A Clear Water Escape: Snorkeling with Turtles at Marsa Alam’s Turtles Bay
If you’re dreaming of a day spent floating above vibrant coral reefs and sharing the water with gentle sea turtles, the “Turtles Bay, Swimming with Turtles Hurghada & Marsa Alam” tour might just be your ideal escape. Although we haven’t personally joined this tour, the enthusiastic reviews and comprehensive details suggest it’s a well-organized, memorable experience.
What stands out? First, the professional guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Second, the crystal-clear waters that promise excellent visibility for marine life spotting. Third, the inclusive setup—lunch, snorkeling equipment, and transportation—offers great value. The only consideration? The long day’s duration might be tiring for some. This tour is perfect for travelers who love water activities, wildlife encounters, and want a hassle-free day on the beach.
Key Points
- Complete package with snorkeling gear, lunch, and transportation included.
- Great for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, with professional guides offering safety tips and support.
- High chance of seeing sea turtles in their natural habitat, making it a truly special experience.
- Beautiful white-sand beaches and warm waters offer perfect relaxation after snorkeling.
- Long, full-day trip—ideal for those who want immersive marine exploration without additional costs.
- Cancellations are flexible—free up to 24 hours in advance.
A Detailed Look at the Experience
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Early Morning Pickup and Comfortable Transport
The day begins early, around 6:00 am, with a smooth pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel. This early start ensures you beat the crowds and get the most out of your day. The transport is arranged by Canary Tours Egypt, a professional provider with a good reputation. Expect a relaxed, air-conditioned drive through the scenic desert terrain of Safaga en route to Marsa Alam.
Arrival at Abu Dabbab Beach: The Gateway to Marine Marvels
Your destination, Abu Dabbab, is renowned for its pristine white sands and calm, shallow waters—perfect for snorkeling. The guides, praised by travelers for their friendliness and expertise, will provide you with snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and snorkels. Even if you’re new to snorkeling, the guides are patient and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable before entering the water.
Snorkeling Amongst Colorful Coral and Fish
Once in the water, you’ll notice the incredible clarity—many reviewers mentioned the “crystal clear waters” that allow excellent visibility. As you glide over the coral reefs, you’ll encounter an explosion of color: schools of fish, intricate coral formations, and possibly even the resident turtles passing by. One reviewer described the experience as “a little taste of the Caribbean,” thanks to the warm water and vibrant marine life.
Spotting the Sea Turtles
The highlight, of course, is the chance to swim alongside sea turtles in their natural environment. Several guests have noted how peaceful and majestic these creatures are, often passing close enough for memorable photos. One traveler mentioned, “some turtles are seen swimming peacefully for an unforgettable selfie.” The guides’ local knowledge increases the chances of spotting these gentle animals, and they’ll help you get close without disturbing them.
The Possibility of Rare Encounters
While not guaranteed, there’s even a chance to see other marine mammals like dugongs—a rare find in most tours! Several reviews emphasize the joy of seeing these creatures, with one noting, “sometimes a dugong passes by, a rare sea cow that can be up to four meters long.” Such encounters add a special touch to an already extraordinary day.
Lunch and Relaxation by the Beach
Around midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared lunch served right on the beach. This break is the perfect time to unwind, soak up the sun, and chat with fellow travelers. The meal, included in the tour, typically features local flavors and refreshing drinks—soft drinks and water are provided throughout the day.
Afternoon Swimming and Underwater Photography
Post-lunch, you can take a leisurely swim in the warm waters or explore the shoreline. The white sands and calm seas make it an ideal setting for relaxing or capturing stunning underwater photos. Many passengers appreciated the opportunity to be photographed underwater, making it a memorable souvenir of their marine adventure.
Return Journey and Evening Drop-off
The tour concludes around 6:00 pm, with a comfortable ride back to your hotel. Travelers often mention how smoothly the day ends, leaving them with plenty of time to relax after a full day of adventure.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Guides and Marine Environment
Guests frequently commend the guides for their knowledgeable explanations and friendly approach. Their insight enriches the experience, helping travelers understand the marine ecology and feel more confident in the water. The high likelihood of sightings—especially of turtles—coupled with professional supervision, makes this tour highly trustworthy.
Value for Money
At approximately $113 per person, the package includes everything you need: snorkeling equipment, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees. When you consider the expense of organizing a similar day independently—renting gear, arranging transport, and paying for meals—the tour offers solid value.
Suitability for All Levels
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the experience caters well to different skill levels. The shallow waters around Abu Dabbab are ideal for beginners, and the guides’ patience ensures everyone can enjoy the marine life safely.
Authentic Marine Encounters
The chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat makes this trip stand out from other beach excursions. Several reviews highlight how special this is, with one saying, “you’ll see the same fish as in other Red Sea spots, but here it’s in a larger, more accessible setting.”
Potential Drawbacks or Considerations
The main thing to keep in mind is the long day—around 12 hours from pickup to drop-off. While many find it worth the effort, some travelers might prefer shorter trips. Also, the tour’s success depends on weather conditions; poor weather could lead to cancellations, though the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for water lovers, especially those eager to see sea turtles in the wild. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a stress-free, all-inclusive day out. Beginners will appreciate the gentle waters and supportive guides, while seasoned snorkelers will enjoy the marine diversity. If you’re after a relaxed, full-day adventure to connect with nature, this trip ticks all the boxes.
The Sum Up
The “Turtles Bay, Swimming with Turtles Hurghada & Marsa Alam” tour offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and value. With professional guides enhancing your understanding of the marine environment, you’re set for a memorable encounter with sea turtles and vibrant underwater life. The inclusive nature of the trip—gear, lunch, transport—means you can focus solely on enjoying the moment.
This tour is particularly suited for travelers who cherish wildlife sightings, appreciate high-quality service, and want a hassle-free day on the water. Its long duration is ideal if you’re looking to maximize your time in Egypt, and the overall experience seems to deliver on its promise of a rewarding marine adventure.
FAQ
Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, making it convenient and stress-free to start your day.
What is the duration of the tour?
The full trip lasts approximately 12 hours, from early morning pickup to late evening drop-off.
Can beginners participate in snorkeling?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all levels, and guides are experienced in helping beginners feel comfortable in the water.
What should I bring?
While snorkeling gear is provided, bringing your own mask and fins if you prefer is optional. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera or phone for photos.
Are there any additional costs?
All fees, taxes, snorkeling equipment, and lunch are included. Anything not mentioned is not covered.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
How likely am I to see sea turtles?
The tour boasts a high chance, and many travelers have successfully spotted and even swum alongside turtles in their natural habitat.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the gentle waters make it suitable for children, but always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
How do I book this experience?
Booking is easy through Viator or directly via Canary Tours Egypt, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.
This snorkeling tour to Turtles Bay in Marsa Alam promises a day filled with marine wonders, friendly guides, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking your first underwater adventure or looking to add a special experience to your Egyptian holiday, it’s a well-rounded choice.