Safaga/Makadi Bay: Panorama Submarine with Snorkeling Tour

Makadi Bay’s Panorama Submarine gives you two easy ways to see the Red Sea: sit below the waterline behind broad viewing windows, then put on a mask and snorkel for a closer look. The boat descends about 5 meters, so you can watch schools of fish and coral without needing to swim or scuba dive.

I like the low price of $18 and the fact that snorkeling equipment, hotel transfers, water, and a soft drink are included. I also like the crew’s helpful approach, with staff such as Mahmood, Muhammed, and Mina singled out for making families and first-time snorkelers feel safe.

The main caution is that the reef view depends on clean glass, clear water, and where the boat stops. Some visitors found the snorkeling pleasant rather than exceptional, and the walk from the transfer vehicle to the pier can be awkward for anyone with limited mobility.

Key points to know before booking

• Two underwater views in one trip: Watch the reef through submarine windows, then snorkel above it.
• About 30 minutes in the water: The snorkeling stop is long enough for a proper first look, not just a quick splash.
• Strong family appeal: Young children can see fish from inside the boat, even if they do not snorkel.
• Good value at $18: Transfers, entry, equipment, water, and one soft drink are covered.
• Pickup is available in three areas: Safaga, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay.
• Expect optional sales: Photos, snacks, and extra drinks are offered onboard, but the fee does not include them.

What this Makadi Bay boat trip actually feels like

This is not a full-size submarine cruising far offshore. It is a semi-submarine, a surface boat with a lower viewing cabin below the waterline. That distinction matters because you still get open-air sea views, fresh air, and time on deck, but you can also sit below and watch the reef through glass panels.

The boat travels through calm Makadi Bay before stopping near a reef. The underwater viewing section is the first major part of the outing. You go downstairs and look through the windows as fish pass close to the glass and coral formations appear below.

The advertised underwater depth is about 5 meters. That is enough to give you a useful view of the sea floor without making the ride feel enclosed or intense. If you have a young child who is not ready for snorkeling, this is the part that makes the trip worthwhile. A three-year-old was reported to enjoy watching the fish from the boat, and several families found the arrangement easy for children.

Do not expect the view to match a dedicated scuba excursion at a famous reef. Visibility can vary, and the glass may need cleaning inside and out. One account found the coral less impressive than a submarine trip in Sharm el Sheikh. That is a fair comparison to keep in mind: this is an accessible introduction to Red Sea sea life, not a serious reef expedition.

From hotel pickup to the Makadi Bay pier

Pickup is offered from Safaga, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay. The transfer vehicles have air conditioning, an important detail in Egypt’s heat, and several departures were described as punctual.

The stated schedule includes roughly an hour by coach each way, although the exact ride depends on your hotel and pickup order. If you stay in Makadi Bay, you are likely to spend less time on the road than someone coming from Safaga. The listed activity itself lasts two hours, but allow more time for transfers and waiting.

At the marina, you board after a short walk. This walk was described as around five to ten minutes, with the longer end being more noticeable for a family with a toddler. Wear comfortable shoes rather than flip-flops that slip easily, and wait at the reception entrance unless your hotel instructions specify the main gate.

Transfers are not included from Madinat Makadi, Sun Rise Makadi, and Xanadu hotels. Check your exact hotel before paying, since an apparently cheap trip can become less convenient if you need to arrange your own ride.

The boat’s underwater viewing cabin

The boat usually travels for a short period before reaching the viewing area. Reports describe a comfortable, fairly spacious vessel with a lower cabin and large underwater windows. Once everyone is settled, you go below to watch the fish and coral.

This is the strongest feature for non-swimmers and families. You get the Red Sea scenery without putting your face in the water, and the underwater cabin gives children something to focus on during the boat ride. Schools of fish may come close to the windows, and a scuba diver can sometimes appear outside the glass, adding movement to the scene.

The view is best treated as a natural show, not a guaranteed wildlife performance. You may see many fish, coral, and other marine life, and the description also mentions the chance to see sea lions. Sightings depend on conditions and location, so do not book this expecting a particular animal.

Bring sunglasses and a hat for the upper deck. The sun can be strong even when the bay feels calm. Unlimited mineral water is included, along with one soft drink. Extra canned drinks, snacks, and other food are sold onboard, but food is not part of the tour and outside food and drinks are not allowed.

The 30-minute snorkeling stop

After the underwater viewing, the crew offers a snorkeling stop at a reef area in Makadi Bay. Equipment is included, and the water time is listed as 30 minutes. That is a useful amount of time for beginners, since it allows you to get comfortable with the mask before heading back aboard.

The crew appears to pay close attention to first-time snorkelers. One family received extra support, and another found the guided snorkeling particularly helpful. Guides can point out fish and lead you around the reef, which is useful when you are unsure where to look.

You do not need to be an experienced swimmer to take part, but the available information does not promise flotation aids or describe a particular water-entry setup. If you are nervous, tell the crew before entering the water and follow their safety instructions.

The snorkeling is often the best part for adults and older children who want more than a view through glass. You see fish at water level, move over coral, and get a better sense of the reef’s color and shape. Still, expectations should stay reasonable. Some accounts describe the reef as beautiful and full of fish, while others found the site only average compared with other Red Sea stops.

Bring your own towel and swimwear. A hat and sunglasses help on deck, while comfortable shoes make the walk to and from the pier easier. A waterproof phone pouch would be sensible, but it is not listed as included.

Crew service and optional extras

The crew receives consistently strong praise for being friendly, attentive, and reassuring. Staff helped first-time snorkelers, kept an eye on children, and offered explanations in English, Russian, German, and Arabic.

Individual names that came up positively include Mahmood, Muhammed, and Mina. Mahmood was especially appreciated for making the water activity memorable, while Muhammed was described as helpful on deck. Mina was also warmly praised for his personal service. These details matter because a short sea trip feels much better when the crew gives clear instructions and watches out for nervous swimmers.

Photography is available for an extra charge. A photographer or scuba crew member may take pictures from outside the boat or while you snorkel. The quality can be good, but not every purchase has satisfied customers. One person paid for a full package and found that some snorkeling pictures were missing, while another felt the photographs were worth buying.

The sales approach seems to vary. Several people found it light and not intrusive, while others found the photo presentation long or heavy. My advice is simple: decide your photo budget before boarding. You can enjoy the trip without buying pictures, and the listed price does not include them.

Extra drinks and snacks are also sold onboard. Water and one soft drink are included, so you do not need to buy anything unless you want more.

Is $18 a fair price?

At $18 per person, this is one of the easier Red Sea excursions to recommend on price alone. You receive hotel pickup and drop-off, entry fees, the boat trip, snorkeling equipment, a 30-minute water stop, unlimited mineral water, and one soft drink.

The value becomes even better for a family that wants a gentle introduction to reef life. A proper boat trip, an underwater cabin, and snorkeling in one package would usually cost more if booked as separate activities. You also avoid paying an entry fee at the marina or renting basic equipment separately.

The tradeoff is that the outing is short and the reef stop is not guaranteed to be the finest in the region. If your main goal is spectacular coral and extended time in the water, spend more on a dedicated snorkeling or scuba trip. If you want a simple two-hour activity that works for mixed abilities, the price is strong.

You should also keep cash available if you might want photographs or additional drinks. Tips are optional, and several accounts noted no pressure to tip, buy pictures, or purchase refreshments.

Who will enjoy this most?

I would choose this trip for families with younger children, first-time snorkelers, non-swimmers, and anyone who wants a short break from the hotel pool. The underwater cabin gives children and cautious adults something to enjoy even if they skip the water.

It also suits couples or friends who want a low-cost activity without committing to a full-day boat cruise. The morning and afternoon departure choices give you some flexibility, although you should check the available start time for your date.

This is less suitable for someone seeking solitude. The boat can feel busy, and one account described family members having to separate because of limited seating. It is also not ideal if you have serious mobility limits. The activity is marked wheelchair accessible, but it is also described as unsuitable for people with mobility impairments, and the walk from the vehicle to the boat may be difficult. Confirm the arrangement directly before booking if this affects you.

Small practical details that make the day easier

Wait at the hotel reception entrance unless your hotel requires you to use the main gate. Keep your phone charged if you may want your own pictures, and bring a towel because one is not listed among the included items.

The boat has underwater windows, but visibility is not perfectly predictable. Clean glass, sunlight, water clarity, and the position of the boat all affect what you see. Sit where you have a clear view and be patient when fish move past.

The tour is offered with an express security check, and the host or greeter may speak English, Russian, German, or Arabic. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later, which helps if your hotel plans are still changing.

Should you book the Panorama Submarine?

Book it if you want a short, inexpensive Red Sea outing with both an underwater viewing cabin and a real snorkeling stop. It is particularly good for families because children can see fish without swimming, while older children and adults get time in the water.

Skip it if you want a remote reef, long snorkeling time, or a polished premium cruise. The boat may be busy, the underwater glass may not be perfectly clear, and the reef can feel ordinary beside Egypt’s best snorkeling sites.

For $18, though, the package is hard to fault. I would book it from Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh, where the transfer is most convenient, and treat it as an easy introduction to the Red Sea rather than the final word on its coral reefs.

FAQ

How long does the Panorama Submarine tour last?

The activity is listed as two hours. Allow extra time for hotel pickup, the journey to the pier, boarding, and the return transfer.

Where does the tour provide pickup?

Pickup is available from Safaga, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay. Transfers from Madinat Makadi, Sun Rise Makadi, and Xanadu hotels are not included.

How deep does the semi-submarine go?

The semi-submarine descends about 5 meters below the surface for underwater viewing.

Is snorkeling included?

Yes. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and a 30-minute snorkeling stop.

What is included in the price?

The $18 price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the semi-submarine cruise, snorkeling equipment, the 30-minute snorkeling stop, one soft drink, unlimited mineral water, and entry tickets.

Are food, photographs, and extra drinks included?

No. Food, additional drinks, and photographs cost extra. Canned drinks and snacks are available to buy onboard.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable shoes. Pets and outside food or drinks are not allowed.