Dive with Dugongs and Turtles | Abu Dabbab | Marsa Alam | 2 Dives

Taking a tour to Abu Dabbab in Marsa Alam promises more than just a typical snorkel or dive. It’s a chance to encounter some of the Red Sea’s most captivating marine creatures, from majestic turtles to the elusive dugongs. While the experience is generally praised for its knowledgeable guides and stunning underwater sights, there are some points to consider, such as the group size and the depth of dives. This tour suits travelers who crave authentic encounters with nature and don’t mind shared spaces—especially if they’re eager to see rare species in their natural habitat.

What we love about this experience are the professional but friendly guides, the crystal-clear waters that reveal vibrant reefs, and the opportunity for everyone to participate, regardless of skill level. The chance to spot dugongs, a rare and gentle marine mammal, adds a special touch that sets this tour apart. On the flip side, some might find the five-hour duration a bit tight for a very relaxed day at the water, especially if they’re looking for leisurely exploration. This trip is perfect for families, beginner divers, and seasoned enthusiasts eager to witness Egypt’s underwater magic firsthand.

Key Points

• Marine Diversity: Encounter turtles, colorful corals, and rare dugongs.
• Inclusive for All Levels: Suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and good communication.
• Well-Organized Trip: Smooth itinerary with safety at the forefront.
• Value for Money: Two quality dives for about $105, including gear and guidance.
• Additional Perks: Pickup service and a friendly, small-group environment.

What to Expect from the Abu Dabbab Tour

The tour kicks off early morning at 8:00 am from the JAZ Costa Mares, with convenient pickup options that make logistics simple. The price of approximately $105.17 per person covers everything—diving gear, expert supervision, and transport—making it a straightforward choice for those looking to maximize their time underwater without fuss. Expect around five hours of adventure, which includes transportation, the dives, and some time for relaxing afterward.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Meet at the Scuba World diving center—a well-reviewed facility where the staff earns high marks for their professionalism and friendly attitude. Here, you’ll get a thorough safety briefing and an introduction to the dive site, ensuring everyone feels prepared and comfortable. The staff’s attention to detail, including clear instructions, is often highlighted as a key factor in having a safe and enjoyable experience.

Once ready, you’ll hop into a minibus that takes you to Abu Dabbab, a site renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The journey itself is quick, often taking less than an hour, but the real magic happens once you hit the water.

The Underwater Excursion

The first dive drops you to about 10-15 meters deep. This depth is accessible for most divers, including beginners with some experience, and allows you to get close-up views of colorful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and, if luck is on your side, sea turtles gliding gracefully past. Reviewers consistently mention the stunning coral reefs and the remarkable ease of spotting marine creatures.

One of the tour’s highlights is the potential to see dugongs, which are rare but occasionally spotted here. The gentle, herbivorous mammals are a true treasure of the Red Sea and tend to attract a lot of admiration from divers. Many reviews note that the guides went out of their way to help guests see the sea cows, with some mentioning the guides’ enthusiasm and patience.

The second dive continues exploring the same site or nearby areas, often with enough time to enjoy the scenery and snap photos. The guides are known for their local expertise, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe, especially since marine life and underwater conditions can vary.

Post-Dive and Return

After the dives, you’ll head back to the diving center. Here, you can freshen up with a hot shower, enjoy some snacks, and reflect on your underwater adventures. Reviewers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the professional yet relaxed vibe of the team, which makes even nervous divers feel at ease.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes pickup from the JAZ Costa Mares, which simplifies planning and helps you start your day stress-free. The group size is capped at 24 travelers, promoting a more personal experience and attentive guidance. Several reviews emphasize the small-group feel and the helpful, approachable staff, which are significant advantages for those not wanting to feel lost in a crowd.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 8:00 am, the trip lasts about five hours, which is ideal for travelers wanting a half-day adventure without overcommitting. This timing allows for a relaxed pace with plenty of underwater time, though some might prefer more time if they’re passionate about marine life.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to other diving options, this tour provides two quality dives at an accessible price point. The inclusion of gear, safety briefings, and transportation means no hidden costs. The reviews confirm that the guides are experienced and fun, and the safety standards are high, which is crucial when exploring marine environments.

Given the reviews, many guests have seen sea turtles, coral reefs in full bloom, and even rare dugongs, which makes the trip feel like a true bonus for marine enthusiasts. The friendly atmosphere combined with the professional guidance underscores that this experience is as much about education and safety as it is about adventure.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is especially perfect for families with children, thanks to its safety measures and ease of participation. It’s also a solid choice for beginner divers or snorkelers keen to explore the underwater world without long or complex dives. Experienced divers will appreciate the chance to see specific marine species like turtles and dugongs in their natural habitat.

If you’re someone who values friendly guides, well-organized trips, and vibrant marine scenery, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, if you’re looking for a luxurious, all-day experience or specialized night dives, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

For around $105, this Abu Dabbab experience offers two well-paced dives, expert guidance, and memorable marine encounters. The combination of vibrant reefs, rare animal sightings, and professional staff makes it a standout choice for anyone visiting Marsa Alam.

Travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and the underwater world will find this trip particularly rewarding. It’s a balanced adventure—not overly commercialized but thoughtfully organized to ensure safety and fun. The tour is especially suitable for families, newcomers, and those eager to tick off a few must-see species like turtles and dugongs.

If you’re after a heartfelt, authentic, and well-priced underwater adventure, this trip delivers in spades. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of curiosity, and an appreciation for Egypt’s extraordinary marine life.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from JAZ Costa Mares is included, making it easy to start your day without stress.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, from pickup to return, including the dives and post-dive refreshment.

Are the dives suitable for beginners?
Yes, the dives are generally accessible for all levels, with guides providing thorough safety briefings and support.

What is the maximum depth of the dives?
Dives go to a depth of about 10-15 meters, suitable for most certified divers and beginners with some experience.

Can I see marine animals like turtles and dugongs?
Most guests report seeing turtles regularly, and some have been lucky enough to spot dugongs, thanks to the guides’ efforts.

Is equipment provided?
Yes, equipment such as masks, fins, and tanks are included in the price.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 24 travelers, ensuring more personalized guidance and less crowding.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; specific age restrictions aren’t specified but are generally flexible for certified divers and snorkelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and a sense of adventure. The guides are friendly and happy to assist with any questions.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded chance to explore Egypt’s underwater treasures, with a strong focus on safety, authentic encounters, and friendly service. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or an experienced diver, the chance to see turtles, coral reefs, and possibly even dugongs will leave you with memories to cherish forever.