SNORKELING IN THE RED SEA

Where the Magic Begins at the Surface

By Marcel Gubern

Any diver who has explored the Red Sea will forever remember its underwater world—not only spectacular, but truly unique.

Along the Sinai coast, divers from around the world discover legendary sites such as Jackson Reef in the Strait of Tiran; Shark & Yolanda Reef in Ras Mohammed, at the southern tip of the peninsula; and the SS Thistlegorm, one of the world’s most famous wrecks, near Sha’ab Ali Reef.

Exploring this part of the Red Sea is a must for any diving enthusiast. Yet many visitors overlook another way to make the most of their trip: snorkeling. We’re not talking about freediving between scuba dives, but simply enjoying the reef from the surface while the boat is anchored and conditions allow. All you need is a mask, snorkel, and fins to admire genuine works of natural art: living reefs that, in many places, rise almost to the surface.

These structures are home to thousands of fish and an extraordinary diversity of marine life. Corals are made up of colonies of tiny animals called polyps, which live in partnership with microscopic algae. Through photosynthesis, these algae provide much of the nourishment the corals need and contribute to their colors.

The low rainfall and limited sediment runoff along much of the Sinai coast help keep the water exceptionally clear, allowing sunlight to penetrate deeply. Near the surface, this light supports coral growth and brings out the reefs’ remarkable shapes and colors.

Anyone who has dived in these waters knows that the shallowest sections of many reefs offer an extraordinary display of life. What they may not have discovered is that viewing the same reef while swimming at the surface offers a different—and sometimes even more breathtaking—perspective.

Few destinations offer so much marine life and color with such simple equipment. That also makes snorkeling a wonderful activity for non-diving companions who want to share in the liveaboard experience. Even divers taking a break from scuba diving can discover the reefs in a different way, provided they feel well enough and the crew approves.

On the classic Northern Route operated by RED SEA BLUE FORCE 2, from March through December according to the schedule, there are numerous opportunities to admire the reefs from the surface.

Snorkeling in the Red Sea is undoubtedly a privilege. On board RED SEA BLUE FORCE 2, the crew will advise you which reefs are suitable for snorkeling and when conditions are right. Always inform the crew before entering the water, check the conditions, and follow their instructions.

My Favorite Snorkeling Spots

• Jack Fish Alley — Ras Mohammed National Park
• Jackson Reef — Strait of Tiran
• Fossma Saghir, also known as Small Crack — Sha’ab Mahmud

What You Can See from the Surface

• Sea turtles
• Napoleon wrasse
• Blue-spotted rays
• Pufferfish
• Trumpetfish
• Stonefish
• Clownfish
• Snappers
• Thousands of anthias and other reef fish

Practical Tips

• Never touch the corals: they are living organisms and extremely fragile.
• Always snorkel with a buddy and follow the crew’s instructions.
• Stay within the designated area and avoid swimming out into open water.
• If you have been scuba diving, avoid breath-hold diving and follow safety guidance for surface intervals.
• Wear a UV-protective rash guard and, if you need sunscreen, choose one that minimizes environmental impact.
• Make sure your mask is clean before entering the water.
• Always wear fins.
• Photography and video: abundant natural light usually makes flashes and video lights unnecessary, especially near the surface.