Makadi: Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise to Orange Bay & Lunch

If you’re looking for a day full of sun, sea, and adventure right out of Hurghada, the Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise might just tick all your boxes. This tour promises a mix of vibrant marine life, picture-perfect beaches, and a taste of local cuisine—all wrapped up in a fun, speedy boat ride. Our review dives into why this trip scores highly among travelers and what you can expect, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Egyptian getaway.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the immense beauty of the coral reefs and the chance to see colorful fish and even sea turtles while snorkeling. Second, the relaxing time on White Sandy Beaches of Orange Bay, which feels like stepping into a Caribbean postcard. Last but not least, the friendly, knowledgeable crew ensures you’re well taken care of from start to finish.

That said, a few travelers have noted that the speedboat ride can be chilly, especially if you’re sensitive to the wind, and some found the initial transfer a bit uncomfortable when sharing a large rubber dinghy. The experience is best suited for those who enjoy water activities, relaxed beach time, and lively boat rides—but not for travelers with back issues or seasickness sensitivities.

Key Points

• Snorkeling among vibrant reefs offers a chance to see sea turtles and schools of colorful fish.
• Relaxing on Orange Bay’s pristine beaches provides a perfect break from sightseeing.
• The speedboat ride is fast and exhilarating, adding adventure to the day.
• Lunch options include a simple cheese or roast beef sandwich, with upgrades available, including seafood.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, and an island entry fee, making it a convenient all-in-one trip.
• Authentic reviews praise the friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Giftun Islands Speedboat Tour

This tour offers a quick escape from the hustle of Hurghada by taking you to some of Egypt’s most photogenic spots on the Red Sea. Designed for travelers craving a mix of adventure and relaxation, it combines snorkeling, beach lounging, and a boat ride that’s more fun than formal. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, the experience promises several highlights in a half-day format.

What we particularly appreciate is that this tour is priced at around $53 per person, which sounds reasonable considering the inclusions, especially when you factor in the snorkeling, lunch, and hotel transfers. It seems like a good value for those eager to make the most of a day at sea without breaking the bank.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Transfer

The adventure begins with hotel pickup, which is smooth and well-organized, with the provider typically sharing the details the night before. The pickup point is at the main entrance of your hotel, not the reception, so double-check your instructions. This small detail might seem trivial, but it helps avoid confusion, especially in busy resorts.

Travel times are generally short, but if you’re staying in areas like Safaga or Soma Bay, you can now add a long-range pickup for a small extra fee, making it easier if you’re a bit further afield.

Arrival at the Marina and Boarding

Once at the marina, you’ll meet your guide, who is often praised for being friendly and knowledgeable—Sabry is a name mentioned in reviews for his attentiveness and assistance during snorkeling. After a brief introduction, you’ll hop onto the speedboat, which is described as comfortable and speedy, capable of reaching your first snorkeling spot in just about 20 minutes.

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Snorkeling Stops: Coral Reefs and Marine Life

The tour includes two snorkeling stops, each lasting around 20 minutes. Here’s where the magic happens. Travelers frequently highlight the vibrant coral reefs and variety of marine life, including colourful fish and the possibility of spotting sea turtles. One reviewer mentioned that the snorkeling was “fantastic,” and another appreciated that guides like Sabry helped with snorkeling assistance, especially for kids.

The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, ensuring everyone can enjoy the underwater views. Many reviews note that the crew is attentive, making sure snorkelers are safe and comfortable, which is especially reassuring for families or less experienced swimmers.

Orange Bay: A Tropical Escape

After the snorkeling, you arrive at Orange Bay, often described as a “Caribbean-like paradise.” Its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for relaxing, swimming, or exploring at your own pace. You’ll see comments like “the island was very beautiful,” and that the waters at Orange Bay felt like “a postcard.”

Here, you have the option to enjoy your included lunch box, with choices like cheese or roast beef sandwiches. Some travelers upgrade to a seafood lunch, which adds a special touch. The island allows for leisure activities—swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Lunch and Leisure Time

The lunch experience is straightforward but appreciated: a simple, tasty meal served on the island or on the boat, depending on your preference. Several reviews mention that the food was fresh and satisfying, especially after a morning of activity. The tour also offers seasonal fruits, soft drinks, and mineral water to keep you refreshed.

You’ll have ample time to relax or explore the island, which is not overly crowded, according to reviews. This balance gives you a chance to enjoy the tranquility of the beaches without feeling overwhelmed.

Return to Hurghada

Finally, after your leisure time, the boat departs to head back to the marina. The return trip is quick, and your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel. The entire experience typically lasts around 4-5 hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion.

What Travelers Say About the Experience

Feedback is overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the friendly and professional crew. Reviewers like Werner and Alexandra appreciated the guides’ attentiveness—“Sabry was great,” and “everyone was so friendly.” Many comments highlight the stunning scenery, with several noting that the snorkeling was “fantastic” and the island was “very beautiful.”

Some travelers have pointed out minor inconveniences, such as the initial rubber dinghy transfer being a bit uncomfortable or the speedboat ride being quite cold due to the wind. One guest mentioned that the boat goes fast, so bringing a sweater or water shoes is a good idea.

A less favorable review pointed out that the transfer was lengthy and a bit uncomfortable when sharing a large rubber dinghy. It’s worth noting that the boat itself is described as speedy and comfortable, but the initial transfer might be a different experience depending on your hotel location.

The Value of This Tour

At just $53 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering what’s included. The hotel pickup and drop-off remove logistical stress, and the snorkeling gear and entrance fees are covered. The lunch and seasonal fruits add to the feeling of a well-organized, all-inclusive experience.

For travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this trip delivers. It’s perfect for those eager to see marine life, enjoy beautiful beaches, and soak up the sun—all without committing a full day. The small-group size and friendly guides enhance the experience, making it feel personal yet lively.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for water lovers who enjoy snorkeling and beach lounging. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a taste of Egypt’s breathtaking Red Sea without the fuss of a full-day commitment. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape with good food, friendly guides, and beautiful sights, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or have back problems, the speedboat ride and initial transfer might be less comfortable. Also, it’s not suitable for travelers who want a luxury cruise experience—this is a lively, fun day with a focus on natural beauty and casual relaxation.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience generally runs for about 4 to 5 hours, including transfers, snorkeling, and leisure time on the island.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children having a great time, especially with snorkeling assistance and the calm, shallow waters at Orange Bay.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for extras. Water shoes are recommended for walking on the rocky parts of the island, and a sweater might be handy for the chilly boat ride.

Can I upgrade my lunch?
Yes, you can add a seafood lunch during the checkout process, which is a popular upgrade for those wanting a more special meal.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and guides are attentive to helping less experienced snorkelers.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
While snorkeling is a key part of the tour, if you prefer to relax, you can remain on the boat or on the beach during the stops.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for all ages, but those with back issues or severe seasickness should consider their comfort.

What is the boat like?
The speedboat is described as comfortable and speedy, capable of making the trip to snorkeling spots in about 20 minutes.

What if I’m staying in Safaga or Soma Bay?
Your booking can include a long-range pickup as an add-on, ensuring you’re not left out of this fun day.

How do I know the pickup details?
The provider sends the pickup time and location via email the night before, so keep an eye out for your confirmation.

Final Thoughts

The Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise offers a balanced, value-packed day of snorkeling, beach lounging, and scenic cruising along Egypt’s stunning Red Sea. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for a fun, social, and relaxed experience that showcases the best of Orange Bay and the Giftun Islands. The mix of knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and tasty lunch options makes it a highlight for many visitors.

While it might not be the choice for those seeking luxury or experiencing seasickness, it delivers a lively, authentic taste of Egypt’s maritime beauty at a reasonable price. Whether you’re eager to see colorful reefs or just want to unwind on a white sandy beach, this tour offers a memorable slice of Red Sea paradise—one that you’ll likely want to share with friends or family.

To sum it up, this cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy some of Egypt’s most picturesque spots in just a few hours. It offers excellent value, friendly service, and a good mix of activities that suit most casual travelers. If you’re after an engaging, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and marine encounters, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: