Are you interested in seeing the wonders of the Red Sea, but don’t fancy taking a dive, snorkelling, or being not that much of a confident swimmer? Maybe you have children who can’t yet swim but have an interest in fish, marine life, and all the beautiful coral.
Well, in Hurghada, you can still explore the underwater world but still stay (mostly) dry.
The Glass-Bottom Boat
This excursion offers the best of both worlds, so it is perfect for the whole family. Whilst the boat itself stays above sea level, it has a glass window on the bottom of the boat allowing for the perfect viewing point.
You can sit around the window edge and watch as you glide over different coral reefs, see some of the different species of fish that the Red Sea has to offer, and sometimes even a stingray or turtle!
Most boats also have a chart on board displaying the different kinds of fish you are likely to see, so not only is it an exciting experience, but an educational one. Great for those in the family who cannot swim or just prefer not to.
Glass bottom boat
Usually, the trip lasts around 1–2 hours and does usually include a snorkel stop or two, so if, after seeing what is down there, you decide you would like to get in and be at one with the marine world, you do have the opportunity to do so. But, if you also prefer just staying on deck and catching the rays, then you can do that too!
This trip is perfect for a family mixed with swimmers and non-swimmers. It’s not too long, so it is suitable for younger kids who might not last on a whole day's boat trip.
Semi-Submarine Tours
It’s a semi-submarine, as the boat itself does not actually go underwater; however, it does have a cabin which is around 3 metres under water. Giving you the sensation of diving, without having to actually get in the water.
Semi-submarine lower deck
Seeing the fish and corals up close and personal, as if you are actually in there with them, allows you to see and truly appreciate the variety of colours and beauty that is down in the deep blue. Perfect for all families, this trip sometimes includes refreshments as it usually lasts around 3–4 hours.
A great afternoon trip for those with a little bit older children or people in the family who don’t like to swim. It’s a perfect balance, as some boats do also offer a snorkel stop, but otherwise, it is enough to fill an afternoon with delight and fun.
Royal seascope semi-submarine upper deck
Why Are They So Popular?
Well, you see, many people want to know what’s going on under the waves but are not so confident to explore themselves in the open water. These trips provide the perfect opportunity for you to get up close and personal, but stay in the safe zone that is provided by the boat.
The trips, whilst fun, are also both educational – the tour guides can tell you about the different species of fish, coral, and other marine animals which you may possibly see, the steps that are taken to ensure they are safe and preserved, and what that means for both locals and tourists alike.
You can learn about HEPCA and the hand they have in ensuring preservation is a priority when it comes to any trips on the sea.
The crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea make it very easy to see deeper than you can imagine from the boat, allowing for the sensation of diving without actually having to do it.
A diver appears in view from the semi-submarine’s underwater deck
This is great for those who are maybe short on time or do not want to spend that much time away from the sunbeds. Not only is it time-efficient, but most boats offer a comfortable seating area in both the viewing area and up on the deck, making both trips great for the elderly to the young ’uns.
Lower deck seats on a semi-submarine
Maybe the best part? It takes little to no effort from your side! You can experience all of this, and all you have to do is book the trip and show up. Some travel agents include hotel transfers in their package, so be sure to check that out too (making it even easier and with even less effort!).
Things to Bear in Mind
Busy seasons mean busy boats – if you are travelling in peak season, be prepared for the boats to be slightly more crowded. We suggest talking to the tour guide if it’s a quieter trip you are looking for.
The weather is important when it comes to any boat trips, as it can make for an unsafe environment; therefore, if it’s too windy or there is a sandstorm, the boats won’t go, but visibility wouldn’t be that clear anyway.
Glass-bottom boat and semi-submarine tours in Hurghada offer a magical way to see part of the Red Sea’s beauty without needing full dive gear or swimming skills. They strike a nice balance between awe and ease.
