Red Sea Snorkeling from Hurghada: Full-Day Coral Reefs, Turtles & Boat Lunch
Spend a full day exploring the Red Sea’s coral gardens off Hurghada: three snorkeling stops, onboard lunch and hotel pickup make this an easy way to see turtles, rays and bright reef fish. Expect calm morning water, shallow bommies and practical safety briefings from the crew.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a fitted mask
A well-fitting snorkel mask prevents fogging and lets you spend longer in the water; rentals are available but fit varies.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
The Red Sea’s corals are sensitive—use mineral-based sunscreen and reapply carefully to avoid contaminating the reef.
Wear a rash guard
A thin UV shirt keeps you warm between swims and reduces sun exposure on long boat days.
Plan for morning departures
Visibility and calm conditions are best earlier in the day; if you’re prone to seasickness, take meds before boarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Giftun Island shallow lagoons for quiet snorkeling away from crowds
- •Smaller bommies near Abu Ramada that concentrate juvenile fish schools
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles
- •Eagle rays
Conservation Note
Local operators emphasize reef protection—use reef-safe products, avoid standing on coral, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
The Red Sea has been a trade corridor for millennia; coral reefs here grew on both volcanic and marine sediments as the basin widened over the past several million years.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the forward deck looking down on schools
- • At the shallow reef edge to capture corals and surface sparkle
- • Along the ladder during entry and exit for action shots
What to Bring
Snorkel mask (fitted)Essential
A properly sealed mask is the single biggest comfort and safety upgrade for long snorkel sessions.
Rash guard or thin wetsuitEssential
Keeps you warm in cooler months and protects from sun and boat abrasions.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while avoiding chemicals that harm coral.
Water shoes
Useful for boarding and for rocky shore entries; protects against hot deck and jagged reef edges.
Common Questions
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes—participants should be comfortable in open water; life vests are available for less confident swimmers and non-swimmers can stay on deck.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, basic snorkel equipment is provided, but many travelers bring their own mask and snorkel for better fit and visibility.
What is the water temperature?
Water ranges by season—roughly 21–24°C in winter and 27–30°C in summer—so a thin wetsuit or rash guard is useful outside peak summer months.
Will we see turtles and rays?
Encounters with sea turtles and eagle rays are common but not guaranteed; guides choose sites with frequent sightings to maximize chances.
Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup from Hurghada hotels is included; you’ll be given a pickup window—plan to be ready about 60 minutes before departure time.
Can I take photos underwater?
Yes—compact housings or action cameras work best; avoid touching the reef or disturbing wildlife while framing shots.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; swimmers should be comfortable in open water and able to swim short distances.
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