"Do you think we'll actually see one?" It's probably the question I hear most on the drive to Abu Dabbab. The "one" they're talking about, of course, is a sea turtle. I always give the same answer.
"I hope so." Not because I don't know the area. Because nobody should promise wildlife. That's one of the reasons Abu Dabbab is so special. The turtles aren't there because someone put them there for tourists. They live here.
Every morning they follow the same routine, grazing on the seagrass that covers the bay, completely unaware that people travel from all over the world hoping to spend a few minutes swimming beside them.
You're entering their world, not the other way around. And somehow, that makes the experience even more unforgettable.
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More Than Just Another Snorkelling Trip
Most people planning a Red Sea holiday imagine climbing onto a boat, sailing to a coral reef and spending an hour in the water before moving on to the next stop.
Abu Dabbab is different. The day begins on the beach. You walk straight into the sea, mask on, fins ready, and start exploring at your own pace.
There are no whistles telling you it's time to get back on the boat. No feeling that you're racing against the clock.
A professional snorkelling guide is there throughout the day, showing guests the best areas to explore and pointing out where turtles are most often seen.
Whether it's your first time snorkelling or you've done it dozens of times before, having someone who knows the bay makes a huge difference.
Some guests spend their time above the seagrass, hoping to spot a turtle feeding below. Others head towards the coral to admire the colourful fish that call this bay home.
The beauty of Abu Dabbab is that you don't have to choose. You have time to enjoy both.
The Moment Everyone Remembers
It's funny how quiet people become when the first turtle appears. Nobody shouts. Nobody splashes. Someone simply points into the water. A guide gives a gentle signal. You look down. And suddenly it's there.
A huge green sea turtle gliding effortlessly across the seabed, completely relaxed, continuing its day as if nobody else is around.
For a few moments, everyone forgets about taking photos. They simply watch. There are no barriers. No glass. No aquarium. Just you, floating above one of the ocean's oldest creatures in its natural home.
It's one of those moments that stays with you long after your holiday is over.
And If Luck Is On Your Side.
As unforgettable as the turtles are, Abu Dabbab has another famous resident. The dugong. Often called the "sea cow," this gentle marine mammal feeds in the seagrass meadows around the bay. Unlike the turtles, sightings are never guaranteed.
That's exactly what makes them so exciting. On some days, you may only hear stories from other visitors.
On other days, you might find yourself watching one peacefully feeding beneath the surface, almost unaware of the people quietly observing from above. It's a reminder that this isn't a wildlife attraction. It's nature. And nature always decides what happens.
A Day That Never Feels Rushed
One thing I appreciate about Abu Dabbab is its pace. You're not constantly checking the time or wondering when the next stop begins. After spending the morning exploring the bay, it's time to take a break for lunch.
A meal and a soft drink are included, giving everyone the chance to relax, share stories about what they've seen and recharge before heading back into the water if they want to.
Some people spend the afternoon searching for another turtle. Others simply enjoy another swim over the reef or relax on the beach. The day feels flexible. You're not trying to fit five experiences into a few hours. You're enjoying one place properly.
Why Abu Dabbab Is Different
I've taken guests on many snorkeling trips over the years, and every one of them has something special to offer. But Abu Dabbab has a personality of its own. It's not about loud music or packed schedules. It's not about rushing from one photo stop to the next.
It's about slowing down and appreciating what's already there. You enter the sea from the beach. You swim at your own pace. You spend time where the wildlife actually lives. Sometimes the best travel experiences aren't the busiest ones. They're the ones that allow nature to set the rhythm.
Who Will Enjoy This Trip?
If your perfect holiday means relaxing by a pool all week, Abu Dabbab might not be at the top of your list.
But if you've ever dreamed of seeing marine wildlife in its natural habitat, it's an experience that's hard to forget.
Families love it because the beach entry makes snorkeling accessible. Couples enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to share a unique experience together. Nature lovers appreciate that nothing here feels staged.
Everything happens naturally. That's what makes every visit slightly different from the last.
Planning Your Abu Dabbab Adventure
If you're considering a trip to Abu Dabbab, it's worth choosing a local operator that knows the area well and can help you make the most of the day.
You can explore the Abu Dabbab excursion from Hurghada along with other Red Sea experiences through Aquila Adventures, where the focus is on well-organised trips, experienced local teams and giving guests enough time to enjoy each destination rather than rushing through it.
If you're still deciding how to spend your time in Hurghada, you can also browse the full selection of daily tours and excursions to see what else the region has to offer.
Final Thoughts
People often ask me if Abu Dabbab is worth the drive from Hurghada. My answer is always the same. If you're hoping to tick another excursion off your list…
Maybe not. But if you want one of those travel moments that you'll still be talking about years from now.
Absolutely. Because long after you've forgotten what you had for lunch or how many fish you counted beneath the surface, you'll remember one simple moment.
Floating quietly in warm, clear water. Looking down. And watching a wild sea turtle glide peacefully beneath you. Sometimes, that's all it takes to turn a good holiday into one you'll never forget.
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