Hurghada: Pirates Sailing Boat to Orange Bay with Transfers

Taking a day to sail along Hurghada’s stunning coastline on a pirate-themed vessel sounds like a scene straight out of adventure stories. While we haven’t personally boarded this specific tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from the Pirates Premier Sailing Boat experience. It’s a trip that combines scenic sailing, snorkeling at picturesque reefs, a relaxing beach stop, and a generous seafood buffet—all aboard a charming, twin-masted wooden ship reminiscent of a golden age of sailing.

What really grabs us about this tour is its family-friendly vibe, the attention to comfort with air-conditioned lounges, and the chance to explore Orange Bay’s beautiful sands. We also love that it offers full-day ease with inclusive pickup and drop-off. On the flip side, some travelers note that the experience can feel somewhat rushed or simplified, especially if you’re hoping for an authentic pirate adventure or a longer snorkeling session.

This tour suits those seeking a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of comfort and fun activities for kids. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors wanting a taste of the Red Sea, or anyone craving a mix of sailing, snorkeling, and beach time without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Comfortable onboard experience with air-conditioned lounges and full service.
• Family-friendly activities including kid’s entertainment, treasure hunts, and face painting.
• Scenic sailing with ample time at Orange Bay for beach relaxation.
• Delicious seafood buffet lunch served in a hygienic, spacious setting.
• Snorkeling at some of the region’s best reefs, with gear provided.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies for peace of mind.
• Mixed reviews on the authenticity of the pirate theme and the reef’s condition.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Pirate Sailing Experience

The Ship and its Atmosphere

Imagine stepping onto a beautiful, twin-masted wooden sailing ship that seems straight out of a pirate movie. The Pirates Premier Sailing Boat is designed to evoke a sense of adventure from the age of sail, with a large, sun-drenched upper deck perfect for lounging and enjoying the views. Below decks, you’ll find two air-conditioned salons decorated with marble and wood, creating a luxurious yet themed setting that adds to the experience.

From the moment you step aboard, the crew aims to make everyone feel welcome—especially the kids, who are often treated to face painting, costumes, and treasure hunts. As one reviewer, Christina, put it: “The crew was awesome from start to finish. They took great care of every guest and were really great with the kids.” The ship generally maintains high standards of cleanliness and comfort, making it a relaxing environment for all.

The Itinerary: Sailing, Snorkeling, and Beach Time

The day kicks off with about an hour of sailing to the best snorkeling sites, where the crew provides gear and instructions. The reefs are the highlight for many, offering glimpses of colorful marine life. Jessica, another reviewer, mentioned that the snorkeling was good, though some felt the time was a bit limited. The tour typically includes an hour of guided snorkeling, which means you’ll get some insight into the marine environment but perhaps not an in-depth exploration.

After snorkeling, the boat heads toward Orange Bay Island. Here, you’ll have approximately an hour to relax on the sandy beach, swim, or build sandcastles. The beach stop is well-liked for its scenic beauty, although some reviewers, like Jessica, found the experience somewhat rushed or superficial—”you’re herded across the island like cattle,” she said. Kids get a dedicated animation program, with treasure hunts and fun activities, which helps keep them engaged while parents unwind.

Food and Beverage Options

A significant part of this tour’s appeal is the buffet lunch, served in the air-conditioned salon. The menu features seafood soup, three types of fresh salads, rice, pasta, potatoes, and a variety of seafood—shrimp, calamari, fish—plus chicken and kofta. Fresh seasonal fruit rounds out the meal, and many reviewers praise the food as tasty and hygienic. Lisa appreciated the “fantastic ship, everything super clean and well-maintained,” and noted the lunch was served with care.

Onboard drinks are available for purchase, but extras like wetsuits are not included, so you might want to bring your own if you’re planning to snorkel longer or need additional protection from the water.

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Kid-Friendly Activities

The tour’s focus on family fun is evident. Kids are kept entertained with face painting, treasure hunts, pirate costumes (though some reviews mention these costumes can be dirty or oversized), and other activities. The entertainment program is described as “full” by some, but others, like Nicole, found it limited or unspectacular—highlighting the importance of managing expectations.

The Experience of the Reef and Orange Bay

While many find the snorkeling reefs stunning, some mention that the coral and marine life may not be as vibrant as in other parts of the Red Sea. Christina noted that “the reef wasn’t as beautiful anymore,” which could be seasonal or due to environmental factors. The time spent at Orange Bay is roughly an hour, providing a quick taste of beach relaxation, but some travelers felt it was too brief or lacked the depth of a true island getaway.

Transfers and Logistics

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, making the whole day hassle-free. Trip timings vary, with morning and afternoon options to suit different schedules. Some reviews point out that the return transfer process can be less smooth—Lisa remarked about a delay and confusion about pickup details, suggesting that clearer communication (like WhatsApp notices) could improve the experience.

What We Love About This Tour

• The themed ship makes the day feel special, especially for kids or those young at heart.
• The full-service, air-conditioned lounges add comfort, making the journey relaxing.
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, so you’re ready to explore immediately.
• The seafood buffet offers a generous, hygienic meal that’s praised by many.
• The beach stop at Orange Bay provides a scenic break with opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
• The family activities and entertainment make it easy to keep children engaged, allowing parents a bit of downtime.

What Could Be Better

• Some travelers find the reality of the snorkeling or reef condition less impressive than expected.
• The pirate theme can feel superficial, with some costumes and activities not quite living up to the promise.
• The timing at Orange Bay might feel rushed, limiting relaxation.
• The return transfer process could be clearer and more reliable, as some reviews report delays.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is ideal for families with children looking for a fun, safe day out on the water. It’s also suited for first-time visitors wanting a guided, all-inclusive experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, and beach time without too much hassle. Adventure seekers craving pristine reefs or authentic pirate fantasies might find it lacking, but those wanting a relaxed, scenic day with good food and entertainment will find plenty to enjoy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfers, making logistics easy and convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s recommended to have sun protection and be prepared for the sun and possible water activities.

Are snorkel masks and life jackets provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included in the tour, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Can I pay for extra drinks on board?
Yes, additional drinks are available for purchase during the trip.

What is the duration of the tour?
The typical trip runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm, depending on the day.

Is the food vegetarian-friendly?
The menu includes seafood, salads, and other options, but it’s best to check if you have specific dietary requirements.

Are there kids’ activities onboard?
Yes, kids are offered face painting, treasure hunts, and pirate costumes, although reviews suggest the activities are somewhat limited.

How scenic is the sailing?
Expect scenic views of the Red Sea coastline, with a chance to see marine life while snorkeling.

What is the condition of the reefs and island?
Reef conditions can vary; some travelers mention less vibrant coral, but the overall experience remains enjoyable for many.

Sailing on the Pirates Premier vessel in Hurghada offers a comfortable blend of exploration, relaxation, and family fun. The themed ship, inclusive lunch, and beach stop at Orange Bay make for a memorable day, especially if you’re traveling with children and want all logistics handled smoothly. While the experience might not satisfy hardcore snorkelers or those seeking a truly authentic pirate adventure, it delivers solid value for a scenic, hassle-free day on the Red Sea.

This tour suits families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a lively, enjoyable excursion that combines comfort with fun. With flexible booking options and the chance to escape the bustle of Hurghada for a day, it’s well worth considering if you’re looking for a well-organized, family-friendly adventure on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: