Explore Hurghada: Sea World Boat and Magawish Island Adventure

Planning a day around the Red Sea’s stunning scenery and vibrant marine life? This Sea World Boat and Magawish Island tour offers a balanced mix of exciting activities and relaxing moments, all wrapped into a roughly 6 to 7-hour experience. For just $30 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Egypt’s most beautiful coastal sights.

While it has its high points—like the underwater glass-floor boat ride and scenic island stop—there are a few nicks in the experience, notably around communication issues reported by some guests. Still, if you’re after a day of adventure, snorkeling, and sunbathing with decent value, this tour could be worth considering. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities and don’t mind a bustling group setting.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day boat trip with snorkeling and island exploration.
• Unique underwater viewing through the boat’s glass floor, mimicking a submarine experience.
• Variety of activities including water games, snorkeling, and a scenic island stop.
• Comfortable transportation with pickup and drop-off included.
• Limited free time at each stop, so plan accordingly.
• Potential communication hiccups with the local operator reported by a guest.

What You Can Expect on This Hurghada Adventure

The journey kicks off early in the morning around 8 am, with pickup in air-conditioned vehicles. The entire trip lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours, balancing onboard activities, sightseeing, and free time. It’s an ideal option for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, fun, and a touch of underwater exploration.

The Boat Experience and Underwater Floor

Boarding the Red Sea Dolphin boat at Hurghada Marina is your first highlight. The vessel itself is quite attractive and well-equipped for comfort. What makes this boat special is the underwater floor with panoramic windows—think of it as a submarine but in a boat. You’ll spend about an hour watching the vibrant coral reefs and marine life pass beneath you, which adds a fascinating perspective to the typical boat trip.

One guest, David_P, mentioned that their trip was “not what we booked” because they preferred a glass-bottom boat instead of snorkeling. However, the underwater viewing feature on this boat offers a compelling glimpse of the seabed, especially for those who enjoy observing marine life without getting wet.

The Magawish Island Stop

After the initial hour, the boat heads towards Magawish Island, a highlight for many. Expect about two hours of free time to soak up the natural beauty and turquoise waters. This is your chance to relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The island’s scenery is often described as breathtaking, with clear waters perfect for swimming or just lounging on the sands.

Guests have noted that the lunch on the island lasts about an hour, providing a welcome break from water activities. The meal typically includes soft drinks and presumably local fare, giving you a taste of the region’s hospitality.

Snorkeling and Water Fun

Post-lunch, the boat moves to a designated snorkeling spot. You’re provided with free snorkeling equipment, including masks, fins, and life jackets, making it accessible even for beginners. Expect clear waters and vibrant marine life—ideal for both novice and experienced snorkelers.

One reviewer mentioned that the crew is “highly trained,” emphasizing their professionalism and dedication to passenger safety. The snorkeling stop is a highlight for many, offering an intimate encounter with the sea’s colorful inhabitants.

Following snorkeling, the fun continues with water games like banana boat rides, an activity that adds an energetic and playful element to the day. These water games are suitable for most ages and fitness levels, bringing out the kid in everyone.

Ending the Day

As the sun begins to set, the boat heads back to Hurghada Marina, where your transfer awaits. The drop-off service is included, making logistics straightforward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned vehicles
• Lunch and soft drinks onboard
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• About 2 hours on Magawish Island
• Glass boat experience with underwater viewing

Not Included:

• Transfers from locations like Safaga, Soma Bay, and El-Gouna (additional charge of $10 per person)
• Transfers from Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh (additional $5 per person)
• Entrance fee to the National Park (about $5)

This setup means you’ll want to factor in extra costs if you’re traveling from further out or want to visit additional sites like the national park.

The Real Traveler Insights: Pros and Cons

The trip’s biggest draw is undeniably the stunning views—both above and below the water. Guests love the scenic ocean vistas, the coral reefs glimpsed from the underwater floor, and the vibe of Magawish Island. The inclusion of lunch and water games makes it a fun, value-packed outing.

However, some travelers have faced frustrating communication issues. One guest, David, recounts an argument over the snorkeling preferences, noting that the local operator didn’t match their expectations or initial booking details. This highlights the importance of clarifying your preferences beforehand and being aware that the tour’s description may not perfectly align with the experience offered.

Plus, the tour can feel somewhat rushed, with limited free time at each stop. If you’re seeking a more relaxed or customizable experience, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, since the tour is capped at 30 travelers, it can feel quite lively and crowded, which is great for socializing but less ideal for those after solitude.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the $30 price point, the tour offers solid value for those eager to experience Hurghada’s marine life, scenic island, and underwater views in one day. The glass-floor boat is a standout feature, making it a unique way to observe the reef without the hassle of snorkeling if that’s your preference.

The water games and snorkeling add plenty of fun, especially if you enjoy being active on the water. The included lunch and soft drinks help keep the day enjoyable without extra expenses.

However, if you’re looking for a more tailored, less crowded experience or have specific preferences like avoiding snorkeling, you’ll want to communicate clearly with the operator beforehand. Be prepared for some possible misunderstandings, as noted by a guest who faced an argument over the activity details.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a lively, activity-filled day with beautiful views and marine encounters. It’s perfect for those who enjoy water-based fun like snorkeling and banana boat rides, or simply want to relax on a scenic island. Families with children or groups seeking a social atmosphere will likely find it enjoyable.

If you prefer a quiet, personalized experience or are particular about the activities, you might want to explore options that offer more flexibility or specialized arrangements. Also, be aware of the additional transfer costs if you’re staying outside Hurghada city center.

Final Thoughts

The Sea World Boat and Magawish Island tour presents a practical and affordable way to experience part of Hurghada’s stunning coastline. The boat’s underwater viewing floor, combined with the scenic island, snorkeling, and water games, makes for a full and varied day out. While some travelers report communication issues or wish for more flexible scheduling, most agree that the views and activities deliver good value.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy being active, love marine scenery, and don’t mind a lively group setting. It’s an excellent option for a fun, cost-effective day in Hurghada, especially if you’re eager to see the underwater world without diving gear or high costs.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned vehicles within Hurghada. Additional charges apply if your location is outside central Hurghada.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, including transportation, activities, and free time at the island.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy the underwater views through the glass boat, snorkeling with free equipment, and water games like banana boat rides.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a meal with soft drinks is included during the day, typically served on Magawish Island.

Can I skip snorkeling if I don’t want to?
Some guests have faced issues with activity preferences, so it’s best to clarify your wishes before booking. The trip does include snorkeling, but you may discuss alternatives with the operator.

Are there extra costs I should know about?
Yes, additional fees apply for transfers from certain locations (e.g., Safaga, Soma Bay, El-Gouna), and there’s a small fee for visiting the national park.

What is the group size limit?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, making it lively but manageable.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the water games and snorkeling are suitable for most children, but parental supervision is recommended.

How reliable is the tour provider?
While generally positive, some reviews indicate potential miscommunications, especially regarding activity preferences or extra costs. Confirm details beforehand.

This Hurghada boat tour offers an engaging, scenic escape with many memorable moments—perfect for those wanting a taste of the Red Sea’s beauty without a hefty price tag. Just keep in mind the possible quirks and be clear about your preferences for a smooth adventure.