orange bay from Makadi Bay/Sahl Hasheesh/Soma Bay/Safaga

If you’re planning a trip to Hurghada and want to experience the beauty of Egypt’s Red Sea without breaking the bank, the Orange Bay (Giftun Island) tour is worth considering. It promises a day filled with snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, sunbathing on a pristine beach, and enjoying the Red Sea’s famed turquoise waters—all wrapped up in a reasonably priced package.

From what we can tell, this tour is a favorite among travelers seeking a hassle-free, family-friendly adventure with good value. However, it’s not without its quirks—long transfers and variability in snorkeling conditions are part of the package. Still, if you’re after a straightforward day on the water, this trip can deliver memorable moments and plenty of relaxation.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate simple pleasures: a comfortable boat ride, underwater sightseeing, and a relaxing beach break.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at around $23.50 per person makes it accessible for most budgets.
• Includes snorkeling gear, lunch, and soft drinks, making it a convenient and all-in-one experience.
• Long transfer times from some hotel areas, so be prepared for a bit of a journey.
• Great for families and water lovers looking for a relaxed day on the Red Sea.
• Weather-dependent activities, with optional water sports that might incur extra costs.
• Limited time on the island—about one hour—so it’s a quick but sweet escape.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on This Day Trip

Starting with the Pickup and Transfer

Most travelers will be picked up from their hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a big plus considering the hot Egyptian climate. The trip begins with a roughly one-hour ride to the boat departure point—this is the part where some reviews mention a lengthy transfer, which can feel a bit tiresome if your hotel is far from Hurghada’s main docks. On the upside, the comfortable transport helps to set a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

The Boat Ride: Cruising to Giftun Island

Once aboard the boat, you’ll be treated to about 8 hours of total excursion time, including travel and activity periods. The boat itself is typically designed to handle groups of up to 20 travelers, which keeps things intimate and manageable. The ride to Giftun Island offers pleasant views, and you’ll appreciate the chance to stretch out and enjoy the sea breeze.

Snorkeling Adventures: Underwater Beauty

The core highlight is snorkeling in the Red Sea’s clear waters. The tour provides snorkeling gear, so you can explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. The tour features two snorkeling trips, giving you plenty of chances to see marine life from different spots.

From reviews, we gather that the snorkeling locations can vary and may sometimes be less impressive, with at least one traveler describing the snorkeling site as “very poor.” Still, many find it a worthwhile experience, especially given the ease of accessing the reef directly from the boat.

The Island Stop: Giftun Island

After the snorkeling, you’ll have about one hour of free time on the island. This is your chance to relax on the soft sands, swim in the calm waters, or take photos of the stunning scenery. The island offers a picturesque escape with plenty of space to unwind.

Be aware that the availability of water sports like banana boats or sofa boats depends on the weather, and these extras may incur additional costs. One traveler noted that some water activities are charged separately, so bringing extra cash might be wise if you’re interested.

Lunch and Refreshments

A simple but tasty lunch is served during the boat ride, often including classic options suited for a variety of tastes. Alongside lunch, coffee, tea, and soft drinks are available, keeping you refreshed throughout the day.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Authentic reviews paint a picture of mixed but generally positive experiences. For example, one traveler described it as a “Fabulous Family Day Out,” praising the well-organized trip and responsive communication prior to the day. The convenience of hotel pickup, combined with a smooth booking process, makes it suitable for families or groups seeking a worry-free adventure.

Conversely, another review highlighted the drawbacks of long transfers and less-than-ideal snorkeling conditions. The traveler mentioned being on the bus for about an hour before reaching the boat and feeling disappointed with the snorkeling site, which could be “very poor.” Such comments remind us that natural conditions vary, and expectations should be realistic.

Is It Good Value?

Considering the price of just $23.49 per person, the overall value is quite reasonable. For a full day out that includes snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, and transportation, it offers a straightforward way to enjoy some of the Red Sea’s best features without overspending. While some extra costs (like water sports or entrance fees) may apply, most travelers find the core package to be a good deal.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Transportation and Group Size

The tour involves a professional, air-conditioned vehicle for pickup, with most groups capped at 20 travelers. This small group size enhances the sense of intimacy and allows for more personalized attention. The duration of transfer varies depending on your hotel’s location but can be rather long, which might be a consideration for those with limited patience or tight schedules.

The Boat and Onboard Comfort

The boat ride is a significant part of the journey. While specific boat features aren’t detailed, expect a typical tourist boat—likely with shaded areas and some seating. The snorkeling gear provided ensures you won’t need to rent equipment locally, and the multiple snorkeling stops break up the day nicely.

Snorkeling: Underwater Encounters

The underwater experience is a major draw, but reviews suggest it can be hit or miss. Multiple snorkeling sessions mean more chances to see marine life, but the quality of the reef can vary depending on weather and location. It’s worth noting that some sites might not be as spectacular as expected, but the ease of access and the chance to see fish and coral in the calm waters are still valuable.

The Island Break: Relaxation and Photos

One hour on Giftun Island provides just enough time to relax, swim, or take a quick walk along the sands. The scenery is stunning, and many find it a perfect quick escape to soak up the sun and snap photos.

Food and Drinks

The included lunch is generally simple but sufficient for a day on the water. The availability of coffee, tea, and soft drinks means you stay refreshed, which is especially important under the hot Egyptian sun.

Weather and Extra Costs

Water sports like banana boats and sofa boats depend on daily weather conditions and are not included in the standard package—they’re extras. An entrance fee of 3 euros per person for the nature reserve is also not included, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to travelers seeking value and a relaxed, family-friendly experience. It’s ideal if you want to see the Red Sea’s marine life without complex logistics or hefty costs. The straightforward itinerary suits those who prefer a predictable day of snorkeling, beach time, and boat rides.

However, if you’re a snorkeler looking for the most pristine reefs or a traveler who prefers shorter transfers, you might find some aspects less ideal. It’s also worth considering that natural conditions can impact the snorkeling quality, so flexibility is helpful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For less than $25, this trip offers a decent introduction to the Red Sea’s beauty, especially for families, first-time visitors, or those on a budget. The inclusive food and gear simplify planning, and the scenic boat ride combined with a quick island stop provides a good balance of activity and relaxation.

While the long transfers and variable snorkeling conditions are factors to keep in mind, most travelers come away with memories of clear waters and peaceful sands. It’s a solid choice if you want a hassle-free day on the water at a fair price, especially if you’re content with a brief island stay and don’t mind some unpredictability in the reef’s conditions.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from the hotel to the boat?
The transfer takes about an hour, depending on where your hotel is located in Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, Soma Bay, or Safaga.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour includes pickup, snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, and an air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance to the nature reserve costs 3 euros per person and is not included.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book 9 days ahead on average, ensuring availability and peace of mind.

Is snorkeling safe and suitable for kids?
Most travelers, including families, find the snorkeling suitable for children, especially with provided gear and guided stops. However, always consider your child’s swimming ability.

What activities are available on the island?
The main activity is relaxing on the beach or swimming in the calm waters. Water sports like banana boats depend on weather and have extra charges.

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

To sum it up, this Giftun Island tour from Hurghada offers good value and straightforward fun. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, family-friendly experience with snorkeling and beach time, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. Just be prepared for a bit of a long ride and variable snorkeling conditions, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your Egyptian adventure.