Makadi Bay: Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise & Snorkel stop

If you’re planning a trip to Egypt’s Red Sea coast and want a blend of easy sightseeing, underwater exploration, and a bit of adventure, the Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise might just be worth considering. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 67 reviews, this experience offers a surprisingly affordable way to peek beneath the waves of Makadi Bay without the need for scuba gear or deep-sea experience.

For just $19 per person, you get to see some of the best coral reefs and marine life the area has to offer, with added opportunities for snorkeling.

What we love about this tour is its combination of comfort and adventure—you get to sit in a climate-controlled underwater viewing deck with panoramic windows and then hop into the water for a quick snorkel. The ease of access is another big plus, especially if you’re traveling with family or not keen on strenuous activities.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the snorkeling is relatively short, only about 20 minutes, which might not satisfy avid snorkelers or divers, but it’s enough for a taste of the underwater world.

This experience suits travelers looking for an affordable, family-friendly activity that combines a boat ride, a glass-bottom boat experience, and snorkeling. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, guided tour that’s easy to fit into a busy holiday schedule.

If you’re a marine enthusiast or want to spend hours exploring reefs, this might feel a little rushed, but for most visitors, it’s a practical way to enjoy the Red Sea’s vibrant marine life without fuss.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 16 Best Tours & Things To Do In Makadi Bay.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at $19, offering great value for a quick underwater adventure
• Underwater observation deck provides comfortable, panoramic views of marine life
• Snorkeling stop allows a brief but exciting glimpse into the reef ecosystem
• Convenient location near Xanadu Hotel in Makadi Bay with hotel pickup included
• Accessible for most, but not suitable for those with claustrophobia or seeking lengthy snorkeling
• Mixed reviews highlight the experience’s good maintenance, safety, and occasional rushed moments

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise from Makadi Bay promises an easy, scenic journey into the underwater world of Egypt’s Red Sea. Some travelers might imagine something akin to a small submarine, but in reality, it’s a semi-submarine—a boat with an air-conditioned, glass-walled observation deck that descends to 3 meters below sea level. This setup gives you a fish-eye view of the coral reefs and marine life, without getting wet or needing diving experience.

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Makadi Bay, transported in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The departure point is the marina at Xanadu Hotel, which is accessible from all Makadi hotels via the beach. The boat then cruises for about 15 minutes to the reef, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea views and relax before the underwater spectacle begins.

Once at the reef, you’ll descend into the observation deck, where you’ll spend approximately 45 minutes watching the vibrant underwater scene through enormous panoramic windows. Expect to see colorful coral reefs teeming with marine animals of all shapes and sizes. Several reviews mention the “fish-eye view” as a delightful feature, giving an immersive feel even from the safety of your seat. It’s a calm, comfortable way to witness the marine life—no need for a wetsuit or getting your face wet if you prefer.

The snorkeling stop is a brief 20-minute session in the clear waters right near the reef. While some reviews note that the snorkeling can feel rushed or similar to what you might see at your hotel’s reef, it does offer a closer look at the fish and rays that inhabit the area. It’s especially great for those who want a quick, easy introduction to snorkeling without the hassle of organizing their own gear or boat.

Finally, the cruise heads back to the marina, where the return transport takes you back to your hotel. The entire experience, including pickup, boat, snorkel stop, and drop-off, lasts around two to three hours, making it a suitable half-day activity.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Underwater Observation Deck

The highlight for many is the air-conditioned, glass-walled observation deck located 3 meters below the sea surface. From here, you can sit comfortably and watch the marine life in real time without any effort. It’s especially practical for families or those who aren’t confident swimmers. Several reviewers say the panoramic windows provide “a great fish-eye view of the reefs” and the “extraordinary underwater world”.

One traveler noted, “We saw more colorful fish and blue-spotted rays while snorkeling at our hotel’s reef, but the glass bottom is a great idea for those who want a comfortable way to see marine life.”

Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Water

Despite some honesty about its brevity, the snorkeling portion is appreciated for its ease and convenience. The 20-minute stop provides a brief introduction to the reef’s beauty, with some reviews mentioning it feels a little rushed. Still, it’s a good chance to get in the water without carrying your gear or worrying about boat transfers. If you’re not a strong swimmer or simply prefer staying dry, the underwater deck might be enough for you.

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A Well-Maintained Experience

Many reviews praise the cleanliness and maintenance of the boat and facilities. The crew and guides are generally described as polite and professional, contributing to a safe and smooth experience. This is especially important when dealing with marine environments, as safety and cleanliness are top priorities.

Cost and Value

At $19 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. For a small investment, you get to see coral reefs, observe marine life comfortably, and snorkel briefly, all wrapped in a well-organized package. It’s a good choice for budget travelers or those who want to sample the underwater world without splurging.

The Real Experience – What You Can Expect

The Itinerary

• Hotel pickup in Makadi Bay — you’ll be notified via WhatsApp about your pick-up details.
• Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle to the marina near Xanadu Hotel.
• Boarding the cruise — aboard the semi-submarine, with comfortable seats and panoramic windows.
• Sea cruise — about 15 minutes to the coral reef, giving you scenic views and anticipation.
• Underwater observation — 45 minutes of viewing the vibrant reef life from the air-conditioned deck.
• Snorkeling stop — 20 minutes in the water, with the chance to see colorful fish and rays.
• Return cruise — back to the marina, followed by transportation to your hotel.

The Reef and Marine Life

The reef near Xanadu Hotel is considered “one of the best” in Makadi Bay for coral and marine diversity, making it a worthy destination. Some reviews note that the fish and rays seen during snorkeling are less spectacular than they hoped, but the visuals from the deck compensate for that. Expect to see vibrant coral structures, schools of fish, and perhaps some rays.

Comfort and Safety

The air-conditioned observation deck ensures comfort, especially in the often hot Egyptian sun. The tour emphasizes guest safety, with crew members attentive and professional, and the boat well-maintained. However, it’s not suitable for those with claustrophobia or very young children since the observation deck is 3 meters below sea level.

Additional Tips

• Remember to bring swimwear and sunscreen.
• Touching marine life is discouraged to protect the reef.
• Photos are available for purchase at 80, but be aware of potential interruptions during the snorkeling.
• Tours are available in English, German, Russian, and Polish.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This activity works well for families, first-time snorkelers, or travelers on a budget. It’s also a good choice for those who want a safe, guided introduction to the underwater environment, with no need to rent gear or worry about navigation. If you expect a long, intensive snorkeling experience, this might not be your best bet. Still, for a short, scenic, and comfortable way to see marine life, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise & Snorkel Stop offers a cost-effective and relaxed way to enjoy the Red Sea’s underwater beauty. Its unique viewing platform makes marine life accessible to all, and its location near Makadi Bay makes it easy to include in a day of sightseeing or relaxation. While some reviews mention the snorkeling can be a bit rushed or similar to what you might see from shore, most agree that the views from the deck are quite special.

If you’re looking for a light, safe, and affordable aquatic adventure that combines convenience with a taste of Egypt’s marine splendors, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep expectations realistic about the snorkeling duration and marine spectacle—you’ll get a nice introduction to the reef, with the comfort of knowing you’re in good hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Makadi Bay hotel, with details sent via WhatsApp after booking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the tour. The deck is shaded and air-conditioned, but it’s best to protect your skin from the sun.

Can I touch or feed the marine life?
No, touching marine animals is discouraged. The tour emphasizes safety and conservation, so it’s best to observe and enjoy from a respectful distance.

How long is the snorkeling stop?
The snorkeling stop lasts approximately 20 minutes, providing a quick but enjoyable glimpse of the reef’s fish and rays.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but it’s not recommended for children with claustrophobia, as the observation deck is 3 meters below sea level and enclosed. Always check with your group’s comfort levels.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Polish, making it accessible for many travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In all, this tour combines a wonderful visual experience with ease and affordability. It’s best for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly outing with good views of the Red Sea’s vibrant life. For travelers looking for a longer or more intense snorkeling adventure, it might feel a bit limited, but for most, it’s an enjoyable way to see Egypt’s underwater treasures without much hassle.

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