Although developing rapidly Marsa Alam and its surrounding area is still one of the most unspoilt areas in the Red Sea. 3 hours South of Hurghada the area has become a lot more accessible since the building of Marsa Alam airport in 2001.
The new Mistral centre is located 70km south of Marsa Alam airport at the Shams Alam Hotel. Within the beautiful Wai El-Gemal National Park, this protected area will appeal to those who love nature. Dugongs have been spotted basking in the bay and turtles even come up and lay their eggs on the beach!
Launching takes place in a flat-water lagoon. As soon as you leave the lagoon, you will find moderate waves for jumping and playing in. The waves vary in height, depending on the wind, but are always easy to control and safe. On your way back from further out, to the flat-water lagoon, you can run through all your manoeuvres. This results in a unique mix of flat water and fun in the lagoon combined with prevailing waves further out.
The wind blows predominantly from North (sideshore from the left) and is extremely constant and tends to last the whole day. If it is already blowing force 5 or more in the morning, it will most probably stay this strong for the rest of the day. A thermal wind dominates in the summer and can blow all day with 4 – 8 bft.
This area should have a longer wind season than other resorts in the Red Sea. Although the centre has only been open since March 2008 there are no yearly stats yet but so far it is looking great!
Winter should also be great here. A good guide may be that dive boats limit there departures at this time due to the wind..
The flat, shallow water in the lagoon is the ideal place for beach and waterstart training, and provides one of the best conditions to achieve fully planning gybes before hitting the swell again aswell as other freestyle manoeuvres. If you are looking to perfect your gybes, then this is the spot for you!
The other main activity in Marsa Alam, other than windsurfing, is Scuba Diving. The diving here is most suited to the slightly more experienced divers as you will need at least 50 logged dives to get out to the best dive site at the off shore reef of Elphinstone and Dolphin House. However there are still plenty of excellent spots for snorkeller and beginner divers along the miles of fringing reef that dominate this coast line.
There is no nightlife to speak of except for the bars and restaurant within the hotel, which are excellent.
UK / EU passport holders: A full 10 year passport valid until at least 6 months after date of return. You will require a full Egypt visa for entry into Marsa Alam. The easiest way to get it is on arrival at Marsa Alam Airport where it will cost £12. It can also be obtained in advance from the Egyptian Embassy at a cost of £15 - £20.
There are no compulsory inoculations if traveling from the UK but we recommend to check with your GP for the latest advice.
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