Whether you are a first-time snorkeler eager to see coral reefs or a seasoned diver looking for your next big thrill, water sports offer some of the most memorable experiences on any vacation. At Vacation Travel Service, we make it easy to explore the ocean with carefully curated water sports packages, guided diving trips, and exciting snorkeling tours suitable for all levels.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the types of water activities offered, the best diving and snorkeling spots, safety tips, cost insights, and even marine conservation advice—so you can book with confidence.

Types of Water Activities Offered

When browsing the Vacation Travel Service water activities section or using the activity search sidebar, you’ll find a wide variety of water-based adventures. These are suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups.

1. Snorkeling Tours

Snorkeling is often the easiest entry point into underwater exploration. Tours typically include:

  • Boat ride to coral reefs or lagoons
  • Mask, snorkel, fins included
  • Life jackets for beginners or kids
  • Lunch & refreshments on many tours

Snorkeling tours are perfect for families since no formal certification is required. Many operators even provide a guide who will help beginners float comfortably and point out marine life.

2. Introductory Scuba Diving (“Try Dive”)

For those curious about scuba but not yet certified, “Discover Scuba” programs are a great way to test the waters. You’ll be given a short briefing, try gear in shallow water, and then descend with a professional instructor to a safe depth (usually 6–12 meters).

3. Certified Diving Trips

Experienced divers can book half-day or full-day trips to the region’s most famous dive sites. Certified PADI or SSI divers often have the option to join group boats, book private guides, or sign up for night dives and wreck dives.

4. Water Sports Packages

Beyond diving, Vacation Travel Service offers combined water sports packages, which may include:

  • Parasailing
  • Banana boat rides
  • Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Windsurfing or kitesurfing sessions (location dependent)
  • Jet skiing

These packages let you mix adrenaline activities with relaxation on the water.

5. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours & Submarine Rides

Ideal for non-swimmers or small children, glass-bottom boats and mini-submarines let you see fish and coral from a comfortable seat.

Diving Spots & Snorkeling Tourism

Choosing the right spot is key to a memorable ocean adventure. Popular destinations in the Vacation Travel Service network include:

  • Hurghada & Red Sea Coast (Egypt) – Famous for calm waters, clear visibility, and vibrant reefs like Giftun Island and Dolphin House. Snorkeling and diving here are world-class, with colorful fish, coral gardens, and occasional dolphin encounters.

  • Marsa Alam & Sataya Reef – Known as the “Dolphin House Reef,” Sataya offers a chance to swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment—an unforgettable family-friendly option.

  • El Gouna & Soma Bay – Perfect for kite surfers and those wanting calm lagoons for safe, beginner-friendly water sports.

Vacation Travel Service’s activity search lets you compare snorkeling tours by location, price, and duration—so you can find the one that matches your travel plans.

Required Certifications & Safety Gear

Water sports are thrilling but safety always comes first. Here’s what you need to know before booking.

Scuba Diving Certifications

  • Beginner “Try Dives”: No certification required, just a health questionnaire and basic water comfort.
  • Certified Dives: You must hold an Open Water (OW) certification from PADI, SSI, CMAS, or similar. Bring your certification card and logbook.
  • Advanced Activities: Night dives, deep dives (>18m) and wreck dives may require Advanced Open Water (AOW) certification or proof of experience.

Snorkeling Safety

  • No certification required, but beginners should use life jackets.
  • Guided tours usually include a short safety briefing and floatation support if needed.

Safety Gear Checklist

Vacation Travel Service water activities generally include:

  • Properly fitted masks, fins, snorkels
  • Buoyancy control devices (for divers)
  • Wetsuits for colder seasons
  • Emergency oxygen kit on boat
  • Life jackets for non-swimmers
  • First aid kit onboard

Pro tip: If you have prescription lenses, consider bringing your own mask or ask in advance if corrective masks are available.

Best Time of Year & Local Marine Life

When planning diving trips or snorkeling tours, timing can greatly affect what you see.

Best Seasons

  • Red Sea Region (Hurghada, Marsa Alam): Year-round diving is possible, but the best visibility is usually from March to May and September to November.
  • Summer brings warmer waters (27–30°C), perfect for snorkeling but potentially crowded.
  • Winter has fewer crowds but slightly cooler water (22–24°C) — wetsuits recommended.

Marine Life Highlights

  • Colorful Reef Fish: Butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish
  • Bigger Sightings: Dolphins, turtles, occasional reef sharks (harmless to humans)
  • Coral Gardens: Brain coral, fan coral, soft corals in multiple colors
  • Macro Life: Nudibranchs, cleaner shrimp, small seahorses for those who love photography

Vacation Travel Service guides are trained to help you spot unique species while respecting marine life.

Environmental Responsibility & Marine Conservation

Ocean tourism should never come at the expense of the reefs and animals we enjoy. Vacation Travel Service encourages responsible diving and snorkeling practices:

  • No Touch Policy: Avoid touching coral or marine creatures.
  • Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Chemicals in some sunscreens can harm coral reefs.
  • Do Not Litter: Always keep trash on the boat and dispose of it properly.
  • Support Marine Parks: Many locations include a small park fee that goes toward reef protection—pay it gladly.
  • Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from dolphins, turtles, and rays.

Travelers can help by booking with operators committed to sustainability, which Vacation Travel Service prioritizes.

Cost Comparisons & What to Expect

Prices vary depending on activity type, group size, and season. Here’s a rough guide based on current market averages:

Activity Approx. Cost (per person)
Half-day Snorkeling Tour €25–€40
Full-day Boat & Snorkel (with lunch) €35–€60
Introductory Scuba Dive €50–€80
Certified 2-Dive Boat Trip €60–€100
Water Sports Package (Parasailing + Banana Boat) €40–€70

Family discounts are often available, and children under 5 may be free or half price on many tours. Using the Vacation Travel Service activity search sidebar allows you to compare prices quickly and see which packages include meals, equipment, or hotel transfers.

How to Book with Confidence

Booking water activities should be exciting, not stressful. Here’s how to ensure smooth planning:

  1. Use the Vacation Travel Service Activity Search Sidebar
    Filter by “water activities” or “diving trips” to see updated schedules, availability, and price ranges.
  2. Check Inclusions & Exclusions
    Look for tours that include equipment rental, meals, and transfers to avoid extra costs.
  3. Read Reviews
    Past guest reviews on TripAdvisor and the Vacation Travel Service website give insight into guide professionalism, safety standards, and overall experience.
  4. Confirm Safety & Insurance
    Ask whether the operator is fully licensed and insured, and whether emergency protocols are in place.
  5. Book Early
    Peak season spots (especially for Sataya dolphin trips) fill quickly—reserve your spot at least a few days in advance.

Final Thoughts: Dive In & Discover Your Ocean Adventure

There is nothing quite like gliding over a coral reef, hearing nothing but your bubbles, or laughing with friends on a banana boat ride. Whether you are a first-timer looking for snorkeling tours or an experienced diver seeking a multi-day liveaboard, Vacation Travel Service water activities have something for you.

Ready to get started? Search the sidebar for water-based adventures and reserve your spot today. Compare diving trips, choose family-friendly snorkeling tours, or build your dream water sports package—then sit back knowing your ocean adventure is handled by professionals who care about safety, quality, and the environment.