Experience the Charm of Orange Bay Island with Water Sports from Hurghada
If you’re planning a day trip in Hurghada and craving a mix of relaxing beaches, vibrant underwater life, and water activities, the Orange Bay Island snorkeling trip might just be the perfect choice. Although we haven’t personally joined this tour, the detailed reviews and offered features paint a compelling picture of what to expect. This trip is designed for those who want to combine fun, scenery, and good value into a single day.
Three things that particularly catch our eye about this experience are the affordable price of just $17, the well-reviewed snorkeling and water activities, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, the included lunch and use of snorkeling gear make it feel like a hassle-free adventure. However, one thing to keep in mind is that transfers from some nearby hotels (like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh) come with an extra charge of $10. This trip suits travelers who enjoy water-based activities, want a flexible day out in nature, and appreciate straightforward, all-in-one packages.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At just $17, this tour offers great value for a full day of fun.
- Snorkeling & Water Sports: Use of snorkeling equipment included, with options to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
- Scenic Location: Orange Bay Island provides stunning views of the Red Sea and calm waters ideal for swimming.
- Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup/drop-off make logistics easy.
- Delicious Lunch: A tasty meal served onboard adds to the relaxed vibe.
- Small Group Feel: Limited to 40 travelers, so you can expect a more intimate experience.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The trip kicks off early, with hotel pickup in Hurghada, ensuring you don’t have to worry about transportation. Once onboard the boat, the journey itself is part of the fun—expect comfortable, air-conditioned transport that sets the tone for a relaxed day. The main attraction is Orange Bay Island, where you’ll spend about three hours swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.
Orange Bay Island is praised for its calm waters, ideal for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. According to reviews, the place is beautiful and surprisingly quiet, making it perfect for unwinding or exploring underwater life with the provided snorkeling gear. Travelers mention the water is “very calm,” and the place is “very enjoyable,” with some noting their wish to spend more time on the island—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself wishing for an extra hour or two here.
During your time on the island, you can expect to see vibrant coral formations and schools of colorful fish, as the waters are described as clear and inviting. The trip generally includes lunch served on the boat, with many reviewers highlighting the delicious food, saying it was “amazing” and satisfying after a morning of water activities.
Along With snorkeling, water sports are available, although specific activities aren’t listed, the use of snorkeling equipment is included, and the overall water fun seems to be a highlight. Reviewers talk about the “great views” and how the trip felt “magical,” with many expressing a desire to return.
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The Comfort and Convenience Factor
One of the standout features of this tour is the ease of logistics. The local operator, New Whale Tours, offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Hurghada, with options for transfers from nearby hotels like Makadi and Sahl Hasheesh at an extra charge of $10. This added cost is worth it for those staying farther from central Hurghada, as it removes the hassle of arranging transport independently.
The boat itself is described as “comfortable and clean,” which is reassuring considering the 9-hour duration. Air-conditioned transportation ensures you stay comfortable, and the small group size (maximum of 40 travelers) helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, avoiding the chaos of larger tours.
Authentic Experiences and What Makes it Stand Out
From the review snippets, what really shines is the friendly and professional crew. Travelers appreciate the helpful staff who ensure everyone is having a good time. The quality of the food is consistently praised, with many describing it as delicious, often mentioning that it included “good food and tapas-style snacks,” which enhances the overall value.
Some reviews also mention the timeliness of pickups, with many describing their experience as smooth and well-organized. The trip’s flexibility is implied by the fact that most travelers could participate easily, and the weather plays a role—cancellation policies are in place if the weather turns sour, but when it’s clear, expect a smooth day out.
The Potential Drawbacks
While the trip is broadly well-reviewed, one review mentions a driver-related mishap, with a late pickup and suspicious behavior. However, this seems to be an isolated incident and not indicative of the overall experience provided by New Whale Tours. It’s always wise to double-check your pickup details and stay in touch with the tour provider.
Another consideration is the additional transfer charge for some hotels, which might add to your overall cost — so budget accordingly if you’re staying outside central Hurghada.
Is This Tour Right for You?
If you love the idea of snorkeling in calm waters with vibrant marine life, and are seeking a cost-effective, hassle-free day trip, this tour is a very appealing option. It’s especially suitable for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want an uncomplicated way to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty. The included lunch and snorkel gear make it appealing for those who want everything sorted in one package.
Those wanting a more adventurous or all-inclusive water sports experience might need to look elsewhere, but for most, this trip offers a perfect balance of relaxation, fun, and value.
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The Sum Up
The Orange Bay Island Snorkeling Trip with Water Sports from Hurghada is a fantastic option for travelers looking to explore the Red Sea without breaking the bank. With its stunning vistas, clear waters, and friendly crew, it offers a memorable day out suitable for all levels of confidence in the water. The included lunch and convenient transport make it a practical choice, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize authentic, relaxed experiences over high-adrenaline activities or luxury amenities. The overall reviews point to a trip that delivers on its promises, with many guests mentioning they would return.
If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and enjoyable water-based adventure in Hurghada, this tour certainly deserves a spot on your list.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Hurghada are included. Transfers from Makadi and Sahl Hasheesh hotels are extra at $10 per person.
How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, starting from pickup, on to the boat, beach time, and return.
What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling equipment, lunch, coffee/tea, air-conditioned transport, and the trip itself. Some transfers from certain hotels cost extra.
How many people will be on the tour?
The tour is designed for up to 40 travelers, offering a more relaxed experience compared to larger group excursions.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sun protection, possibly a towel, and a camera. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.
Are the waters suitable for beginners?
Yes, the waters are described as calm and suitable for snorkeling novices as well as experienced swimmers.
Can I spend more time on the island?
Most trips allocate about three hours on Orange Bay Island, but reviews suggest some guests wished for extra time, so plan accordingly.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance or if poor weather conditions cancel the trip.
Is the food onboard good?
Yes! Many reviewers say the onboard lunch is delicious, with some calling it “amazing,” adding to the overall value of the experience.
This tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and value, perfect for those eager to enjoy the Red Sea’s natural beauty without fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just looking for a scenic day out, it’s a trip worth considering on your Hurghada itinerary.
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