Sky Over the Red Sea: Parasailing Sharm El Sheikh’s Coastal Edge
Lift off above coral gardens and coastal hotels — quick, scenic, and surprisingly serene
The boat shoves off with a polite groan, the marina falling away in a mosaic of sun-glinted mussel-shell rooftops and fisherman’s lines. Salt air fills your lungs and the engine’s pulse syncs with the ocean’s hush; a line hums taut out behind the stern, and before you know it the sea has translated its invitation into lift. The world broadens — the coral-studded coastline unspools like a watercolor beneath you, hotels and cliffs reduced to a delicate, detailed map. For ten to fifteen minutes at a time, parasailing in Sharm El Sheikh is a small, clean shot of perspective: part adrenaline, part quiet, entirely cinematic.
Trail Wisdom
Book a morning slot
Calmer winds and better visibility occur in the morning, yielding smoother launches and clearer reef viewing.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral ecosystems by choosing zinc-oxide or mineral-based sunscreen before boarding.
Secure your camera
Attach cameras to wrist or chest straps to prevent loss; drones are restricted near crowded beaches.
Bring motion-sickness prevention
If you’re prone to nausea, take preventive medication or ginger tablets ahead of the boat ride.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sharm El Maya Old Harbor — a quieter, photogenic spot for sunset after your flight
- •A short boat snorkel stop at a shallow reef patch for quick, colorful marine life viewing
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Tropical reef fish (parrotfish, angelfish)
Conservation Note
The Red Sea’s coral reefs are sensitive to warming and pollution; choose operators that follow no-anchoring rules and encourage reef-safe sun care.
Sharm El Sheikh developed rapidly as a resort town in the late 20th century and sits at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, a region with millennia of maritime and Bedouin history.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calm seas, Comfortable air temperatures, Clear visibility
Challenges: Occasional north winds, Busy dive seasons
Spring brings comfortable temperatures and excellent visibility for seeing reefs from altitude, though intermittent winds can gust on some days.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Longer daylight, Sun-soaked flights
Challenges: High temperatures onshore, Stronger midday winds, Peak tourist crowds
Summer is hot and busy; early flights are best to avoid heat and afternoon wind shifts that can affect operations.
fall
Best for: Mild temps, Calm seas, Lower crowds than summer
Challenges: Occasional storms in late fall, Variable visibility
Fall is an ideal window — warm water, steady winds, and generally calm seas make it a favorite season for parasailing.
winter
Best for: Clear winter light, Fewer tourists, Good visibility on calm days
Challenges: Cooler air and choppier seas, Shorter daylight hours
Winters are milder than temperate zones but can bring choppier seas; dress in layers for cooler on-deck waits.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while preventing damage to coral ecosystems.
Sunglasses with retainerEssential
Keeps glare out of your eyes and prevents loss during takeoff or splashdown.
Light windbreaker
Blocks chill on early-morning or winter trips and provides sun protection.
Waterproof phone case or action camera strapEssential
Secures your camera equipment against spray and accidental drops.
Common Questions
How long does the parasailing flight last?
Each flight typically lasts 10–15 minutes; the full excursion including transfers and briefing is commonly scheduled over 1–3 hours.
Is parasailing safe for children?
Many operators allow children but have minimum age and weight limits — always check with the vendor in advance and ensure children wear properly fitted life vests.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are often canceled or rescheduled for high winds, poor visibility, or rough seas; reputable operators prioritize safety and offer refunds or rebooking.
Do I need prior experience or a license to participate?
No experience or special skills are required — staff provide a safety briefing and handle all technical aspects of the launch and retrieval.
Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, small cameras and action cams are fine if secured with straps or mounts; avoid loose items that could fall into the sea.
Are transfers from hotels included?
Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Na’ama Bay and nearby resort areas, but confirm this when booking.
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen (protect coral), Sunglasses with retainer (reduce glare), Lightweight windbreaker (cool on-deck), Waterproof camera strap (secure photos)
Did You Know
Ras Mohammed National Park, just south of Sharm El Sheikh, was established in 1983 and was Egypt’s first national park, protecting a unique array of Red Sea coral and marine life.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book morning departures for calmer seas; 2) Confirm hotel pickup times in advance; 3) Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life; 4) Carry cash for small tips or souvenirs.
Local Flavor
After your flight, head to Sharm El Maya’s Old Market for fresh seafood and grilled fish restaurants, or try local Bedouin coffee and sweet treats near Na’ama Bay; several beachfront cafés offer cold drinks and sunset views.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH); Typical drive to marina: 10–25 minutes from main resort hotels; Cell service: Good in town, limited offshore; Permits: None required for recreational parasailing.
Sustainability Note
Coral reefs here are fragile — opt for operators that follow reef-protection practices, avoid anchoring on reefs, and encourage reef-safe sunscreen to minimize damage.