Where are the best reefs for snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh, and how much does a private boat trip cost?

According to one report, the reef at Monte Mare is at least as good as—and possibly better than—the one at Park Regency. Swimming left beyond the Waterfalls jetty leads to particularly impressive corals and many sea urchins; heading right past Renaissance toward Cape El Fanar also offers interesting reefs and abundant fish. In spring, visitors reported small eagle rays, turtles, moray eels, and Napoleon fish; manta rays were spotted along this coast in summer.

A recent report says Meraki has plentiful fish and corals, with its reef rated better than the one at Remal Beach.

According to one report, the reef at Park Regency is considerably more appealing than at Rotana: corals are brighter, fish are more numerous and varied, and there are extensive coral gardens and maze-like formations. Swimming beyond the buoys was reportedly allowed.

Near El Fanar, there is a snorkeling spot with a decent reef; admission costs about $4 per person.

One traveler recommends Remal 4* (second line hotel): the house reef is excellent, and you can swim far in both directions from the beach.

From the Remal hotel beach you can swim to Ras Gamila reef, described as one of the few well-preserved reefs remaining in Sharm El Sheikh.

In the Baron/Nabq area, fish and corals seen from the pontoon are beautiful, but the jetty is often closed, limiting reef access.

For snorkeling, travelers recommend the area around Baron; confident swimmers can explore the reefs around its beach. Hotels to the left of Baron, toward Nabq, may be less suitable for reef-focused holidays because of wind, waves, frequent red flags, and very long jetties.

One traveler argues the reef at the Albatross hotel is more colorful and has more fish than the most hyped reef in Sharm. Also praised is a reef with a nearby sunken ship — yachts run there from the hotel's pontoon.

Another option is Oasis Beach 4* hotel: the reef there is very good, plus there's a sandy water entry, though it's noticeably pricier than Nubian.

A private trip on a small boat (just their own group, no other tourists) to beautiful coral reefs cost only $120 for the entire boat.

Another option with a reef is Ghazala hotel: in the main chain area the reef is almost absent, but if you swim to the left, there is a reef there.

Another spot with a good reef: Sunrise Remal 4* or Remal Beach hotels; Remal Beach is notably pricier and has shared sea access.

Domina Coral Bay has a nice reef, especially swimming left toward the nature reserve, though it's unclear if non-guests can pay for beach/snorkel access.

For hotel-based snorkeling, travelers recommend the reef at Charmillion: the coral is considered good, and the jetty is relatively short and sturdy, making water access easier.

If you want to reach healthier offshore reefs, travelers suggest booking a speedboat instead of an expensive private yacht. A typical price mentioned is $150 for 2 hours with two snorkeling stops.

Among offshore snorkeling spots, Gordon Reef and Jackson Reef are highlighted as especially beautiful places to stop by boat.

Another option for reef lovers is Posh Club: according to travelers, it has an excellent house reef, and some rate the stay there higher than more famous chain hotels like Rixos.