Hurghada: Orange Bay & Giftun Island, Snorkeling With Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Hurghada and dreaming of turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and a laid-back island vibe, a snorkeling cruise to Orange Bay and Giftun Island might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty good picture of what to expect—especially if you’re interested in marine life, relaxing beach time, and a taste of Egypt’s famous hospitality.

What really catches our eye about this tour? First, the opportunity to snorkel with dolphins and fish in crystal-clear waters. Second, the delicious local buffet lunch that adds great value to the experience. Third, the flexibility of transfer options — whether you want a quick speedboat ride or a full-day yacht adventure.

That said, there’s a note of caution from some travelers about safety and professionalism, which is worth considering if you’re accustomed to trips with strict safety standards. This tour will suit travelers who want a budget-friendly, fun-packed day on the Red Sea with a relaxed vibe, especially if they’re open to a more informal guiding style.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this tour accessible for most travelers.
• Multiple transfer options provide flexibility depending on your schedule and preferences.
• Snorkeling with dolphins and vibrant reefs is a major highlight.
• Buffet lunch offers good value, though some reviews mention the food could be better.
• Casual guides may lack strict safety measures, so vigilance is advised.
• Children are welcome, making it family-friendly, but not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a variety of ways to explore the Red Sea’s underwater and coastal treasures, primarily centered around Orange Bay and Giftun Island — two of the most beautiful spots near Hurghada. The experience is designed to be flexible, with options to meet at the marina or be picked up from various resorts around Hurghada, Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Soma Bay, and Safaga.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Transfers:
Many travelers appreciate the convenience of round-trip transfers from Hurghada, included in the more comprehensive packages. These pick-ups are generally punctual, easing the logistics of a day trip, especially if you’re staying farther out from the marina. For those staying in Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, or El Gouna, transfer options are available at checkout, reducing hassle and making everything seamless.

Yacht or Speedboat Ride:
Once onboard, you’ll experience a relaxing yacht cruise or an exhilarating speedboat ride. The choice depends on your preference for speed and privacy. The speedboat options are shorter (around 4 hours), ideal for travelers with limited time, while the yacht offers a more leisurely feel, often with air conditioning and Wi-Fi onboard, making it as comfortable as a cruise ship.

Snorkeling & Marine Life:
The main highlight is snorkeling at vibrant coral reefs, where you can spot sea turtles, rays, angel fish, and even dolphins if luck is on your side. The reviews mention a friendly crew that’s knowledgeable about the marine environment, though some note the guides can be overly casual, with safety standards not always as strict as in more premium operations. Still, most travelers find the snorkeling spots worth exploring and appreciate the chance to see marine life up close.

Beach Time at Orange Bay:
The pristine beaches of Orange Bay beckon for relaxation, sunbathing, or a quick dip in the clear waters. You might also find optional diving available if you want to extend your underwater adventure. The beaches are generally quiet, with soft sands and calm waters perfect for families and solo travelers alike.

Lunch & Refreshments:
A buffet lunch is included, featuring salads, local fruits, hot and cold drinks. The food receives mixed reviews—while some describe it as good value, others find it lacking in quality. Nevertheless, the all-you-can-eat style and variety provide a decent break, especially after snorkeling or sunbathing.

Additional Options & Extras:
Diving can be added if you desire more underwater exploration. The tour also offers optional photo or DVD packages, although these aren’t included in the standard fare. For those craving a private experience, the 4-hour private speedboat or the 8-hour extended private cruise provide more flexibility and exclusivity.

The Realities Behind the Price

At just $26 per person, this tour is impressively affordable, especially considering the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and transfers in many options. It’s a good way to enjoy the Red Sea without breaking the bank.

However, some reviews hint at a trade-off: the safety and professionalism might not meet travelers used to more structured tours. One reviewer pointed out that safety measures are minimal, and guides can be overly casual, sometimes making them less attentive to passenger well-being.

Despite this, many travelers are satisfied, especially given the price and the opportunity to snorkel in popular spots. It’s a tour that offers value for money but requires travelers to be mindful and cautious, especially with young children or those with specific safety concerns.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Marine encounters are the star of this trip. Snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs with a chance to see dolphins is genuinely exciting. Many mention the friendly, helpful crew, although a few note that support and safety measures could be better. For example, one reviewer mentioned that the guides are overly casual and that serious accidents have been narrowly avoided—something to keep in mind.

The buffet lunch gets mixed reviews—some find it tasty and generous, while others suggest it could be improved. The inclusion of local fruits and salads adds an authentic touch, and hot/cold drinks are plentiful, keeping everyone refreshed under the sun.

The transfer options truly make this tour accessible for travelers staying at different resorts. The quick speedboat trips are perfect for those in a hurry or seeking a more intimate experience, while the full-day yacht offers a relaxed, leisurely vibe.

The beaches and snorkeling spots are well-loved, with clear waters and stunning coral reefs. The possibility of swimming with turtles and rays adds an element of excitement, especially for animal lovers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits budget-conscious travelers eager to explore the Red Sea’s marine life and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. It’s ideal for families with children, thanks to the shallow waters and casual pace, but not suitable for those with mobility issues due to the lack of wheelchair access.

Snorkelers and beach lovers will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they’re comfortable with less formal safety procedures. If your priority is a luxurious, highly organized experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re looking for authentic, fun, and affordable with opportunities for memorable marine encounters, it’s worth considering.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a cost-effective way to enjoy the Red Sea, this tour offers a solid mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and tasty local cuisine. The included transfers and flexible options make it accessible and convenient, particularly if you’re staying outside Hurghada’s city center.

While the casual approach to safety might be a concern for some, many travelers appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to see marine life in its natural habitat. The buffet lunch adds good value, and the optional diving or private speedboat upgrades make it adaptable for different tastes.

This tour provides a fun, budget-friendly introduction to Egypt’s underwater world—perfect for adventurous families, first-time visitors, or those simply wanting a relaxing day by the sea. Just remember, a little extra vigilance and an underwater camera will help you make the most of this colorful, lively trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, depending on the package you choose. Many options include round-trip transfers from Hurghada, Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Soma Bay, and Safaga, making it very convenient.

Can I snorkel without diving?
Absolutely. Snorkeling is included and the main highlight, with equipment provided. Diving is an optional extra if you want to explore more underwater.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, a towel, and an underwater camera for capturing marine life.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome on this tour, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

How long does the tour last?
Depending on your choice, it can be a half-day (around 4 hours) or a full-day experience, with the yacht trips generally lasting longer than the speedboat options.

Is food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with salad and local fruits is included, though some may find it basic. Drinks, both hot and cold, are also provided.

In summary, this snorkeling tour around Hurghada’s Orange Bay and Giftun Island delivers a fun, authentic experience at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for travelers who value marine encounters, casual atmospheres, and good value, with a few caveats about safety and food quality. A reliable choice to add some splashy adventure to your Egyptian holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: