Exploring Giftun Island: A Relaxed and Adventurous Day in the Red Sea
If you’re looking for a full-day escape that combines stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and comfortable amenities, the Giftun Island VIP Sea Trip from Hurghada might just be your ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that appeals to travelers eager to see Egypt’s famous coral reefs and pristine beaches without the hassle.
What stands out immediately? The professional guides and friendly staff who make snorkeling and water sports smooth and enjoyable, the delicious seafood lunch that’s served on board, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. One minor thing to consider is the park entry fee, which isn’t included in the booking price, so you’ll want to have some cash on hand. This trip feels like a great choice for travelers who want a balance of relaxation and adventure, especially if you value comfort and good value for money.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off makes the day stress-free.
- Snorkeling at two different sites allows plenty of underwater exploration.
- On-board lunch and water sports add variety and refreshment to the trip.
- Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into marine life and the island’s natural beauty.
- A well-paced 8-hour itinerary suits both avid swimmers and those who prefer lounging on beaches.
- Extra costs such as park entrance fees and transfers from some locations should be budgeted in advance.
Introduction to the Giftun Island VIP Sea Trip
This sea adventure in Hurghada promises a balanced mix of natural beauty and comfort. From the moment you’re picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, the focus is on making your day as smooth as possible. The approximately 8-hour cruise revolves around exploring Giftun Island’s crystal waters and coral reefs, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax.
The trip is particularly popular among travelers seeking value for money and authentic experiences, thanks to its reasonable price of $26 per person. The experience is tailored to those who enjoy the outdoors but also appreciate the comfort of a well-organized tour with good amenities and friendly guides—elements that many reviews highlighted positively.
This tour is especially suited for anyone in Hurghada wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day with stunning views, tasty food, and water-based activities. Whether you’re a snorkeling novice or an aqua enthusiast, the day offers enough variety to keep you engaged.
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What Makes This Trip Special?
Stunning Views of Giftun Island: The trip provides remarkable vantage points of the island’s white sandy beaches and saltwater lagoons. Guests often comment on how beautiful and inviting the scenery is, perfect for photos or simply soaking it all in.
Snorkeling in Vibrant Coral Reefs: The two snorkeling stops are a highlight, offering the chance to see colorful fish and marine creatures. Guides are present to help, explain the ecosystems, and point out interesting sights, making it suitable even for beginners.
Delicious Seafood Lunch: The onboard buffet lunch, featuring fresh seafood, gets good reviews for its taste and variety. It’s a good opportunity to refuel after swimming and water sports, and soda or water are included to stay hydrated.
Water Sports Fun: Banana boating and other water activities add a playful element to the day. Reviewers mention that the water sports are well-organized, and the equipment is provided free of charge, making it more enjoyable.
Hassle-Free Transfer: The included hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, especially when traveling in a group or with family. Some travelers appreciate the convenience, as it saves time and effort.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Your day begins early with a pickup at around 8:00 am from your Hurghada hotel. The journey to the boat takes roughly an hour, depending on your location. Once onboard, the crew provides safety equipment—including snorkeling gear and life jackets—and offers a brief introduction to the day’s activities.
The boat cruises for about an hour to reach the first snorkeling spot. Here, the guided snorkel will give you a chance to marvel at the reef’s vibrant marine life. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to point out interesting creatures, making it an educational as well as a fun experience. The marine environment is lively, with colorful fish and corals creating a mesmerizing underwater tableau.
After some time in the water, the boat heads to a second snorkeling site. Reviewers have described this as equally impressive, with a chance to see different coral formations and fish species. Some guests mention that the guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe in the water.
Around midday, it’s time for lunch. The onboard buffet features fresh seafood and other tasty options, with drinks including soda and water. The food is generally described as good value, satisfying hungry snorkelers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
In the afternoon, you can either relax on the deck, soak up the sun, or participate in water sports such as banana or sofa rides. The water activities are popular with guests, who find them fun and well-organized.
You’ll spend up to 2 hours on Hula Hula Island itself, which offers a chance to explore the beaches, swim, or just lounge under the sun. Many review comments highlight the island’s pristine appearance and the chance to take some memorable photos.
The return trip to Hurghada begins in the late afternoon, and you’ll be dropped back at your hotel, often with a sense of having enjoyed a well-balanced, active day in a beautiful setting.
What’s Included and What’s Not?
Included:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned vehicle.
- An 8-hour boat trip with water sports.
- Snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and a guided underwater tour.
- Up to two hours on Hula Hula Island.
- Lunch with drinks (soda/water) onboard.
Not Included:
- The national park fee of five US dollars per person, payable cash on the spot.
- Transfers from certain locations like El Gouna, Safaga, or Sahl Hasheesh, which cost an additional ten dollars per person and are paid on arrival.
The extra costs are minor and clearly disclosed, but it’s good to be prepared to pay cash if needed.
Authentic Guest Insights
Based on the 12 reviews, the experience tends to be quite positive. Guests appreciated the friendly guides, with one noting, “everyone were so nice and we had an amazing tour guide who showed us everything.” This suggests that guides are not only knowledgeable but also personable, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The food quality also receives praise: “the seafood lunch was tasty and satisfying,” making it clear that the onboard meal isn’t just filler but something to look forward to. Water activities like banana boating are described as “unbelievably fun,” with guides ensuring safety and enjoyment.
Some guests, like Yasmin, mention the “unbelievable talent” of performers after their water activities, hinting at some entertainment aspects that add a special touch to the day.
A key insight from reviews is the value for money. For just $26, travelers get a full day of activities, transport, and meals, which is considered very reasonable by those who want a memorable yet affordable experience.
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Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This trip is perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a relaxed yet active day in Hurghada. If you love snorkeling, water sports, and beach scenery, this is a practical and enjoyable way to experience Giftun Island’s natural beauty. The included transfer makes it particularly appealing for those who prefer a hassle-free day.
It’s also a good choice for travelers on a budget, since the overall value, including food and equipment, is quite favorable. However, if you’re not comfortable in the water or have mobility issues, you might want to consider the physical demands of snorkeling and water activities.
The Sum Up
The Giftun Island VIP Sea Trip offers a combination of scenic beauty, marine adventure, and comfort that appeals to a variety of travelers. With friendly guides, good value for money, and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s a reliable choice for those wishing to explore Egypt’s famous coral reefs and beaches without the hassle of organizing each element individually.
The included seafood lunch, water sports, and the chance to swim in vibrant reefs make it a memorable, fun-filled day. The hassle-free pickup and drop-off add to the overall convenience, especially useful for travelers unfamiliar with local logistics.
While minor additional costs like park entry fees should be considered, they don’t detract from the overall value. This tour is especially suited for those who want a balance of guided adventure and leisure in a stunning natural setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am with hotel pickups, allowing for a full day of activities.
How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride lasts approximately 8 hours, including stops for snorkeling, water sports, and time on the island.
Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, soda and water are provided with the onboard lunch, which features seafood and other tasty options.
Do I need to pay any extra fees?
Yes, there is a national park fee of five dollars per person payable in cash on the spot. Transfers from some locations may also incur an additional ten dollars.
Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. You can relax on the boat or the island beaches and enjoy water sports if you prefer.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Generally, yes, especially since water sports and snorkeling are guided and equipment is provided. However, children should be comfortable in the water.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and cash for extras like park fees. Towels and snorkel gear are provided.
Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience.
In sum, this trip provides a well-rounded day of exploration and relaxation, promising fantastic underwater sights, tasty food, and memorable views—perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy Hurghada’s natural beauty without overcomplicating their day.
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