Orange Bay Island

Taking a boat trip to Orange Bay from Hurghada is a popular way to escape the busy hotel beaches and see some of Egypt’s stunning seascapes. The 7-hour cruise offers a mix of snorkeling, relaxing on pristine sands, and enjoying a hearty lunch — all with the promise of vibrant coral reefs and turquoise waters. While it’s not a private yacht experience, it’s a well-organized outing suited for travelers seeking a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is — pre-booking guarantees your spot, so there’s no last-minute stress, especially during busy travel seasons. The snorkeling stops are a major highlight, giving you opportunities to see colorful reefs, and the lunch served onboard adds to the value. Plus, the hotel pickup makes logistics simple. One thing to consider is that alcoholic beverages aren’t included, but given the focus on snorkeling and relaxing, this may not be a drawback for most.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic views, underwater adventure, and downtime in a stunning beach setting. If you’re looking for a low-key, well-reviewed day trip with organized transfers, Orange Bay from Hurghada could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Accessible and well-organized with pre-booking options
• Two snorkeling stops offer a chance to explore vibrant reefs
• Relaxing beach time on Giftun Island’s sands and shallow waters
• Includes onboard lunch and soft drinks, with options to upgrade
• Hotel pickup simplifies the day, with transport from nearby resorts
• Limited alcohol, so it’s more family-friendly and laid-back

An In-Depth Look at the Orange Bay Tour Experience

The Journey to Orange Bay: Setting Sail from Hurghada

The tour begins early, with a pickup around 7:30 am — a good time to beat the heat and crowds. The boat, described as beautiful and clean, whisks you out into the Red Sea, offering views of the coastline and open water that are quite stunning. For those staying in Hurghada or nearby resorts, the included hotel transfer means you avoid the hassle of arranging your own transportation. If you’re coming from Makadi or other locations, there’s an extra fee, but the convenience often outweighs the small additional cost.

The Giftun Islands Stop: A Photo-Worthy Paradise

The first stop is the Giftun Islands, often regarded as one of the most beautiful spots around Hurghada. Here, you’re greeted with calm waters and picturesque beaches, perfect for a quick swim or just lounging on the sand. Reviewers like Silvio, who visited in October 2020, mention the “beautiful yacht” and exciting snorkeling stops that made the journey memorable. They also appreciate the friendly team and the relaxed atmosphere onboard, which encourages a leisurely pace.

During this approximately two-hour stop, you’ll have the chance to snorkel at reefs, swim in shallow, clear waters, or relax under the sun. The reef spots are noted to be quite vibrant, with some reviews mentioning adorable beach views and tranquil surroundings. While the snorkeling guide is optional — with a chance to upgrade for a private guide — even those who just snorkel independently seem satisfied with the reefs’ beauty.

Snorkeling Highlights: Underwater Views You’ll Never Forget

The tour offers two snorkeling stops, giving you ample opportunities to see coral formations and marine life. We loved the way the guide’s presence makes the experience more reassuring, especially for beginners. Reviewers mention that the reefs are “not disappointing,” which is a heartening detail for those worried about the quality of underwater sights.

Some travelers, like Silvio, appreciated the exciting snorkeling surprises, remarking that the stops were memorable rather than rushed. If you are an avid snorkeler, you might find the underwater scenery at each reef fascinating, with colorful fish and corals just beneath the surface.

Lunch on the Boat: A Simple but Satisfying Meal

After the snorkeling, lunch is served onboard — a big convenience, especially since many trips don’t include food. The lunch is included in the tour price, with soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea available. Reviewers note that the meal is straightforward but tasty enough to satisfy hungry travelers, and the friendly crew ensures everything runs smoothly.

For those with specific dietary preferences or hungry appetites, the onboard lunch is a practical solution. However, if you want to dine at the beach restaurant or indulge in additional snacks, you’ll need to pay extra, unless you opt for the Orange De Luxe package, which includes lunch on the beach.

Relaxing at Orange Bay: Sand and Shallow Waters

The highlight for many is the free time to relax on the sands of Giftun Island. The shallow, turquoise waters are ideal for wading and lounging, making it perfect for families with children or anyone simply wanting to soak up the sun. Reviewers mention that the beach’s calm atmosphere and beautiful views make it a memorable part of the trip.

This segment is all about unwinding, whether you want to float in the shallow shallows or nap under a sunshade. The peaceful setting and gentle waves are usually appreciated, with some travelers commenting that it’s a “paradise” to spend a few hours in.

Practical Details to Know Before You Go

Duration and Timing

The entire trip lasts approximately 7 hours, starting from pickup around 7:30 am. The boat remains at the island for several hours, balancing snorkeling and beach time. Being aware of the schedule helps you plan your day and manage expectations on how much leisure versus activity you want.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes hotel transfers for those in Hurghada and Makadi. Other resorts require an additional fee. The maximum group size is 33 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience but still lively enough to meet fellow travelers.

Price and Value

At $44.32 per person, this trip offers good value considering the included activities — two snorkeling stops, onboard lunch, and transfers. The reviews suggest that the experience balances cost and quality well, especially for travelers seeking straightforward, enjoyable seascape adventures.

What’s Not Included?

Alcoholic beverages are not included, and there’s an option to upgrade to include beach-side lunch (Orange De Luxe). Tips are also extra, as is any additional food or snacks outside the provided meal.

Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring if your plans change. If the weather is poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Silvio’s review from October 2020 highlights the enjoyable snorkeling stops and friendly crew, emphasizing that the boat is clean and the atmosphere relaxed. He mentions that his wife’s wish to visit Orange Bay was fulfilled perfectly, and the exciting snorkeling surprises made it worth the journey.

Another reviewer appreciated the beautiful yacht and the relaxed, good-humored team, which contributes to the laid-back vibe of the trip. The stunning views of the coastline and reefs are consistently praised, making this an attractive choice for travelers seeking scenic beauty with minimal fuss.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits families, couples, and solo travelers who want a hassle-free day of marine exploration and beach relaxation. It’s ideal if you prefer organized logistics, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, and value knowing upfront what the day will involve. If you’re keen on snorkeling in colorful reefs and spending time on a quiet island beach, this trip offers both at a fair price.

However, those looking for an adventure-packed or private experience might find this tour a little straightforward. It’s more about enjoying the sea, sun, and reefs than seeking out exclusive or adrenaline-fueled activities.

The Sum Up

The Orange Bay Island tour from Hurghada offers a practical and enjoyable way to discover Egypt’s Red Sea underwater life while enjoying a day in the sun. The combination of snorkeling stops, relaxing beach time, and included onboard lunch makes it a well-rounded option for travelers wanting a straightforward, value-packed day. The friendly crew and stunning scenery add to the relaxed vibe, making it suitable for families, couples, or anyone who loves the sea.

While it might lack the exclusivity of private charters, the organized nature and solid reviews suggest this tour provides a dependable way to explore Giftun Island without the stress. It’s perfect if you’re after a scenic, accessible day trip that balances underwater adventure with leisure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered for those staying in Hurghada and nearby resorts, making the whole day more convenient.

How long does the trip last?
The tour runs for about 7 hours, starting early in the morning around 7:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are snorkeling guides available?
Yes, there is a guide for the snorkeling group, and you have the option to upgrade for a private snorkel guide.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers boat transportation, two snorkeling stops, onboard lunch, soft drinks, water, coffee/tea, and hotel transfers if applicable.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included or offered as part of this tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and laid-back pace make it suitable for families, though parents should supervise children during snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sun protection, and maybe a waterproof camera. Snorkel gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
No, the stops are suitable for beginners, and guides are available to assist if needed.

Overall, the Orange Bay Island tour from Hurghada is a straightforward, scenic day that balances snorkeling, relaxation, and good value. It’s a good pick for those wanting a dependable, enjoyable escape into Egypt’s beautiful Red Sea waters.