Hurghada: Scuba Diving cruise with lunch & pickup

If you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant world beneath the Red Sea’s surface without breaking the bank, the Hurghada scuba diving cruise offered by Egypt Sun Marine Fleet might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it fits your travel style, and here’s what you need to know.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the affordable price point of $34 per person makes it accessible for many. Second, the combination of guided dives, snorkeling options, and a delicious onboard lunch offers a well-rounded day at sea. But, like all tours, it has its quirks. Some travelers have had mixed experiences regarding scheduling and logistics, which we’ll explore.

This cruise is best suited for beginners, casual snorkelers, and those eager to see the Red Sea’s famous marine life without the commitment of a full certification course. If you’re comfortable with basic water activity and eager to relax in a scenic setting, this tour might be just right.

Key Points

• Affordable price offers good value for a full day of aquatic fun.
• Professional guides enhance safety and learning, especially for newcomers.
• Multiple stops at renowned spots like Abu Ramada or Small Giftun Island promise lively marine encounters.
• Snorkeling option available for non-divers, making it inclusive for all comfort levels.
• Lunch and unlimited drinks on board ensure you stay refreshed and satisfied.
• Experience can vary—some guests report excellent guides and food, while others mention scheduling issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour begins with a hotel pickup in Hurghada, making logistics straightforward. You’ll be transported to the boat, where you’ll meet your guides and complete a brief onboarding process. You’ll also get fitted with your equipment, whether you’ve added it as part of the package or brought your own.

The boat departs to the first diving spot — often Abu Ramada or Small Giftun Island. These locations are known for crystal-clear waters and lively marine ecosystems, perfect for both underwater photography and quiet observation. Expect your first activity to last around 15 minutes for beginners or longer if you’re more experienced and have selected a longer dive.

The Marine Environment

Once underwater, you’ll encounter a variety of colorful coral reefs and vibrant fish species. The reviews highlight the “amazing underwater world” and the chance to swim among fascinating creatures. For those new to the sea, the instructor will guide you through your brief introduction, which is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable. For more seasoned divers, options are available for longer, more involved dives.

Surface Interval and Lunch

After the first dive, you’ll head back to the boat for a roughly 90-minute surface interval. This is your time to relax, sip unlimited drinks, and enjoy light snacks. The onboard lunch is often described as delicious and plentiful, with many guests noting that the food exceeded expectations for a tour at this price point.

The Second Spot

Post-lunch, the boat moves to the second diving site. Here, the environment remains calm and captivating, ideal for further exploration or more snorkeling. The marine life continues to impress, and the coral formations are as colorful as promised.

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Snorkeling Option

For non-divers or those who want to relax on the surface, snorkeling is available. It’s a chance to peek into the underwater world without the need for certification or gear handling. This flexibility makes the tour appealing to groups with mixed water activity preferences.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes hotel pickup in Hurghada, a professional dive instructor, diving equipment (if selected), lunch, and unlimited drinks. Snorkeling gear is also available if added as an extra. Remember to bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to make your day more comfortable.

Important Considerations

• This tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 or pregnant women.
• After booking, you’ll receive a WhatsApp message with your exact pickup time, which adds to the convenience.
• You can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

The Reality: What Travelers Say

While many guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, good value, and enjoyable food, some reviews highlight issues. One guest recounts a frustrating experience where, after asking to give a dive to another person, the timing at the second site was mishandled, resulting in someone feeling “scammed”. This underscores the importance of clear communication and managing expectations.

Others praise the tour for excellent facilities and well-organized trips, emphasizing that the underwater views are truly worthwhile. The cost of $34 is often seen as a fair price considering the included amenities and access to prime snorkeling and diving locations.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The day begins with your hotel pickup, typically early morning, ensuring you make the most of daylight hours. The boat’s journey out to the first site takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze. Once there, you’ll get your gear and instructions, feeling confident that guides are experienced and attentive.

The first dive or snorkeling session takes you into the heart of the reef system. Expect to see colorful fish, intricate coral formations, and possibly some larger species like groupers or reef sharks, depending on the location. The underwater visibility is often praised for being crystal-clear, making for excellent photos.

The surface interval is a laid-back time to relax on deck, snack on light fare, and soak up the sun. Many guests appreciate how the boat is set up for comfort, with plenty of shaded areas and seating.

Lunch is typically a buffet or set menu served on deck. Guests commonly describe the food as “good” or “more than enough,” which adds value to the experience. Unlimited drinks, including water, soft drinks, and sometimes local alcohol, keep everyone hydrated.

The second site continues to impress with vibrant underwater life. Some guests find this part even more rewarding, as the marine environment feels more relaxed and natural. For snorkelers, this is an easy way to experience the reef’s beauty.

The Return Journey and Final Thoughts

On the trip back, the crew often plays music or offers more drinks, creating a festive atmosphere. The entire experience usually lasts about 6 hours from pickup to return, balancing adventure and relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for budget travelers wanting a taste of the Red Sea’s marine beauty. It offers great value for money and caters to both snorkelers and divers, making it flexible for different comfort levels. If you’re comfortable with basic water activities and looking for a relaxed, guided day on the water, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

However, those seeking a more specialized, premium experience might find the price point and structure a bit limited. The occasional scheduling hiccup, as noted in some reviews, suggests it’s best suited for travelers who value affordable adventure over luxury.

This Hurghada scuba cruise offers a practical and affordable way to experience the Red Sea’s underwater treasures. It’s a good choice for beginners and casual snorkelers who want a straightforward, guided day with plenty of opportunities to see marine life, enjoy good food, and relax on deck. The inclusion of lunch and unlimited drinks enhances the value and makes it more than just a water activity — it’s a full day of marine fun.

The experience’s success largely hinges on expectations and communication. Many guests leave satisfied, praising the knowledgeable guides, scenic sites, and friendly atmosphere. However, some reviews reveal that logistical issues can occur, so approaching with flexible expectations is wise.

If you’re after an affordable, friendly, and scenic introduction to the Red Sea, this cruise could be a highlight of your Hurghada trip. Just be sure to clarify any special requests beforehand, and prepare for a day of underwater discovery and sunbathing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for kids?
No, it isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old. The water activities and safety regulations are geared toward older children and adults.

Can I participate if I don’t dive?
Yes, snorkeling is available as an option for non-divers, providing an excellent way to enjoy the underwater scenery without the need for certification.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. The tour provides equipment if you select that add-on but bringing your own gear can be more comfortable.

How long does the entire trip last?
The full experience, including pickup, transfers, activities, and return, usually takes around 6 hours.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there are unlimited drinks on board—water, soft drinks, and sometimes alcohol are available.

What locations do they visit?
Common stops include Abu Ramada and Small Giftun Island, known for their incredible visibility and marine life.

Is the tour flexible with the number of dives?
Yes, you can select from different trip options that include varying numbers of dives, tailored to your comfort and experience level.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just want a relaxing day exploring the Red Sea’s colorful underwater world, this cruise offers a genuine, budget-friendly introduction. Just plan ahead, keep an open mind, and enjoy the scenery and marine life that make Hurghada a top Egyptian beach destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby