Hurghada: Orange Bay & Magawish Island Speedboat with Lunch

Planning a day out on the water in Hurghada? Our review of the Orange Bay & Magawish Island Speedboat Tour aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect, from stunning scenery to the nitty-gritty of logistics. This experience promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and underwater discovery — and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular, with an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 1,500 reviews.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the speedboat ride through the Red Sea is exhilarating and offers incredible views. Second, the visit to Orange Bay lets you sunbathe on pristine beaches without the crowds. Third, the snorkelling stops are praised as some of the best in the area, offering vibrant coral reefs and lively marine life. A potential downside? The snorkelling instructions could be clearer — some guests experienced water up the nose due to lack of guidance. Still, this trip is ideal for those craving a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, especially if you want good value for your money.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience caters well to travelers looking for a relaxed yet active day on the water, with opportunities for sightseeing, snorkelling, and island hopping. It’s especially suitable for those who want an affordable, well-organized trip that includes lunch and the option for a quick fly-over of the Red Sea. If you’re a family, a couple, or solo traveller eager to see the underwater world and enjoy idyllic beaches, this is likely a good fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $47 per person, this tour offers great value considering the inclusion of multiple stops, lunch, and activities.
• Expert Guides and Crew: Guests consistently mention friendly, caring guides that ensure safety and fun.
• Beautiful Locations: Orange Bay and Magawish Island both boast clear waters, soft sands, and scenic views reminiscent of Caribbean vibes.
• Snorkelling Highlights: Multiple reviews praise the reefs and marine life, with some mentioning dolphins and colorful fish.
• Flexible Options: The option for a 5-minute flight provides an extra perspective of the Red Sea from above.
• Smooth Logistics: Hotel pickups, well-maintained boats, and organized timing make for a hassle-free experience.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

Easy and Prompt Pickups

One of the first things we appreciate about this tour is the hotel pickup service. Guests report a prompt and friendly collection, with details sent the night before via email, often around 10 pm. The pickup location is usually at the main entrance of your hotel, not the reception, so double-check your hotel’s main gate to avoid missing the bus. For travelers in remote areas like Makadi, Safaga, El Gouna, or Sahl Hasheesh, long-range pickups are available for an added fee, making this trip accessible to a wider audience.

The Speedboat Ride: Fast, Fun, and Scenic

Once at the harbor, you’re greeted by a professional team eager to brief you on safety and the day’s itinerary. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, with some reviews emphasizing the friendly and attentive crew, including guides like Saif and Kareem, who are praised for their care and humor.

The speedboat ride is the highlight for many — it’s a quick, exhilarating journey across the calm, blue waters. Guests describe it as fun and comfortable, with some even lucky enough to spot dolphins swimming nearby, which is quite the bonus.

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Orange Bay: Beach Bliss and Privacy

Arriving early at Orange Bay is key to beating the crowds, which some reviews mention as a big advantage — you get the beach almost to yourself, with just your group. The beach features white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing or simply soaking up the scenery.

Guests often comment on the quiet, unspoiled atmosphere here, making it a perfect spot to relax. The tour includes around 1 hour at Orange Bay, which some find just enough, though a few wished for more time to linger and enjoy.

Snorkelling in the Red Sea

Two snorkelling stops are scheduled, roughly 20 minutes each, at locations selected specifically for their vibrant coral reefs and marine biodiversity. The reviews show that the snorkelling is a major draw — many guests describe the experience as breathtaking, with colorful fish, coral, and the possibility of swimming near dolphins or rays.

According to some reviewers, the guides are helpful and patient, especially when first-time snorkellers feel nervous. However, a few mention that instructions on snorkelling gear could be more detailed; water up the nose was a common complaint, but overall, the safety measures and equipment are considered adequate.

Magawish Island: Caribbean Vibes and Lunch

The next stop is the Magawish Islands, often compared to the Caribbean for their turquoise waters and serene environment. Guests usually spend about an hour here, which is ample time to explore, take photos, or relax on the sand.

The lunch served here is generally well-received — a delicious, plentiful packed meal with plenty of water, soft drinks, and seasonal fruits. Reviewers mention that the food quality surpasses expectations for a tour of this price point, making it a worthwhile inclusion.

Optional Fly-Over: A Bird’s-Eye View

One of the tour’s unique features is the option to fly for up to 5 minutes over the Red Sea. For those who choose this, it provides an aerial perspective of the stunning coastline and islands. Several reviews highlight this as a highlight — seeing the vibrant waters from above adds a whole new appreciation for the area’s beauty.

Returning to Hurghada

After a full day of adventure, the boat returns us to the harbor for a comfortable and safe transfer back to your hotel. Guests often appreciate the smooth logistics, with most reviews mentioning friendly crew members and well-organized timing.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour covers most essentials: hotel pickup and drop-off, speedboat transfers, entry fees for both islands, snorkelling equipment, lunch, soft drinks and water, guides, seasonal fruits, shade tents, life jackets, and nature reserve fees. The optional parascending for 5 minutes can be selected at checkout.

Travelers should bring sunglasses, sun hats, towels, and cash for drinks or souvenirs on the islands. Note that pets are not allowed and that sharing your passport copy for permissions is necessary.

Authentic Insights from Guests

Many reviews emphasize the warm, caring attitude of the crew and guides, often naming individuals like Saif, Kareem, or Mohamed for their attentiveness. The marine life sightings — including dolphins and colorful fish — are a big plus, with guests describing snorkelling as “like swimming in an aquarium.”

A few guests mention minor inconveniences, such as water getting up their nose during snorkelling or wishing for longer at Magawish Island. Still, the overall sentiment is positive, with many calling it an excellent value for the price.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early to secure the best times and long-range pickups.
• Arrive early at the harbor to get a head start at Orange Bay before it gets crowded.
• Use the provided snorkelling equipment but consider bringing your own mask or fins if you prefer.
• Bring cash for drinks, snacks, or souvenirs at the islands.
• Wear comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a sun hat for maximum comfort.
• If you’re nervous about snorkelling, chat with the guides beforehand—they’re very supportive.
• Consider upgrading to the flying option for a unique perspective of the Red Sea.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the entire trip?
Typically, the tour lasts between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and group size.

What is the price?
It costs about $47 per person, which includes most activities, lunch, and entry fees.

Can I snorkel if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely. Guides are helpful and patient, and many reviewers share that their first snorkelling experience was unforgettable.

Is the lunch meal satisfactory?
Most guests find the lunch to be delicious and plentiful, with some emphasizing how much they enjoyed the food and fruits provided.

Can I see dolphins?
Guests have spotted dolphins swimming near the boat, adding a magical touch to the day.

What if I want a private experience?
The tour offers private or shared options. Some reviews mention the benefits of a small group, which allows for more flexibility and personalized service.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hats, towels, and cash for extras are recommended. Don’t forget your passport copy for permissions.

Final Thoughts

This Hurghada speedboat tour to Orange Bay and Magawish Island strikes a great balance between adventure, relaxation, and value. For just $47, you get to see stunning beaches, snorkel in vibrant reefs, and enjoy a tasty lunch in a setting that rivals the Caribbean. The friendly guides and well-organized logistics make it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a day of fun on the Red Sea.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeller or a seasoned water enthusiast, this trip offers enough variety to keep everyone entertained. It’s especially suited for those who want to explore multiple locations without the hassle of organizing transport or activities themselves.

If you’re after a well-priced, memorable day with plenty of opportunities to see marine life and unwind on beautiful beaches, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure to your Hurghada holiday.

In summary, this experience is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to enjoy the Red Sea’s highlights without breaking the bank. It’s a chance to snorkel, relax, and take in stunning views — all with the comfort of good organization and friendly crew. Just bring your sunscreen, courage for snorkelling, and an appetite for fun!

You can check availability for your dates here: