If you’re planning a diving trip to the Red Sea in Egypt , one of the first questions that come to mind is: “How much does scuba diving cost in Egypt?” The answer depends on various factors like your experience level, the type of dive, location, and duration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea prices , including what’s included, where to find the best deals, and how to budget for your underwater adventure.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to try your first dive or an experienced diver aiming to explore world-famous sites like Thistlegorm , Ras Mohammed , or Dolphin Reef , this article will help you make informed decisions. We’ve gathered up-to-date pricing information from trusted dive centers across major Egyptian Red Sea destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh , Hurghada , El Gouna , and Marsa Alam .
Let’s dive into the details!
What Are the Average Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea Prices?
The average cost of scuba diving in the Red Sea, Egypt , ranges between $30 to $120 per dive , depending on several variables:
| Try Dive / Introductory Dive | $30 – $40 |
| Certified Dive (Single Tank) | $40 – $60 |
| Double Tank Dive | $70 – $90 |
| Night Dive | $50 – $80 |
| Liveaboard Dive Trips | $100 – $300 per day |
| PADI Certification Courses | $200 – $400 |
These prices typically include equipment rental, dive guide, boat transfer, and sometimes lunch or refreshments. However, it’s important to check what exactly is included when booking with different centers.
Why Is Scuba Diving in Egypt So Popular?
Before we get deeper into the Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea prices , let’s quickly understand why divers from around the globe are drawn to this region:
- World-class dive sites : From coral reefs to WWII shipwrecks.
- Year-round diving conditions : Warm water temperatures (22–30°C) and excellent visibility (10–30 meters).
- Affordable options : Compared to other international diving destinations, Egypt offers great value.
- Accessibility : Direct flights to Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam from many European and Middle Eastern countries.
Egypt has become a hotspot not only for recreational divers but also for photography enthusiasts, marine biologists, and adventure seekers.
Factors That Influence Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea Prices
Several elements can affect the final cost of your diving experience. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Location
Prices vary significantly based on which part of the Red Sea you’re diving in:
- Sharm El Sheikh : Known for famous dives like SS Thistlegorm and Yolanda Reef .
- Hurghada : Great for beginners and liveaboard trips.
- El Gouna : More upscale and eco-friendly options.
- Marsa Alam & Hamata : Remote and pristine locations with less crowded sites.
2. Experience Level
- Beginners (Intro Dives) : Lower cost because they’re guided and limited in depth.
- Certified Divers : Higher cost due to more freedom and access to advanced sites.
- Technical Divers : Require special training and gear, so prices increase accordingly.
3. Type of Dive
As mentioned earlier:
- Single vs. double tank dives
- Day vs. night dives
- Shore vs. boat dives
4. Duration
Are you doing a half-day trip or a full-day excursion? Longer trips usually include meals and transportation, affecting the price.
5. Group Size
Smaller groups often mean higher costs, while group discounts may apply during low season.
6. Seasonal Variations
High season (October–April) sees increased demand and slightly higher prices compared to off-season (May–September).
Where to Go Diving in the Red Sea: Price Comparison
Here’s a comparison of popular Red Sea destinations and their average dive prices:
| Sharm El Sheikh | $35 | $50 | $80 | $60 | Access to wrecks and reefs |
| Hurghada | $30 | $45 | $70 | $55 | Best for liveaboards |
| El Gouna | $40 | $60 | $90 | $70 | Eco-conscious centers |
| Marsa Alam | $40 | $65 | $95 | N/A | Rare marine life like dugongs |
You can often save money by booking multiple dives in advance or opting for package deals offered by local dive shops.
What’s Included in Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea Prices?
Most dive packages include the following:
- Air tanks and weights
- Wetsuit (season-dependent)
- Regulator, BCD, mask, snorkel, fins
- Boat transfers
- Professional dive instructor/guide
- Entry fees to protected areas (e.g., Ras Mohammed National Park)
- Light snacks or lunch on full-day trips
However, always confirm with your dive center what is included. Some extras might be optional:
- Underwater camera rental
- Nitrox fills (for certified divers)
- Dive insurance
- Tips for guides
How Much Do PADI Certifications Cost in Egypt?
If you’re not yet certified, getting your PADI Open Water Diver certification in Egypt is both affordable and convenient. Here’s a general price range:
| PADI Open Water Diver | $250 – $350 |
| PADI Advanced Open Water | $200 – $280 |
| PADI Rescue Diver | $250 – $320 |
| PADI Divemaster | $800 – $1,200 |
Many dive schools offer combo courses or discounts if you book multiple certifications at once.
Hidden Costs You Should Be Aware Of
While the Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea prices advertised online may seem attractive, there are some hidden costs to watch out for:
- National park fees : Approximately $15–$25 per day in places like Ras Mohammed.
- Nitrox upgrade : Around $15–$25 extra per dive.
- Underwater photos/videos : $20–$50 per session.
- Tips : It’s customary to tip instructors and crew—budget around $5–$10 per dive.
- Gear damage/loss : Some centers charge for lost or damaged gear.
Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before confirming your booking.
Best Time to Dive in the Red Sea (and How It Affects Prices)
The ideal time for diving in the Red Sea is between October and April , when water temperatures are cooler and visibility is at its peak. During these months, prices may be slightly higher due to increased demand.
In contrast, the summer months (May to September ) are considered off-season, offering lower prices and fewer crowds. However, water temperatures can reach up to 32°C, and occasional winds may affect boat diving conditions.
| October–April | 15–30m | 22–28°C | High season |
| May–September | 10–20m | 28–32°C | Off-season |
Top Dive Sites in the Red Sea and Their Accessibility
Here are some must-visit dive sites and their approximate travel times from major resorts:
| SS Thistlegorm | Sharm El Sheikh | 3–4 hours | WWII wreck |
| Ras Mohammed NP | Sharm El Sheikh | 1 hour | Coral gardens, sharks |
| Abu Nuhas Reefs | Sharm El Sheikh | 3 hours | Wreck alley |
| Giftun Islands | Hurghada | 1 hour | Coral reefs, turtles |
| Dolphin House | El Gouna | 30 mins | Resident dolphins |
| Big Brother Reef | Marsa Alam | 5–6 hours | Pelagics, hammerheads |
| Zannecer Reef | Marsa Alam | 6–7 hours | Manta rays, whale sharks |
Accessing remote sites often requires liveaboard trips, which can range from $100 to $300 per day , depending on the vessel and amenities.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Scuba Diving in Egypt
Want to enjoy the Red Sea without breaking the bank? Here are some smart ways to save:
- Book in advance : Many dive centers offer early-bird discounts.
- Join group dives : Solo bookings are more expensive.
- Choose mid-week dives : Less crowded and sometimes cheaper.
- Bring your own gear : Saves on rental fees.
- Opt for local dive shops : Often cheaper than resort-affiliated ones.
- Combine dives into packages : Most centers offer discounts for 5+ dives.
- Travel during off-season : Enjoy lower prices and quieter waters.
Conclusion: Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea Prices Make It One of the Best Destinations
In summary, Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea prices are among the most competitive globally, making Egypt a top choice for divers of all levels. Whether you’re looking to do a single introductory dive or embark on a multi-day liveaboard adventure, the Red Sea offers something for everyone—and at a fraction of the cost of similar destinations like Thailand, Indonesia, or the Maldives.
By understanding the factors that influence pricing and knowing where to look, you can tailor your diving experience to fit your budget and preferences.
So pack your gear, grab your buddy, and get ready to explore one of the most stunning underwater worlds on Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer the most budget-friendly options, especially for beginners.
Yes! Introductory dives are available for non-certified divers under professional supervision.
Absolutely—if you want to visit remote sites and maximize dive time, liveaboards provide unmatched access.
October to April offers the clearest water and calmest conditions.
$5–$10 per dive is standard, depending on service quality.
References
- PADI Official Website
- Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency – Red Sea Parks
- Personal interviews with dive operators in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada (2025)
- Local tourism reports and verified traveler reviews (TripAdvisor, DiveBuddy, Reddit)
