Find the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada. Compare experiences, discover Red Sea marine life, and choose the perfect underwater adventure with Cruisara.
Arrived in Egypt and only interested in exploring reefs without getting in the water or getting in the suit? This semi submarine Hurghada holiday is an experience that plunges you under the water, comfortable, dry and perfectly suitable for families, non-swimmers or anyone who wants a relatively effortless holiday.
This guide will explain what it offers with some recommendations of operators like Seascope Submarine Hurghada, the marine life you are likely to see and why this special trip ranks among the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada.
What Is a Semi Submarine Tour?
The semi submarine is a semi-submerged type of ship, but it has nothing to do with the military. It is a purpose built boat with an upper level which remains above the waterline for fresh air and sea breeze, while the lower level is a few meters below the sea with comfortable air conditioning and wide panoramic windows on both sides.
While sitting on your seat, you're able to observe coral reefs and fish almost at eye level as though you were in a giant aquarium. The vessel does not entirely emerge from the surface, so there is no change of pressure and therefore none to be worried about.
It is a great way to view the divers without the training and soggy clothing afterwards, which is what makes these best semi submarine tours in Hurghada so exciting to first time visitors to this beautiful spot.
Why Choose a Semi Submarine Instead of Snorkeling?
Snorkeling is a great experience but not everyone is suited to it. Some tourists are not adept at swimming, some suffer from ear or sinus problems, and the others simply do not want to get their feet wet on vacation. This is all taken care of by the semi submarine.
- No swimming abilities or fitness needed
- No mask, fins or wetsuit are required
- Nice warm seats that are shaded with a ventilation system (air conditioned) away from the sun and waves.
- Strategic clear guided views for non swimmers.
That is the reason why it's considered one of the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada for families and adults who want to experience the Red Sea without going inside the water.
Read More: Things to Do in Hurghada at Night
How Semi Submarine Tours Work
Following your hotel pickup you will be transferred to the marina (usually New Marina at Hurghada) and board the boat. Initially the boat takes about 15 - 20 minutes to reach a healthy reef then the crew takes everyone below deck for about 30 - 45 minutes by the windows, also sometimes there is a floating platform stop for snorkeling.
The whole Hurghada submarine tour is typically two hours long and fits into many holiday timetables.
Best Semi Submarine Tours in Hurghada
There are indeed a few operators in Hurghada who are well-represented, and knowing the difference will help you to choose the best for your trip.
Seascope Submarine Hurghada
This is one of the most popular submarines in Hurghada and features large viewing areas & offers a good ride from the main marina.
Panorama submarine Hurghada
This trip consists of 2 vessels and a floating café station for snorkeling or a sundeck.
Semi submarine El Gouna
A great pick if you are staying north of the city, since it saves the transfer time down to the main marina.
They operate several times per day and it is most commonly possible to have a trip in the morning or afternoon. Also, it's wise to make a reservation a couple of days in advance in the high season when the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada tend to get booked up quickly.
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What Marine Life Can You See?
These tours take place on reef sites that are most colorful and active, the Red Sea is well known for the biodiversity, and these reef locations are the ones selected.
Don't be surprised to see clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish feeding among the coral in shades of pink, purple, and gold, as well as the occasional lionfish, moray eel, stingray and sea turtle depending on the season.
You typically monitor the ride with narration, landing on species and sharing some reef conservation information.
Is It Suitable for Children?
Yes, this is one of the reasons that make it a popular choice for families over diving or snorkeling. No minimum age for cabin seating, no swimming required, and all in air conditioned comfort.
Parents with small children consistently rate this as the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada for families as the whole family does it together and the children love looking out the glass at the fish so much!
Semi Submarine vs Glass-Bottom Boat
Both boats provide a viewing of the reef without getting in the water and the experience is quite different.
Feature
Semi Submarine
Glass-Bottom Boat
Viewing position
3 to 5 meters below sea level
At the surface, looking down
Window type
Wide side panoramic windows
Transparent floor panel
Cabin
Enclosed and air conditioned
Open air
Perspective
Eye level with fish and coral
Bird's eye view from above
Best suited for
An immersive, close up look at the reef
A quick, casual glimpse of the reef
What Is Included in the Tour?
The majority of Hurghada submarine tour packages are set up to be as easy as possible by the time you book. This is a standard tour with the following items included:
- Round trip hotel transfer from most areas in Hurghada
- Always wear a life jacket and include a few words about safety before getting on the vessel
- The diving time at the underwater viewing cabin is approximately 30 to 45 minutes
- English speaking guide with information about the marine life
- An optional snorkeling stop with select operators
Usually a full lunch, drinks or transfers from more distant locations like Sahl Hasheesh come at extra cost, just a small charge.
Read More: Dolphin watching hurghada - Snorkeling Tour with Cruisara
Tips Before You Go
- Bookings in peak season are often full on semi submarine Hurghada boats including bookings on Panorama submarine Hurghada vessels, so make sure you book a day in advance.
- If the weather is turbulent, it's better to go in the morning when conditions are quieter and better so that you can see more clearly.
- Take a pair of sunglasses along with a hat for the portion of the trip on the open deck.
- Sit in the middle to avoid motion sickness.
- Combine with a day at the beach. Many travelers take the tour of El Gouna and Hurghada semi with Orange Bay Island and either Hula Hula Island for a snorkeling and lunch day or Paradise Island if you prefer a more luxurious and quiet day on the beach.
Why Book with Cruisara
We only operate on ships that are safe to sail on and licensed guides who are well acquainted with the Red Sea. From hotel pick-up to checking in, our team takes care to arrange your day in a smooth and well organized way for the whole family, couple or friends to enjoy.
When you book the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada with us, you will not get any hidden costs, no supporting staff on the tour day, and no hidden items.
Looking to swim in the Red Sea without getting wet? Experience the undersea world in Hurghada with the best semi submarine tours in Hurghada from Cruisara and watch the animals up close and personal.