Hurghada: Orange Bay Island Vibes With Snorkeling and Lunch

Travelers looking for a straightforward yet memorable day out in Hurghada often find themselves drawn to the trip to Orange Bay or Giftun Island. While it’s not a luxury excursion, the balance of snorkeling, beach time, and good-value pricing makes it an appealing choice for those wanting a taste of the Red Sea’s beauty without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour stand out? We love its flexible options for transfers, allowing you to choose what best suits your schedule and comfort. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a professional diver onboard ensures you get to see vibrant marine life, while the buffet lunch provides a satisfying break amid your adventure.

However, a possible drawback is the organization — some reviews point out that snorkeling times aren’t perfectly timed or that waiting around can be frustrating. Still, if you’re adaptable and eager to enjoy the scenic beaches and colorful reefs, this trip can be well worth it.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and underwater exploration. If you’re craving an easy, guided excursion with good value and gorgeous views, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Affordable price point around $20, making it accessible for most travelers
• Multiple transfer options to suit different departure points and schedules
• Snorkeling gear included with opportunities to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life
• Flexible experience levels, with optional diving and customizable private trips
• Buffet lunch provided, adding convenience and flavor to your day
• Some reviews highlight organizational issues, so flexibility and patience are helpful

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Orange Bay Experience

For anyone visiting Hurghada, a day at Orange Bay or Giftun Island offers a perfect escape from the busy city streets. The trip is designed to give you a taste of the Red Sea’s turquoise waters and lively underwater ecosystems without overcommitting in terms of time or budget. We’ve looked at what travelers love — like the good value, the friendly staff, and the chance to snorkel at vibrant reefs — along with some of the common frustrations that can crop up.

This tour’s broad appeal lies in its flexibility. Whether you choose a simple entry ticket meeting at the marina or opt for a transfer from Hurghada, Makadi Bay, or El Gouna, the experience is designed to be accessible. The options for shared or private speedboat trips add a layer of customization, perfect if you’re after a more intimate or flexible adventure.

One thing to keep in mind: the overall organization can vary. Some travelers have experienced delays or less-than-ideal snorkeling schedules, but most appreciate the value and the beautiful scenery they get to enjoy. It’s a good fit for those who prioritize relaxed beach days, aquatic activities, and a straightforward itinerary.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Departure & Transfers

The tour offers several ways to start your day: from Hurghada, Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Soma Bay, or Safaga. The most popular option is the round-trip transfer from Hurghada, which simplifies logistics and ensures you’re not left navigating unfamiliar roads. These transfers are air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, and include hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Travelers from further afield, such as Soma Bay or El Gouna, can add private or shared transfers at checkout, ensuring convenience regardless of your location. For those staying in Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh, transfers are available as add-ons, making this experience adaptable.

The Boat Ride & Snorkeling

Once you arrive at the marina, the journey begins. You can choose between a yacht or a speedboat, depending on your preference for comfort or speed. The yacht trips tend to be more leisurely, allowing you to relax while cruising toward the islands, whereas speedboats offer a quicker, more energetic ride—ideal if you’re short on time.

The highlight is the snorkeling stops at colorful reefs, where you’ll encounter an abundance of marine life. The snorkeling equipment is included, and a professional diver is onboard, which reassures those less confident swimmers that they’re in good hands. Reviewers mention seeing vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish, with some noting that the snorkeling time could be better organized. One reviewer lamented that “there isn’t enough time for snorkeling,” suggesting that the scheduled periods could be more evenly balanced.

More Great Tours Nearby

Orange Bay & Giftun Island Beaches

After snorkeling, the boat anchors at Orange Bay or Giftun Island — both boast pristine beaches and calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun. Many travelers find the beach quintessentially beautiful, with soft sands and clear waters that invite relaxation. Some reviews mention the longer time on Orange Bay would have been more satisfying, but overall, it remains one of the tour’s biggest draws.

Lunch & Refreshments

A buffet lunch is included, which is often praised for its delicious variety and good value. The menu typically features Egyptian staples along with fresh salads and fruits, satisfying hungry travelers after a morning of water activities. Soft drinks and fruits are also available onboard, providing a refreshing break during the trip.

Optional Add-ons & Extra Costs

Diving is available as an extra, giving more adventurous travelers the chance to explore deeper waters. The tourist tax of $5 per person isn’t included in the initial price, so be prepared to pay this on-site or during checkout.

Private & Speedboat Experiences

For those seeking more exclusivity, options include 4-hour or 8-hour private speedboat trips. These allow you to customize your itinerary, visit hidden spots, and enjoy multiple snorkeling sessions. The private trips include complimentary soft drinks and fruits, but lunch is not included unless added separately. These are perfect if you want a more personalized experience or have specific spots in mind.

What We Love About This Tour

Value for money is a key highlight—at roughly $20 per person, it offers a lot: snorkeling, beach time, lunch, and transfers. That makes it accessible, especially for families or budget travelers.

The variety of transfer options means you can choose from different starting points, making planning simpler, especially if you’re staying outside Hurghada city center. The inclusion of professional snorkeling gear and a diver ensures safety and a richer underwater experience.

The beaches of Orange Bay are genuinely stunning—soft sands, calm waters, and scenic views make for perfect relaxing moments. The lunch is a welcome addition, and reviewers frequently note that the food quality exceeds expectations for the price.

What Could Be Better

Some reviews point out organizational hiccups. A few travelers felt the snorkeling times could be better coordinated, with unnecessary waiting or unclear instructions. Others experienced delays, like getting to the right departure location, which can throw off your schedule.

The shorter duration of snorkeling and beach time was also a common complaint. For example, one traveler wished for more time on Orange Bay, especially since it’s a highlight of the trip.

Finally, the tourist tax, while small, is an additional cost that travelers should budget for, since it isn’t included in the initial price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking a straightforward day of sun and sea without too many frills. It’s perfect if you want to see coral reefs, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy a local buffet lunch.

It’s also a good pick for those who value flexibility — with options for transfers, private trips, or shared experiences, you can tailor it to your preferences. However, travelers looking for a luxury experience or super-organized schedule might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a simple yet fulfilling experience of the Red Sea’s underwater world and stunning beaches at a very reasonable price. While there are some organizational quirks, the value and natural beauty compensate well. The inclusion of snorkel gear, options for private or shared trips, and the chance to unwind on soft sands make it a strong choice for most travelers.

Whether you’re visiting Hurghada for a quick getaway or want a relaxing day with friends or family, this trip hits the right notes for a memorable, authentic Red Sea adventure.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, depending on the package you choose, transfers are included from Hurghada, Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Soma Bay, or Safaga. Some options are shared or private speedboats, with transfers available as add-ons.

What should I bring?
You should pack your passport or ID, sunglasses, and a towel. Bringing sunscreen and a hat is recommended for sun protection.

Can I snorkel without experience?
Absolutely. Snorkel equipment is provided, and a professional diver is onboard to assist. The reefs are colorful and usually suitable for all skill levels.

Is diving included?
No, diving is an optional extra. If you’re interested, it can typically be added at checkout.

How long is the trip?
The full tour duration varies from around 4 hours for speedboat options to a longer day with transfers. Snorkeling and beach time are scheduled but may feel short if you love water activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included in most packages, providing Egyptian staples and fresh produce.

Are there any hidden costs?
You’ll need to pay a tourist tax of $5 per person on the day, which isn’t included in the initial price.

What is the best way to book?
Booking online in advance is recommended, especially if you want private or specific transfer options. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers find this trip family-friendly, especially with snorkeling gear and calm beaches. Just keep an eye on children around water.

To sum it up, this trip to Orange Bay combines great value, scenic beaches, and vibrant reefs into a relaxing day out. It’s best suited for budget travelers, water lovers, and those seeking a flexible, no-fuss escape to enjoy the Red Sea’s natural beauty. While organization can be hit or miss, the overall experience remains a worthwhile choice for most visitors to Hurghada.

You can check availability for your dates here: