What you see from a glass bottom boat in Sharm El Sheikh
The boat has glass viewing panels set into its hull. As it moves slowly over the reef, you look straight down into the water: hard and soft corals, sandy patches between them, and the fish that live around the reef. You might spot parrotfish nibbling at the coral, clouds of small orange anthias, butterflyfish swimming in pairs and, on a lucky day, a turtle or a ray gliding past.
It is the gentlest way to understand why the Red Sea is famous, and a good warm-up if you are thinking about snorkelling later in the week.
How the trip typically runs
- Hotel pick-up in an air-conditioned car or minivan.
- Boarding at the departure point. Find a seat by the glass and a spot in the shade.
- Cruise along the reef for about 1.5–2 hours in total, slowing down over the best coral.
- Look up, too. Between reef sections, enjoy the coastline, the hotels and the Sinai mountains behind them.
- Back to shore and drop-off at your hotel.
Who the glass bottom boat suits
- Non-swimmers and anyone who doesn’t like putting their face in the water.
- Grandparents and guests with limited mobility. Tell us in advance so we can check boarding for you.
- Babies, toddlers and young children who are too small to snorkel.
- Families who want a short sea trip on a day off from the beach.
- Anyone recovering from an injury or sunburn who still wants to see the reef.
Tips from a local
- Go early if you can. The sea is often calmer in the morning, which means clearer views through the glass and a smoother ride.
- Claim a seat by the glass straight away, then take turns so every child gets a spell at the best spot.
- Feel queasy looking down? Look up at the horizon every few minutes. It helps more than you would expect.
- Respect the shade, but don’t trust it. Sun reflects off the water, so wear a hat and reef-safe sunscreen anyway.
- Bring a light layer in winter. From December to February it can be breezy on the water, even when the beach feels warm.
- Keep a finger on the camera button. Fish move fast, so shoot in bursts rather than single photos.
Glass bottom boat or something else?
If your group can snorkel, the full-day Ras Mohammed and White Island boat trip gets you into the water at three reefs. If you would like an eye-level view without diving, the semi-submarine seats you in a cabin below the surface with big windows. Families can round off the day with the dolphin show. For more family ideas, read Sharm El Sheikh with kids.
Book the glass bottom boat in Sharm El Sheikh on WhatsApp (+20 10 1868 1624): send your date, hotel and the number of guests, and Mido Tours will reply with a clear quote and a pick-up time.
