Marsa Alam: Nefertari Cruise, Submarine Deck & Seafood Lunch

Summary

Snorkel Marsa Mubarak see sea turtles from a submarine deck then feast on fresh seafood aboard

You’ll step onto a replica pharaoh’s yacht in Marsa Alam, watch sea turtles glide by from a submarine deck at Marsa Mubarak, snorkel vibrant reefs with local guides watching out for you, then share a fresh seafood lunch onboard. Expect laughter, salty air, and maybe even try on a crown yourself — it’s not just another boat trip.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nefertari cruise and snorkeling experience

• Board Nefertari cruise at Port Ghalib
• Descend to submarine-level observation deck
• View coral reefs and marine life
• Cruise to snorkeling spot
• Snorkel for 45 minutes with guides
• Dress in ancient Egyptian costumes
• Take photos on Tutankhamun's throne
• Enjoy 3-course seafood lunch or dinner

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Nefertari cruise in Marsa Alam?

Yes, hotel pickup is included in your booking for this tour.

How long do we spend snorkeling during the day trip?

You’ll have around 45 minutes to snorkel at Marsa Mubarak (Turtle Bay).

Can I see sea turtles or manatees on this cruise?

Yes, guests often spot sea turtles and sometimes manatees (sea cows) through the submarine windows or while snorkeling.

Is lunch provided on board?

Yes, a 3-course seafood lunch or dinner is served onboard with vegan and gluten-free options available.

Is the Nefertari cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas of the boat and transportation are wheelchair accessible.

Are there guides during snorkeling?

Yes, fully qualified local guides supervise and assist during snorkeling sessions.

What is special about the Nefertari boat?

The boat is decorated as a replica of Queen Nefertari’s tomb with themed interiors and an underwater viewing deck.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, families with children are welcome and infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Marsa Alam by air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees and taxes covered upfront so there’s no hassle later, expert local guides both above deck and in the water for snorkeling support at Turtle Bay’s reefs, plus a full 3-course seafood lunch or dinner onboard (with vegan or gluten-free options if you ask), before heading back comfortably after your Red Sea adventure.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to float across the Red Sea on something that looks straight out of ancient Egypt? I didn’t expect the Nefertari cruise in Marsa Alam to feel so surreal. The boat itself is wild — golden columns, painted ceilings, even these starry lights overhead. Our guide, Mahmoud, grinned when he saw me gawking at the Tutankhamun throne (yes, you can actually sit on it). The air smelled faintly of salt and grilled fish drifting up from the kitchen below. It was hot outside but cool inside — kind of like stepping into a museum that moves.

We cruised out toward Marsa Mubarak — they call it Turtle Bay for good reason. There’s this moment when you go down to the submarine-level deck, three meters under the waterline, and suddenly you’re eye-to-eye with these slow-moving green turtles. I pressed my face to the glass and just watched them glide past coral that looked almost fake in its colors. Someone spotted a manatee (sea cow) and everyone scrambled over for a look. Mahmoud pointed out tiny blue fish darting between rocks; I tried to remember their names but honestly just got distracted by how peaceful it felt down there.

After that we had about 45 minutes to snorkel — not gonna lie, I hesitated at first because I’m not exactly a pro swimmer. But the guides were patient and kept an eye on us all. The water was warm and clear enough that you could see flashes of yellow and purple fish even before dipping your head under. Back onboard, lunch was ready: plates of calamari, rice, salads, even vegan options if you wanted (I stuck with seafood soup — still thinking about that flavor). There was this family dressing up as pharaohs for photos; one little girl refused to take off her crown for dessert.