Snorkeling safety and coral reef etiquette in Hurghada, Egypt

Some tourists deliberately break off pieces of coral for dramatic GoPro shots or stand directly on the reef — this destroys living coral that grows extremely slowly.

Even seemingly harmless actions like picking up a shell near the shore can draw criticism, as shells are part of the reef ecosystem.

In the Makadi Bay area, stingrays can react aggressively if you try to swim close for photos or video — keep your distance and avoid provoking them.

If a stingray turns toward you while swimming, head to shore where other people are — it's safer than staying alone in open water with the animal.