Marsa Mubarak Snorkeling with Dugongs & Turtles From Marsa Alam

Marsa Mubarak Snorkeling with Dugongs & Turtles From Marsa Alam: An Authentic Underwater Adventure

Taking a snorkeling trip in Marsa Alam promises more than just a splash in the water; it offers a chance to see some of the most fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat. This full-day tour with Bella Tours is rated highly for its chance to spot dugongs and large sea turtles, along with exploring vibrant coral reefs. If you’re craving a day out on the Red Sea with experts guiding the way, this trip aims to be a memorable experience.

What really draws travelers is the chance to swim alongside rare marine animals in unspoiled surroundings, enjoy delicious local food, and benefit from professional guides who know where to find the best snorkeling spots. That said, a few consider the additional park fees and the distance to the location as minor considerations. Overall, it’s perfect for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see the Red Sea’s most iconic underwater residents.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: The main highlight is the opportunity to see dugongs and large sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Expert Guidance: The tour features knowledgeable guides who provide safety instructions and fascinating insights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup is offered from Marsa Alam, and the boat trip lasts about 8 hours.
• Value for Money: At $50 per person, it includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, soft drinks, and insurance.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 30 travelers, you get a more personalized experience.
• Weather Dependence: The trip requires good weather; poor conditions might mean rescheduling or cancellation.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on Your Snorkeling Day

This full-day escape to Marsa Mubarak is designed to balance adventure with comfort. Starting at 8:00 am, you’ll be collected from your hotel (or a nearby pickup point), then transferred in air-conditioned comfort to the marina. The day is structured around two main snorkeling sessions, with plenty of time to relax, eat, and enjoy the scenery.

The Journey & Transportation

Transport is arranged via air-conditioned vehicles, a thoughtful touch that keeps the journey comfortable, especially in the warm Egyptian sun. Since most travelers book at least nine days in advance, it indicates good planning and ensures your spot on the boat. The tour caps at 30 participants, meaning you’ll likely share the boat with a small, friendly group, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

The Marine Environment

The highlight of this trip is the chance to see dugongs—gentle marine mammals that are quite rare—and sea turtles, which are the largest of their kind in the Red Sea. Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ skill in locating these creatures, with one enthusing about seeing a turtle eating jellyfish right before their eyes. The coral reefs are said to be teeming with colorful fish and other marine life, making each snorkel stop a visual feast.

The Itinerary: A Day Full of Underwater Wonder

Morning: Searching for Dugongs

Once on board, the crew kicks off with a brief safety introduction and some background info about the marine life you’ll encounter. The primary mission is spotting dugongs, which are notoriously shy and difficult to find — but with experienced guides, your chances are notably improved. The boat then speeds out to the designated area where the dugongs are known to frequent.

From reviews, we know that the encounters with these creatures are considered quite special—one reviewer described it as a “really beautiful experience” and noted they were “lucky enough to see dugongs.” The guides’ knowledge seems instrumental here, and their respectful approach ensures minimal disturbance to these shy animals, aligning with responsible tourism practices.

Midday: Lunch & Relaxation

After the morning’s aquatic adventure, it’s time to recharge with a buffet lunch on the boat. The food is often described as “good” and “delicious,” with some reviewers mentioning it was mainly meat, rice, and salad, served with a variety of drinks. This provides a good energy boost before the second snorkeling session. Unlimited soft drinks and water are included, ensuring you stay hydrated in the sun.

Afternoon: Turtle Encounters & Coral Reefs

The second snorkeling stop shifts focus to sea turtles, the giants of the Red Sea. Reviewers mention the thrill of seeing multiple turtles, sometimes at close range, with one noting they had “the chance to see many turtles from nearby.” The reefs themselves are described as “incredible,” full of colorful fish and vibrant corals, making each swim a visual treat.

While some reviews mention that weather conditions affected the second stop, most still left satisfied with the underwater sights. The guides are praised for their professionalism and ability to adapt to changing conditions, which is vital in outdoor aquatic activities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Marine Wildlife & Responsible Tourism

Many reviewers emphasize the rare opportunity to see dugongs, which are considered a delicacy for marine enthusiasts. Seeing these gentle creatures is a highlight; one described it as “super emotional,” highlighting how meaningful these encounters can be.

The guides’ respectful approach is appreciated, as they ensure minimal disturbance to marine life. This commitment makes the experience feel authentic and sustainable, adding peace of mind for travelers concerned about environmental impact.

Expert Guides & Small Group Feel

The guides are described as professional, friendly, and knowledgeable—key to making the day smooth and engaging. As one reviewer put it, the crew was “amazing, so lovely and nice,” which enhances the overall vibe. The small group size (max 30) fosters a more personal atmosphere, giving you space for questions and individual attention.

Comfort & Convenience

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you start your day hassle-free. The boat trip spans around 8 hours, providing plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery, without feeling rushed. The boat itself is described as a “nice boat,” with life jackets and snorkeling equipment provided, making it straightforward for beginners or seasoned snorkelers alike.

Food & Refreshments

The buffet lunch garners praise, with reviewers mentioning good, plentiful food that keeps energy levels high. Unlimited soft drinks and water are included, a simple but appreciated touch. Important to note that some distant hotels might have extra fees, and there’s a 10 Euro national park fee per person, which is a small added cost for the privilege of visiting protected areas.

Potential Drawbacks & Things to Consider

While the experience generally receives high marks, some travelers note that weather conditions can influence the quality of snorkeling, especially the second stop. If the sea is too rough, the guides might postpone or modify the itinerary. Also, the additional national park fee is not included in the base price, which is a common practice but worth budgeting for.

Some travelers mentioned that their pickup was from Oasis Marsa Alam, which was about 58 km from Marsa Mubarak—so double-check your pickup location in advance. The tour’s cost of $50 offers good value, but if you’re looking for an exclusive or ultra-luxury experience, this may feel more modest.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure in Marsa Mubarak offers a fantastic blend of wildlife encounters, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back day on the water. It’s especially suitable for those who want a trustworthy, guided experience with chances to see rare marine animals like dugongs and turtles. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup makes it a convenient choice for travelers seeking hassle-free fun.

If you’re eager to see the underwater world without diving gear or have a soft spot for marine mammals, this trip fits the bill. It balances adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for an authentic Red Sea experience.

While weather can be unpredictable, the guides’ professionalism and the chance to witness truly majestic creatures make this tour a worthwhile investment. Just remember to bring your camera, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity—you’re set for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from hotels in Marsa Alam, making the trip convenient and stress-free.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, including boat time, snorkeling, lunch, and transfers.

What is the cost?
The tour costs around $50 per person, which covers snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks, and guide services.

Are there additional fees?
Yes, there’s a €10 national park fee per person, payable on the day, plus possible extra charges for some distant hotels.

What marine animals might I see?
You have a good chance to see dugongs and large sea turtles; coral reefs are also teeming with colorful fish.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The equipment is provided, and guides are experienced in assisting snorkelers of all levels.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if cancelled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In short, this snorkeling tour in Marsa Mubarak offers a genuine chance to see some of the Red Sea’s most captivating creatures—perfect for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.