stones, even small ones.
- No anchors on the reef. Boats tie up to mooring buoys so that anchors do not damage coral. This is the operator’s job, but it is good to know why.
- Leave no rubbish. Everything that comes on board goes back to port.
Staying safe in the water
- Listen to the crew briefing and stay inside the area they show you.
- Swim in pairs and keep an eye on children at all times.
- Wear a life jacket or a snorkelling vest if you are not a strong swimmer. Ask for the right sizes when you book.
- Check that your mask fits before the boat leaves. A mask that leaks spoils the day.
- Get out and rest when you feel tired or cold. Sea temperatures change through the year. See the best time for a boat trip.
- Tell your concierge about any health condition before the trip, so the operator can plan.
The captain decides where and when it is safe to swim. If conditions change, the route can change. Read more in safety on board.
Sun protection
The sun on the water is strong in every season. A long-sleeved rash guard protects your back and shoulders while you float face down, and it means less sunscreen ends up in the water. Put sunscreen on well before you swim.
Book a snorkelling trip
See the private snorkelling day, or send a request and tell us your group’s swimming level.
