FAQ: diving in Hurghada, with personal care.
This FAQ on diving in Hurghada brings together 50 useful answers about learning to dive, boat days, the seasons and your holiday. Whether you are taking your first breath underwater or returning to the Red Sea, we want you to feel informed and comfortable.
We are a British-owned and managed team, with patient PADI Master Instructors and small groups. If your question is personal to you, get in touch for a friendly chat.
FAQ: diving in Hurghada for beginners
Your first course should feel exciting, supported and unhurried.
Can a complete beginner learn scuba diving in Hurghada?
Yes. The PADI Open Water course is designed for beginners, so you do not need previous scuba experience. You do need to meet the swimming, medical and age requirements. At Dive UK Hurghada, we start gently from shore and help you build confidence step by step. Explore our PADI Open Water course.
How long does the PADI Open Water course in Hurghada take?
Our practical Open Water course normally takes three days, after you complete your PADI eLearning before arrival. Days usually run from around 8 am until 1–2 pm, depending on your progress. We never rush you. Certification depends on completing every requirement; extra training, if needed, costs £120 per person per additional day.
Do I need to be able to swim before learning to dive?
Yes. For PADI Open Water certification, you must swim 200 metres without stopping, or snorkel 300 metres using a mask, fins and snorkel. There is no time limit. You must also float or tread water for ten minutes. If you are unsure about your swimming, speak to us before booking.
How old must children be to learn scuba diving in Hurghada?
PADI Junior Open Water training starts from age ten. Children have age-specific depth and supervision limits. With us, under-14s learn one-to-one unless learning with a parent or sibling. For under-16s, a parent attends at least the first day and later sessions when needed. Tell us your child’s age and water confidence so we can help.
Is your Open Water diving course taught from shore or a boat?
We teach the entire practical Open Water course from shore, beginning in suitable shallow water where you can stand. This gives you time to practise without a boat timetable adding pressure. Your learning experience is very important to us. Once qualified, you can enjoy boat diving in Hurghada with our team.
Can I complete my PADI eLearning before travelling to Hurghada?
Yes. Once we receive your course booking and £200 per-person deposit, we send your PADI eLearning with instructions. Complete it before you arrive, at a pace that suits you. If something is unclear, ask us for help. Then your time in Hurghada can focus on putting that knowledge into practice.
How much does the PADI Open Water course cost in Hurghada?
Our Open Water course costs £500 for one person, £450 each for two, £420 each for three or £400 each for four booking and taking the course together. A private course for one is £650. Equipment, eLearning, certification, marine fees and taxes are included. See current prices and transfer conditions; shore-course lunch is not included.
How many students learn with each diving instructor?
We normally teach two students per instructor. Suitable family groups can learn together with up to four family members per instructor, while children have additional arrangements. We keep teaching groups small so you have time to ask questions, practise and feel comfortable. A four-person booking price does not mean four unrelated students share one instructor.
What if I feel nervous about learning to dive?
Please tell us. Feeling nervous before your first dives is very common, and you do not need to hide it. We explain each step, begin shallow and work at your pace. If you would prefer a gentle introduction before committing to a qualification, our Try Scuba Experience gives you personal, one-to-one support.
How deep can I dive after my PADI Open Water course?
Adult Open Water certification prepares you to dive with a buddy to a maximum of 18 metres, within your training and experience. Junior divers have age-specific restrictions. Depth is a limit, not a target. Afterwards, we recommend two days of guided boat diving to practise your new skills and enjoy the reefs.
Start your PADI Open Water journey
Learn to dive with patient guidance, small teaching groups and time to build your confidence. Our shore-based PADI Open Water course helps you take each step at your own pace, with personal support from our team.
Daily diving in Hurghada
Small groups, two dives and time to enjoy your boat day.
Do I need a qualification for daily diving in Hurghada?
Yes. Our guided daily fun dives are for qualified divers. Send us your certification level, recent experience and the date of your last dive when booking. If you are not qualified, choose our Try Scuba Experience or PADI Open Water course instead. We will help you choose the right starting point.
How many dives are included in a daily diving trip?
Our standard daily diving includes two dives during a full boat day, with time to rest between them. We plan the dives around the group, the sites and the conditions. Dive duration depends on factors such as air use and the agreed dive plan, so we do not promise the same underwater time for everyone.
How big are your guided diving groups in Hurghada?
We take a maximum of four divers per PADI Master Instructor on guided fun dives. Small groups help us give you personal attention and choose a pace that suits your experience. Tell us if you are newly qualified, returning after a break or travelling with friends of different abilities, so we can plan appropriately.
Can I choose the dive sites we visit in Hurghada?
You are welcome to tell us what you would love to see. However, we choose sites on the morning according to weather, currents and the group’s experience. A requested reef or wreck cannot be guaranteed. This flexibility lets us put your safety and enjoyment first, rather than following a fixed route regardless of conditions.
What is included in your daily diving prices?
Daily diving includes two dives, cylinders, weights, marine fees and taxes. Your boat day also includes lunch. Equipment hire costs extra if needed. Transfers are included only for accommodation within 2 km of the facility used for your activity; we quote farther journeys separately. See our daily diving prices and inclusions before booking.
Can I hire scuba equipment for diving in Hurghada?
Yes. Full scuba kit hire costs £25 per day or £100 for five days. A dive computer is separate from that full-kit price. We maintain equipment to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and we will help you check the fit before use. Please tell us what you need in advance and check our equipment hire prices.
Are hotel transfers included for daily diving in Hurghada?
Transfers are free when your accommodation is within 2 km of the facility used for your activity. For hotels farther away, send us the name and location so we can quote the return journey. We confirm your collection arrangements before the day. Boat routes and conditions can affect the return time.
Can my non-diving partner join my diving boat day?
Yes, we can discuss arrangements for you to enjoy the same boat day. Your partner may prefer snorkelling or our Try Scuba Experience, with two one-to-one instructor dives, while you join the qualified divers. Please book both activities together so we can confirm suitability, space and each person’s price.
Are there diving packages for four friends in Hurghada?
Yes. For four divers booking together, daily diving is £55 per person per day for 1–3 days, or £50 per person per day for a 4–5 day package. Five days therefore cost £250 each, with ten dives. Equipment hire is extra. Check our group packages and special offers for the full conditions and availability.
Do I need a refresher before diving in Hurghada?
If you have not dived for more than six months, please tell us before booking so we can arrange the appropriate refresher. Also mention any lost confidence, even after a shorter break. Our listed refresher includes two dives and equipment if needed. We want your return to diving to feel comfortable, not rushed.
Take your first dives at your pace
Your first scuba experience should give you time to settle in and enjoy it. Our Try Scuba day includes two one-to-one dives with an instructor, with lunch and a relaxed boat day between the underwater moments.
FAQ: diving in Hurghada through the seasons
Plan for the conditions, stay comfortable and help care for the Red Sea.
What is the best time of year for diving in Hurghada?
Hurghada offers diving throughout the year, subject to conditions. Spring and autumn can offer a pleasant balance of sea warmth and air temperature; summer brings the warmest water. Winter diving is also possible, but you need to plan for cooler water and wind on the boat. Tell us your dates and how easily you feel cold.
What are the water temperatures in Hurghada throughout the year?
As a planning guide, Hurghada’s average sea-surface temperature is around 22–23°C in January–March, rising towards 28–29°C in July–September. April–June and October–December are transition periods. The monthly guide below shows rounded historical averages, not a forecast or a promise for your dive depth. Ask us about recent local conditions before packing.
What wetsuit should I bring for winter diving in Hurghada?
Most of our customers wear a 3 mm wetsuit throughout the year. If you tend to feel the cold, we recommend a 5 mm wetsuit for December, January, February, March and April. Tell us your dates and how easily you get cold so we can help you choose a comfortable fit for your diving days.
Is a 3 mm wetsuit enough for summer diving in Hurghada?
Yes, a 3 mm wetsuit is usually fine for our customers from May through November. In July, August, September, October and November, many of our customers choose to dive in just a rash vest, without a wetsuit. Everyone feels the water differently, so choose what keeps you comfortable and discuss your preferences with us.
What wetsuit is suitable for spring and autumn diving?
Most of our customers are comfortable in a 3 mm wetsuit. For March and April, a 5 mm suit is worth considering if you tend to feel the cold. From May through November, a 3 mm suit is usually fine; many customers wear just a rash vest in September, October and November. We are happy to help you plan for your dates and personal comfort.
What are visibility and currents like when diving in Hurghada?
In our experience, visibility in Hurghada is usually 30–40 metres for the vast majority of the year, although we cannot guarantee it. Coral spawning usually reduces visibility twice a year, for about a week each time. Currents vary with the reef and the day. Your instructor explains the conditions and dive plan before entry, and we choose sites that suit the group, with safety always coming first.
Does windy weather affect boat diving in Hurghada?
Yes. Wind can make boat journeys uncomfortable or make some sites unsuitable, and the authorities may close the sea. We adapt plans to the conditions and explain any changes. If Dive UK cancels your trip, our booking terms provide for a refund, an alternative date or shore-diving option. Safety always comes before keeping to a timetable.
What marine life might I see while diving in Hurghada?
Hurghada’s reefs offer colourful fish and corals, with opportunities to see animals such as moray eels, rays and turtles. Dolphins or sharks may also be encountered, but wildlife is never guaranteed. We enjoy watching animals on their terms: give them space, follow the briefing and never chase, feed or touch them.
How can I protect the coral reefs while diving?
Keep good buoyancy, secure loose equipment and leave space between your fins and the reef. Avoid touching coral or collecting shells and other marine life, even as souvenirs. Also keep your distance when taking photographs. If you would like more control in the water, our Peak Performance Buoyancy course can help you develop those skills.
How should I protect myself from the sun on a diving day?
Use shade, a hat and suitable sun-protective clothing, and drink water regularly. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin according to its directions, while choosing products thoughtfully. A “reef safe” label alone is not proof that a product is harmless. Between dives, get comfortable and avoid sitting in a closed wetsuit in strong heat.
Hurghada water temperatures by month
A rounded guide for planning your diving holiday, rather than a forecast for your dates.
| Month | Average | Month | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 23°C | Jul | 28°C |
| Feb | 22°C | Aug | 29°C |
| Mar | 22°C | Sep | 28°C |
| Apr | 23°C | Oct | 27°C |
| May | 25°C | Nov | 27°C |
| Jun | 26°C | Dec | 25°C |
Based on historical sea-surface averages published by SeaTemperatures.net, rounded to the nearest degree. Individual years, sites and water at depth can differ.
Join us for daily diving in Hurghada
Make your next Hurghada visit a diving holiday to remember. Enjoy two guided dives during a relaxed boat day, with a maximum of four divers per PADI Master Instructor and personal care throughout. Tell us your dates and experience, and we will help you arrange your diving days.
Planning your Hurghada diving holiday
Bring your ideas. We will help with the practical details.
Do you arrange complete diving holidays in Hurghada?
Yes. We arrange diving holidays with self-catering studio accommodation, private airport transfers, booked diving days and personal local support. Flights are booked separately. Equipment hire and extra excursions are additional unless your agreed quote says otherwise. Start with our Hurghada diving holiday packages, then tell us what would make the holiday right for you.
How many days should I allow for a Hurghada diving holiday?
Our listed packages offer seven nights with five diving days, ten nights with eight diving days, or fourteen nights with eleven diving days. We can also discuss other lengths of stay. Allow time to settle in, enjoy other activities and leave a suitable interval between your last dive and flight home.
Should I book flights before arranging my diving holiday?
Please speak to us first so we can check accommodation, diving and course availability for your dates. Once we have discussed the arrangements, you book your flights to Hurghada and send us the details to confirm the package. This helps us plan your airport collection and avoid a holiday built around unavailable dates.
What accommodation is included in your Hurghada diving holidays?
Our listed Hurghada holiday packages use self-catering studio apartments, with double or twin options. Studios have a fridge; some have small kitchen facilities. We explain the specific accommodation before you confirm. Restaurants and shops are nearby, and we are happy to help with local advice throughout your stay.
Can I book a diving holiday in Hurghada on my own?
Yes, solo travellers are very welcome. Our holiday page lists the total prices including the single supplement, so you can see the cost clearly. Tell us your diving experience and preferences when you enquire. You can join our small guided groups, with personal help planning your stay and activities. See solo holiday prices.
Can you arrange a holiday for a diver and a non-diving partner?
Yes. We can tailor a holiday around both of you, with a reduction for the non-diving partner and options such as a boat day, snorkelling or Try Scuba. The reduction depends on the arrangements, so we confirm it in your quote. You can also leave time together for the beach, restaurants and sightseeing.
Can I include a PADI course in my diving holiday?
Yes. We can plan Open Water, Advanced or a suitable speciality course alongside your accommodation and diving. Tell us your existing qualification and what you want to learn. We recommend allowing two boat-diving days afterwards to practise. Any package course offer depends on the course and agreed booking; we will confirm the details with you.
Can I take rest days during a diving package?
We can discuss rest days when planning your holiday, so please agree the schedule before booking. Discounted diving packages run on consecutive days unless we agree otherwise. Changing a booked day later may involve a supplement or losing that day’s payment. Our booking terms explain this distinction, and we are happy to help plan a comfortable pace.
Can I combine diving in Hurghada with Cairo or Luxor?
Yes. We can discuss adding a Cairo trip, a Luxor trip or a tailored Egypt itinerary to your stay. Tell us what interests you and we will explain the schedule and cost. Plan sightseeing and diving together, including any flight or altitude restrictions after diving.
How do I book and pay for diving in Hurghada?
Contact us with your dates, accommodation, number of guests and diving experience. We confirm availability and a clear quote. Daily diving normally needs a £50 per-person deposit; courses need £200 per person. Deposits are paid by UK bank transfer or Wise, and activity balances in cash. Holiday payment arrangements are confirmed separately. Read our payment terms; we do not accept cards.
A holiday with personal attention
From choosing your diving days to helping you find your way around Hurghada, we are here to make the details easier. Tell us who is coming and what you would love to do.
More courses and safer diving in Hurghada
Keep learning, know your limits and ask whenever you are unsure.
Can I try scuba diving in Hurghada without taking a course?
Yes. Our Try Scuba Experience is a full boat day with two dives, each one-to-one with an instructor, and lunch included. We begin very shallow and move slowly at your pace. It is an introduction, not a diver qualification. If you enjoy it, PADI Open Water is your next step towards becoming certified.
When should I take the PADI Advanced course in Hurghada?
After your Open Water course, we recommend enjoying 20 fun dives before taking Advanced. This gives you time to build confidence and practise your skills, so you can get the most out of the course. Our PADI Advanced course includes five Adventure Dives over two days, with shore training first and a boat day second. We will help you choose the right next step for your experience.
What do I need before taking the PADI Rescue course?
You need the qualifying diving background, including underwater navigation, and current CPR and first-aid training within the previous 24 months. Send us your certification details so we can check your route. Our Rescue and Emergency First Response information explains the options. EFR is a separate course and price when needed; we can also review an equivalent first-aid qualification.
Is Nitrox useful for repeated diving in Hurghada?
Nitrox contains less nitrogen than air and can extend no-decompression limits, depending on the dive plan. It does not make a cylinder last longer or allow you to dive deeper. You need appropriate training, gas analysis and oxygen-depth planning. Our PADI Enriched Air Nitrox course explains how to use it properly.
Which PADI speciality should I choose for diving in Hurghada?
Choose a speciality that fits your experience and interests. Buoyancy training can help your control around reefs; Nitrox develops gas-planning skills; Wreck and Deep courses have their own entry requirements and limits. Tell us what you enjoy and where you would like to improve. We will help you choose from our PADI speciality courses.
Do I need a medical certificate before scuba diving?
You must complete the relevant diver medical questionnaire honestly and follow its instructions. Some answers require a doctor’s evaluation before you dive; others do not. Arrange any required clearance before travelling, and tell us if your health changes. If you have a cold, ear trouble or difficulty equalising, do not push through it: speak to your instructor and seek medical advice when needed.
How long should I wait before flying after diving?
For symptom-free recreational divers, DAN recommends at least 12 hours after one no-decompression dive, or 18 hours after multiple dives or diving on consecutive days. Longer is more cautious; leaving a full day without diving is useful holiday planning. Decompression diving needs a longer interval. If you have possible decompression symptoms, seek urgent medical advice and do not fly.
Do I need diving insurance for my Hurghada trip?
Yes, you are responsible for arranging suitable cover. Check that your policy covers your planned scuba activities, certification and depth limits, plus medical treatment and emergency evacuation where needed. Ordinary travel cover may have restrictions, so check the wording with your insurer. Our insurance terms explain your responsibilities; you are not covered by Dive UK Hurghada’s insurance.
What should I bring for a day of diving in Hurghada?
Bring your certification details and logbook if qualified, swimwear, a towel, sun protection and a reusable water bottle. A dry layer or windproof top is useful between dives, especially in cooler weather. Also bring any personal medication you need and your insurance details. Tell us about equipment needs, medical considerations and dietary requirements before the day.
What happens if I cancel or weather stops our diving?
If Dive UK cancels for weather or another reason, we offer a full refund, a free alternative date or shore dives. Customer cancellations have different terms: money already paid is non-refundable, and any transfer is considered individually with conditions and possible fees. Please read our full cancellation terms before booking, and contact us early if your plans change.
Choose your next PADI course
Whether you are learning to dive or developing your skills, browse our full PADI course catalogue and choose the course that interests you. Each course has its own page with more information, and we are here to help you decide what suits your experience and goals.
Still have a question about diving in Hurghada?
Ask us. Tell us about your experience, your dates and anything you feel unsure about. We will help you choose a course, boat day or holiday that suits you, and explain the costs before you book.
Contact us for a private consultation · Prices and inclusions · Booking terms
Answers reviewed 16 October 2026. Seasonal temperatures are planning guides. Medical decisions belong with a qualified doctor; your instructor will help with the diving arrangements.