Hurghada: Orange Bay Island with Group

Hurghada: Orange Bay Island with Group – A Practical Guide to a Beautiful Day Out

If you’re heading to Hurghada and craving a laid-back day by the water, the Orange Bay Island trip offers a chance to soak up the sun, enjoy some snorkelling, and relax on pristine sands. While it might not be a full-day adventure for everyone, it’s a popular option for those wanting a taste of the Red Sea’s beauty without breaking the bank.

What we particularly like about this tour is its affordability, the friendly group atmosphere, and the chance to explore one of Egypt’s most scenic beaches. On the flip side, some guests mention that the short time at Orange Bay can feel rushed, especially if you’re craving extensive swimming or lounging. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, enjoyable escape to a picture-perfect island with minimal fuss.

Contents show

Key Points

Affordable price point at $25, making it accessible for most travelers.
Beautiful Orange Bay with clear waters and white sand, perfect for quick beach stops.
Snorkeling opportunities at coral reefs nearby, adding a bit of underwater adventure.
Delicious onboard meals and soft drinks that save you the hassle of packing snacks.
Group setting with hotel pickup and drop-off, creating a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Some reviews highlight limited time at the island, so manage your expectations for how long you’ll relax or snorkel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Hurghada, usually arranged in the morning or early afternoon. From there, you’ll join a group of fellow travelers, so expect a friendly, communal vibe. The transportation involves a speedboat ride across the Red Sea, which in itself can be a highlight—think about the wind in your hair and the gleam of the water as you cruise toward Orange Bay.

Once you arrive, the main attraction is the beach itself—a slice of paradise with turquoise waters and powdery white sands. You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Orange Bay, according to several reviews, which some find enough for a quick swim, a sunbathe, or a stroll along the shore. However, this short window can feel a bit rushed if you’re looking to lounge for longer or really explore.

Snorkeling comes into play after some time on the beach, with the boat stopping at nearby coral reefs for underwater viewing. Several guests found the snorkeling quite enjoyable, with vibrant marine life and clear visibility. But keep in mind, the trip description mentions water sports like banana boat rides, though some reviewers note that these activities are not always explicitly included or may be quick experiences.

Lunch and drinks are provided onboard, which many guests appreciate as a convenient way to enjoy quality food without having to leave the boat. The onboard meal is generally described as “super delicious,” with the crew being attentive and cheerful.

After your time on the island and in the water, the boat cruises back to Hurghada with views of the Red Sea’s expansive beauty. The transfer concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation, making the entire day smooth and straightforward.

Looking for more options in Hurghada? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Stunning Views and Clear Waters: Many reviewers, like Daniel, mention the “top” boat team and the beautiful beach scenery. The waters at Orange Bay are famously crystal clear, perfect for quick swims or snapping photos of the scenic coastline.

Friendly Guides and Crew: One traveler, Weronika, highlighted the “amazing atmosphere” and the crew’s positive attitude, which makes the experience more enjoyable, especially for solo travelers or families.

Good Value for Money: For only $25, including lunch, soft drinks, taxes, and service charges, this trip provides a very budget-friendly way to enjoy the Red Sea’s highlights.

Authentic Beach Experience: While some reviews note the crowds—Orange Bay can get busy—others appreciate the lively, bustling atmosphere that makes the beach feel vibrant and fun.

The Drawbacks and Considerations

Limited Time at Orange Bay: Several reviews, including one from a traveler who wished for more than 1.5 hours, mention that the short stay makes it tough to really unwind or explore. If you’re someone who likes to relax on the sand or snorkel extensively, this might feel rushed.

Shallow Waters: One review pointed out that the waters near the beach are shallow, making swimming a bit less appealing for those expecting deep diving or extensive water activities.

Hygiene Concerns: A reviewer was uncomfortable with walking barefoot on the boat, citing hygiene worries. So if cleanliness is a top priority, you might want to bring your own footwear or be prepared for this.

Crowds: The beach can get crowded, especially during peak season, which can detract from the feeling of seclusion or tranquility.

Who Is This Tour Ideal For?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a budget-friendly way to see Orange Bay and enjoy some sun and water. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a social atmosphere, as the group environment encourages camaraderie. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Red Sea’s beauty, this tour offers a quick, fun outing.

It’s also suitable for families or mixed groups looking for a simple day trip that includes lunch and transport, without complicated logistics. However, if you’re after a more relaxed, secluded experience or a full day dedicated to snorkeling or lounging, you might find this tour somewhat limited.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price—just $25—you get a lot. The tour offers a snapshot of Orange Bay’s stunning scenery, some underwater exploration, and a friendly vibe onboard. The included lunch and drinks add to the value, freeing you from extra expenses. Though the short duration can be a downside, it still offers enough time to dip your toes in the water, snap some photos, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

This experience works best for travelers who want a quick, fun escape rather than an all-day, laid-back retreat. It’s ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or simply want a cost-effective way to tick Orange Bay off your list.

There's plenty more to explore in Hurghada

FAQ

How long is the trip?
The main time at Orange Bay is around 1.5 hours, which many find sufficient for a quick swim and photo ops, but not enough for extended lounging.

What’s included in the price?
The $25 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, all taxes, and service charges.

Is snorkeling available?
Yes, the trip stops at coral reefs where you can snorkel; some reviews describe the snorkeling as quite enjoyable with vibrant marine life.

Can I book this tour later?
Yes, bookings are flexible— you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the quality of the food?
Multiple reviewers describe the onboard lunch as “super delicious,” and the crew as attentive and friendly.

Is the beach crowded?
Yes, Orange Bay can get quite busy, especially during peak season, which some travelers find lively while others find crowded.

Are there water sports?
The description mentions water activities like banana boat rides, but some guests say these are not always included or may be brief.

How is the group size?
It’s a group tour, so expect a social atmosphere with fellow travelers, with transfers arranged for convenience.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed group setting and inclusion of food and transport make it family-friendly, though young children should be supervised around water.

To sum it up, the Hurghada Orange Bay Island tour offers a fun, affordable escape to one of Egypt’s most scenic beaches. While it’s not a full-day, relaxing retreat, it provides enough time to enjoy beautiful views, snorkel, and indulge in delicious food—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a quick, lively experience with great value.