Jeddah: Bayada Islands Group Snorkeling Adventure with Gear

If you’re dreaming of crystalline waters, colorful coral reefs, and encounters with fascinating marine life, the Bayada Islands snorkeling tour offers a fantastic way to experience it all. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed info paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a well-organized, day-long escape into nature that’s perfect for those craving an accessible, guided underwater adventure.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the comprehensive inclusion of snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks ensures a hassle-free day. Second, the expert guides help everyone feel safe and informed, regardless of experience level. Lastly, the stunning views of vibrant coral reefs and marine life are often highlighted as unforgettable.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suitable for small children under 2 or those with mobility challenges, which is worth considering for families or travelers with specific needs. Overall, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and educational snorkel trip in a beautiful setting, this adventure could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks provided, making it convenient and comfortable.
• Expert Guidance: Led by professional instructors ensuring safety and learning opportunities.
• Stunning Marine Environment: Vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in crystal-clear waters.
• Flexible Scheduling: Daily trips with different start times on weekdays versus weekends.
• Easy Preparation: Just bring essentials like your passport, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.
• Limited Age & Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 2 or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Location and Accessibility

Situated off the coast of Makkah Province, the Bayada Islands are a popular choice for those wanting a quick escape from city life into the natural beauty of the Red Sea. The tour is operated by Riyadh Trip, a reputable provider known for organizing reliable excursions. The journey begins with a pickup or meeting point, followed by a short boat ride to the islands, which are renowned for their pristine waters and abundant marine ecosystem.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $300 per person, this tour offers great value considering what’s included: snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins), refreshing drinks, and light snacks. The focus here is on making the experience as hassle-free as possible, so you can spend your time floating over coral reefs and spotting colorful fish rather than worrying about equipment or food.

However, you’ll need to bring your own towel, change of clothes, and sunscreen. The tour doesn’t include towels or clothing changes, so packing these essentials is important for comfort afterward.

The Itinerary

The day kicks off with a meeting at 9:15 AM on weekdays or 7:15 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. After a quick 15-minute fitting and equipment prep, the group heads to the boat, where you’ll spend between 3.5 to 4 hours snorkeling at different sites.

The first stop is typically a 30-minute gathering and introductory phase, where guides explain safety tips and what to look out for underwater. You’ll then spend about 15 minutes adjusting your gear before heading out.

The main snorkeling session lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, during which guides lead you through the vibrant coral reefs, highlighting the marine ecosystem. Reviewers mention “stunning views” and “diverse marine life” that make the trip worthwhile. The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often sharing interesting facts about the reef and fish species.

In the latter part of the day, the boat returns to shore around 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. This flexible end time means you can plan your day comfortably, possibly extending your visit with other local activities or simply relaxing afterward.

The Marine Environment

This tour’s star is unquestionably the coral reefs — vibrant, lively, and teeming with marine creatures. According to reviews, the waters here are crystal-clear, allowing excellent visibility, which is vital for spotting small fish and coral details. The marine life includes a variety of colorful fish and possibly other species, as noted by visitors who have previously snorkeled here.

Many reviewers express delight at how “picturesque” the underwater scenes are, with some noting that the reefs are “rich in color and teeming with life”. The guides do a good job of pointing out interesting sights, which can turn an afternoon of snorkeling into an educational experience.

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The Guides and Safety

Guides from Riyadh Trip are described as professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. They’re attentive to safety, especially helpful for less experienced snorkelers. We’ve seen reviews mentioning that guides “made everyone feel comfortable” and were ready to assist if anyone felt uneasy.

Since the tour is led by professionals, you can relax knowing that safety protocols are in place. The group size is manageable, making it easy to ask questions and stay close during underwater exploration.

Practical Considerations

Being prepared with passport or ID, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen is essential. The tour’s schedule allows for a leisurely start, but arriving on time is important to avoid missing out on the initial briefing.

The tour is not designed for children under 2 or individuals with mobility challenges, so families or those with specific needs should plan accordingly.

Pricing and Value

At $300 per person, this trip is competitively priced considering the inclusive nature of the offering—gear, drinks, snacks, and guided instruction. If you value a well-organized, comfortable, and scenic snorkeling experience, this price point seems reasonable.

The reviews suggest that the quality of the reefs and marine life, along with the professional guidance, justify the cost. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a straightforward, stress-free way to explore underwater without worrying about logistics or equipment.

This adventure is ideal for beginners and intermediate snorkelers who want to enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea in a controlled, guided setting. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a scenic day trip. The inclusive nature and focus on safety make it a good choice for those who prefer to have everything taken care of—gear, drinks, snacks—so they can focus on the fun of discovering underwater life.

However, travelers with small children under 2 or those needing accessible options might want to look elsewhere, as this tour doesn’t cater to all mobility needs. The early start and 4-hour snorkeling window suit those comfortable with a moderate day of activity.

The Bayada Islands snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of convenience, scenic beauty, and educational insight into marine life. With professional guides, all necessary gear, and beautiful reef views, it provides a memorable experience for those looking to dip into the Red Sea’s underwater world. Its value lies not only in the inclusions but in the quality of the environment—vivid corals and lively fish swimming just below the surface.

This trip best suits travelers seeking a safe, guided, and visually stunning snorkeling outing without the hassle of planning or equipment worries. It’s perfect for newbies and seasoned snorkelers alike who want a straightforward, enjoyable day in nature.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to enjoy the Red Sea’s underwater treasures and create lasting memories, this tour could be a great choice. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, towel, and a sense of adventure!

Is the snorkeling gear included?
Yes, the tour provides all snorkeling gear needed, including masks, snorkels, and fins.

What should I bring with me?
You should bring your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to ensure comfort and safety.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, soft drinks and light snacks are part of the package, so you can stay refreshed during your underwater adventure.

What is the start time?
On weekdays, meet at 9:15 AM; on Fridays and Saturdays, the start is at 7:15 AM.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years old. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns about other age groups.

How long is the snorkeling activity?
The snorkeling session lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, with some time for gathering, introductions, and equipment fitting.

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

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if accessibility is a concern.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Bayada Islands snorkeling adventure fits your travel style. Whether you’re seeking vibrant underwater scenery or a guided, stress-free outing, it’s a well-rounded option that captures the beauty of the Red Sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: