Orange Bay Island

Planning a day at Orange Bay on Giftun Island? You’re in for a treat. This popular water sports tour from Hurghada offers stunning scenery, fun activities, and a good mix of relaxation and adventure. While it’s priced affordably at just over $23 per person, it’s the kind of trip that balances value with plenty of memorable moments.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the air-conditioned transfer ensures you start your day in comfort, away from the Egyptian heat. Second, the snorkeling gear and water sports, like banana boat rides, bring out the kid in everyone. Lastly, delicious food and drinks served throughout the day keep you energized for all the activities. The main caveat? The tour’s timing can feel a bit hurried, especially on busy days, and some may wish for more time on the beach.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded day — from exploring marine life to lounging on paradise beaches — without breaking the bank. Families, solo travelers, or anyone eager to enjoy the Red Sea’s vibrancy will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning from your hotel
• Multiple snorkeling sites with quality gear included
• Good value with lunch, drinks, and water sports included in the price
• Beautiful, lively Orange Bay with enough time to swim and relax
• Expert guides and crew that many reviews praised for their friendliness and safety
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if you need to cancel 24 hours in advance

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour kicks off early at 8:30 am with a hotel pickup — a real plus if you hate the hassle of organizing transport. The transfer is air-conditioned, which makes the start of your day more pleasant, especially in the heat. Most travelers found the collection process smooth, with some reviews mentioning the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness as a standout feature.

Once at the marina, you’ll hop aboard the boat, which, depending on the operator, is often praised for being modern and clean. The approximately 20-minute cruise to Giftun Island offers scenic views of the Red Sea, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. Expect to arrive at Orange Bay around mid-morning, where you’ll have roughly two hours to unwind on the sandy beach.

Time on Orange Bay

The beach is stunning and well-maintained, with sun loungers and umbrellas provided — a thoughtful touch that allows you to relax comfortably. Reviewers noted the beach’s popularity, which sometimes results in crowded conditions, as one guest lamented, “People were very selfish not letting others use the spare swing.” Still, most found the scenery mesmerizing and enjoyed swimming in the warm waters.

Water Sports & Snorkeling

The highlight for many is the snorkeling. The tour includes equipment for two stops at different sites, where you can spot tropical fish, coral reefs, and maybe even a few surprises like jellyfish or barracudas, as some reviewers mentioned. The guides are often praised for their helpfulness, especially for those who aren’t confident swimmers. One guest shared, “They encouraged us to wear life jackets and take part in guided snorkeling, even though we couldn’t swim.”

Water sports such as banana boat rides and inflatable sofas are offered after snorkeling. Reviews rave about the crew’s effort to keep everyone safe and make the activities fun. The banana boat ride, as some noted, lasts about 20 seconds — short but exhilarating enough for a quick adrenaline rush.

Lunch and Refreshments

Midway through the day, the boat halts for a substantial lunch. The included meal is described as tasty and satisfying, with many reviewers mentioning that there’s more than enough food to go around. Throughout the day, hot and cold drinks are available, with some reviewers appreciating the unlimited nature of the offerings, which helps keep everyone hydrated and energized under the sun.

Final Water Sports Session & Return

After lunch, the crew takes guests for a final round of water activities. This part is often described as the most fun, especially with the friendly guides making sure everyone gets a turn. As the boat heads back to Hurghada marina around 4 pm, the day winds down with plenty of time to reflect on your aquatic adventures.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Affordable price point for a full-day experience with all essentials included.
• Friendly, knowledgeable staff — many reviewers mentioned guides like Moaaz and Mr. Memo, who went out of their way to ensure safety and fun.
• Well-organized itinerary with a good mix of activities, beach time, and meals.
• Beautiful scenery and lively marine life during snorkeling.
• Comfortable transportation and a modern boat that keeps guests relaxed.

Cons

• Limited beach time can leave some feeling they didn’t stay long enough on Orange Bay.
• Crowded beaches on busy days, which sometimes affects the overall relaxing vibe.
• Extra charges like environmental fees and transfer costs from certain locations (e.g., Makadi, Safaga, El Gouna) may surprise some travelers.
• Weather dependency — rough seas or windy conditions can shorten snorkeling or beach time, as noted in reviews.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for those seeking a value-packed day of fun, especially if you enjoy water sports, snorkeling, and beach lounging. Families will appreciate the safe and friendly guides, while solo travelers and couples will love the mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re on a budget but want to experience the Red Sea’s beauty, this tour offers a lot for its modest price.

However, if you prefer extended beach time or more secluded spots, you might find the limited hours on Orange Bay a bit rushed. It’s also a good fit for first-timers who want a comprehensive taste of Giftun Island without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book in advance — most travelers reserve about 17 days ahead, which seems to secure your spot.
• Arrive early at 8:30 am to enjoy a smooth start and maximize your time.
• Bring cash for optional extras like tips or local vendors on the island, as some reviews mention no card facilities.
• Wear sunscreen and bring a towel — although some reviews mention that the tour provides umbrellas and sun loungers.
• Prepare for a busy day; expect some crowds, especially at Orange Bay, so patience and a cheerful attitude will help.
• Consider your snorkeling confidence; guides are helpful for beginners, but the sea can be a bit rough at times.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from your hotel in Hurghada is included, with arrangements available for other destinations upon request.

How long does the trip last? The entire tour is approximately 7 hours, with departure at 8:30 am and returning around 4 pm.

What is included in the price? Snorkeling gear, lunch, water and hot/cold drinks, and water sports like banana boat rides are included.

Are there additional costs? Yes, extra fees may apply for transfers from Makadi, Safaga, and El Gouna, plus government environmental taxes.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers? Absolutely — guides encourage everyone to wear life jackets and participate safely.

How crowded is Orange Bay? It can get busy, especially on weekends or peak season, which might affect your comfort and privacy.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, a towel, cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour family-friendly? Yes, many reviews mention kids having a great time, especially with the water sports options and friendly crew.

Final Thoughts

Opting for the Orange Bay Island tour from Hurghada offers a lively, reasonably priced way to enjoy the stunning Red Sea. With a good balance of snorkeling, water sports, and beach relaxation, it caters well to those looking for a full day of fun without the hefty price tag. The knowledgeable guides, tasty meals, and beautiful scenery create a memorable experience that many reviewers cherish.

While it might feel a little rushed for some and can get crowded, the overall value and friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile choice. Perfect for families, water lovers, or anyone seeking a hassle-free, action-packed day at Giftun Island.

If you want a slice of paradise that’s easy to book and well-reviewed, this trip is a solid pick. Just remember to bring your patience and your camera — you’ll want to capture these colorful underwater moments and stunning vistas.