From El Gouna: Royal Seascope Submarine with Snorkel Stop

Discovering the Red Sea: A Practical Review of the Royal Seascope Submarine with Snorkel Stop from El Gouna

Imagine gliding through the water without getting wet, yet still experiencing the vibrant underwater world of Egypt’s Red Sea. That’s exactly what the Royal Seascope Submarine tour promises. This semi-submarine adventure from El Gouna offers a unique way to see stunning coral reefs, colorful marine life, and even dolphins—without the hassle of diving gear or swimming skills.

We love the idea of comfort combined with adventure — sitting in an air-conditioned underwater observation deck and then enjoying a snorkeling break. The price (just $17 per person) makes this an accessible option for many travelers, especially considering the included marine park entry fees and the brief but rewarding underwater viewing experience.

A possible consideration is the limited time at each site—about 45 minutes underwater and 20 minutes snorkeling—so if you’re eager for longer or more in-depth snorkeling, you might find this somewhat quick. Nonetheless, this experience suits those looking for a family-friendly, relaxed introduction to the Red Sea’s marine wonders without the need for extensive equipment or training.

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Key Points

• Affordable and Accessible: At $17, it offers excellent value for a semi-submarine experience with snorkeling.
• Comfortable Viewing: Underwater observation deck provides panoramic views in a climate-controlled environment.
• Marine Wildlife: Chance to spot dolphins and a variety of colorful fish and coral reefs.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with friendly support and safety.
• Flexible Booking: Option to reserve and pay later, with cancellations up to 24 hours ahead.
• Additional Costs: Transfer from El Gouna costs extra, and snorkeling gear isn’t included.

An Inside Look at the Experience

Getting There and Starting Out

The tour begins with hotel pickup from inside Hurghada, but if you’re based in El Gouna, you’ll need to add an extra transfer fee of roughly $10 per guest. The journey is comfortable in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the pickup typically occurs about 45 minutes before the trip start time—so don’t forget to set your alarm early enough to enjoy the full day of adventure.

The Journey to the Reefs

After departure from the marina, the cruise lasts about 15 minutes, giving you a short, scenic boat ride that builds anticipation. The boat itself is well-maintained, and the crew is often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, making the ride pleasant rather than rushed.

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Underwater Observation Deck

Once at the coral reef site, you descend into the semi-submarine. This vessel features a glass-paneled observation deck that is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable, dry environment to view the underwater world. Expect to spend around 45 minutes peering through large panoramic windows, where the vibrant marine life—fish in every color, coral structures, and occasionally dolphins—comes into full view.

One reviewer (Leendert) said, “The underwater world from the boat is amazing! Snorkeling is also worth doing,” indicating that this view is a major highlight. The guide, often described as friendly and attentive, helps keep everyone comfortable and informed, making even novice viewers feel at ease.

Snorkeling Stop

After the underwater viewing, there’s a 20-minute snorkeling break. You’ll need to bring your own gear or rent it (costs about 3 EUR per item). The snorkeling spot is chosen for its marine diversity, but reviews suggest the main attraction is the colorful fish and coral rather than larger marine animals. Nicolas mentioned, “You will only see sardines and zebra fish,” which points to the snorkeling experience being more about observing smaller fish rather than encountering bigger or more exotic species.

Return and Additional Insights

The trip wraps up with a relaxed sail back to the marina, giving you time to reflect on the sights. Many reviewers appreciated the smooth organization—“The entire process was excellent,” said one traveler—highlighting the professionalism of Egypt Sun Marine Fleet.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Marine Life and Underwater Views

The highlight for most is the panoramic underwater deck, which offers a fish-eye lens look at the coral reefs teeming with marine life. It’s a great way to see the underwater scenery without the need for diving licenses or swimming skills. The views are described as vibrant, with coral formations and a variety of fish species. While some review comments note that the snorkeling doesn’t reveal larger creatures like sharks or dolphins (beyond the possibility of spotting dolphins from the boat), the underwater observation deck compensates with close-up views of the reef’s beauty.

Dolphins and Marine Wildlife

Dolphins are often mentioned in the promotional material, and while they are not guaranteed, there’s a good chance of spotting them in their natural habitat during the cruise. One guest expressed appreciation for the guide’s efforts in making sure everyone felt comfortable and safe, which is especially important when it comes to marine wildlife encounters.

Comfort and Convenience

Travelers consistently mention the air-conditioned vessel and professional guides as major pluses. The guided commentary makes the experience more engaging, especially for families or first-timers. The boat’s stable platform and well-organized schedule mean you won’t be left waiting or feeling rushed.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

Price and Value

At $17 per person, this tour is a solid choice for budget travelers. The cost includes transportation, marine park entry fees, and the snorkeling stop—offering good value for a half-day experience. Keep in mind, extra costs like transfer from El Gouna or snorkeling gear aren’t included but are relatively small.

Timing and Duration

The entire trip—from pickup to return—lasts approximately 3-4 hours, with the main sightseeing underwater lasting about 45 minutes. The timing is ideal for those wanting a quick yet fulfilling glimpse of the underwater world without dedicating an entire day.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Since this is a popular tour, groups tend to be moderate in size, making it easy to move around and ask questions. The guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, which enhances the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples eager to see the Red Sea’s marine life without the complexities of diving. It’s suited for those who want beautiful underwater views in a comfortable setting, especially if snorkeling isn’t your thing but you still want to get close to the reef. The affordability also makes it attractive for travelers seeking a memorable activity without overspending.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, enjoyable way to explore the vibrant waters of the Red Sea, the Royal Seascope Submarine with Snorkel Stop from El Gouna offers a balanced mix of comfort, affordability, and visual wonder. The underwater observation deck provides a unique perspective that’s especially appealing for first-timers or those a bit wary of snorkeling or diving.

While the snorkeling might be limited in scope, the views from the semi-submarine and the potential dolphin sightings make it a worthwhile outing. It’s a great introduction to Egypt’s underwater beauty, particularly if you prefer a relaxed, guided experience.

This tour provides good value for the price, especially considering the included park entry fees and the professional service. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want memorable, family-friendly fun on the Red Sea, without the need for extensive planning or equipment.

FAQ

Is transportation from El Gouna included?
No, transportation from El Gouna costs about $10 per guest. Inside Hurghada, pickup is included in the tour price.

How long is the underwater viewing experience?
The semi-submarine stays underwater for approximately 45 minutes, offering panoramic views through large glass windows.

What should I bring for the snorkeling stop?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash. Snorkeling gear can be rented for about 3 EUR per item if you don’t have your own.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since it involves minimal physical activity and offers safe, guided viewing.

What marine life might I see?
Expect to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and possibly dolphins from the boat. Snorkeling typically reveals small fish like sardines and zebra fish.

How many people are in each group?
Group sizes tend to be moderate, making the experience intimate enough for questions and comfort.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, German, and French.

What is the best time of day to take this tour?
Morning or early afternoon are ideal, as the weather is usually calm and visibility great.

Is there any additional cost I should know about?
Extra costs may include transfer from El Gouna and snorkeling gear, but these are minimal compared to the overall value.

This semi-submarine tour offers an excellent, budget-friendly way to see the Red Sea’s underwater wonders comfortably. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another look at Egypt’s marine treasures, it’s a practical choice that combines ease, fun, and beautiful scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: