Is it safe to swim or snorkel at El Fanar in Sharm el-Sheikh, and how strong are the currents near the jetty?
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 14 days ago
TL;DR
Swimming and snorkeling at El Fanar is doable, but currents can be noticeable; avoid heading for the white buoy if the lifeguard says the current is active. Strong swimmers reported about 40 minutes one way between jetties, while less confident swimmers found it uncomfortable.
What the community said
Travelers reported that the swim between the jetties at El Fanar is manageable, but when the current picks up, lifeguards advise not to go beyond the white buoy. One route took about 40 minutes one way, with some detours needed around dead-end reef sections.
14 days ago El Fanar, white buoy
Less confident swimmers may find this area uncomfortable because the water movement can be unsettling and make it hard to stay balanced. Stronger swimmers handled the same section more easily, so it is better suited to confident swimmers.
14 days ago El Fanar
Even good swimmers can struggle with the final stretch at El Fanar when the current is working against them: one traveler needed help from a lifeguard despite being a strong swimmer, though this happened only once during a two-week stay. Conditions clearly vary, so it is worth checking the sea state and listening to the lifeguard before entering.
14 days ago El Fanar