Snorkeling Tours Hurghada Boat excursions Orange bay Trip

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life, this Hurghada boat excursion to Orange Bay might just tick all your boxes. Promoted as a day in the Maldives without the hefty price tag, this tour offers an escape into nature’s most photogenic settings, with excellent value and thoughtful touches.

From stunning snorkeling spots teeming with colorful fish to relaxing shaded areas perfect for unwinding, the tour combines adventure with comfort. The 8-hour trip includes hotel pickup, a gourmet buffet, and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, making it a seamless, all-in-one escape. But, as with any experience, there are a few things to keep in mind.

This trip suits travelers craving authentic marine encounters, family groups seeking safe shallow waters, and anyone looking for a hassle-free day in a picture-perfect setting. Let’s explore what makes this tour shine—and where it might fall short.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Orange Bay rivals the beauty of the Maldives with its turquoise waters and white beaches.
• Excellent value: At $35 per person, it offers snorkeling, lunch, and transfers included.
• Comfortable amenities: Shaded huts, umbrellas, and clean facilities keep guests comfortable.
• Easy access: Only a 40-minute boat ride from Hurghada’s new port.
• Authentic experience: Marine life, coral reefs, and calm shallow waters cater to all ages.
• Potential weather impact: Stormy weather can make snorkeling challenging, but staff do their best to accommodate.

The Journey to Orange Bay

This tour begins bright and early at 8:00 am, with hotel pickups offered for most locations—save for some areas like Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El-Gouna, and Soma Bay, which require separate arrangements. You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, setting the tone for a comfortable day ahead.

The boat ride itself takes approximately 40 minutes, during which you can enjoy the views of Hurghada’s coastline and anticipate the sparkling island ahead. The boat is sized for no more than 32 travelers, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Once you arrive, the real magic begins. The first thing that strikes visitors is how Orange Bay’s shoreline resembles the Maldives—of course, in a more accessible and budget-friendly package. The island’s powdery white beaches and turquoise waters instantly make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a slice of paradise.

What Makes Orange Bay Special?

Pristine Beaches and Calm Waters

Orange Bay is part of the larger Giftun Island natural reserve, which covers over 3,000 square meters. Reviewers highlight the gentle slope of the shoreline, making it safe and appealing for swimmers of all ages. Young children can splash around in shallow waters, while adults can lounge in the shade or explore the underwater world.

The beach facilities include shaded wooden huts with bean bags and umbrellas, providing comfortable retreats between swims. Many guests appreciate how these shaded spots help beat the midday sun, especially during peak hours.

Vibrant Snorkeling and Marine Life

One of the main draws is the snorkeling. The clear waters are packed with marine life—colorful fish, coral reefs, and if lucky, even sea turtles. Reviewers often comment on the quality of the snorkeling spots, noting that the marine environment is lively and well-preserved.

A guest, Christoffer C, mentioned, “The snorkeling was amazing,” emphasizing the vibrant underwater scenes that await. The snorkeling gear is included in the price, so you don’t need to rent or bring your own gear, making it a hassle-free experience.

Relaxation and Comfort

Beyond snorkeling, the tour offers plenty of options to relax. Whether you prefer soaking up the sun on the beach, swinging in a hammock, or retreating under a shaded hut, there’s space for everyone. The cozy wooden huts and bean bags are appreciated for providing a cool place to unwind.

Gourmet Buffet Lunch

Midday, everyone can enjoy a delicious open buffet onboard the boat. The meal includes a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks keep everyone refreshed. The food quality is generally praised, adding value to the overall experience.

Extras and Convenience

The tour also includes coffee and tea and access to toilets onboard, ensuring comfort throughout the day. For those wanting keepsakes, photos and videos of your underwater adventures are available for about 50 euros—a bit pricey, but many find it worthwhile for capturing memories.

The Experience in Detail

Morning Pickup and Departure

Most travelers will be picked up from their hotels early in the morning. The transportation is air-conditioned, comfortable, and reliable. Once aboard the boat, the crew is friendly and attentive—many reviews mention how caring and fun the staff are.

The Boat Ride

The 40-minute cruise to Orange Bay is smooth, with some guests noting that the boat is well-maintained and spacious. During the trip, you can savor light snacks, drinks, and enjoy the scenic views.

Arriving at Orange Bay

The island’s beauty is immediately apparent. Once on shore, you’ll have plenty of time to explore, swim, or just relax. The shallow waters are perfect for children and inexperienced swimmers, while the coral reefs beckon snorkelers eager to see marine life up close.

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

The snorkeling spots are near the shoreline in calm, clear waters. A common comment from reviewers is that the marine environment is lively, and the reefs are colorful. However, weather conditions can impact visibility—one guest noted that stormy weather made snorkeling difficult, but staff did their best to adapt.

Lunch and Leisure

The open buffet onboard offers a hearty, tasty meal, often described as satisfying and good value for money. After lunch, many guests choose to lounge under umbrellas, take more dips, or explore the shoreline.

Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to the harbor. The crew ensures everyone gets safely ashore and is transferred back to their hotels, often by mid-afternoon.

What We Loved and What to Consider

What makes this tour stand out? The stunning scenery, the ease of access, and the well-organized amenities. The value for money is notable, especially given the inclusive lunch and snorkeling gear. It’s a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a hassle-free day immersed in nature.

One consideration is that weather can influence the quality of snorkeling. Stormy conditions, as some reviewers mention, might limit underwater visibility or make the experience less comfortable. Booking in advance and checking the weather forecast can help mitigate this.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you want to experience the picturesque beaches and vibrant coral reefs without spending a fortune. It suits those seeking relaxation with a touch of adventure—perfect for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone wanting a straightforward day in a beautiful setting. If marine life and calm waters are your priorities, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Hurghada snorkeling tour to Orange Bay offers a fantastic balance of natural beauty, comfort, and affordability. Its well-organized structure, friendly staff, and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking for a memorable day on the water.

With a modest price tag and inclusive amenities, you’ll find excellent value in this trip—especially if your goal is to relax, snorkel, and soak up the views. Just be mindful of weather conditions, and you’ll be in for a truly enchanting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from most Hurghada hotels, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

How long is the boat ride to Orange Bay?
The boat ride takes approximately 40 minutes from Hurghada’s new port to Orange Bay Island.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, coffee and tea, a buffet lunch, use of toilets onboard, and air-conditioned transportation.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Transport to specific hotels like Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El-Gouna, and Soma Bay is not included. Also, if you want photos or videos of your underwater experience, there’s a €50 charge.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, ensuring a less crowded, more relaxed experience.

Is the snorkeling suitable for children?
Yes, the shallow, calm waters make it safe for children and inexperienced swimmers. Always supervise young kids around water.

What if the weather is stormy?
Stormy weather can affect snorkeling and overall experience, but the staff will do their best to adapt, and refunds are available if the tour is canceled.

How long do I have on the island?
Guests typically spend several hours enjoying swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and having lunch, making it a full-day experience.

Can I buy souvenirs or photos?
Yes, photos and videos taken during snorkeling are available at an extra cost of about 50 euros.

Is there any flexibility in cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Whether you’re after a scenic escape, a snorkeling adventure, or simply a day in paradise, this Orange Bay trip provides a well-rounded, enjoyable experience—at a price that invites you to relax and indulge.