After thousands of trips, here is the packing list that actually gets used.
The Essentials
Sunscreen (reef-safe). The Egyptian sun on open water is intense. Bring reef-safe mineral sunscreen and reapply every two hours. We provide shade on the boat, but you will still get sun on the boat ride out.
Hat with a strap. A baseball cap is fine. A wide-brim hat will fly off when the boat moves.
Sunglasses with a retainer. Polarized if you have them. You will be looking at water reflections for three hours.
Quick-dry towel. We have them on board if you forget, but bringing your own is cleaner.
Highly Recommended
Water shoes or reef socks. The entry points at some islands have broken coral. A thin pair of water shoes is enough.
Phone in a waterproof pouch. A lanyard-style pouch is best. You will use your phone for photos and a lanyard keeps it from ending up at the bottom of the Red Sea.
A light layer. Even in summer, the boat ride back can be cool when you are wet.
Skip These
Heavy bags. There is limited storage. We provide everything you need for snorkeling. Jewelry and watches โ leave them at the hotel.
We Provide
Snorkel gear, life jackets, fresh water for rinsing, towels, soft drinks, water, fresh fruit, and snacks. You do not need to bring water for the trip itself.
