Giftun Islands Snorkeling Trip with Lunch and Water Activities

Planning a day out on the Red Sea? The Giftun Islands snorkeling trip from Hurghada offers an appealing mix of vibrant marine life, scenic views, and fun water activities—all for an accessible price. Based on a blend of traveler reviews and detailed tour info, this experience promises a lively, well-organized day with plenty of highlights.

What we love about this tour is the chance to explore stunning coral reefs, the friendly and helpful crew, and the affordable price point. Plus, it offers both snorkeling and extra water fun like banana boat rides and floating couches—perfect for those wanting more than just swimming. However, one consideration is that some reviews mention variable quality regarding the snorkeling stops and timing, so it’s worth being flexible if certain expectations aren’t met. This tour suits travelers who want a lively, value-packed day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day excursion including lunch and activities
• Two snorkeling stops at renowned coral reefs with equipment provided
• Flexible island choice with options like Orange, Hula Hula, or Nemo
• Water activities such as banana boat rides and floating couches add extra fun
• Transport included with hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles
• Some variability in snorkeling experience noted by past travelers

What to Expect on the Giftun Islands Snorkeling Trip

This day-long excursion from Hurghada is designed for those eager to explore the Red Sea’s colorful marine environment while enjoying a mix of relaxation and adventure. The tour, managed by Bella Tours, offers a balance of guided snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and leisure on the islands, all for just $15 per person—an impressive value given the inclusions.

Convenient Pickup and Starting Point

Your adventure kicks off early, with a pickup around 8:30 am from your hotel—most likely in Hurghada, with extra charges if you’re staying at Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, or Safaga. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle transports you comfortably to the port, where you’ll meet the crew and board a well-maintained yacht. Travelers consistently mention the punctuality of pickup and the ease of getting onto the boat, which sets a positive tone for the day.

The Yacht Experience

The boat is described as high-class, with a knowledgeable guide onboard who ensures safety and offers snorkeling instructions. This is particularly helpful for first-timers or those who want a refresher, making the experience accessible for all skill levels. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable.

Snorkeling Stops: Coral Reefs and Marine Marvels

The highlight of the trip is the two snorkeling stops. You’ll visit famous reefs, swimming in warm, clear waters filled with colorful fish, corals, and marine life. Most reviews find the snorkeling enjoyable, but some mention that reef conditions and the duration of stops may vary. For example, one reviewer lamented a short stop at a reef that was already damaged, which suggests reef conditions can differ.

You’ll be given all necessary equipment, and guides will assist with use and safety. One guest described the experience as “wonderful,” appreciating the helpful crew and the vivid marine life. However, another reviewer pointed out that the reef was “badly damaged,” highlighting that conditions are subject to change. Still, the warm waters and vibrant surroundings typically make for memorable underwater moments.

Giftun Islands: Relaxation and Exploration

The tour offers roughly two hours on Giftun Islands—your chance to soak in the sun, take photos, and enjoy the scenic shores. The choice of island is flexible, with options including Orange, Hula Hula, or Nemo—each offering a different vibe. Expect soft white sands, turquoise waters, and potential for some downtime. Past travelers have described this as a “wonderful experience,” noting the breathtaking views and the opportunity to relax after snorkeling.

Water Activities and Extra Fun

Beyond snorkeling, the tour adds a bit of adrenaline with banana boat rides and floating couches. These are perfect for those wanting to stay active or just have some fun bouncing across the waves. Several guests loved these additions, describing them as “fun” and “a great way to enjoy the sea.”

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet lunch is included, offering a variety of fresh dishes and soft drinks. Travelers frequently mention the quality of the food, calling it “really good” and a nice break during the busy day. The inclusion of soft drinks, water, and the chance to recharge makes the long day feel complete.

Return and Refreshing Views

After a full day on the water, you’ll return to the harbor and get stunning views of the Red Sea coast. Many guests take the opportunity to snap photos of the landscape—an authentic souvenir of a day well spent. The return trip is comfortable, and the driver will take you back to your hotel, typically in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $15 per person, this tour offers remarkable value given the breadth of activities, the inclusion of lunch, and hotel transfers. It’s particularly appealing for budget travelers or those looking for a straightforward, hassle-free day by the sea. The tour’s flexibility—such as choosing your island—adds to its appeal.

That said, some reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations. For example, one traveler noted a shorter snorkeling stop than expected, and another pointed out the tour started late due to late arrivals. Plus, there’s a Euro 10 fee for national park access, which is an extra cost to keep in mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone seeking a fun, social day out on the Red Sea. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate good value, straightforward itineraries, and lively group energy. If reef health is a concern, or if you’re looking for a more exclusive or in-depth underwater experience, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Giftun Islands snorkeling trip with water activities and lunch strikes a solid balance between fun, affordability, and scenic beauty. With knowledgeable guides, a lively boat atmosphere, and the chance to see some of the most beautiful marine environments in the Red Sea, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day in Hurghada.

While there are some variability in reef conditions and timing, most travelers walk away with great memories, new photos, and smiles. If you’re after a relaxed, activity-packed day with plenty of opportunities to cool off and explore, this tour offers excellent value for your money.

For those who want a lively, lively day of water fun with friends or family, it’s a highly recommended choice. Just come prepared for a full day, bring your towels and swimming gear, and get ready for a splashy adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles, mainly in Hurghada. Extra charges apply for Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, and Safaga.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, so be ready early to maximize your day on the water.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time for snorkeling, island exploration, and water activities.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear including masks and fins is included, and guides will give instructions and safety tips.

Can I choose which island I visit?
Yes, you can select from options like Orange, Hula Hula, or Nemo Island for your beach stop.

Are water activities like banana boats included?
Yes, fun water activities such as banana boat rides and floating couches are included in the tour.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a €10 national park fee per person, payable on the day. Also, transfers from some hotels like Makadi or El Gouna cost extra.

What should I bring?
Towels, swimming attire, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended to enjoy the day comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Most snorkeling stops are manageable with guidance, but non-swimmers should inform guides beforehand for safety considerations.

What’s the overall value of this trip?
Given the price, inclusions, and reviews, this tour offers excellent value—especially with the variety of activities and scenic stops packed into one day.

In summary, this guided snorkeling adventure is a fantastic way to discover the beauty of the Red Sea with friends and family. It balances fun, scenery, and affordability, making it a popular choice for many travelers visiting Hurghada.