Nefertari Cruise Marsa Alam: A Real Review

Planning a getaway to Marsa Alam, Egypt? Maybe you are eyeing up one of those tempting day trips. So, too, I wanted to talk to you about my experience on the Nefertari Cruise. Is it actually as dreamy as all those pictures? Does it hold up to the promises? Well, that’s just what I am checking out in this review, providing a peek at what this trip offers, helping you decide if it should be on your list of things to do while you’re visiting.

What to anticipate from the Nefertari Cruise

So, anyway, picture this: crystal clear water, sun that’s beating down, and a full day set aside to just check out the aquatic life of the Red Sea. Is that what you’re looking for? Because the Nefertari Cruise, that is, offers exactly that, featuring opportunities for a bit of rest and relaxation, some adventuring, and generally just taking in the peaceful surroundings. With promises of superb snorkeling spots and an included lunch, one does wonder, does this trip actually tick all the boxes for a marvelous day out?

First thing’s first, the cruise usually kicks off very early. You will be picked up straight from your hotel in Marsa Alam. Actually, depending on where you are staying, the trip to the marina might be anything up to an hour or even a bit more. Now, it is essential to keep this in mind. Remember that the day ahead could very well be a lengthy one. Now, when you reach the boat, you can typically expect a welcome briefing from the crew. Usually, they talk you through the plan for the day, give you some safety tips, and then point out all the spots where you can grab refreshments.

You’ll probably notice that the boat is not quite gleaming like it’s brand new, it’s more that it has character – think well-loved. You will definitely notice that it’s absolutely spotlessly clean and seems very well kept. What’s especially worth mentioning is the sun deck. Too often, many people end up spending most of their time there, soaking in the rays as they head out to sea. Find yourself a comfy spot fast! It does fill up as soon as you leave the harbor, yet even if you’re not right at the front, there is something lovely about relaxing up there. A little further down the boat, it’s all mostly shaded, there’s benches and tables set up, in order for those that prefer the cooler spots to hang out. So, anyway, generally speaking, it’s very easy to feel nice and comfy, whichever deck you opt to hang out on.

Snorkelling Locations and Aquatic Encounters

Now, one of the main draws of the Nefertari Cruise would definitely be the promise of impressive snorkeling. Do they deliver? Yes, and in quite a few surprising ways. Typically, the cruise stops at 2 to 3 different locations, each specifically chosen for its teeming aquatic life and visibility. Yet what specifically should one anticipate in those underwater spots?

The snorkeling spots you stop at really, really do depend a bit on the weather and sea conditions, however they all share really clear water and thriving reefs. Usually the boat edges slowly up to the reef and everyone piles onto the deck ready to go. The crew do provide all the gear – so you don’t have to worry about lugging your own. They offer masks, snorkels and fins of different sizes – yet, as I was saying, if you do have your own, I reckon it is always better to bring it – because you just know it will fit! Now, just before you enter the water, there’s always a really swift safety chat from one of the guides. In fact, I cannot stress enough to listen up during the briefing! Because there’s loads of useful advice and it’s key that you fully understand the do’s and don’ts around the coral and sea life. So, in some respects, please listen so you help preserve this underwater paradise.

Once you are in, that’s where all of it actually gets exciting. The Red Sea actually teems with all kinds of fish, vivid corals, and there’s a chance to catch sight of some magnificent creatures. Seriously, expect to find parrotfish, clownfish, and butterflyfish all flashing in and out of view, which provide a kaleidoscope of different colors and patterns. And keep watch for the bigger things as well, such as rays and turtles gracefully gliding over the seabed. Honestly, in some respects, the underwater world here seems to have been pulled straight from a nature documentary.

As a matter of fact, one little tip here; I really, really found that floating aids like noodles or vests really do help less experienced swimmers feel more confident out on the water. It also lets you completely focus on what’s right in front of you without any worry of swimming around. So, honestly, if you have any doubts, don’t be shy. Grab one and enjoy every moment.

A Culinary Escape: Lunch onboard

All that activity in the sea can surely work up an appetite. Lunch onboard the Nefertari Cruise might be one of those bits that pleasantly surprises you. So, you get to enjoy a freshly prepared buffet, typically including a blend of Egyptian and international dishes, made just for the day.

In fact, do picture it, you’ve just gotten back on board after your snorkel. It is likely you will be thinking about food. Seriously, you’ll find an arrangement that is surprisingly appealing when you go downstairs to the main cabin. So, there will be dishes, more or less, that range from grilled fish and chicken to pasta, rice, fresh salads, and local dips such as tahini and hummus. Something really thoughtful, they certainly do seem to take pride in offering dishes which will be to most people’s taste and that would suit anyone with any dietary needs or requirements. Yet there’s more; the drinks, so that includes water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee, flow freely right through the day which helps everyone really stay energized and hydrated. At the end of the day, the entire meal seems nicely prepared and the buffet offers plenty.

Usually there’s quite a buzz right through the dining area around lunch. Visitors swap stories about everything they have seen under the sea, all that while they enjoy their meals with big grins. So, the entire lunch set up actually seems to add something extra, making people bond while offering a spot of culture via its culinary options.

Things to Know & Helpful Tips for Nefertari Cruise

To be honest, going on a cruise much like the Nefertari really, really needs a little preparation in order to make sure you’ve had fun while also considering some sensible stuff. What are some points I’d give to make the most of the day?

First, slap on the sunscreen, everyone! It is almost so very vital, as the sun down there can beat strongly even on days that are cloudy. So, go for a high SPF, reapply it all through the day, especially after you’ve been in the water. As well as that, think about taking along a hat and a pair of UV protected sunglasses in order to guard yourself against any harsh sunshine.

So, you might want to pack a towel. Whilst some tours could offer towels, there’s every chance you will have to bring your own in order to ensure that you’ve got one handy after those swimming activities. Also, I reckon that bringing a waterproof camera or a phone case can be brilliant in capturing some brilliant photos right under the sea. Seriously, I think you might actually find it useful!

Anyway, here is something, staying hydrated really is essential, more or less. Keep swigging from your water bottle right through the day in order to avoid getting dehydrated, especially as you will probably spend hours in sunlight and actively snorkelling. Then I also suggest, it might seem obvious, but, honestly, if you know that you may be prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness tablets prior to the trip, that is, to actually help avoid discomfort on the water.

Is the Nefertari Cruise a Great Value Trip?

The Nefertari Cruise down in Marsa Alam does give a combination of rest, excitement and beautiful panoramas of the Red Sea. You do get something, and the opportunity of swimming and snorkeling right in some splendid locations and tucking into good grub onboard seems to be well worth the time. However, here’s the deal, so in order to squeeze the very most from this experience, be prepared, keep safe, and get ready to embrace everything this cruise brings your way.

In short, the Nefertari Cruise delivers something memorable and vibrant for anyone looking to discover everything aquatic of the Red Sea without having to stress. Whether you might be after those superb spots to snorkel, that yummy grub or really needing a chilled boat ride, it is a good choice that blends together all you would want when looking for that perfect escape onto water.