Hurghada For You
The Red Sea is one of the most famous places in the world to discover the underwater world: warm water, excellent visibility and coral reefs minutes away by boat. Whether you have never put your head underwater or you are a certified diver, Hurghada has something for you.
Snorkeling: for everyone
Snorkeling means swimming at the surface with a mask, a snorkel and sometimes fins. No qualification needed. You see coral, butterflyfish, parrotfish, clownfish in their anemones…
Almost all our sea trips include at least one snorkeling stop with equipment: island days, the dolphin day, private boats.
Tips to get started
- Check that the mask seals well before you go.
- Wear a life jacket if you are not confident: you float effortlessly.
- Stay close to the group and the guide.
- Never stand on the coral.
The discovery dive
The Scuba diving day offers a discovery for beginners: two dives of about 15 minutes, 6 metres maximum, with an instructor, plus snorkeling, lunch and drinks all day. Companions who do not dive can snorkel at a reduced price.
For a shorter option, Island + Diving (from 45€) combines a 15-minute dive, snorkeling and time on an island.
How does a discovery dive work?
- Briefing on the boat: equipment, hand signals, breathing.
- Getting equipped with the instructor's help.
- Gradual entry into the water, exercises at the surface.
- A gentle descent, hand in hand with your instructor.
For certified divers
The same day exists for certified divers, with two dives of 35 to 40 minutes. The depth depends on your level: bring your certification card.
Without getting wet: the semi-submarine
The Semi submarine and snorkeling (from 14€) lets you admire the reefs through glass windows. Ideal for children and non-swimmers.
What about turtles?
To swim near sea turtles, head to Marsa Alam, further south.
Safety and health
- Tell the instructor about any health issue (ears, heart, asthma, pregnancy).
- Avoid flying within 24 hours after a dive.
- Drink water and protect yourself from the sun between swims.
What do you see underwater in Hurghada?
- Hard and soft corals: brain coral, fire coral, sea fans, sponges.
- Reef fish: clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, groupers, lionfish.
- Sometimes: turtles, stingrays, moray eels and passing dolphins.
Snorkeling from the hotel or by boat?
Some hotels have a jetty leading to the reef: handy for a first try. But the most beautiful coral gardens are offshore, only reachable by boat. That is the whole point of sea days.
What to bring
- Mask and snorkel are provided; a mask that fits you is more comfortable if you have one.
- A UV T-shirt or a shorty wetsuit.
- Reef-safe sunscreen.
- A waterproof camera for the fish.
Snorkeling in winter
The Red Sea can be enjoyed all year. In winter the water is cooler: a shorty wetsuit lets you stay in longer. Visibility remains excellent.
