Day Tour to Snorkeling Trip to Giftun Island in Egypt

If you’re planning a visit to Hurghada and looking for a way to enjoy the stunning Red Sea, a day trip to Giftun Island promises an accessible, fun-packed excursion. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect — and it looks like a worthwhile adventure for those eager to see vibrant marine life and enjoy some relaxing time on the water.

What really stands out about this trip are two things: the professional service with friendly staff (notably Mr. Fikry, who gets high praise) and the beautiful snorkeling spots filled with colorful corals and fish. The trip’s affordability—just $30 per person—also makes it appealing for budget travelers.

On the flip side, potential guests should consider the extra charge for hotel pickups outside Hurghada proper, which can add to the overall cost if you’re staying in Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Soma Bay, or Makadi Bay.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love marine life, enjoy a relaxed vibe, and are looking for an easy way to explore Egypt’s underwater treasures without breaking the bank. If you’re after a more exclusive, private experience or want to include dolphin swimming, you might want to explore other options. But for an authentic, family-friendly day on the Red Sea with good value, this snorkeling trip fits the bill.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $30 per person, this trip offers great value for a day of underwater exploration.
• Flexible Booking and Pickup: Early booking (about 9 days in advance) is recommended, and pickup is available from several Hurghada-area hotels.
• Beautiful Marine Spots: Expect to snorkel in areas rich with corals and colorful fish, with a chance to swim with dolphins.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes lunch, snorkeling equipment, and tea/coffee, making it convenient.
• Professional Service: Positive reviews highlight friendly, helpful staff who make the day memorable.
• Weather Dependency: Like any outdoor activity, the trip is weather-dependent — cancellations due to poor conditions are possible but come with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel around 5:30 pm if you’re in Hurghada, though reviews mention an 8:30 am start time for some trips—clarify this with your tour provider. The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring some comfort during the transfer from your hotel to the seafront. If your hotel is in Hurghada proper, this part is straightforward, but if you’re staying in Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Makadi Bay, or Soma Bay, be prepared for an extra charge.

The Cruise and Snorkeling Spots

Once you arrive at the jetty, you’ll board a cruise—likely a boat with enough space for your group. The boat is your gateway to several snorkeling spots where the real magic begins. These areas are well-known for their vivid coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, making it a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

Reviewers consistently mention the colorful fish and corals, with one stating, “Many thanks for the excellent service and hospitality,” highlighting the professionalism of the crew. Snorkeling duration is generally around 30 to 40 minutes, giving ample time to explore underwater life before moving on.

Swimming with Dolphins & Other Activities

While the primary focus is snorkeling, some trips mention the possibility of swimming with dolphins, which can be a real highlight if you’re lucky. Plus, options like banana boat rides are mentioned by travelers, providing some extra fun during the day. These extras are usually arranged by the crew and add a little variety to the trip.

Lunch and Relaxation

After swimming, you’ll enjoy an open buffet lunch onboard—a surprisingly generous inclusion at this price point. The meal offers a chance to relax and refuel before heading back to the jetty. Expect a simple but satisfying selection, suitable for most tastes.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up around 4 pm, and you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The reviews emphasize smooth logistics and attentive service, making the entire experience stress-free.

Authentic Marine Encounters

Many travelers praise the stunning views and vivid underwater scenery, noting that the coral reefs are teeming with life. One reviewer even mentions a dolphin chase, indicating the potential for some unexpected and exciting moments.

The professional team and supportive staff contribute significantly to the positive experience, according to reviews. The mention of Mr. Fikry’s support and warm welcome suggests that the crew genuinely cares about guest experience.

Why It’s a Good Choice

This trip is ideal for those seeking value, convenience, and authentic marine encounters. It’s also suitable for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a relaxed day on the water. The private tour aspect means your group enjoys a personalized experience without large crowds.

Price and Value

At just $30, this snorkeling trip offers excellent value, especially considering the lunch and snorkeling equipment included. Comparing it with more expensive tours, you get a well-rounded experience that’s both affordable and memorable.

The reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, which enhances the overall value—good service can turn a simple trip into a delightful adventure.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early, especially if you want to ensure pickup from your hotel.
• Clarify the pickup time and meeting point—the activity starts around 5:30 pm from Seagull Beach Resort, but some reviews mention an earlier start.
• Be prepared for possible extra charges if staying outside Hurghada.
• Bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and towels.
• Confirm if dolphins and other optional activities are available on your specific trip.
• Check the weather forecast, as poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Remember, tips are not included, so consider bringing some small change for the crew.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to experience the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea without splurging, this snorkeling trip to Giftun Island checks many boxes. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed excursion that balances value, professional service, and authentic marine sights. The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds to its convenience, making it perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free day of adventure and relaxation.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the stunning coral reefs, colorful fishes, and potential dolphin sightings ensure a memorable outing. Its most significant advantage is the friendly, supportive crew, who make safety and enjoyment their priority.

If you’re in Hurghada and want to explore the Red Sea’s underwater treasures, this tour offers a solid, budget-friendly choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences and straightforward, reliable service.

FAQ

Is pickup available from all Hurghada hotels?
Pickup is offered from Hurghada, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay, and Soma Bay, but hotels outside Hurghada may incur an extra charge.

What is the starting time?
The tour typically starts around 5:30 pm. However, some reviews mention an 8:30 am start, so confirm your pickup time with the provider.

How long is the snorkeling?
You can expect about 30 to 40 minutes of snorkeling at different spots, enough to see the vibrant marine life.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, an open buffet lunch is included, providing a good variety of food to enjoy after your underwater adventures.

Are the snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is included in the price.

Can I swim with dolphins on this trip?
There is a possibility to swim with dolphins, depending on the day’s conditions, as mentioned in some reviews.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized feel.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The standard price is $30 per person, offering great value given the inclusions and experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, waterproof camera, towels, and perhaps a small amount of cash for tips or extras.

This snorkeling trip to Giftun Island offers an engaging, value-packed way to enjoy Egypt’s famous Red Sea. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler, the vibrant marine life and friendly service make it worthwhile.