Hurghada: Intro Diving 2 Stops with Pickup & Lunch

Summary

Beginner diving in Hurghada’s coral gardens with hotel pickup and lunch

You’ll feel that mix of nerves and thrill as you suit up for your first intro dive in Hurghada’s Red Sea. Guided by patient locals, you’ll explore two vibrant underwater sites, share laughs over lunch on deck, and end up sun-warmed and salty — probably still thinking about those first breaths below the surface.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, you’ll breathe like a fish in no time,” Ahmed grinned as he handed me the mask. I’d never tried diving before — honestly, I was nervous about everything: the gear, the fish, even just getting off the boat. But Ahmed had this way of making it all seem like a casual swim. The Red Sea looked impossibly blue that morning, and there was this faint smell of salt and engine oil as we left Hurghada’s harbor. I kept fiddling with my wetsuit zipper until one of the crew showed me how to actually close it (I’d been doing it backwards).

The first intro dive stop felt quick but wild — fifteen minutes felt both long and not enough. My ears popped a little going down, but then suddenly there were these soft corals swaying below me and tiny yellow fish darting around. I remember the muffled sound of my own breathing and how light filtered through the water in these weird green-blue streaks. Our instructor kept signaling “okay?” every few seconds; I think he could tell I was half-panicking, half-awed. There was another couple from Germany on board who cheered when we surfaced — turns out everyone feels a bit shaky after their first dive.

Between dives we sat on deck with mugs of sweet mint tea (the kind that sticks to your teeth) while someone brought out plates of rice, grilled chicken, and this eggplant salad that was way better than it looked. The second stop felt easier — maybe because I knew what to expect or maybe just because Ahmed kept making jokes about his “fish friends.” At some point he pointed out a lionfish (I tried to say its name in Arabic and totally butchered it; he laughed so hard he almost lost his snorkel). The sun felt warmer after being underwater — or maybe I was just relieved I hadn’t swallowed half the sea.

I still think about that weird moment right before going under for the second time — part fear, part excitement, all mixed up with saltwater and sunlight. It wasn’t perfect (my mask leaked a bit), but honestly? That made it feel real. If you’re thinking about trying an intro diving trip in Hurghada, just go for it. You’ll figure out your wetsuit eventually.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Intro diving with two stops and lunch

• Hotel pickup in Hurghada
• Arrive at dive center
• Get fitted with diving gear
• Attend short training session
• Dive at first underwater site
• Dive at second underwater site
• Relax on boat with lunch
• Return to hotel in Marsa Alam

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this intro diving tour in Hurghada?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Hurghada.

How many diving stops are there during the trip?

The tour includes two beginner-friendly diving stops.

Do I need previous diving experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed; it's designed for beginners.

What is served for lunch on board?

A buffet lunch with traditional Egyptian dishes is provided.

Are drinks included during the day trip?

Yes, unlimited water, soft drinks, and hot drinks are included.

How long does each dive last?

Each dive lasts approximately 15 minutes.

Will there be a professional instructor during the dives?

Yes, a professional diving instructor guides you throughout.

Is all necessary diving equipment provided?

Yes, all required diving equipment is included in the tour price.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada, use of full diving equipment with safety gear, guidance from a professional instructor at two separate beginner dive sites (each about 15 minutes), plus unlimited drinks and a buffet lunch served fresh on board before heading back to your hotel.