Discover the hidden gem of Marsa Alam, a diving paradise nestled in Egypt's southern reaches. Our dive club ventured on a 7-night escapade, staying at the Marina Lodge with a half-board arrangement, complemented by 5 days of immersive diving experiences. Just a stone's throw from Marsa Alam airport, our base at Port Ghalib offered convenient access to both our cozy accommodation and the renowned Emperor Divers center.
Marsa Alam, a relatively new addition to Egypt's resort lineup, has quickly established itself as a premier destination for diving enthusiasts. Our dive club, Galaxsea Divers, seized the chance to explore this underwater haven. We arranged a week-long stay at the Marina Lodge, a comfortable and well-appointed hotel offering half-board lodging, with a packed itinerary of five days dedicated to diving. The trip's cost per person was £659, which included a direct flight from London Gatwick, lasting just over five hours.
Upon arrival at Marsa Alam airport, a brief journey brought us to Port Ghalib, the location of both our hotel and the Emperor Divers center. The town of Marsa Alam lies 60km to the south, with a smattering of self-contained hotels in between. Port Ghalib itself is an expanding marina, set to accommodate over 1,000 vessels, including yachts up to 60m in length.
The Marina Lodge impressed us with its spacious rooms, replete with modern amenities such as a powerful shower, built-in safe, television, and mini-bar. The dining experience was exceptional, with a variety of food options and attentive service. The hotel's quality and hospitality stood out among the many we've visited in Egypt.
Emperor Divers provided a smooth check-in process, complete with a rundown of additional services and equipment rental options. As I had brought my own gear, I was given a crate to store it during our stay. Our initial dive at Marsa Mubarak was a gentle introduction to the Red Sea's diving routine, allowing us to adjust our weights and familiarize ourselves with the local marine environment.
Our subsequent dives took us to various sites, including Ras el Torfa, where we encountered small reef sharks, and Abu Dabab, famous for its sea grass beds that attract turtles and the elusive Dugong. Despite not spotting a Dugong, the experience of diving alongside turtles and discovering a Ghost Pipe Fish was unforgettable.
The pinnacle of our diving expedition was the renowned Elphinstone Reef, requiring divers to have at least 30 logged dives and carry an SMB (Surface Marker Buoy). The drift dives along the reef's walls were effortless and offered extended dive times due to the shallow depths and favorable currents.
On our non-diving day, we visited the historical town of El Quseir, approximately 65km north of Port Ghalib. This town boasts a rich history as a trading port and a traditional embarkation point for Hajj pilgrims. The old fort, dating back to 1571, is a testament to the town's storied past and is open to visitors for a small fee.
While Marsa Alam is renowned for its diving, there are lesser-known facts that add to its allure:
In conclusion, Marsa Alam offers a blend of diving excellence and cultural richness that is often overlooked. Our dive club's experience was a testament to the region's capacity to enchant and educate, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
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