Marsa Alam by boat: Turtle Bay, Nefertari and the semi-submarine

You’re going to love Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam is the quiet southern end of Egypt’s Red Sea coast: a long stretch of resorts and small marinas, such as Port Ghalib, between the desert and clear water with healthy coral reefs. It is a calmer alternative to the big resort towns further north.

Our trips from here are short, comfortable cruises: the Pirates sailing boat to Turtle Bay, the floating Nefertari with its underwater viewing deck, and a Royal Seascope semi-submarine that shows the reef without getting wet. All of them include hotel pick-up.

The 4 best reasons to sail from Marsa Alam

1. 1

   A quieter coastFewer crowds than the big resort towns, with reefs a short sail from the shore.

2. 2

   Turtle BayThe destination of the Pirates sailing-boat cruise, with a snorkelling stop.

3. 3

   Ancient Egypt at seaThe Nefertari is a floating replica of the queen’s tomb, with an underwater deck.

4. 4

   Meals on boardLunch or dinner is served on the Nefertari and a buffet on the Pirates boat.

What to do in Marsa Alam from the sea

• Sail on the Pirates boatAbout four and a half hours with a welcome juice, buffet and unlimited cold drinks.
• Cruise on the NefertariA 3-course seafood lunch or dinner, reef viewing and a photo session dressed as a pharaoh.
• Go under the waves, dryA 90-minute semi-submarine trip, with about 60 minutes on the underwater deck.
• Snorkel on the reefEquipment can be rented on board on the cruises.