Hamata Islands (Qulaan Archipelago) *****

Description

Price – local excursion organizer Steven, who has lived and worked in Marsa Alam for over a decade, is currently offering an amazing value 58 euro per person all-in fishing and snorkelling day trip to the remote and beautiful Hamata islands. The trip is available on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and the price is based on four or more people sharing the trip and includes your skipper, who is also your guide for the day and your cook, all your fishing equipment, a freshly prepared on board lunch, soft drinks, plenty of bottled water and your pick up and transfer back to your hotel anywhere within 60 km of Marsa Alam. A small surcharge will apply to more distant hotels. It is also possible to take fewer than four people but a minimum charge of 150 euros applies due to the high fixed costs involved. Children up to 11 years have a 50 per cent discount on the price.

Plus points – beautiful remote location. The islands are fringed with some of the most beautifully diverse coral reefs you can find anywhere in the world, white sandy beaches and tranquil lagoons where you can snorkel and also see some of the many species of birds who have made the islands their home. You can also frequently find dugongs, dolphins, rays, clown fish and marine turtles enjoying the diverse biological habitats which surround the islands, as well as hundreds of other colourful examples of Red Sea marine life.

Negatives – Approximately a ninety minute journey to reach Hamata harbour although it does depend on the location of your hotel and you will see some incredible scenery of the inland mountains and desert on the way down. You will need to set your alarm fairly early but ask your hotel to make an early breakfast for you or alternatively ask your driver if there’s anywhere on your route you can buy some food.

See the Hamata Islands excursion page.