Orange Bay Trip by Boat with Lunch, Water Sports, and Snorkeling

Planning a day out in Hurghada that balances fun, relaxation, and beautiful scenery? The Orange Bay Trip offers just that—a chance to enjoy the stunning Red Sea, snorkel among colorful marine life, and soak up the sunshine on a pristine island. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and descriptions highlight its appeal as an affordable, memorable adventure.

What I love about this tour is its value for money, the chance to indulge in snorkeling and water sports, and the convenience of included lunch. It’s a great pick for travelers seeking a full-day escape with a mix of active and laid-back moments. That said, it’s worth noting that some excursions involve additional costs for transfers from certain locations, so planning accordingly helps. This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience the Red Sea’s best without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $11.25 per person, this trip offers excellent value with plenty of activities included.
• Comprehensive Experience: Combines snorkeling, water sports, beach relaxation, and a seafood buffet in one day.
• Well-Organized and Safe: Reviewers appreciate the helpful staff and safety-conscious approach.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect crystal-clear waters, a sandy island, and stunning Red Sea views.
• Flexible Activities: Enjoy optional extras like banana boating and quad biking.
• Good for All: Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers; most people can participate.

An In-Depth Look at the Orange Bay Trip

How the Day Unfolds

The day begins at 8:00 am with a pickup from your hotel—most likely a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle taking you to the boat dock. From there, it’s a short transfer to the boat, which anchors in the Red Sea. The boat ride itself offers promising vistas, with reviewers mentioning “killer views of the Red Sea” that set the perfect tone for the day ahead.

Once aboard, you’ll head straight to Orange Bay, a small island renowned for its fine sandy beach and turquoise waters. The stay at Orange Bay lasts about two hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Reviewers describe it as a “paradise,” with one noting it feels like “swimming in an aquarium” thanks to the vibrant marine life visible in the clear water.

The Beach Experience

On the island, you can lounge on the soft sand, play volleyball, or sip fresh juice from the juice bar. The reviews mention that the beach is very well kept, clean, and perfect for unwinding after the boat ride. Reviewers have also highlighted that the water here is “crystal clear,” making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and simply enjoying the aquatic scenery.

Snorkeling and Water Sports

After your time on the beach, the boat departs for another snorkeling spot, where you can explore the vibrant underwater world. Two snorkeling sessions are included, and guests mention that the waters are teeming with colorful fish—almost like swimming in an outdoor aquarium. One reviewer notes that currents can make the second snorkeling stop a bit shorter, but overall, the marine life didn’t disappoint.

For added excitement, the tour offers water sports such as banana boating and sea sofa rides. The banana boat, in particular, receives praise for being “fun” and suitable for all ages who seek a bit more adrenaline. Some reviewers mention that extra charges apply for activities like quad biking or transfers from specific locations, so it’s wise to plan ahead.

Lunch: Fresh Seafood and More

Lunch is included and is generally described as fresh and tasty. The seafood buffet has been praised for its quality, with some reviewers giving it a perfect 10/10. The meal is served after the beach time, as the boat cruises along the coast, providing a chance to relax and refuel. This all-in-one approach—no need to hunt for restaurants or carry extra cash—adds excellent value to the trip.

Additional Activities and Flexibility

If you’re craving more action, you can pay for extra water sports or even quad biking (although details on that are limited). The flexibility of the tour allows you to enjoy the essentials without pressure, and the staff is noted for being attentive and safety-conscious.

End of the Day

By around 4 pm, the boat heads back toward the harbor. The transfer bus then takes you back to your hotel, usually with smiles and tired but happy memories. The whole experience lasts roughly 8 hours, making it a full but well-paced day out.

What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviewers highlight the great value for the price, especially considering the included lunch and water activities. Many describe the trip as “organized,” “professional,” and “very fun,” emphasizing the helpfulness of the staff and the safety measures in place. One reviewer even called it “a paradise island,” underlining how stunning the setting is.

Some practical insights from reviews include the importance of booking a few days in advance, as the trip is popular—most bookings are made about 6 days ahead. Regarding additional costs, transfers from places like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh cost $5 per person, while from El Gouna, Safaga, or Soma-Bay, it’s $10. The $10 national park fee is also separate but manageable if you’re planning further adventures.

Practical Tips for Your Orange Bay Trip

• Book early: The tour fills up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
• Arrive on time: The start time is 8:00 am, so plan your pickup accordingly.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and waterproof camera are recommended.
• Consider extra costs: Transfers from some areas and optional water sports are pay-as-you-go.
• Expect a relaxed pace: The itinerary balances activity with plenty of downtime for swimming, lounging, and enjoying the scenery.
• Prepare for currents: The second snorkeling spot might be affected by sea currents, making it shorter or less intense.
• Stay safe: The helpful staff focus on safety, but always follow their instructions, especially during water activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive day out without sacrificing quality. Families with children will appreciate the safe water activities and the relaxed beach environment, while couples can enjoy the romantic views and peaceful setting. Solo travelers looking to meet fellow explorers will find the group atmosphere friendly and welcoming.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer a light adventure—snorkeling in calm waters, relaxing on sandy beaches, and enjoying a tasty seafood lunch. If you’re after a fun, value-packed day with plenty of opportunities for photos and swimming, this tour checks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

The Orange Bay Trip stands out as a stellar choice for anyone wanting to soak up the beauty of the Red Sea without breaking the bank. It offers a well-rounded experience—from snorkeling among vibrant fish to lounging on a pristine island and indulging in a delicious seafood lunch—all packed into one affordable package.

The convenience of organized transfers and included activities makes it highly accessible, and the positive reviews reflect its reputation as a reliable, enjoyable outing. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it provides a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

If you’re craving a day of sunshine, sea, and smiles, this trip could be just what you need. It’s a straightforward, honest experience that delivers beautiful scenery, good value, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 6 days in advance to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons.

What is included in the price?
For $11.25 per person, you get hotel pickup (if applicable), boat transfer, snorkeling equipment, a seafood lunch, and water sports like banana boating and sofa rides.

Are transfers from all locations included?
No, transfers from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh cost an extra $5 per person, and from El Gouna, Safaga, or Soma-Bay, it’s $10. It’s best to check with the provider if your location isn’t listed.

What water activities are available?
Banana boating and sofa rides are included as water sports. Extra activities like quad biking might be available at an additional cost, although details vary.

How long is the trip?
The entire tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8 am and returning around 4 pm.

Is the snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the waters are calm and crystal clear, ideal for beginners. Reviewers mention seeing vibrant fish and enjoying the snorkeling stops.

Can I swim on the island?
Absolutely. The beach is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and taking in the scenic views.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, towel, waterproof camera, hat, and possibly some cash for extra activities or tips.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Most likely, yes. The activities are safe, and the environment relaxed, making it a good family outing.

Overall, the Orange Bay Trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and value. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty with minimal fuss, this trip ticks all the boxes.