A Genuine Look at the 2025 Sharm Port City Tour and Glass Boat Trip
So, you are docking at Sharm El Sheikh’s port and, you know, you are wondering what is the best way to spend your day. Honestly, there are a bunch of options and it can feel a little overwhelming. We were in that exact spot, just looking for something that would give us a real feel for the place without taking up all our energy. In fact, we decided on a combination tour that promised a peek at the city and a look under the waves, all in one package. It seemed, more or less, like a perfect balance. This is, you know, our honest take on the experience, what we liked and what you should probably know before you book. At the end of the day, we just wanted a good, solid day out.
Starting the Day: Pickup and First Impressions
Okay, the day began right outside the port exit, which was super convenient, to be honest. Our guide was apparently waiting with a sign that was easy to spot, so there was no confusion at all. He introduced himself and, you know, had a really welcoming smile, which was a nice way to begin things. We boarded a small, air-conditioned van which, frankly, was a blessing because the Egyptian sun is pretty intense, even in the morning. The group was, like, a good size, not too big, so it didn’t feel like we were just part of a herd. I mean, it was actually nice to be able to ask questions without shouting. The trip from the port into the main parts of Sharm was, in itself, sort of a mini-tour. As a matter of fact, the guide pointed out a few landmarks on the way, giving us some context about the city’s growth from a small fishing village. It was, in a way, a nice setup for the rest of the day.
The City Exploration: Mosques and Markets
So, our first major stop was the Al-Mustafa Mosque, and seriously, it’s a piece of architecture that makes you stop and stare. The building is just absolutely stunning with its huge dome and tall minarets. Of course, we were given time to walk around the outside and take photos, and our guide explained a little about its construction and importance to the local community. It was, you know, a very calm and respectful visit. Next, we drove over to see the Heavenly Cathedral, which was kind of a surprise. You don’t always think about these amazing churches in Egypt, and this one has, like, incredible artwork inside covering nearly every wall. The pictures told stories from the Bible, and even if you aren’t religious, the artistry is just, well, something else entirely.
Then, it was on to what some might call the real heart of the city: the Old Market. Okay, this place was a complete sensory experience. The air was literally filled with the smell of spices, perfumes, and grilled foods. We spent about an hour here, which was, like, just enough time to wander through the alleys and look at all the stuff for sale. You can find everything from colorful lamps and handcrafted jewelry to traditional textiles and all sorts of souvenirs. As a matter of fact, you need to be ready to bargain a bit if you want to buy something; it’s just part of the local shopping culture. I mean, the sellers are pretty friendly and not too pushy, which was a relief. We ended up buying some local spices and a small decorated box, and honestly, it felt like a fun exchange.
Under the Sea: The Glass Boat Adventure
After our city exploration, we were, you know, driven to a nearby marina to start the second part of our trip. Boarding the glass boat was, pretty much, a very simple process. These boats aren’t huge submarines or anything; they are, basically, boats with a large glass-paneled section in the bottom of the hull. We all went downstairs into a viewing area and sat on benches on either side of the glass. And then, well, the magic really started. The boat motored out over the coral reefs, and the view was, frankly, incredible. The water is so clear in Sharm that you can see everything perfectly.
Honestly, you just glide over these amazing coral gardens, and they are teeming with life. We saw, like, hundreds of fish of every color you can think of—bright yellow butterflyfish, striped sergeant majors, and even a couple of electric blue parrotfish chomping on coral. The guide on the boat would, from time to time, point out specific types of coral or particularly interesting fish, but for the most part, everyone was just quietly mesmerized. At the end of the day, it’s like looking into a completely different world. It’s a very relaxing and almost dreamlike experience. The trip on the water lasted for about an hour, which felt just right. It’s obviously an excellent choice for people who don’t want to go snorkeling or diving but still want to see the Red Sea’s famous underwater beauty.
Helpful Pointers for Your Own Trip
Okay, if you’re thinking about doing this tour, here are a few things we picked up. First, dress comfortably and wear light clothing. The sun is no joke, so, you know, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are your best friends. Wear comfortable shoes too, because there’s a little bit of walking involved, especially around the market. As a matter of fact, bringing a bottle of water is a good idea, though sometimes they provide one on the tour bus.
You are really getting two different experiences in one day. You get the cultural side with the city stops and then this, like, amazing natural wonder with the boat trip. It’s a very efficient use of your limited time ashore.
Also, bring a camera, obviously. You will want to take pictures of the mosque, the church, and for sure the underwater scenes from the boat. For taking pictures through the glass, it sometimes helps to put your camera lens right against the glass to cut down on reflections. I mean, it’s a little tricky but you can get some great shots. When you are in the Old Market, if you decide to shop, just have some fun with the bargaining. You can typically start by offering about half the initial asking price and then, you know, meet somewhere in the middle. Most importantly, just relax and take it all in. The people are generally welcoming, and it’s an opportunity to see a side of Egypt that is really quite beautiful.
Who Is This Combined Tour Really For?
So, at the end of the day, who is this trip a good fit for? Frankly, it seems almost perfect for first-time visitors to Sharm or for people who are only in port for one day, like on a cruise. You kind of get a wonderful mix of culture and nature in a short amount of time. It’s definitely great for families, as kids will absolutely love the glass boat part of the day. Seriously, watching their faces as they see all the colorful fish is a treat in itself. It’s also a really solid choice for couples or solo travelers who want a structured day that covers the main highlights without any hassle.
On the other hand, if you are an experienced diver, the glass boat might seem a little tame, you know? You’d probably prefer to be in the water yourself. Likewise, if you’re someone who wants to spend a whole day just shopping and soaking up the atmosphere of the market, you might feel a bit rushed with just an hour there. But for most people looking for a highlight reel of Sharm, this package is pretty hard to beat. It’s a low-stress, high-reward kind of outing that gives you a genuine taste of what makes this part of the world so special. It’s more or less a perfect snapshot of the area.
- Key Takeaway 1: You get a two-in-one experience, mixing city sights with the Red Sea’s underwater views.
- Key Takeaway 2: The logistics are really straightforward, with easy pickup from the port and a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Key Takeaway 3: The glass boat is a fantastic way for non-swimmers or families with young children to see the famous coral reefs.
- Key Takeaway 4: Be prepared for the sun with proper clothing, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Key Takeaway 5: It’s a great option for those with limited time who want to experience the best of Sharm.
Read our full review: [2025 City Tour and Glass Boat Special Trip From Sharm Port Full Review and Details]
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now ([Sharm Port Excursions])