A Tiran Island boat trip is one of the most popular excursions in Sharm El Sheikh, offering an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Located at the heart of the Strait of Tiran, this island serves as a gateway to the Gulf of Aqaba, where the Red Sea reveals some of the most captivating marine life and coral reefs on Earth. Whether you are an avid snorkeller, a passionate diver, or simply seeking tranquillity amidst stunning landscapes, Tiran Island has something special for everyone.
The island is situated at the entrance of the Straits of Tiran, which serve as the connection between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. Covering an area of approximately 80 square kilometers (31 square miles), it was previously included in the Ras Muhammad National Park. The Straits of Tiran are Israel's sole maritime route from the Gulf of Aqaba to the Red Sea. Egypt's blockade of these straits on May 22, 1967, became the immediate cause for Israel's involvement in the Six-Day War.
Tiran Island holds strategic importance in the region as it defines the narrowest point of the Straits of Tiran, a critical shipping route to the key ports of Aqaba in Jordan and Eilat in Israel. Israel occupied Tiran Island during the Suez Crisis and later from 1967 to 1982 following the Six-Day War. Currently, the island is only inhabited by military personnel from Egypt and the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO).
In 1954, Egypt and Saudi Arabia clarified their respective sovereignty claims over the islands. Egypt informed the UN Security Council that the islands had been under Egyptian sovereignty since the 1906 delineation of the border between Egypt and the Ottoman Empire.
However, according to Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the islands were not considered part of Egypt before 1949.
During World War II, Egyptian forces stationed on Tiran and Sanafir islands were part of a contingent tasked with protecting the Suez Canal. At the 659th UN Security Council meeting on February 15, 1954, Egypt's representative reaffirmed that the islands were integral to Egyptian territory, having been under Egypt’s administration since 1906.
Tiran Island, a part of the Sinai Peninsula, is situated between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. This island is renowned for its strategic importance, located at the narrow entrance to the Gulf of Aqaba, connecting the Red Sea to the global shipping lanes of the Suez Canal. The Strait of Tiran has been a vital waterway throughout history, contributing to its geopolitical and economic significance.
Though Tiran Island is uninhabited, it holds immense ecological and historical value. It lies within the borders of the Ras Muhammad National Park, a protected area famous for its thriving marine ecosystems. Visitors often marvel at the coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sightings of turtles and dolphins.
The waters surrounding Tiran Island are celebrated for their unparalleled clarity and the rich diversity of marine life. These waters are home to some of the most exquisite coral reefs in the Red Sea, making it a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Diving in the Tiran Gulf offers adventurers the chance to explore underwater gardens teeming with colourful corals and fish species unique to this region.
The region around Tiran Island boasts several world-class dive sites. Among the most famous are:
The area is a haven for marine life. Spot turtles, dolphins, and an array of fish species while snorkelling or diving. Lucky visitors might also witness a pod of dolphins gracefully swimming alongside their boat.
Most boat trips to Tiran Island offer a blend of adventure and leisure. Guests can soak up the sun on spacious decks, savour delicious onboard meals, and take in breathtaking views of the Sinai Peninsula and the distant Sanafir Islands.
Tiran Island, along with the nearby Sanafir Islands, has been a focal point in the geopolitical landscape of the region. These islands are strategically located at the mouth of the Strait of Tiran, a critical maritime passage for vessels accessing the Gulf of Aqaba and the ports of Jordan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.
In recent years, Tiran and Sanafir Islands have been the subject of a landmark agreement between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, officially transferring their sovereignty to Saudi Arabia. This decision was endorsed by President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, signifying a pivotal moment in Egypt-Saudi Arabia relations.
The islands also host an operational base for the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO), established to oversee the peace agreements between Egypt and Israel. This highlights the ongoing strategic importance of the Strait of Tiran in maintaining regional stability and access to the Red Sea.
As part of the Ras Muhammad National Park, Tiran Island plays a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of the Red Sea. The park's marine environments are home to more than 200 coral species, over 1,000 species of fish, and numerous crustaceans and molluscs.
Efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by avoiding touching corals, feeding fish, or leaving waste behind.
Diving in the Red Sea is a bucket-list experience for divers worldwide, and the Tiran Gulf is undoubtedly one of its crown jewels. What sets this area apart is the unique combination of its location, vibrant marine biodiversity, and pristine coral reefs.
The underwater canyons and coral walls of the Tiran Gulf offer not only breathtaking scenery but also a chance to encounter larger pelagic species, making it a thrilling experience for divers of all skill levels.
A Tiran Island boat trip is a must-do experience when visiting Sharm El Sheikh. From snorkelling in the pristine waters of the Red Sea to exploring the rich marine biodiversity of the Tiran Gulf, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure. It offers not just natural beauty but also a chance to delve into the historical and strategic significance of this stunning region.
So, whether you're seeking to marvel at coral reefs, encounter majestic marine creatures like turtles and dolphins, or relax amidst the tranquil waters of the Red Sea, Tiran Island is the perfect destination. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey that combines the best of nature, adventure, and cultural exploration.
You can also choose from these tours available in Sharm el Sheikh:
Quad Desert Safari: Explore the desert dunes on a quad bike and experience an exciting adventure among breathtaking landscapes.
Snorkeling at Ras Mohammed National Park: Discover the extraordinary coral reef and rich marine life of the Red Sea in one of the most beautiful natural reserves in Egypt.
Boat Trip to Ras Mohamed & White Island: Spend a day at sea snorkeling, swimming and relaxing on a beautiful island surrounded by crystal clear waters.
Sunset Dinner Cruise: Experience a romantic evening on a boat, enjoying a delicious dinner with a view of the sunset.
Visit to St. Catherine's Monastery: Immerse yourself in the history and spirituality of one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in the world, located at the foot of Mount Sinai.
Scuba Submarine: Discover the charm of the underwater world with a guided dive in the best spots of the Red Sea.
| Adults : 25£ |
| Available days : Every day |
| Duration : 9 hours |
| Children : 13£ |
| Pick up time : 8:00 AM |
| Child Age : 5:10 |
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