Catamaran Sailing Tour

If you’re dreaming of sunbathing on gentle waves, dipping into clear waters, and catching glimpses of dolphins weaving through the sea, a catamaran sailing tour off Hurghada might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally been aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this half-day adventure.

What we love about this experience is its balance of relaxation and activity, the chance to snorkel at less-crowded reefs, and the opportunity to enjoy the stunning coastline of El Gouna. Plus, the inclusion of light lunch and soft drinks makes it feel like a proper seaside escape. On the flip side, some travelers note that the boat can be a bit busy, and bringing cash for extra drinks is recommended.

This tour suits those who want a laid-back day on the water, lovers of snorkeling, and anyone eager to enjoy the Red Sea’s views without a long, complicated excursion. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the blend of comfort, scenic cruising, and the potential for dolphin sightings makes it an appealing choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat experience: Spacious, with plenty of sun and shade options.
• Snorkeling highlights: Little-known reefs and opportunities to spot dolphins.
• All-inclusive simplicity: Light lunch and soft drinks included, bringing light packing essentials.
• Timing and logistics: Convenient pickup and about 5 hours of total activity.
• Crowd considerations: Book well in advance; the boat can be busy.
• Value for money: Around $65 per person for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty.

The Experience in Detail

Booking and Planning

The catamaran sailing tour is priced at approximately $64.79 per person, making it a reasonable option for those wanting a fun day on the sea. Most travelers book about 31 days ahead, reflecting its popularity. The tour includes pickup from a central location, making logistics easier, especially after a long travel day or during a busy holiday. Confirmations are prompt, and cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility.

Departure and Duration

The trip kicks off at the Ocean View Hotel marina at 9:00 AM and concludes around 2:00 PM, totaling roughly 5 hours. The air-conditioned transfer ensures comfort from your hotel to the boat, and the experience feels well-paced, with plenty of time for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.

The Catamaran: Ocean Diva

The Ocean Diva is described as a comfortable vessel with ample space for both sunbathers and those seeking shade. Reviewers mention that despite the boat sometimes being busier than the stated 25-person limit, it still offered a pleasant, stable ride across the Red Sea. The boat’s design allows guests to pack light, as snorkeling gear is provided, and there’s enough room for everyone to enjoy the scenery.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

The tour begins at the Ocean View Hotel marina, with the boat setting sail towards the coast near El Gouna. The first stop is at Planet Spa at Casa Cook, which acts as the boarding point.

The itinerary includes two snorkeling stops—one at a coral reef teeming with fish, and a second chance for dolphin sightings, which many reviewers found particularly exciting. As Andy_P pointed out, “we saw dolphins while snorkeling,” making this a definite highlight for wildlife lovers.

Snorkeling and Reef Exploration

The reefs visited are described as less crowded, offering a more intimate experience with marine life, compared to busier tourist spots. Guests use the provided snorkel equipment to explore underwater, with reviews praising the visibility and the variety of fish. Many travelers remark on the crystal-clear water and the chance to see colorful shoals.

Relaxation and Sunbathing

With spacious decks, travelers can lounge either in the sun or seek refuge in the shade. The boat has enough space to spread out, which is appreciated given the occasional crowding. Reviewers mention that they enjoyed lounging during the cruise, soaking up the sun while the crew managed the route and stops.

Food and Drinks

A light lunch is included, featuring soup, salad, wraps, and fruit, which provides enough sustenance for a day spent at sea. Soft drinks are also included, with the option to purchase alcohol—about 3 euros for a beer—so bringing cash is recommended. This aspect was appreciated by guests, who felt they could relax without worrying about food or drink arrangements.

Wildlife and Dolphin Spotting

One of the charming surprises of this tour is the chance to spot dolphins. Several reviewers, including Andy_P, mention seeing dolphins during the snorkeling stop, adding a magical touch to the day. During the cruise, you might also see colorful fish and other marine life, making snorkeling more than just a swim—it’s an opportunity to observe the vibrant ecosystem of the Red Sea.

The Return

After approximately five hours on the water, the boat returns to the marina around 2:00 PM. The experience concludes with a smooth transfer back to your hotel, leaving you refreshed and with plenty of memories.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This catamaran tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with light adventure. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who want to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty without intense activities or long excursions. The inclusion of snorkeling, dolphin sightings, and scenic cruising makes it perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a taste of Egypt’s coastal waters.

It’s also a good choice for travelers on a budget, considering the all-in-one price covers transportation, food, drinks, and snorkeling gear. However, those seeking alcoholic drinks will need to plan to buy them on board or bring cash.

Final Thoughts

Value and Convenience: For about $65, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of the Red Sea, combining snorkeling, scenic cruising, and relaxed sunbathing. The inclusion of lunch and soft drinks adds to the convenience, making it feel like a full-day escape without the hefty price tag.

The Scenic Setting: The views of the coastline near El Gouna are stunning, especially when catching glimpses of dolphins and vibrant fish. The comfortable catamaran provides a stable platform for enjoying these sights, whether you’re sunbathing or snapping photos.

Wildlife Encounters: If you’re lucky, you’ll see dolphins and a variety of marine life, which many guests describe as a highlight. These moments elevate the experience beyond a simple boat ride.

Considerations: Crowding can be an issue, so booking in advance is advised. Also, bringing some cash for drinks is recommended if you plan to indulge in alcohol. The tour’s duration and timing fit well into a half-day schedule, making it an efficient way to enjoy the Red Sea.

Overall: This sailing trip balances comfort, adventure, and scenery, making it a great choice for travelers wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water with opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, sailing, snorkeling stops, and return.

What is included in the price?
You get light lunch (soup, salad, wraps, fruit), soft drinks, and snorkeling equipment. Pickup from your hotel and transportation are also included.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, suggesting it’s suitable for a broad age range, though specific restrictions are not mentioned.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour provides food and soft drinks, but if you wish to purchase alcohol, you’ll need to bring cash for on-board sales.

What should I pack?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and light clothing. Towels are not included, but snorkeling gear is provided.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is a key feature, non-swimmers can still enjoy sunbathing and the scenic cruise from the deck, but swimming and snorkeling might not be for everyone.

Final Summary

This catamaran sailing tour near Hurghada offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those eager to snorkel at lesser-known reefs, catch glimpses of dolphins, and enjoy a laid-back day on the water with all essentials included. The comfortable boat, friendly crew, and stunning coastal views make it a compelling choice, provided you’re prepared for a somewhat busier boat.

Whether you’re seeking a memorable family outing, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, this tour delivers a slice of the Red Sea’s magic at a fair price. Just remember to book early, bring some cash, and prepare for an enjoyable day of sun, sea, and snorkeling.