orange bay from Makadi Bay/Sahl Hasheesh/Soma Bay/Safaga

Introduction
Taking a trip to Egypt often means exploring ancient wonders, but sometimes it’s equally rewarding to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Red Sea. This Giftun Island tour from Hurghada offers a chance to relax on pristine beaches, snorkel along vibrant reefs, and soak up the sunny shoreline—all for a very reasonable price.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it combines several snorkeling opportunities with a peaceful beach stop. Second, it’s a cost-effective way to spend a full day on the water without breaking the bank. Third, the tour provides convenient pickup and an organized itinerary that takes the hassle out of planning.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that some guests have noted long transfers from their hotels and less-than-ideal snorkeling spots, which could affect your overall experience. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a easy, budget-friendly day trip that balances snorkeling, beach time, and sightseeing in a relaxed environment.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $23.49, this tour offers good value for money with multiple activities included.
• Snorkeling Fun: Two snorkeling trips give you a chance to explore the Red Sea’s colorful underwater life.
• Relaxing Beach Stop: An hour on Giftun Island allows for swimming, sunbathing, or just unwinding on soft sands.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear are provided, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal, less crowded adventure.
• Optional Extras: Water sports like banana boats may be available but depend on weather conditions.

What to Expect from this Giftun Island Tour

How the Day Unfolds

The day begins with a convenient pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, taking you from your hotel in Hurghada or nearby areas like Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, Soma Bay, or Safaga. The transfer can be lengthy—reviewers mention an hour-long bus ride—but it’s a common feature of day trips in this region. Once at the harbor, you’ll board a boat that sets off for Giftun Island, which is renowned for its white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy two snorkeling trips. The provided gear makes it easy to glide over the reef and marvel at the marine life—think schools of colorful fish, coral formations, and maybe even some curious sea creatures. If weather permits, optional water sports like banana boats and sofa boats might be available, although these add extra charges and depend on the day’s conditions. One reviewer noted that these extras were not always clearly communicated beforehand, so it’s worth asking ahead if they’re a priority for you.

The Island Experience

Once on Giftun Island, you’ll have about an hour of free time. Many travelers use this to swim in the clear waters or lounge on the soft sands, soaking in uninterrupted views of the Red Sea. The beach is often described as peaceful, making it a great spot for families or those wanting a laid-back day. Some guests, like Dianne, found the organization “well managed,” especially with quick responses to pre-trip questions and efficient hotel pickup.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

You can expect two snorkeling sessions, each offering a different perspective of the underwater world. The coral reefs here are known to be lively, perfect for exploring with the provided equipment. Interestingly, one reviewer shared a less-than-ideal snorkeling experience, citing a “poor snorkeling location” and the long transfer as drawbacks. This highlights that while the scenery is generally lovely, some spots may not meet every snorkeler’s expectations.

Lunch and Refreshments

Lunch is included in the tour price, typically served during the boat ride. You’ll also get coffee, tea, and soft drinks—all well appreciated on a sunny day at sea. The meal is usually simple but satisfying, giving you enough energy for the snorkeling and beach activities.

The Realities of the Experience

Transportation and Group Size

Most travelers are picked up from their hotels, with groups limited to around 20 people. This smaller size helps avoid the chaos often associated with larger tours. However, the long transfer times are a point of contention among some guests, who feel the journey to the boat could be more streamlined. Still, the comfort of air-conditioned vehicles helps make the ride more bearable.

Pricing and Value

At $23.49 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The multiple activities, lunch, and snorkeling gear included mean you’re getting a fairly comprehensive day out without additional costs. That said, some extras like water sports are paid separately, and the 3 euro entrance fee to the nature reserve is an additional expense to consider. For most, the overall experience feels like good value—especially given the scenic beauty and ease of planning.

Potential Drawbacks

Some guests have expressed disappointment with the snorkelling spots, describing them as less impressive or overly crowded. Plus, the optional water sports might not be suitable for all, especially if you’re expecting a fully inclusive adventure. The transfer time can also diminish the overall enjoyment for those who prefer shorter travel times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want an affordable, low-stress way to experience the Red Sea. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a relaxing day on the water will appreciate the organized nature, included gear, and the chance to swim and sunbathe in beautiful surroundings. If you’re seeking top-tier snorkeling or highly specific marine life encounters, you might find the spots less satisfying, but for those after a lovely day trip with scenic views and some underwater exploration, it hits the mark.

This tour is also well-suited for those who value pre-booking—with most bookings made 9 days in advance, you can secure your spot easily and avoid sold-out disappointments. Keep in mind that the overall experience depends a lot on weather conditions, so flexibility is key.

The Sum Up

In summary, this Giftun Island tour from Hurghada offers solid value with a mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and scenic boat rides. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option that suits those wanting a hassle-free way to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty without a hefty price tag. The included lunch and snorkeling gear make it especially appealing for travelers eager for underwater adventures, while the limited group size fosters a more intimate atmosphere.

While the transfer times and snorkeling locations might not be perfect, most guests find that the overall experience delivers good value and scenic highlights. If you’re after a relaxed, fun-filled day on the water with a reasonable price point, this tour ticks those boxes nicely.

FAQs

How long is the transfer from the hotel to the boat?
Most guests experience about an hour-long bus ride, which is typical for day trips in this area. It can feel a bit long, but the air-conditioned vehicle makes it more comfortable.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup, snorkeling gear, lunch, coffee/tea, soft drinks, and boat trips. Entrance to the nature reserve costs an extra 3 euros per person.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?
The tour provides snorkeling gear as part of the package, but you are free to bring your own if you prefer.

Are water sports available on the trip?
Yes, water sports like banana boats and sofa boats may be available, but their availability depends on the weather, and they are charged separately.

How much time do I get on Giftun Island?
You’ll have about one hour free on the island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing on the sands.

What’s the price of this tour?
It costs approximately $23.49 per person, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy a day at the Red Sea.

Is this trip suitable for families?
Absolutely. The trip is well-organized, and with a small group size, it’s friendly for families with children of all ages.

What should I know before booking?
Most travelers book about 9 days in advance. Be aware that the snorkeling spots might not be the best, and weather could affect water sports options.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of Egypt’s stunning coastline. It’s best for those who want an affordable, hassle-free day with snorkeling, beach time, and scenic boat rides, all wrapped into one.