Done: The Dahab hotel manager suggested snorkelling, but didn't prepare us for the reef's magnificence- both in beauty and size (2nd largest reef in the world). It was a quiet site, by the shore (no boat or scuba gear needed), with a rich and diverse marine environment of fascinating shapes and mesmerising shades.
Why: Initially, the goal was to "Dive into the Great Barrier Reef- to explore the world's largest coral formation". But with the bleaching, and Australia being far and expensive... not sure that's feasible or worthwhile anymore. I'm satisfied with the Red Sea reef visit, and so grateful to have seen a coral reef while they're still around.