If you’re dreaming of a day spent floating above vibrant corals, swimming alongside curious fish, and soaking up some of the Red Sea’s most stunning scenery, the Orange Bay Snorkeling Trip with Bella Tours promises just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect on this colorful and well-organized excursion.
One thing we love about this trip is the affordable price point—at just $20 per person, it offers fantastic value for a full-day adventure. The seamless hotel pickup and drop-off, combined with a seven-hour boat ride, make it a practical and stress-free way to explore Giftun Island. Plus, the multiple snorkeling stops and water sports options make this a versatile outing for all kinds of travelers. However, it’s worth noting that there’s a small entrance fee of five euros at Orange Bay, which isn’t included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.
This tour is best suited for adventurous souls, families, or groups looking for an affordable yet comprehensive day at sea. If you’re after a relaxing, guided experience with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, swim, and enjoy the scenery, you’ll find this trip ticks most boxes. Just be prepared for the group size—up to 30 people—and a schedule that’s packed but flexible enough to savor the moments.
Key Points
- Affordable Value: At around $20, this tour offers a great entry point into Red Sea snorkeling and water activities.
- Comprehensive Experience: Includes hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling, water sports, and a scenic boat ride.
- Expert Guides & Friendly Service: Positive reviews mention knowledgeable guides and attentive staff.
- Stunning Scenery: Tour stops at Orange Bay and Giftun Island showcase the Red Sea’s best coral reefs and aquatic life.
- Flexible & Relaxed Schedule: About seven hours from pickup to drop-off, with ample time to enjoy water and land activities.
- Additional Expenses: Entrance fee of five euros at Orange Bay and optional transfer fees from some hotels are not included in the ticket price.
What to Expect from the Itinerary
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Pickup & Transfer
The journey begins early at 8:30 am with hotel pickups arranged by Bella Tours. They offer pickups from Hurghada hotels, making the start of your adventure hassle-free. This is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in a central location, as it saves time and taxi costs. The transfer fees from places like Makadi and Sahl Hasheesh are modest (€5), while from El Gouna, Safaga, and Soma Bay, it’s about €10 per person.
The Boat Ride & Scenic Views
Once onboard, you’ll spend approximately seven hours on a boat that’s described as clean and well-maintained. Reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the smoothness of the trip, with many mentioning the friendly guides—like Mina—who are praised for their attentiveness and helpfulness. Expect to enjoy spectacular views of the Red Sea, with plenty of chances to spot dolphins if you’re lucky.
First Stop: Orange Bay
Your first major stop is Orange Bay on Giftun Island, widely regarded as one of the top snorkeling spots in the world. Here, you’ll be able to swim in waters so clear they seem almost impossible, and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Reviewers like “@@rkeno Rayan” appreciated the “good sea and service”, noting Mina’s kindness—a detail that reassures you’ll be well looked after.
Snorkeling & Water Activities
The tour features two snorkeling stops, each with guides and equipment provided. You’ll have 90 minutes at Orange Bay to explore, swim, and take photos of the beautiful surroundings. Many reviews mention how enjoyable and organized the snorkeling was, with one traveler saying, “The snorkeling was enjoyable and the program was organized,” emphasizing how smooth the experience was without feeling rushed.
Water sports like banana boat rides and sofa rides are available, offering a fun break from snorkeling. Guests have reported the staff supporting them kindly throughout, which adds to the overall enjoyable atmosphere.
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Lunch & Island Exploration
After a few hours at sea, a delicious lunch is served—usually a simple, satisfying meal with water and soft beverages included. Then, you’ll have around two hours on Orange Island itself—perfect for walking around, relaxing on the beach, or taking more photos of the stunning landscape.
Return & Wrap-up
The trip concludes with a return to Hurghada, typically around 3 pm, giving you ample time to relax after a day of adventure. The overall experience is praised for its professionalism and friendly atmosphere, with many travelers noting the clean boats and helpful guides like Mina.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At just $20, this trip offers a hefty dose of sea, sun, and snorkeling—all with hotel transfers included, which is a real convenience. The lunch and water sports add extra fun, making it a well-rounded day that balances relaxation with adventure. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery as standout features, which significantly elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable outing.
The seven-hour duration hits a good sweet spot—long enough to feel like a full-day adventure but not so tiring that you’ll be glad to get back to your hotel. Plus, the flexibility of multiple snorkeling stops and water activities ensures the trip caters to different interests and energy levels.
However, keep in mind the additional costs—the entrance fee at Orange Bay and transfer fees from certain locations. Budgeting for these small extras ensures there are no surprises.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This tour is perfect if you’re seeking affordable, guided exploration of Giftun Island’s reefs and beaches. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or groups who want to enjoy snorkeling, water sports, and scenic views without the hassle of organizing every detail. It also suits those who appreciate professional guides and smooth logistics—the reviews praise Mina’s attentive service, which enhances the overall experience.
If you’re on a budget but don’t want to miss out on the Red Sea’s best sights, this trip offers genuine value. It’s less about luxurious amenities and more about authentic, fun-filled moments spent in one of Egypt’s most beautiful aquatic environments.
Final Thoughts
The Orange Bay Snorkeling Trip from Hurghada delivers a solid, well-organized experience that combines the natural beauty of Giftun Island with the convenience of hotel transfers and guided water activities. The value for money is excellent, especially considering the inclusion of lunch and water sports, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to explore the Red Sea.
While the trip is not overly lengthy, it packs in enough activities and scenic moments to satisfy most visitors. The warm, professional guides and pristine setting are key highlights that will leave you with lasting memories. If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable day at the beach with plenty of opportunities to see vibrant marine life, this trip should definitely be on your list.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the trip?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada are included, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.
How long does the trip last?
The entire experience runs for about seven hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers hotel transfers, a boat ride, two snorkeling stops, snorkeling gear, guides, lunch, water, and soft drinks. Water sports like Banana Boat rides are also available.
Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a five euro entrance fee at Orange Bay not included in the ticket price. Transfer fees from some hotels (Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Safaga, Soma Bay) are extra, ranging from €5 to €10 per person.
Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour provides snorkeling gear and guides, making it suitable even for those new to snorkeling.
What about the group size?
The tour caters to up to 30 travelers, so it’s a comfortably-sized group that balances social interaction with personal space.
Can I do water sports?
Absolutely. The tour offers water activities like Banana Boat and Sofa rides, providing extra fun during your island stay.
What’s the best time to join?
The tour departs at 8:30 am, so early risers will enjoy a full day of sunshine and activities.
Would you recommend this tour?
Based on reviews and features, it’s a reliable, value-packed option for anyone eager to see Giftun Island’s underwater world without spending a fortune.
In summary, the Orange Bay Snorkeling Trip with Lunch & Transfers offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the best of the Red Sea’s coral reefs and beaches. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day without worrying about logistics or overspending. Get set for a day filled with color, water, and memorable moments—your underwater adventure awaits.
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