One of the most magical experiences while snorkeling in Egypt’s Red Sea is encountering wildlife like sea turtles and dugongs. These gentle creatures share their home with us – and how we behave in the water determines whether that home remains a safe place for them.
Why Responsible Snorkeling Matters
Sea turtles and dugongs face serious threats: habitat loss, plastic pollution, boat strikes, and – increasingly – disturbance from tourism. Six of the seven sea turtle species are classified as endangered or threatened. The dugong is also endangered, with only small populations remaining in areas like Marsa Alam.
When we snorkel responsibly, we become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.
The Golden Rules for Wildlife Encounters
1. The Animal Has the Right of Way
This is the most important rule. Never block the path to the surface – they need to breathe. Never approach turtles or dugong while they’re feeding. If an animal changes direction or behaviour because of you, you’re too close.
2. Keep Your Distance
Maintain at least 3 metres (10 feet) from sea turtles and dugongs at all times. If the animal approaches you, stay still and let it pass. Resist the urge to swim towards it for a closer look or a better photo.
3. Be Calm and Quiet
Wild animals have highly sensitive senses. Splashing, rapid movements, and loud noises cause stress. Float calmly at the surface, breathe slowly through your snorkel, and move gently. The more relaxed you are, the more relaxed the animal will be – and the longer the encounter may last.
4. Never Touch
Touching sea turtles can damage the protective coating on their shells and transfer harmful bacteria. Touching a dugong – or any wild animal – causes stress and can alter their natural behaviour. Keep your hands to yourself, always.
5. Never Feed
Feeding wildlife disrupts their natural diet and behaviour. Animals that associate humans with food may stop foraging naturally, leading to malnutrition. They may also approach boats, increasing the risk of injury.
6. No Selfie Sticks or Intrusive Equipment
Cameras and selfie sticks pushed into an animal’s space are stressful and invasive. Take photos from a respectful distance. No photo is worth disturbing the wildlife.
7. Limit Your Time
If you’re lucky enough to find a turtle or dugong, don’t follow it for extended periods. Limit your observation to 10-15 minutes maximum to reduce stress on the animal. If others are waiting, share the experience and move on.
The Reality at Abu Dabbab
Abu Dabbab Bay near Marsa Alam is one of the few places in the world where you can encounter dugongs while snorkeling. The resident dugong comes to feed on seagrass in the shallow bay – but this also means it’s regularly surrounded by crowds of swimmers.
Unfortunately, many visitors don’t follow basic guidelines. The dugong is often chased by groups of noisy snorkelers pushing cameras into its face. Some even try to touch it!
This is not only disrespectful – it’s harmful and causes stress to the animal! Repeated disturbance can cause the animal to abandon an area entirely, depriving future visitors of this incredible experience.
By following these simple guidelines, you help protect the Red Sea’s most vulnerable inhabitants. You also set an example for other snorkelers around you.
Take only photos. Leave only bubbles. And give wildlife the space they deserve.
Want to learn more about responsible snorkeling? Visit our collaboration partner Responsible Traveller or support sea turtle conservation through Turtle Watch Egypt.
