Makadi: Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise to Orange Bay & Lunch

Makadi: Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise to Orange Bay & Lunch — A Detailed Review

If you’re planning a trip to Hurghada and looking for a way to combine adventure, relaxation, and a touch of tropical paradise, the Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise might just be what you need. Though I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a lively, scenic outing perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the Red Sea’s best.

This experience promises a quick-paced boat ride, stunning snorkeling spots, and a luscious beach haven—all for around $53 per person.

Two things we love about this tour? First, the opportunity to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life, which is a treasure for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. Second, the beautiful Orange Bay Island—a postcard-perfect stretch of white sand and clear waters, ideal for unwinding after your aquatic adventures.

A potential consideration is the speedboat’s speed—it can make the ride a little chilly, especially if you’re sensitive to wind or water spray.

Still, this tour is best suited for those craving an active, scenic day out that balances adventure with laid-back beach time.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a straightforward, value-packed day of snorkeling, beach lounging, and enjoying the Red Sea’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for a relaxing island escape combined with some fun aquatic activity, this cruise fits the bill.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 16 Best Tours & Things To Do In Makadi Bay.

Key Points

• Scenic Speedboat Ride: Fast, comfortable, and exciting, giving you quick access to the islands while enjoying the sea breeze.
• Snorkeling in Pristine Reefs: Encounter colorful fish, coral, and possibly sea turtles at two separate spots.
• Stunning Orange Bay: A tropical paradise perfect for relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes snorkeling gear, soft drinks, fruits, and a tasty lunch.
• Flexible Options: Add parasailing or upgrade to seafood lunch for an extra thrill or culinary treat.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers except those with back problems or seasickness concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup and Onward Travel

The tour begins with hotel pickup, which is a huge plus—no need to worry about figuring out transportation to the marina. The provider, Go Shalabi, clearly cares about making your day as smooth as possible by organizing transfers, though they emphasize punctuality. Expect to receive your pickup details by email the night before, which helps plan your morning. Keep in mind, the pickup points are at the main hotel entrance, not at the reception—so a bit of extra attention to your hotel’s layout is helpful.

The Speedboat Journey: Fast and Fun

Once aboard the boat, the ride to the first snorkeling spot takes about 20 minutes. Reviewers highlight how quick and comfortable the trip is, with onboard shaded areas and a stereo system to enjoy some tunes. The speedboat itself is described as speedy and comfortable, making the trip exciting without being rough. However, one reviewer pointed out that the boat’s speed can make you feel quite cold—so bringing a sweater or jacket is advisable, especially if you tend to feel chilly in the wind.

Snorkeling Adventures: Coral Reefs and Marine Life

The core of this tour is the snorkeling. You get two stops, each about 20 minutes long, giving you time to explore vibrant underwater worlds. Expect to see a dazzling array of colorful fish, coral formations, and possibly sea turtles—reviews consistently praise the snorkeling as “fantastic.” The gear provided is good quality, making it accessible even for beginners.

Many travelers mention how their guides, like Sabry, assist with snorkeling and make the experience more enjoyable—especially helpful if you’re new or a little nervous about water activities. The reefs are lively, and the marine environment is a true highlight, easily making this one of the most memorable parts of the day.

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Orange Bay: A Tropical Escape

After snorkeling, the boat heads to Orange Bay Island—a jewel of the Red Sea. The island’s white sands and turquoise waters create a Caribbean-like setting that’s perfect for relaxing. Several reviews rave about its picturesque scenery. You can choose to lounge on the beach, swim in the calm waters, or take a stroll and explore.

Lunch on the Island: Simple, Tasty, and Optional

The tour includes a lunch box with cheese sandwich and roast beef, a practical and satisfying meal after your aquatic adventures. There’s also an option to upgrade to seafood or add a full restaurant-style lunch during checkout. Reviews note the lunch as “delicious,” especially when combined with a relaxing break on the island.

Visitors appreciate the opportunity to sit in a shaded area, enjoy some seasonal fruits, and hydrate with soft drinks and mineral water. For those wanting a more leisurely day, the island offers plenty of space to unwind, swim, or explore at your own pace.

Additional Options and Considerations

Optional add-ons like parasailing can elevate this experience, offering sweeping views of the Red Sea from above. Also, the tour’s flexibility allows for longer or shorter trips, and the inclusion of long-range pickups from other areas like Safaga or Soma Bay is available, providing convenience for more distant guests.

Reviews and Feedback: What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating based on 26 reviews. Many travelers mention the friendly crew, the stunning vistas, and the well-organized snorkeling stops. Werner praised the friendliness of everyone involved, calling it “a wonderful experience,” while Alexandra appreciated the helpfulness of guides during snorkeling.

Some reviews also provide a heads-up: one traveler noted that the boat was a “big rubber dinghy” which caused some discomfort and was unsuitable for those with seasickness. They preferred larger boats for stability, so that’s something to consider if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more stable ride.

Timing and Group Size

The tour is designed as a half-day activity, starting early to maximize the experience. Group sizes can vary, but the overall flow remains manageable. The duration, about 4-5 hours, suits travelers who want a fulfilling adventure without dedicating an entire day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $53, this tour packs in snorkeling, boat rides, beach relaxation, and lunch—all important components of a memorable Red Sea outing. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, soft drinks, and fruits means you won’t need extra purchases unless you want more luxurious dining options or souvenirs. The quality of the guides and the scenery makes it a worthwhile investment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy aquatic activities, beach days, and scenic boat rides, this trip hits all those marks. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find it versatile and accommodating. It’s especially suitable for those who want a combination of adventure and leisure without complicated logistics. However, those with back problems or seasickness should evaluate whether the boat’s speed and seating arrangements suit their needs.

The Sum Up

The Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Egypt’s Red Sea splendors. With snorkeling at vibrant reefs, relaxing on a picture-perfect island, and enjoying a hearty lunch, it’s a balanced experience that caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The friendly crew, stunning scenery, and flexible options give this tour a high value for travelers eager to experience Egypt’s marine beauty.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy quick-paced trips with plenty of photo opportunities and don’t mind a boat ride that’s a little on the speedy side. If you want a straightforward, fun day in the Red Sea with minimal hassle, this tour should be high on your list.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off as part of the package, making it convenient to start and end your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience typically lasts around 4 to 5 hours, starting early in the morning to maximize your time on the water and island.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, allowing you to explore the vibrant reefs without the need to bring your own.

Can I upgrade my lunch?
Absolutely! You can add seafood lunch or other options during the checkout process if you want a more substantial or different meal.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers find it suitable; however, those with back problems or seasickness should consider their comfort levels, as the boat ride can be fast and wobbly.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and cash for any extra purchases or tips. Water shoes are recommended for walking on the shells and stones on the islands.

What if I want to add optional activities?
Extras like parasailing are available if you select them during booking, providing an extra thrill to your day.

In essence, this Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise offers a snapshot of the Red Sea’s finest—colorful reefs, serene beaches, and a friendly crew—all at a fair price. Whether you want to snorkel, relax, or do a little of both, it’s a tour that delivers on fun, scenery, and value.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby