The Red Sea port of Marsa Alam stands out for its exceptional marine excursions. From practical semi-submarine trips to full submarine adventures, getting up close with marine life is straightforward and accessible. I’m particularly fond of the intimate dolphin-watching tours – they offer better value and authenticity than larger boat operations. The snorkeling excursions are well-organized, with knowledgeable guides who know the best spots for turtle and reef viewing. While Nile cruises are available, stick to the local Red Sea outings for the most memorable experiences. Evening tours featuring fresh-caught seafood dinners provide a perfect mix of nature and local flavor. Let’s look at my favorite boat tours in Marsa Alam.
Key Points
- The Nefertari Boat offers semi-submarine snorkeling with an underwater observation deck, catering to a maximum of 30 guests.
- The Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise provides a 1.5-hour tour with panoramic windows 4 meters below the surface, accessible for wheelchair users.
- Nile cruises range from 3 to 6 days, offering guided visits to temples, hot air balloon rides, and 5-star accommodations.
- Snorkeling excursions in Marsa Alam include trips to see sea turtles, dolphins, and the Sataya Reefs, with complimentary transportation.
- The Nefertari Sunset/Morning Cruise provides a 4-hour excursion with guided snorkeling, seafood dinner, and the option to dress as ancient Egyptian royalty.
Nefertari Boat Semi Submarine Snorkeling Sea Trip & Sea Food Lunch – Marsa Alam
Visitors to Marsa Alam can enjoy a scenic cruise aboard the Nefertari Boat, which offers a unique semi-submarine snorkeling experience.
This activity allows travelers to explore the vibrant coral reefs of the area through an underwater observation deck. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to snorkel for an hour, seeing the marine life.
The experience concludes with a delicious seafood dinner. Travelers must provide their hotel name and room number for security notification.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 30 people and isn’t wheelchair accessible. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable, and the overall rating is 4.0 based on 24 reviews.
Read our full review: Nefertari Boat Semi Submarine Snorkeling Sea Trip & Sea Food Lunch – Marsa Alam Review
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Marsa Alam: Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise With Pickup
Travelers seeking a unique underwater experience in Marsa Alam can embark on the Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise. This 1.5-hour tour offers a 4.3/5 rated excursion, with pickup and drop-off included.
Guests can expect to marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life from the comfort of the semi-submarine. The panoramic windows 4 meters below the surface provide unobstructed views of the Red Sea’s underwater world.
With activities ranging from a boat cruise to marine life viewing, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience. Priced at $46 per person, the Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise is accessible to wheelchair users and available in multiple languages.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam: Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise With Pickup Review
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Marsa Alam:6-Day Tour, Nile Cruise,Flights, Hot Air Balloon
Adventurers can embark on a captivating 6-day tour from Marsa Alam, which includes a Nile cruise, flights, and a thrilling hot air balloon ride.
Priced from $700 per person, this all-inclusive package offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
The itinerary highlights include exploring Luxor’s West Bank, sailing on the Nile, and visiting iconic sites like the Great Pyramids and Abu Simbel.
Accommodations include a 5-star Nile cruise and a 4-star hotel in Cairo.
With professional English-speaking guides, this tour delivers an immersive and memorable experience for travelers seeking to discover Egypt’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam:6-Day Tour, Nile Cruise,Flights, Hot Air Balloon Review
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Marsa Alam: 4 Days Nile Cruise to Aswan With Hot Air Balloon
For those seeking a comprehensive Nile River experience from Marsa Alam, the 4-day cruise to Aswan with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Egypt’s rich history and captivating landscapes.
Priced from $1,071.43 per person, this tour includes a 5-star boat accommodation, all meals, and guided visits to iconic temples like the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, and Abu Simbel.
Highlights include a hot air balloon ride, camel riding in a Nubian village, and exploration of the region’s cultural heritage.
With flexible booking and cancellation policies, this Nile cruise is an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable Egyptian adventure.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam: 4 Days Nile Cruise to Aswan With Hot Air Balloon Review
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From Marsa Alam: Marsa Mubarak Sea Snorkeling Boat Trip
Offering an ideal way to take in the captivating marine life of the Red Sea, the Marsa Mubarak Sea Snorkeling Boat Trip takes travelers on an 8-hour excursion from Marsa Alam.
Priced from $87 per person, the tour includes two guided snorkeling stops at Coral Reef Islands, where guests can spot colorful marine life and sea turtles.
A buffet lunch is served onboard, and complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 11 reviews, the tour is praised for its transportation and value for money.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or children under 6 years old.
Read our full review: From Marsa Alam: Marsa Mubarak Sea Snorkeling Boat Trip Review
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Marsa Alam: Snorkeling Boat Trip With Sea Turtles and Lunch
One of the most popular water activities in Marsa Alam is the Snorkeling Boat Trip with Sea Turtles and Lunch. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars with 86 reviews, this 4.5-hour excursion offers travelers the chance to snorkel in the stunning Turtle Bay, home to a thriving population of sea turtles.
The activity is priced at $100.00 per person and includes a delicious BBQ lunch. Pickup is available, adding to the convenience for travelers.
This small-group experience allows for personalized attention, ensuring an unforgettable encounter with the marine life of the Red Sea. The high customer ratings and positive reviews underscore the popularity and quality of this snorkeling adventure in Marsa Alam.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam: Snorkeling Boat Trip With Sea Turtles and Lunch Review
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Marsa Alam: Nefertari Sunset/Morning Cruise & Snorkeling
The Nefertari Sunset/Morning Cruise & Snorkeling in Marsa Alam provides travelers with a unique opportunity to explore the Red Sea aboard a floating replica of Queen Nefertari’s tomb. Priced from $80 per person, this 4-hour excursion includes a guided snorkeling session, the chance to dress up as ancient Egyptian royalty, and a 3-course seafood dinner.
Guests can expect to be transported by bus to Port Ghalib, where they’ll board the boat and cruise to Marsa Mubarak for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing. The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in multiple languages.
While reviews praise the transportation, some customers have noted concerns about the duration of certain activities.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam: Nefertari Sunset/Morning Cruise & Snorkeling Review
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Marsa Alam: Sataya Reefs Dolphin Snorkel Cruise With Lunch
Travelers seeking an up-close encounter with Marsa Alam’s vibrant marine life can embark on the Sataya Reefs Dolphin Snorkel Cruise With Lunch.
This 4-hour excursion takes guests to the Sataya Reefs, known as a haven for spinner dolphins. Participants can jump into the crystal-clear waters and snorkel alongside these playful creatures.
The cruise also includes a delicious lunch served on board. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by previous guests, this tour is a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Marsa Alam.
At €95.15 per person, it provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness the region’s natural wonders firsthand.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam: Sataya Reefs Dolphin Snorkel Cruise With Lunch Review
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Marsa Alam: Dolphin-Watching Cruise With Snorkeling & Lunch
Marsa Alam’s Dolphin-Watching Cruise With Snorkeling & Lunch offers an exhilarating opportunity to witness the region’s captivating marine life.
This 4.5-hour tour allows guests to embark on a boat excursion in search of dolphins, with a chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. Priced at $100 per person, the tour includes a delectable BBQ lunch served on board.
With a 4.6 rating from 86 reviews, this popular activity promises an unforgettable experience, combining the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat with the relaxation of snorkeling and savoring a delicious meal.
Ideal for nature enthusiasts and families, this cruise is a must-do when visiting Marsa Alam.
Read our full review: Marsa Alam: Dolphin-Watching Cruise With Snorkeling & Lunch Review
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From Marsa Alam: 3-Day Nile Cruise With Hot Air Balloon Ride
Although Marsa Alam is renowned for its stunning Red Sea coast, this 3-day Nile Cruise provides an opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Egypt’s legendary river.
Priced from $785.71 per person, the cruise offers a flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, visits to the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Karnak Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Philae Temple.
Accommodation is on a 5-star boat with private cabins, all meals included, and a professional guide to enhance the experience.
Transportation is provided from Marsa Alam, making this an all-inclusive Nile adventure.
Read our full review: From Marsa Alam: 3-Day Nile Cruise With Hot Air Balloon Ride Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Cruise and Snorkeling Tour on the Same Day?
Yes, you can typically book a cruise and snorkeling tour on the same day in many destinations. Many tour operators offer packages that combine both experiences, allowing you to enjoy the boat ride and underwater exploration seamlessly.
Do the Cruises Offer Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Options?
Many cruises and boat tours in the area offer vegetarian and vegan meal options to accommodate different dietary preferences. Passengers can typically request these special meals when booking their excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hot Air Balloon Ride?
There are typically no age restrictions for hot air balloon rides, though children under a certain age, usually 6 or 8, may need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with the specific operator for their policies.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear or Is It Provided?
Snorkeling gear is typically provided on most boat tours and cruises in Marsa Alam. However, travelers can choose to bring their own gear if they prefer. The provided equipment is usually well-maintained and suitable for the excursion.
Do the Cruises Provide Towels and Beach Umbrellas for Passengers?
Many cruises provide towels and beach umbrellas for passengers’ convenience. This allows guests to travel light and enjoy the amenities during their cruise experience. It’s best to check with the specific cruise operator for details on what’s included.
The Sum Up
Marsa Alam offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options, from semi-submarine snorkeling trips to Nile cruises and dolphin-watching excursions. Visitors can explore the region’s stunning marine life, take in the beauty of the Nile, and even experience a hot air balloon ride. Whether you’re interested in adventure or relaxation, Marsa Alam has something to suit your preferences.