When the day boats are back in harbour and the desert tours have not yet left, Sharm el-Sheikh has a quieter way to spend an evening: a dinner cruise along the coast. The boat leaves the marina after sunset, loops slowly past the hotel-lined shore and the black outline of the mountains, and serves dinner on board while a show plays out on deck. Hotel pickup is normally part of the plan, so you do not need to think about taxis. It is a gentle, social outing rather than a thrill, and it suits couples, families with older children and groups of friends who want something different from the promenade at Naama Bay. The sea is usually calm at night, and the evening breeze is welcome after a hot day.
What the evening looks like
You are collected from your hotel in the early evening, driven to the marina and boarded in time to find a table before the boat casts off. Dinner is served as a buffet or set menu depending on the operator, and the entertainment, which commonly includes live music and an oriental-style show, runs between courses.
Some boats have a sun deck or open upper area for photographs of the lit-up coast. Exact timing, menu and show format vary by operator and season, so read the inclusions carefully before you book and ask about drinks, since these are not always covered.
Choosing between similar cruises
Several operators sail from Sharm in the evening, and they differ in boat size, the length of the sailing, the quality of the food and how loud the entertainment is. If you want conversation, ask about a smaller boat or a table away from the speakers.
If you are travelling with children, a show and a buffet usually keep everyone happy, but check the age policy first. A cruise is a good fit for a night before a rest day, and a poor fit for the night before the Mount Sinai sunrise trip, which starts in the small hours.
Practical points
Wear light clothes with a thin layer, because the wind on deck can feel cool even in warm months, and flat shoes are safer on a moving boat. Anyone prone to seasickness should take a tablet in advance, although the water near the coast is typically gentle in the evening.
Bring a little cash for tips and for any drinks that are not included, and keep your phone or camera ready for the skyline views. Vegetarian and other dietary needs are usually possible if you mention them when booking. Cancellation terms differ between tickets, so check the free-cancellation window if your plans are fluid.
Making the most of it
Ask for a table on the side of the boat that faces the coast as you sail out, because the hotel lights and the dark silhouette of the mountains are the best part of the view. Eat a light lunch if you plan to enjoy a full buffet, and arrive at the pickup point a few minutes early so that you board without rushing.
If you celebrate a birthday or anniversary, mention it when booking, since some crews add a small touch. Remember that boat schedules can change with wind and sea conditions, so reconfirm your pickup time that afternoon and keep the operator's contact details to hand.
What to expect
The experience
An evening cruise from the Sharm marina with dinner on board, live entertainment and hotel pickup, usually arranged by the operator.
Best time
Year-round, since the sea is usually calm after dark; winter evenings need a light jacket on deck.
How long
About three hours including the transfer.
Tips
Confirm drinks, dietary options and the pickup time when you book, and bring a thin layer for the deck.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a relaxed, sociable evening on the water after a busy day of excursions.
- Families
- Good for children who can sit through a meal and a show; check the age policy and ask about early seating.
- Couples
- A pleasant, low-effort night out with sea breezes and city lights, though a shared boat is lively rather than private.
- Pair with
- A semi-submarine ride on another morning, or a walk along the Naama Bay promenade before pickup.
- Time needed
- One evening.
Good questions
Is dinner included on the cruise?+
Dinner is part of the programme on most cruises, but drinks may be extra. Check the inclusions and any dietary options before you book.
Is hotel pickup included?+
Pickup is normally part of the ticket for hotels in the main resort areas. Confirm your hotel name and the time with the operator.
Will I get seasick?+
The coastal water is usually calm at night, so most people are fine. If you are sensitive, take a tablet beforehand and sit near the middle of the boat.
Is it suitable for children?+
Often yes, since there is a show and a buffet, but noise levels can be high. Ask about age rules and seating when you book.
What should I wear?+
Light, comfortable clothes with a thin jacket or scarf for the breeze on deck. Flat shoes are best on a moving boat.
