Reviewed · SCUBA DIVING FOR BEGINNERS

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch – Hurghada

5.0 · 181 reviews From $22 Operated by Noun Travel · Bookable on Viator
Book on Viator →

The best part of this Hurghada outing is simple: you get two beginner scuba sessions in the Red Sea without needing prior experience. A qualified instructor stays with you while you explore coral reefs, schools of fish, and possibly dolphins, then you return to the boat for lunch and another coastal stop.

I like the patient instruction and the fact that gear, a life jacket, snorkeling equipment, lunch, tea or coffee, and refreshments are included. I also like the social feel: solo visitors can meet other people aboard, while families can share the day, as one parent did with an 11-year-old son.

The main drawback is the long boat ride, about an hour each way in the broad outline of the day. Also check the extra charges before booking, since the national park admission is not included and transport from El Gouna, Safaga, Somabay, Makadi, and Sahl Hasheesh costs extra.

Key Points Before You Book

  • Two beginner scuba sessions: A qualified instructor accompanies you at two underwater locations.
  • About eight hours from hotel to hotel: Pickup begins around 8:00 am, followed by a full day on the boat.
  • Coral reefs and colorful fish: The Red Sea sites offer reef scenery, fish species, and a chance of seeing dolphins.
  • Lunch served aboard: You can dry off and eat on the boat between the underwater activities.
  • All basic equipment included: Scuba gear, snorkeling equipment, a life jacket, refreshments, tea, and coffee are provided.
  • Maximum group size of 30: This is a shared boat outing, not a private charter.

Two Beginner Underwater Sessions From Hurghada

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch - Hurghada - Two Beginner Underwater Sessions From Hurghada

This is designed for someone who wants to try scuba without committing to a full certification course. You leave Hurghada with an instructor, learn the basics needed for the session, and enter the water at two selected sites.

That setup matters. A first underwater session can feel strange at first, especially when you are managing breathing equipment, buoyancy, and the new sensation of moving below the surface. Having an instructor present gives you support while you get comfortable.

You should expect the experience to focus on seeing the Red Sea rather than completing formal training. The supplied information does not state a certification, a particular depth, or a set lesson plan, so you should not book this expecting a qualification or advanced scuba instruction.

The underwater scenery is the main attraction. Coral reefs and many fish species give you plenty to look at even if you are only below the surface for a limited time. At one location, the scheduled underwater period is about an hour, although the exact time in the water can vary with conditions and the group.

The chance of dolphins adds a little excitement, but it is only a possibility. Treat it as a lucky bonus, not as the main reason to book.

The 8:00 am Pickup and Ride to the Pier

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch - Hurghada - The 8:00 am Pickup and Ride to the Pier

The day begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle. The listed start time is 8:00 am, and transport to the pier is included for hotels in the Hurghada area.

This is useful because you do not need to arrange a taxi to the marina or work out where the boat is docked. It also makes the outing easier for first-time visitors who are still learning Hurghada’s layout.

The transfer may feel longer if your hotel is far from the pier. One important practical point is that the listed price applies most directly to Hurghada pickup. If you are staying in El Gouna, Safaga, Somabay, Makadi, or Sahl Hasheesh, an additional transfer payment is made in cash on the spot.

That extra cost can change the value calculation. At $22 per person, the advertised price is very low for a full boat day with transport, equipment, instruction, and food. Add the national park admission and any location-based transfer charge before comparing it with other excursions.

An Hour on the Red Sea Before the First Site

Once aboard, the boat travels for about an hour. This is not dead time, but you should know that the day includes a fair amount of cruising.

Use the ride to enjoy the sea air, settle into the boat, and get ready for your first session. If you are new to scuba, this pause can also help you listen to the instructor and become comfortable with the equipment before entering the water.

The boat ride is part of the trade-off. You are not being taken to a reef beside the harbor. The longer trip allows the crew to reach selected sites, but it makes the outing feel like a full-day sea trip rather than a quick introductory lesson.

Bring whatever personal items you need for a day outside, though the provided information does not specify storage arrangements or towel service. The included equipment covers the activity itself, but personal comfort items are still your responsibility.

The First Reef: A Gentle Start Underwater

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch - Hurghada - The First Reef: A Gentle Start Underwater

The first site is presented as a place to spend about an hour observing coral and fish. For a beginner, this is likely the most important part of the day because it gives you time to become familiar with the equipment and the instructor’s guidance.

The point is not to race around the reef. Move at the pace set by the instructor, watch your breathing, and keep your attention on the coral formations and fish around you. You may find that the first few minutes are more about feeling comfortable than sightseeing.

The coral reef setting gives the session a clear purpose. Instead of practicing only near the boat, you get the chance to use your new skills in a real marine environment. You might see several fish species around the reef, though exact sightings depend on conditions and nature.

Snorkeling equipment is also included. That gives you another way to enjoy the water if you want time at the surface, or if someone in your group prefers snorkeling to scuba. The inclusion of a life jacket is useful for anyone who is less confident in open water.

The Second Site, Fish, and a Chance of Dolphins

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch - Hurghada - The Second Site, Fish, and a Chance of Dolphins

After the first underwater session, the boat moves to another location. This second stop offers more coral formations and additional fish, so the day is not built around seeing the same patch of reef twice.

I like this two-site approach because it gives beginners a second chance. If you were tense during the first session, the next one may feel easier. You also get a broader look at the Red Sea environment rather than being tied to one location.

Dolphins may appear near the second site, but wildlife is never guaranteed. The right attitude is to enjoy the reef and fish first, then consider a dolphin sighting a pleasant surprise.

The schedule includes time to dry off before lunch. That break is welcome after being in the water, and it gives you a natural pause between the two main underwater activities. The boat serves lunch, with coffee or tea and refreshments included.

The food is practical rather than a reason to choose the trip on its own. Still, an included meal makes a difference on an eight-hour outing. You do not need to return to shore hungry or arrange a separate lunch while the boat is away from the harbor.

A Later Stop With More Fish and a Shipwreck

The itinerary also describes the boat continuing to a third site, where you may see more aquatic life and a shipwreck. At the same time, the included features specifically describe two diving stops.

That difference is worth understanding before you book. The clearest expectation is two instructor-led scuba sessions. The later site may be part of the wider boat route, with the shipwreck available for viewing or exploration depending on the day, local conditions, and how the crew organizes the schedule.

A shipwreck can add variety to a reef-focused day. It gives you a different underwater subject, with structure that may attract fish. But the available details do not state the wreck’s name, depth, age, or whether every beginner enters it. Do not assume this is a technical wreck excursion.

If the shipwreck is important to you, ask the provider how it fits into the two included sessions before departure. That small check can prevent disappointment and helps you understand what the $22 package actually covers.

What the $22 Price Really Includes

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch - Hurghada - What the $22 Price Really Includes

At $22 per person, this is priced as an accessible introduction to Red Sea scuba. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off for the covered area, an air-conditioned vehicle, a full boat trip, two instructor-led stops, scuba equipment, snorkeling equipment, a life jacket, lunch, coffee or tea, and refreshments.

That is a strong package for the price. If you had to arrange each part separately, transport, boat access, equipment rental, food, and instruction could quickly cost more. The value is especially clear for a first-time participant who does not own any equipment.

Still, the headline price is not the final possible cost for everyone. National park admission is excluded. Transfers from El Gouna, Safaga, Somabay, Makadi, and Sahl Hasheesh also cost extra and are paid in cash on the day.

I would ask two questions before booking: What is the current national park fee, and what is the exact pickup surcharge from your hotel? The tour remains inexpensive, but these costs matter when comparing it with another package that may include every fee.

Group Size, Atmosphere, and Instruction

Intro Diving for Beginners 2 Stops Diving with Lunch - Hurghada - Group Size, Atmosphere, and Instruction

The maximum group size is 30 people. That tells you this is a shared boat outing with a social atmosphere, not a quiet private trip.

A group of this size can be enjoyable if you like meeting people. A solo participant may find it easy to spend the day around other passengers and crew. The friendly atmosphere is one of the strongest personal details associated with the experience, and the staff are described as helpful throughout the day.

The trade-off is less privacy and potentially more waiting. Boarding, equipment preparation, meals, and entry into the water all take longer with a group. The precise instructor-to-participant ratio is not provided, so ask if you need close individual attention.

The available feedback also points to patient instruction during both sessions. That is particularly valuable for nervous beginners. There is no named guide in the supplied information, so you should not expect to select a particular instructor.

Who Will Get the Most From This Boat Day

I would recommend this for a first scuba experience, a couple looking for an active day on the Red Sea, or a family with participants who meet the operator’s requirements. Most people can take part, and service animals are allowed according to the supplied details.

It can also suit solo visitors who enjoy a shared setting. The boat, lunch, and multiple stops create natural chances to meet people without requiring you to plan the day yourself.

I would be more cautious if you dislike long boat rides, prefer a private experience, or want a serious scuba course. The day is built around a group boat, an introductory session, and sightseeing below the surface. It does not promise certification, advanced instruction, or a guaranteed dolphin encounter.

The information says most travelers can participate, but it does not list medical requirements, age rules, swimming requirements, or exact equipment sizes. If you have a medical condition, mobility concern, or question about a child taking part, contact Noun Travel before booking.

Booking Timing and Cancellation

This experience is commonly booked about 20 days ahead, so reserving early is sensible if your Hurghada dates are fixed. Confirmation is provided at booking, and mobile tickets make the arrangements easy to keep on your phone.

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the local start time. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before departure are not accepted for a refund.

That policy is fair for a scheduled boat trip, but it leaves little room for a last-minute change. Check the weather and your personal schedule before the cutoff, and keep the pickup time in mind when planning the evening before.

Should You Book This Red Sea Introduction?

Book it if you want an inexpensive, structured first taste of scuba from Hurghada. Two instructor-led sessions, reef scenery, a possible shipwreck, lunch, equipment, and hotel transport make the package unusually good value at $22 before extra fees.

I would choose it for the patient beginner support, the chance to visit two underwater sites, and the easy all-day format. I would skip it if you want a private boat, guaranteed wildlife, formal certification, or a short trip with little time at sea.

Before paying, confirm the national park charge and any pickup supplement for your hotel. If those costs remain reasonable, this is a practical way to see the Red Sea without buying a full course or organizing every part of the day yourself.

FAQ

What time does the experience start?

The listed start time is 8:00 am.

How long does the experience last?

The full outing lasts approximately eight hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for the covered Hurghada service area, using an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are two scuba sessions included?

Yes. The package includes two underwater stops with a professional instructor.

Is previous scuba experience required?

The experience is designed for beginners and is described as an introduction. The supplied information does not state that prior scuba experience is required.

Is equipment provided?

Yes. Scuba equipment, snorkeling equipment, and a life jacket are included.

Is food included?

Yes. Lunch, coffee or tea, and refreshments are included.

Are there extra charges?

Yes. National park admission is not included. Transfers from El Gouna, Safaga, Somabay, Makadi, and Sahl Hasheesh require an additional cash payment on the spot.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the experience begins. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the local start time are not accepted for a refund.

More like this

Scuba Diving for Beginners, compared.

The full Scuba Diving for Beginners list →
First-Time Scuba Diving in Honolulu + Free Videos
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 3,123 reviews· from $89

First-Time Scuba Diving in Honolulu + Free Videos

Read our review →
Beginner Scuba Diving with Turtles and Videos, San Juan
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 1,743 reviews· from $109

Beginner Scuba Diving with Turtles and Videos, San Juan

Read our review →
Intro Diving 2 Stops For Beginners with Pick-up and Lunch – Hurghada
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 1,146 reviews· from $40

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

Read our review →
Intro Diving Beginner and Discover Red Sea Underwater
★★★★★★★★★★4.9· 1,092 reviews· from $61

Intro Diving Beginner and Discover Red Sea Underwater

Read our review →
Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners
★★★★★★★★★★4.7· 805 reviews· from $176

Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners

Read our review →
Funchal: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners
★★★★★★★★★★4.9· 715 reviews· from $53

Funchal: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners

Read our review →
Beginner’s Dive at a Spot with Turtle Sightings
★★★★★★★★★★4.7· 627 reviews· from $82

Beginner’s Dive at a Spot with Turtle Sightings

Read our review →
Scuba Diving Experience in Caldera for Beginners
★★★★★★★★★★4.9· 597 reviews· from $106

Scuba Diving Experience in Caldera for Beginners

Read our review →
Scroll to Top

Explore the water

Pick a kind of dive, an animal, or a certificate.