Sharm: Introductory Dive from the Shore & PADI Courses

If you’re dreaming of exploring Egypt’s underwater worlds without prior experience, this Sharm El-Sheikh introductory diving tour from Hunter Divers is worth considering. Whether you’re simply looking to snorkel in calm waters or aiming to become a certified diver, this experience offers a flexible way to dip your toes—or fins—into the Red Sea.

What we love most about this tour is its affordable price point of just $47 per person, the expert guidance from multilingual instructors, and the chance to take up a PADI Open Water certification over a few days. But as with any adventure, there are a few things to keep in mind, like the mixed reviews about instructor attitude and logistical hiccups. This tour is best suited for curious travelers wanting a safe, guided introduction to diving, or those thinking about turning their first experience into a full certification.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Starting at $47, the tour offers genuine value for an underwater experience and/or certification.
• Flexible Options: Choose a single introductory dive or extend into a 2-3 day PADI course to become certified.
• Professional Guides: Multilingual instructors guide you through the basics, making safety a priority.
• Beautiful Underwater Scenes: Expect shallow, clear waters perfect for capturing stunning photos.
• Location: Fanar Beach in Hadaba serves as a scenic and accessible launch point.
• Mixed Experiences: Some reviews highlight excellent guides and memorable dives, while others point out organizational flaws.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Dive Experience

Meeting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at Fanar Beach in Hadaba, a popular spot with straightforward access. Hunter Divers’ team will meet you at the entrance, so punctuality really matters since the activity ends back at the same point. The pickup and drop-off service adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re staying at a hotel in Sharm.

Day 1: Introductory Dive and Skills

After arriving at the dive center, you’ll get to pick out your gear and watch some training videos in your preferred language—Arabic, English, Russian, or Italian. This part really sets the tone, as it helps eliminate some of the nerves by explaining the safety procedures and specificities of the dive site.

Next, your instructor will guide you into shallow waters for your first experience. Expect to do two practice dives where you’ll learn the basics of breathing underwater, equalizing ears, and managing your buoyancy. According to feedback, instructors generally keep a calm, patient demeanor, making even nervous first-timers feel more at ease.

The Dive Itself

The shallow dive sites in Sharm are renowned for their clarity and calm conditions, ideal for beginners. You can expect to snap some impressive underwater photos, with plenty of colorful fish and coral just a few meters below the surface. One reviewer noted that the instructor was “so calm and patient,” which is crucial when you’re trying to overcome water anxiety or trying to get comfortable with your equipment.

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Possible Drawbacks

A few guests reported less positive encounters, citing instructors with less-than-friendly attitudes and logistical issues like an oversleeping instructor or unorganized transfers. One review described feeling unwelcome and being ignored, especially as a female diver with prior ear injuries. These experiences highlight the importance of clear communication and choosing reputable guides—your safety and enjoyment depend on it.

Extending into Certification

For those wanting more than a quick taste, the 2-3 day PADI Open Water Diver course is available. Starting with watching course videos, progressing through skill practices, and culminating in an 18-meter dive, this option offers a structured way to become a licensed diver. The certification allows you to dive independently up to 18 meters, opening doors to countless future adventures.

What’s Included and Not

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, diving equipment, one introductory dive, and lunch with soft drinks if you opt for the course. Separate costs apply for PADI fees (81 USD), manuals, and e-learning. It’s worth budgeting these additional expenses if you’re serious about certification.

The Underwater Experience: What You’ll See and Capture

Sharm’s shallow waters are famed for their vibrant marine life and crystal-clear visibility. Expect to see small shoals of fish, coral formations, and perhaps even some octopus or rays if conditions align. The calmness of these sites makes them perfect for underwater photography, and many guests mention bringing waterproof cameras to capture their memories.

Guides are knowledgeable about the local marine environment and will point out interesting sights, helping you get the most out of your time underwater. Plus, the relaxed pace allows you to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than rushing through the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits a variety of travelers—from those with no prior water experience eager to try snorkeling or diving—to those contemplating full certification. The flexible nature of the tour means you can opt for just a single dive or extend into a multi-day course, depending on your interest and schedule.

If you’re nervous about water or new to diving, the calm, shallow sites and attentive guides will help ease your fears. However, keep in mind that some reviews mention organizational hiccups or less-than-enthusiastic staff, so managing expectations and choosing the right operator is key.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value, the $47 introductory price is compelling, especially given the chance to explore the iconic Red Sea. The multilingual guides, beautiful scenery, and opportunity to learn scuba skills make this a solid choice for beginners or those considering certification.

For travelers who prioritize safety, professional guidance, and memorable underwater sights, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable introduction. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a low-pressure, guided experience that can be tailored into a certification pathway.

On the flip side, if you’re sensitive to organizational issues or have specific expectations about instructor attitude, it’s worth doing some research or reading recent reviews before booking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the program is designed for beginners, with shallow sites and instructors guiding you through the basics in a relaxed way.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, diving equipment, one introductory dive, and lunch with soft drinks if you take the full course.

Can I get certified through this experience?
Absolutely. With the 2-3 day PADI course, you can become a certified diver, learning skills in the water and completing your exam for certification.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, PADI fees (81 USD), manuals, and e-learning are paid separately directly to the PADI office.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, and a towel. If you want underwater photos, consider bringing a waterproof camera.

What is the meeting point?
Fanar Beach in Hadaba, with guides meeting you at the entrance. Arrive on time to ensure a smooth start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 10 years old, and pregnant women or wheelchair users should avoid participating.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Make sure to confirm your booking policy beforehand.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, cost-effective way to dip into Egypt’s famous underwater world. Whether you just want a quick introductory experience or aim for full certification, Hunter Divers provides a supportive environment with beautiful scenery. Keep in mind the mixed reviews—your experience hinges on choosing a reputable guide and managing expectations—but for many, it’s a memorable start to their diving journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: