A Red Sea snorkeling safari in some of Egypt’s most pristine reefs in a search for sea turtles, dolphins and dugongs encounters
Overview
Take part in some of the best snorkeling in the world by joining our exclusive safari. This memorable experience will combine a liveaboard along with shore snorkeling in some of the Red Sea’s most pristine reefs. You will enjoy an adventure-filled program, spending much of your time snorkeling coral reefs teeming with fish life. You will also visit special locations that offer excellent chances of encounters with sea turtles, spinner dolphins and dugongs. This spectacular trip is led by local snorkeling guides and Planet Snorkeling’s team.
Trip Highlights
- This trip combines a 3-day stay on land and a 7-day liveaboard to the Fury Shoals. The Fury Shoals are a series of pristine reefs along the Southwest Red Sea coast, making the most of your adventure. At the resort, you will enjoy one of Egypt’s most vibrant house reefs, while the cruise will take us to some of the region’s most remote and pristine snorkeling locations.
- On this Egypt Liveaboard, you will discover some of the most unique marine biodiversity on the planet! Red Sea coral reefs are the habitat for more than 200 fish species, as well as hundreds of types of corals, sponges, and sea fans. In addition to reef snorkeling with awesome visibility, this trip will feature a shore location popular with sea turtles and offshore reefs visited by large pods of spinner dolphins
- Enjoy a unique trip exclusively tailored to snorkelers! Our trip will include a minimum of 16 different snorkeling locations that will give you ample opportunity to spot all the unique Red Sea marine life. The itinerary has been designed to offer the best experience to snorkelers, and most of the visited locations will be shallow coral plateaux and drop-offs where reef life thrives.
- For this trip, we chartered the Motor Yacht Sea Serpent Excellence, a 5-star Luxury boat that caters to up to 24 snorkelers. With a spacious salon, shaded deck and sun deck on top, there is more than enough space to socialize, relax and enjoy the liveaboard. Each cabin has en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning.
22 September :
Arrival in Marsa Alam - Gateway to Southern Red Sea
Pick up at Marsa Alam Airport (or Hurghada) and transfer to our beach resort with house reef, where we will stay for 2 nights.
23 September :
Snorkeling on the House Reef and Dugong Tour
Full day to enjoy the stunning house reef. We will also take a boat tour in search of dugongs in a nearby bay. Group dinner at the beach restaurant.
24 September :
House Reef Snorkeling and Embarkation
Enjoy the House Reef until 5 pm, when we will be transferred to Port Ghalib and embarking the Sea Serpent Excellence.
25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 September :
Snorkeling Liveaboard
During 6 full days, we will be snorkeling from the Sea Serpent Excellence (2 to 4 snorkels a day). Most of our snorkels will take place in the Fury Shoals, a series of pristine reefs along the Southwest Red Sea coast. We will also spend time at Sataya Reef, also known as Dolphin House. On the last day, we will be navigating back to Port Ghalib and spend the night in the marina.
1 October :
Disembarkation in Port Ghalib
Disembarkation from the Sea Serpent Excellence. A driver will take you to the airport or to your next destination.
Cost
Cost Includes
- 7 nights full-board accommodation onboard the Sea Serpent Excellence (or for the last night at a 4-stars hotel, depending on the boat schedule)
- 2 nights accommodation in a 5-Star resort with house reef, all-inclusive (pre-cruise)
- Your guides and all snorkeling activities throughout the trip
- All transportation and transfers, including transfers from/to Marsa Alam Airport
- Weekly boat and diving permits, fuel surcharges, port fees, reef taxes, lost luggage assistance, marine park fees
- All meals, mineral water, tea, coffee and a selection of soft drinks
- A gift from Planet Snorkeling Expeditions
- Limited WiFi Internet access during the cruise and free wifi in the resort's lobby
Cost Excludes
- International air tickets from your home to Marsa Alam
- Snorkeling equipment
- Tip for snorkel guides and the ship's crew (recommended: 100 euros per person)
- Alcoholic beverages, tonic, and soda water
- Trip insurance - emergency medical / cancellation
- Additional personal expenses, like spa services, laundry, or boutique purchases
- Visa ($25 per person, subject to change)
What fitness level is required for this mountain expedition?
This tour requires good physical fitness for moderate to challenging mountain hiking. Daily hikes range 4-7 hours over varied terrain including steep ascents. The Omu Peak day is particularly demanding. Regular hiking experience and cardiovascular fitness are essential. We recommend training for 6-8 weeks before departure.
Is it safe to hike in areas with bears and wolves?
Yes, wildlife encounters are extremely rare and our experienced local guides know how to safely navigate these areas. We follow strict protocols including making noise while hiking, proper food storage, and carrying bear spray. Romania’s large carnivores are generally very shy and avoid human contact.
What should I pack for Romanian mountain weather?
Weather can vary greatly with altitude. Pack waterproof jacket and pants, warm layers including fleece, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, warm hat and gloves, and sun protection. Mountain weather changes quickly, so layering is essential. Detailed packing list provided upon booking.
Are the castle visits included in hiking days?
Castle visits are typically combined with shorter hikes or rest days to balance physical activity with cultural exploration. Bran Castle day includes moderate hiking, while Peles Castle day features easier forest walks. This provides good variety and recovery between challenging mountain days.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
Accommodation varies from comfortable 3-4 star hotels in cities to traditional guesthouses in villages and authentic mountain huts in remote areas. All provide clean beds, meals, and basic amenities. Mountain huts offer a unique experience of traditional Carpathian hospitality.
