Glass Boat Excursion Hurghada

What to Expect on the Glass Boat Excursion in Hurghada

The glass boat excursion in Hurghada offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking underwater world of the Red Sea without getting wet. Through the transparent glass bottom of the specially constructed boat, you can observe colorful coral reefs, exotic tropical fish, and with some luck even sea turtles and rays, all from the comfort of your seat.

The Red Sea off Hurghada is one of the best diving and snorkeling areas in the world, home to over 1,000 fish species and 200 different coral species. With our glass boat excursion, you do not need to be a diver or snorkeler to discover this fascinating world. The excursion is ideal for families with small children, non-swimmers, and anyone seeking a comfortable, dry alternative to snorkeling.

Our modern glass boats feature large panoramic windows in the hull, providing excellent views of the underwater world. The boats are equipped with seating, sun canopies, and on most excursions, drinks and snacks. The glass boat excursion is one of the most affordable ways to experience the coral reefs of Hurghada.

Schedule and Program

Departure from the Harbor

The glass boat excursion departs from Hurghada harbor. After boarding, we head to the most beautiful coral reefs off the coast. The journey to the first reef takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on weather conditions. During the outbound trip, you can admire the impressive Hurghada coastline from the water.

Coral Reef Viewing

Upon arrival at the first reef, the captain reduces speed and the boat glides slowly over the coral gardens. Through the glass bottom, you see the underwater world in all its splendor: colorful parrotfish, clownfish among anemones, majestic butterflyfish, and schools of anthias. Our guide explains the various fish and coral species you can observe. The journey covers multiple reef sections so you can experience the diversity across different areas.

Snorkeling Stop

At a particularly beautiful spot, we stop and offer you the option to enter the water and snorkel yourself. Snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge. Those who prefer not to swim can continue enjoying the underwater world from the boat or relax on the sun deck. The snorkeling stop lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Return Journey

The entire trip lasts approximately two to three hours. Soft drinks and water are served on board. Some of our premium excursions also include lunch on board or on an offshore island. On the return trip, you can enjoy the sun on the upper deck.

The Coral Reefs of Hurghada

The coral reefs off Hurghada are part of the largest reef system in the Red Sea and are of international importance for marine conservation. Over 200 species of hard and soft corals form a complex ecosystem that shelters thousands of marine creatures. The glass boat excursion takes you to the most colorful sections, including reefs near the Giftun Islands, which are specially protected as a national park.

Highlights include large table corals that look like natural platforms, branching staghorn corals in vibrant orange and yellow, and massive brain corals that have grown over hundreds of years. Among the corals, you will find surgeonfish, triggerfish, moray eels, and with some luck, blue-spotted stingrays. In the open water beside the reef, dolphins can occasionally be spotted.

Prices and Booking

The glass boat excursion starts from 20 euros per person, making it one of the most affordable excursion experiences in Hurghada. The price includes the boat trip, snorkeling equipment, and drinks. Children aged 3 to 12 pay half price, and children under 3 are free.

For a more exclusive experience, we also offer private glass boat excursions where you have the boat to yourselves. Premium excursions with lunch and extended sailing time are also available. Private excursions are perfect for family celebrations, birthdays, or romantic outings for two.

Tips and Advice

Bring sun protection, as the Egyptian sun is intense even on the boat. Sunglasses help against the reflection on the water. If you plan to enter the water during the snorkeling stop, bring swimwear and a towel. For photos, we recommend a waterproof case for your smartphone.

Those prone to seasickness should take medication before the trip. However, the sea off Hurghada is generally calm, especially in the protected reef areas. The best visibility through the glass bottom is on cloudless mornings between 9 AM and noon when sunlight illuminates the corals most beautifully.

The glass boat excursion is available year-round. Red Sea water temperatures range from 22 degrees in winter to 28 degrees in summer, ensuring a pleasant experience in every season. In case of strong wind or high waves, the excursion may be rescheduled for safety reasons.

Why Choose Ra Reisen?

Ra Reisen operates modern, well-maintained glass boats with large viewing windows for the best possible underwater experience. Our captains know the best reef spots and visit locations that other operators do not know. We strictly ensure coral reef protection, and our boats never anchor directly on corals but use designated anchoring points.

On board our boats, the atmosphere is relaxed. Our crew speaks English and German and is happy to accommodate your individual wishes. We limit passenger numbers so everyone has sufficient space at the glass bottom. Book your glass boat excursion with Ra Reisen and experience the fascinating underwater world of the Red Sea.

Comparison: Glass Boat, Snorkelling, and Diving in Hurghada

Glass Boat Excursion: The Relaxed Alternative

A glass boat excursion is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience the fascinating underwater world of the Red Sea without getting into the water themselves. You sit comfortably in the air-conditioned or shaded area of the boat and observe the colourful diversity of coral reefs and marine life directly beneath you through the transparent glass floor. This option is ideal for families with small children, older travellers, non-swimmers, and anyone who prefers a dry and comfortable perspective. Unlike snorkelling or diving, you do not need any equipment or special physical requirements.

Snorkelling: Closer to the Underwater World

When snorkelling, you float at the water's surface with a mask and fins and can observe the coral reefs up close. This activity requires basic swimming skills and a certain level of physical fitness. The advantage over a glass boat excursion is the direct contact with the water and the ability to independently explore different areas of the reef. However, you are more exposed to currents and weather conditions, and not everyone feels comfortable in the open sea.

Diving: The Intensive Experience

Scuba diving offers the most intensive underwater experience as you can descend to greater depths and view the reefs from very close range. However, this requires either a diving certificate or you must complete an introductory course. Diving is more physically demanding and not suitable for persons with certain health restrictions. For a first impression of the underwater world, the glass boat excursion is therefore the most accessible and family-friendly option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glass Boat Excursions

How Long Does a Glass Boat Excursion in Hurghada Last?

A typical glass boat excursion with Ra Reisen lasts between two and three hours on the water. During this time, we travel to several selected coral reef locations where you can observe the most beautiful underwater landscapes through the glass floor. The total duration including hotel transfer is usually four to five hours. During the voyage, our German-speaking excursion guide provides interesting information about the various fish species and coral types found in the Red Sea.

Is the Glass Boat Excursion Suitable for Children?

The glass boat excursion is one of our most family-friendly activities and is suitable for children of all ages. Children are thrilled by the colourful underwater world directly beneath their feet and can observe the fish and corals safely and comfortably from the boat. Our crew ensures the safety of all passengers, and life jackets are available in all sizes. Many parents report that their children describe the glass boat excursion as one of the most exciting experiences of their holiday.

Can You Also Swim During the Glass Boat Excursion?

Yes, most of our glass boat excursions include a planned swimming stop at a protected coral reef. Here you have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea and even snorkel. Snorkelling equipment can be hired on board for a small fee. However, this swimming stop is completely optional, and you are equally welcome to stay on board and continue observing the underwater world through the glass floor.

When Is the Best Time for a Glass Boat Excursion?

The Red Sea offers excellent visibility conditions throughout the year, making Hurghada an ideal destination for glass boat excursions in every season. Water temperatures range from 21 degrees in winter to 28 degrees in summer, and underwater visibility often exceeds 20 metres. Particularly calm conditions prevail during the summer months from May to September, when the sea is often perfectly smooth. We recommend morning excursions, as the sunlight penetrates the water optimally at that time and the colours of the corals and fish appear particularly vibrant.

Marine Life You Can Discover on the Glass Boat Excursion

Colourful Reef Fish and Corals

The Red Sea is home to over 1,200 fish species and more than 200 different types of coral. On our glass boat excursion, you will regularly see colourful parrotfish in blue, green, and pink, elegant butterflyfish with their characteristic stripes, vivid blue surgeonfish, and schools of silvery glassfish gliding in formation through the reefs. The coral formations themselves are equally impressive, ranging from branching staghorn corals and massive brain corals to delicate fan corals swaying gently in the current.

Special Underwater Encounters

With a bit of luck, you can also observe larger marine inhabitants through the glass floor of our boat. Sea turtles glide elegantly through the reefs, while rays hover majestically above the sandy seabed. Moray eels peer curiously from their hiding places in the corals, and occasionally dolphins appear near the boat as well. The waters off Hurghada are particularly known for dolphin encounters during the winter months. Our experienced captains know the best spots and deliberately navigate to the reefs where the likelihood of special animal encounters is highest.