Intro Diving 2 Stops For Beginners with Pick-up and Lunch – Hurghada

Curious about scuba but not ready for a full course? This Hurghada boat trip gives you two beginner-friendly underwater sessions, a personal instructor close by, and a glimpse of Red Sea coral without the cost or time commitment of certification training. I especially like the included hotel transfers and the steady supply of lunch, water, soft drinks, and hot drinks.

The strongest part is the calm, attentive instruction. Guides such as Bassiouni and Badr have earned praise for staying close, explaining each step clearly, and adjusting to nervous beginners. The main caution is time underwater: each session is advertised at about 15 minutes, and some people felt the actual underwater time was shorter after long waits between activities.

Key points to know before booking

• Two short underwater sessions: Each is planned for about 15 minutes, giving you a manageable first taste of scuba.
• An instructor stays beside you: You are guided through the equipment, safety steps, and underwater route rather than being left to manage alone.
• Red Sea coral and fish: Expect coral gardens, schools of fish, and colorful marine life at the chosen sites.
• A full day for $40: Hotel transport, boat time, equipment, lunch, and drinks are included, though a $5 marine or national park fee is extra.
• Transfers cover some areas at extra cost: Makadi and Sahl Hasheesh cost an additional $5 per person, while Safaga and El Gouna cost $10.
• Weather can change the plan: Poor conditions may lead to a new date, a refund, or a shore-based alternative if offered.

From your hotel to the Hurghada harbor

The day begins with pickup at about 8:00 a.m. from your hotel in Hurghada. That transfer matters more than it may seem. Hurghada is spread out, and arranging a taxi before an early boat departure can add cost and stress. Here, the transport is part of the package.

Pickup timing is not always exact. One person reported a late collection that did not affect the schedule, while another had trouble receiving the final pickup details before cancellation due to weather. I would confirm the meeting information the evening before and keep your phone available.

The stated service is for Hurghada hotels, but the information also refers to returning you to a hotel in Marsa Alam. That is an important point to clarify before paying. Hotel zones outside the main Hurghada area may involve an extra charge, and the listed supplements are specific: $5 each from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh, and $10 each from Safaga or El Gouna.

At the start of the day, allow for some harbor paperwork and preparation. The process may feel slower than expected, particularly if several groups are checking in at once. Once aboard, though, the boat is described as clean, modern, and well maintained, with a crew ready to help.

The maximum group size is 30 people. That is not a tiny private outing, but the underwater groups are handled with instructors, and the strongest praise focuses on the personal attention during the sessions.

Getting fitted with scuba equipment

At the boat or dive center, you receive the equipment and safety gear needed for the activity. The instructor then gives you a short training session before you enter the water. This is not a certification course, so you should think of it as a supervised introduction rather than formal qualification.

The teaching is aimed at first-timers. You learn how the equipment works, what to expect underwater, and how to follow the instructor. Several people who felt nervous beforehand found the clear explanations reassuring, especially because the guide remained within easy reach throughout the session.

That close supervision is the central reason this trip works for beginners. You do not need to plan a route, monitor a group, or make independent decisions underwater. If you feel uncomfortable, you can signal the instructor and stop. One particularly useful detail is that you are not pressured to take part in the second session if you decide the first was enough.

You still need to be honest about your comfort and ability. This is a physical activity, and breathing through scuba equipment can feel strange at first. The first few minutes may be harder than expected, even for confident swimmers. Listen carefully, move slowly, and tell the instructor if you need a pause.

The first 15-minute underwater stop

The first session is your introduction to the Red Sea below the surface. The main attraction is the coral and fish: coral gardens, many small reef fish, and, in good conditions, schools moving through the water.

Fifteen minutes may sound brief, but that length can be useful for a beginner. You get a taste of the equipment and the sensation of breathing underwater without committing to a long descent. For someone nervous about scuba, a short first attempt is less intimidating than a full-length session.

The instructor leads you throughout. That means your attention can stay on breathing, body position, and the surroundings. The most frequently praised quality of the staff is their calm manner. Bassiouni is specifically noted for being careful and friendly during a first session, while Badr is praised for looking after participants and making the experience feel comfortable.

The setting is not only about wildlife. It is also your first chance to understand how the Red Sea feels from below. Coral formations create texture and color, and fish give you something to focus on as you settle into the equipment.

Keep your expectations sensible. The site, visibility, and wildlife can change with weather and sea conditions. This is not advertised as a specialist marine-life expedition, and the short underwater period limits how far you can explore. Still, for $40, the chance to see coral and reef fish under direct supervision is a strong value.

The second stop and the long wait between activities

After the first session, the boat continues with the rest of the day at sea. The second underwater stop gives you another chance to practice and enjoy the reef once you know what to expect.

Some accounts describe both sessions taking place at the same general site but heading in different directions. That can still offer new views, though it is worth knowing that two stops do not necessarily mean two dramatically different reef areas. If the operator uses another location on the day, the exact character will depend on sea conditions and the boat’s plan.

The second attempt is often easier because you have already adjusted to the mask, regulator, and breathing rhythm. You can spend less time thinking about the equipment and more time looking at coral and fish.

The weakness here is the pace. One person felt there was too much waiting and too little time in the water, with several hours between the two sessions. Another felt the sessions lasted closer to six minutes than the promised 15. These are not universal complaints, but they are worth keeping in mind.

I would book this as a full-day boat outing that includes two short underwater sessions, not as seven hours of continuous scuba. The difference matters. If your main goal is to maximize underwater time, a certified scuba package or a longer beginner course may suit you better.

Lunch, drinks, and a day on the boat

Lunch is served on board, usually as a buffet of traditional Egyptian dishes. The food receives generally positive comments, though it is best viewed as practical boat fare rather than a restaurant meal.

Water is unlimited, and soft drinks and hot drinks are included. That is useful in the Egyptian sun, where you can become dehydrated without noticing. You can relax on the boat between sessions, eat, drink, and watch the crew prepare the next activity.

The boat itself receives good marks for being modern and clean. One weak spot is the toilet, which has been described as dirty. That is a small detail, but it can matter on a full day at sea. Bring tissues and hand sanitizer if you have room.

You may also be offered underwater photographs. The equipment and photography are not included, and one person reported a charge of €50 for pictures. If you want photos, ask about the price before agreeing. Bringing your own GoPro was suggested as a cheaper option, though you should confirm that personal cameras are permitted and safe to use during your session.

Safety, staff, and the beginner experience

Safety is where this package earns its strong overall rating. The boat crew is praised for a clear safety briefing, helpful service, and a professional approach to the activity.

The instructors do more than hand you equipment and point toward the sea. They explain what you need to know, remain with you underwater, and respond to different comfort levels. That is especially valuable if you are trying scuba for the first time with a partner or family member who may feel more anxious than you do.

The experience is suitable for most participants according to the supplied information, and service animals are allowed. It is also near public transportation, although the included pickup usually makes that unnecessary.

The weather policy is important. The trip requires good conditions, and strong wind can prevent the boat from leaving. In one case, a shore-based session was offered instead. That alternative may not match what you expected from a boat trip, so ask exactly what will be provided before accepting a change.

If poor weather cancels the activity, you can receive a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the start time. Within 24 hours, refunds and changes are not accepted.

Is $40 a fair price?

At $40 per person, this is one of the more affordable ways to try scuba in Hurghada. The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a full-day boat trip, two underwater sessions, equipment, safety gear, an instructor, lunch, and drinks.

The value is strongest if you are already planning a boat day and want a short introduction to scuba. Paying separately for transport, equipment, food, and a supervised first attempt could easily make the day less convenient.

Remember the extra marine or national park fee of $5 per person, payable in cash. Also check your hotel zone before booking, since transport from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh adds $5 per person, and Safaga or El Gouna adds $10.

The price does not buy a certification. You cannot use this experience as proof of formal scuba training, and two short sessions are not equivalent to a multi-day course. For a first taste, though, the cost is reasonable.

Who will enjoy this most?

I would recommend this to you if you:

• Have never tried scuba and want a low-cost introduction
• Feel safer with an instructor beside you
• Want coral and reef fish without committing to certification
• Like the idea of a full boat day with lunch included
• Are comfortable with two short sessions and possible waiting time
• Need hotel transfers in the Hurghada area

I would be more cautious if you want long underwater sessions, a tightly timed itinerary, or two completely different reef locations. The reports of short underwater periods and delays between activities may disappoint experienced scuba participants.

It also suits couples and friends well. One person can be nervous while the other is eager, and the instructor can work with each person’s comfort level. You can also skip the second session if the first one is enough.

Practical advice for a smoother day

Bring swimwear, sun protection, and a towel if your hotel does not provide one. Carry cash for the $5 marine fee, and confirm any transfer supplement before departure.

Ask about the exact pickup time the evening before. Keep your phone on, especially if weather conditions are unsettled. If you are prone to seasickness, the supplied information does not confirm that medication is available, so plan ahead with advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

During the safety briefing, pay close attention even if the instructions seem simple. A relaxed, slow approach makes the first session much easier. Tell the instructor immediately if your mask feels uncomfortable or if you are struggling with the breathing equipment.

Do not expect a luxury food experience. Lunch is included and generally considered good, but the main reason to book is the Red Sea, not the buffet. Likewise, decide in advance if you want underwater photos, since additional charges may apply.

Should you book the Sea Memories scuba introduction?

I would book it if your goal is to try scuba without making a major commitment. The staff care, the instructor-led format is reassuring, the Red Sea coral is a genuine draw, and the $40 price includes nearly everything needed for a full day.

I would not choose it if your priority is maximum underwater time or a tightly organized schedule. Confirm your hotel zone, the marine fee, the expected length of each session, and the weather backup before you go.

For a first taste, this is a sensible and affordable choice. Go expecting two short supervised sessions wrapped inside a full boat day, and you are more likely to come away pleased than disappointed.

FAQ

How long does the experience last?

The experience lasts approximately seven hours, beginning at about 8:00 a.m.

How many underwater sessions are included?

Two underwater sessions are included. Each is advertised as lasting about 15 minutes.

Is scuba equipment provided?

Yes. Diving equipment and safety equipment are included.

Does an instructor accompany beginners underwater?

Yes. A professional instructor guides beginners and remains close during the underwater sessions.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Two-way hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada hotels are included.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A buffet lunch is included, along with unlimited bottled water, soft drinks, and hot drinks.

Are there extra fees?

Yes. A national park or marine admission fee of $5 per person is payable in cash. Transfers from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh cost an extra $5 per person, while transfers from Safaga or El Gouna cost an extra $10 per person.

What happens if the weather is poor?

If poor weather cancels the trip, you can be offered another date or a full refund. The activity may also offer a shore-based alternative in some conditions.