Below the Surface: A Full-Day Scuba Dive in Hurghada's Red Sea
Two dives, lunch, and a day with the reefs—why Hurghada’s Red Sea is a must for curious divers
The first light in Hurghada catches the marina like a coin: copper and sudden. You step from the concrete jetty onto the swaying deck, the day’s rhythm set by the hiss of compressors and the practiced choreography of crew members kitting out tanks. The boat slips away from harbor—Hurghada’s low skyline of hotels and palm trees shrinking behind you—and the Red Sea opens, flat as glass and impossible to ignore. By the time the captain eases the Zodiac over a shallow reef, your pulse has synced to the sea: a steady thrum beneath the surface waiting to be entered.
Trail Wisdom
Bring your certification card
Most operators require a dive certification card for certified divers—bring a physical and digital copy.
Book a morning departure
Morning boat trips often have calmer seas and better visibility than afternoon runs.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens harm coral—use reef-safe products or a UV-protective rashguard.
Prevent seasickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding and sit mid-boat for the smoothest ride.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Giftun Island beaches for post-dive snorkeling and sandbars
- •Abu Ramada Reef’s drop-offs are great for spotting turtles and schooling fish
Wildlife
Green sea turtles, Schooling barracuda and trevally
Conservation Note
Local operators increasingly follow reef-protection practices—look for boats using mooring buoys, offering briefings on reef etiquette, and participating in cleanup efforts.
Hurghada grew from a small fishing village into a dive tourism hub in the late 20th century, driven by the Red Sea’s global reputation for clear water and diverse reefs.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Moderate water temps, Good visibility, Active reef life
Challenges: Occasional winds, Variable surface temps
Spring brings pleasant air and water temperatures with strong visibility; some days can be breezy, so morning dives are best.
summer
Best for: Warm water swimsuits, Long daylight hours, Snorkeling comfort
Challenges: High sun exposure, Hot on-deck conditions
Summer offers warm water and excellent visibility but bring sun protection and light clothing for the boat deck.
fall
Best for: Optimal water temps, Stable conditions, Peak visibility
Challenges: Increasing tourist numbers, Limited morning time slots
Fall is often the most comfortable time for diving—warm water, steady winds, and clear water make for reliable conditions.
winter
Best for: Quieter marinas, Cooling air temps, Clear subsurface visibility
Challenges: Cooler water requiring thicker wetsuits, Shorter days
Winter has cooler sea temperatures and fewer crowds; wear a 3–5 mm wetsuit and plan for shorter daylight onshore.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Dive certification card (C-card)Essential
Proof of qualification is required for certified dives and speeds check-in.
Light wetsuit or shortyEssential
Water temperatures change seasonally—bring a 3–5 mm suit in cooler months or a shorty in summer.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hatEssential
Protects skin on deck while avoiding harm to coral ecosystems.
Mask, snorkel, fins (or rent onboard)
Personal fit gear improves comfort and reduces fogging vs. rental equipment.
Common Questions
Do I need to be certified to dive on this trip?
Certified divers should bring their C-card; beginners can often choose a supervised intro/resort dive—confirm availability when booking.
How deep are the dives on a typical day trip?
Dives usually range from shallow reef gardens (6–18 m) to deeper passes (up to ~30 m) depending on site selection and diver certification.
What should I wear on the boat?
Light layers, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen; have a towel and a short wetsuit or rashguard for sun and comfort in the water.
Is seasickness common and how can I prevent it?
Seasickness affects some travelers; take preventative medication before boarding, sit mid-boat, and focus on the horizon.
Is lunch provided?
Yes—most full-day trips include a simple lunch (often grilled fish, salads, and bread) served onboard or on a nearby beach.
Are there age limits for diving?
Minimum age for introductory dives is typically 8–10 years for snorkeling, and 12 years for certain supervised scuba experiences—check operator policy.
What to Pack
Dive certification card, reef-safe sunscreen and rashguard, light wetsuit or shorty (seasonal), seasickness medication if prone
Did You Know
The Red Sea hosts roughly 1,200 fish species, with about 10% of them endemic—species found nowhere else on Earth.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning trips to avoid afternoon winds; bring cash for tips; carry a passport copy for check-in; confirm dive insurance or medical clearance if you have health concerns.
Local Flavor
After diving, head to Hurghada Marina or Sheraton Road for fresh grilled seafood, local mezze, and sugarcane juice; small family-run restaurants offer authentic flavors and a chance to chat with locals about life on the Red Sea.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Hurghada International Airport (HRG); Typical pickup: hotel transfers within Hurghada; Driving distance to marina: usually 5–20 minutes from central hotels; Cell service: good in town, patchy offshore; Permits: no special permits for tourist dives, but bring C-card and photo ID.
Sustainability Note
Reefs are vulnerable—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and choose operators that use mooring buoys and support local reef conservation programs.