Snorkeling at Orange Island & Water Sports with Lunch – Hurghada

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty on the stunning shores of Hurghada. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a fun, hassle-free day on one of Egypt’s most picturesque islands.

What we love about this experience:
First, the inclusion of all snorkeling equipment and water activities means you can jump right into the water without worrying about extra costs or gear. Second, the buffet lunch on the boat is a highlight, offering a chance to refuel while taking in the sea views. Lastly, the hotel pickup and drop-off make the day seamless, especially for travelers staying in Hurghada who want to avoid logistics headaches.

A possible consideration is that additional costs can add up, like transfer fees from certain locations or park entrance fees. This is worth noting if you’re coming from places like Safaga or Sahl Hasheesh.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, all-inclusive day of snorkeling, water sports, and island exploring—perfect for those looking to enjoy the Red Sea’s beauty without fuss.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price offers good value for a full day of activities.
• Convenient hotel transfer simplifies logistics, especially in Hurghada.
• Snorkeling equipment and water sports are included, making it easy for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
• Buffet lunch provides a tasty break with sea views.
• Extra costs may apply for park entrance or transfers from distant locations.
• Small group size (max 30 travelers) helps keep the experience personal.

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience is designed as a straightforward escape into the Red Sea’s vibrant underwater world combined with relaxing beach time. Starting with a hotel pickup at 8:00 am, you’ll be comfortably transported via air-conditioned vehicle to the boat. Once aboard, the journey across the sea is smooth and scenic, setting the tone for a day of laid-back exploration.

The Journey to Orange Bay Island

From the start, the tour feels well-organized. The pickup service already sets a convenient tone, meaning you’ll avoid the hassle of finding your way to the marina. The boat is likely to be a modest-sized vessel, accommodating up to 30 guests, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Once at Orange Bay, you’ll have all snorkeling equipment provided, allowing you to glide over coral reefs and spot colorful fish without extra expense. The clarity of the water is often praised, and the marine life abundance makes the experience rewarding for all ages and skill levels. Some reviews highlight the stunning views, especially around the coral reefs, which are described as teeming with marine creatures.

Reviewers noted how “the waters are crystal clear” and “the coral reefs are vibrant”, making this a highlight of the trip. The organized spots for snorkeling ensure a safe, accessible experience, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time.

Exploring Orange Island

Apart from snorkeling, you’ll get time to walk along the serene beaches and enjoy the landscapes. This is a great chance for some quiet relaxation or photos of the stunning scenery. The island’s untouched vibe is often appreciated, with few crowds and plenty of space to unwind.

Lunch and Rest

The buffet lunch served onboard is typically described as delicious and plentiful, with a variety of options to satisfy different tastes. It’s served while you enjoy the sea views, making it feel like a true treat. The inclusion of coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water helps keep everyone refreshed throughout the day.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of water fun and island exploring, the boat returns to shore in the late afternoon, followed by your transfer back to the hotel. The overall duration is around 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day out.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While the tour is priced at $18 per person, there are some extra charges to keep in mind. Transfers from places like Safaga, El Gouna, or Soma Bay are not included and cost an additional $10 per person, while Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, or Al-Ahiaa transfers cost only $5. There’s also a $10 fee for national park entrance, which some guests might encounter if they opt to visit additional areas or parks.

One reviewer pointed out some confusion from the tour operator about park fees, emphasizing the importance of clarifying details beforehand to avoid surprises.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews give us a balanced view. One reviewer, Monique R., mentioned a discrepancy about park fees, highlighting the importance of reading the fine print. She noted, “It mentions that the park entry fee is not included,” but then was asked to pay extra, which she declined.

However, other travelers appreciated the stunning views and the smooth organization of the water activities. Many highlighted the vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life, making snorkeling a worthwhile part of the experience.

Some reviewers also pointed out that the small group size helped keep the tour intimate, allowing for better interaction and attention from guides. This can make a difference, especially for those new to snorkeling or water sports.

Transportation & Group Size

The boat ride is generally described as comfortable, with an emphasis on the convenience of the hotel pickup and drop-off. The maximum group size of 30 helps prevent overcrowding and ensures you get plenty of attention for instructions and safety.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This outing is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive day with snorkeling, water activities, and island exploration. It’s particularly good for those staying in Hurghada who want an easy, stress-free experience. If you prefer a customizable or more immersive experience, this tour’s organized nature might feel a bit limiting, but for most, the simplicity is perfect.

The Sum Up

For just around $18, this tour offers remarkable value for a full day of discovering the Red Sea’s beauty. The combination of snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, relaxing on peaceful beaches, and enjoying a buffet lunch makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a straightforward yet memorable outing. The inclusion of hotel transfers adds convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport options.

While a few details around extra fees warrant attention, overall, this experience provides a wonderful introduction to Orange Bay’s natural charm. It’s a good pick for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to enjoy the Red Sea’s marine wonders without fuss.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, snorkeling equipment, water activities, time on Orange Island Beach, and a buffet lunch with drinks.

How long does the trip last?
The entire tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are water activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided, and the experience is designed for all skill levels, with organized snorkeling spots and safety instructions.

Is there any extra cost I should be aware of?
Additional costs may include transfer fees from certain locations (e.g., Safaga, El Gouna, Soma Bay) and a $10 national park fee.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you might want to bring your own if preferred.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Yes, water activities are included, and you can relax on the island beaches or enjoy the scenery without participating in water sports.

What if I want to visit the national park?
The national park fee is $10 per person, and you should check if your itinerary includes visiting the park or just the island.

What do reviews say about the scenery?
Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and vibrant marine life, with some describing the waters as crystal clear and reefs as colorful, making it a memorable snorkeling destination.

This tour strikes a fine balance between adventure and relaxation, offering a rewarding glimpse of Hurghada’s underwater and island landscapes—perfect for those seeking a straightforward, enjoyable day on the Red Sea.