Orange Bay Island Full Day Boat Trip with Lunch – Hurghada

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with sun, sea, and snorkeling in Egypt, the Orange Bay Island trip from Hurghada might just be what you’re after. This tour offers a full day of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery, all wrapped into one affordable package. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the opportunity to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs with guides who are knowledgeable and helpful. Second, the chance to unwind on pristine white beaches with soft sand and swaying palms—a perfect escape from the bustling coast. Third, the delicious onboard lunch, featuring fresh seafood and local dishes, makes the day feel like a real treat. One possible consideration is the crowded spots at Orange Bay, especially during peak times, which might affect those seeking quiet serenity.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day out—whether you’re into snorkeling, beach lounging, water sports, or simply soaking up the sun. It’s great for families, couples, or groups who appreciate good value, friendly guides, and a mix of activities in one package.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience with snorkeling, beach time, water sports, and lunch
• Affordable price point around $5 per person, offering excellent value
• Transport included, with hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles
• Guided snorkeling at coral reefs with equipment provided
• Crowd levels vary, so smaller groups or quieter times might enhance the experience
• Good for families and first-time visitors looking for a balanced day in the Red Sea

What to Expect from the Trip

This full-day adventure kicks off early, around 8:00 am, with hotel pickup, so you can relax knowing your transportation is sorted. The journey to the boat is comfortable thanks to air-conditioned vehicles, and depending on your hotel location, you might find that the transfer fee is included or payable on spot (noted as cash-only at certain spots).

Once onboard, the boat sets sail across the Red Sea. The cool breeze and the gentle rocking of the vessel make for a comfortable cruise, and seasoned guides are on hand to answer questions and point out wildlife—many reviews mention dolphin sightings and friendly crew members making the trip extra memorable.

The Snorkeling Experience

Two guided snorkeling sessions are scheduled during the day, at coral reefs known for their vibrant marine life. Expect to see a stunning variety of fish, brain corals, and clownfish hiding in anemones. Guides are praised for their helpfulness, especially those skilled in assisting less experienced snorkelers or children. Equipment—including snorkels, fins, and life jackets—is provided, making it easy to participate even if you’re new to snorkeling.

One reviewer shared that the guides “answered every question” and made the snorkeling experience enjoyable and safe. Another noted that the spots for diving can get crowded during peak season, but with two sessions, you get a good chance to enjoy different sections of reef.

Orange Bay Beach Time

After the water adventures, you’ll have approximately two hours to relax on Orange Bay’s soft sandy beaches. The reviews highlight the beauty of the area, describing it as a “spectacular place” with “incredible” views. The beaches are fringed with palm trees, providing natural shade, and the water is clear enough to see the seabed.

However, some reviewers mention that Orange Bay can get a bit busy, especially during high season. While the sand is heavenly, be prepared for some crowds—if tranquility is your goal, early mornings or off-peak times might serve better.

Water Sports and Additional Activities

For those seeking more excitement, the tour offers water sports including a water sofa and banana boat rides. These extra activities add a fun, lively element to the day and help break up the time spent relaxing. Many travelers loved the chance to try water sports, describing the experience as “great fun” and a highlight.

Lunch Onboard

A highlight for many is the onboard buffet lunch, which features a selection of fresh seafood, grilled meats, salads, and local delicacies. Reviewers consistently mention the deliciousness of the food, with one describing it as “fantastic” and another calling the lunch “a real treat.” The meal is served while cruising, making it a scenic dining experience that complements the day.

Plus, coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water are included, keeping everyone refreshed. Given the price point, this quality of food really adds to the value of the trip.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour is designed for convenience, with pickup and drop-off included, making it suitable for those who prefer not to navigate local transportation. It’s a group experience, with a maximum of 40 travelers, which keeps it lively but manageable.

While the tour’s duration is approximately 8 hours, actual timings depend on your hotel location and the day’s schedule. The meeting time is 8:00 am, so an early start is expected. Remember, a small additional fee might be payable on the spot for national park entry or transfers from certain areas like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many travelers praised the guides and crew for their friendliness and professionalism. One mentioned that the staff “never left us a moment alone” and took great care of younger travelers, making it a family-friendly outing.

Dolphin sightings and swimming with dolphins are mentioned as highlights, with guides pointing out marine life and making the experience more engaging. Several reviews also noted how the crew created a fun, welcoming environment, which made the entire day more enjoyable.

Some feedback pointed out that during high season, the spots for snorkeling and diving might be crowded, but overall, the positive comments about the helpful guides and stunning scenery outweigh any minor inconveniences.

What Would We Do Differently?

Given the crowd levels at Orange Bay, travelers seeking solitude might want to consider visiting during an off-peak time or earlier in the day. Also, some reviewers suggest that the island is becoming quite touristy and expensive, so managing expectations about prices and amenities there will help.

The boat’s comfort was praised, but a few reviews mentioned that the boat could use some minor updates. If you are sensitive to noise or movement, bringing additional comfort items like neck pillows might be helpful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers great value for money. For about $5, you’re getting a full day packed with snorkeling, beach time, water sports, and a hearty lunch. The trip is well-organized, with friendly guides who genuinely want you to enjoy your day.

This experience is ideal for first-timers and families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s also a solid choice if you’re after vibrant marine life, picture-perfect beaches, and a taste of the Red Sea’s beauty without breaking the bank.

For travelers who want a lively, friendly, and well-organized day out, this trip ticks all the boxes. If you’re after quiet, exclusive beaches or a private experience, this might not be the best fit, but for most, it’s a highly enjoyable way to spend a day in Hurghada.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Hurghada, with an air-conditioned vehicle.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am, including boat time, snorkeling, beach, and lunch.

Are snorkeling equipment and guides provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, guided tours, and life jackets are included, making it suitable for all experience levels.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. You can enjoy relaxing on the beach, water sports, or simply soaking up the sun.

Is there an extra fee I should be aware of?
There’s a national park fee of five per person, payable in cash on the spot. Transfers from certain areas may also incur a small additional fee.

What’s the food like?
The onboard lunch features fresh seafood, grilled meats, salads, and local dishes, which has received many positive reviews for quality and taste.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with water activities and guides who are attentive to children’s needs. However, younger children should be supervised around water and on the boat.

To sum it up, the Orange Bay Island full-day trip from Hurghada offers a fantastic mix of marine adventures, beach relaxation, and tasty eats—all at an impressively low price. It’s a great choice for those wanting a lively, scenic, and well-organized day in Egypt’s Red Sea. Just be prepared for some crowds at the island, and you’re in for a memorable adventure.