Preparation for snorkeling on your Red Sea vacation
As with any adventure, the key to an unforgettable snorkeling experience lies in the preparation. While you can just strap on a mask and jump in, a little planning can be the difference between a “good” trip and a “world-class” adventure.
1. Research the Reefs Before You Arrive
Don’t leave it to chance. Before you book your hotel or head out for the day, check satellite images (like Google Earth) or local maps. Look for the “fringing reefs” – the dark areas right along the shore. Planning where to enter the water ensures you find the most vibrant coral gardens and avoid areas with heavy boat traffic or sandy bottoms. See how here…
2. Prioritize a Perfect Fit
Most hotels in Hurghada, Sharm, or Marsa Alam have dive centers where you can rent gear. However, nothing ruins a trip like a leaking mask or blisters from ill-fitting fins.
- Pro Tip: Invest in your own mask and snorkel. Having gear that fits your face perfectly ensures you spend your time looking at fish, not clearing water out of your mask.
3. Plan Your Underwater Photography
The Red Sea is one of the most photogenic places on Earth. Decide early if you want to capture the magic.
- Action Cams: A GoPro is a great, easy-to-use option – but also very wide-angled and not suited for photos of individual fish.
- Phone Housings: If you use your smartphone, ensure you have a high-quality waterproof casing. Again, this setup will not give you good pictures of details, but will certainly be better than nothing.
- Pro Tip: If you want to get serious about photography,
Remember: Focus on your buoyancy first – a steady snorkeler gets the best shots!
4. Know What You’re Looking For
The Red Sea is home to over 1,200 species of fish. Your trip will be much more rewarding if you can distinguish a Parrotfish from a Napoleon Wrasse. Understanding fish behaviour also helps you spot the more “shy” species that others might miss. This is why I made the Red Sea Snorkeling Guide.
5. Track Your Discoveries
Don’t let your memories fade as soon as you dry off. One of the biggest mistakes snorkelers make is forgetting the incredible species they encountered during the day.
Whether you are using our e-book guide, or another book, having a list to check-off you sightings will help you keep track of your sightings – and since we have selected the species you are most likely to see, you will not get lost in the many possibilities listed in the 500 page books.
Planning your trip? Don’t forget to download our Free Fish Checklist. It’s the perfect tool to keep track of the 115+ species you’re most likely to encounter!
