The Giftun Island Orange Sea Excursion from Hurghada

Experience the Beauty of Hurghada’s Red Sea with the Giftun Island Orange Sea Excursion

If you’re dreaming of a day spent soaking up the sun, swimming in turquoise waters, and discovering vibrant marine life, the Giftun Island Orange Sea Excursion from Hurghada might just be your perfect escape. This guided boat trip offers a balanced mix of snorkeling, relaxation, and scenic views—all at an accessible price point.

What we love about this tour? First, the convenient pickup service makes the day effortless. Second, the quality of snorkeling—two stops at prime coral reefs—ensures you’ll see the colorful fish and marine flora that make the Red Sea famous. Lastly, the delicious on-board buffet and water sports options add a touch of indulgence, making it a full-value experience.

One consideration? The additional tax and entrance fee of USD 10 aren’t included in the base price, which can surprise travelers if unprepared. Still, for the cost, this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s best suited for those wanting a straightforward, well-organized day of underwater adventure and beach lounging without the fuss of complicated logistics.

Key Points

• Affordable Pricing: At around $24 per person, the tour offers excellent value with meals, snorkeling gear, and transport included.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Two distinct stops allow you to explore coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, making it perfect for underwater photography.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from your hotel and comfortable boat ensures a hassle-free day.
• Authentic Experience: Reviewers mention friendly guides and well-maintained facilities, adding to the overall enjoyment.
• Flexible Schedule: Approximately 7 hours, with ample time for snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and water sports.
• Additional Costs: Expect to pay an optional USD 10 for tax and entrance fees, so plan accordingly.

Detailed Review of the Giftun Island Orange Sea Excursion

The Booking Experience and First Impressions

Booking this tour generally requires planning about a month in advance—on average, travelers book around 36 days ahead. The process appears smooth, with most reviews praising the easy organization and punctual pickup. The tour provider, Vip Trips, offers a mobile ticket, simplifying the check-in process, which is a blessing after a long journey or busy travel days.

The pickup service from hotels in Hurghada tends to be reliable, with many guests noting that the vehicle was comfortable and arrived on time. This level of reliability sets a positive tone for the day, especially important when you have a packed itinerary.

The Boat and Transportation

Once on the boat, guests generally find it to be well-maintained, clean, and comfortable. The boat’s layout facilitates easy movement, with plenty of space to relax or prepare for snorkeling. The crew is described as friendly, helpful, and enthusiastic, which makes a difference when you’re trying to get your gear sorted or ask questions about the marine life you might see.

The trip lasts around 7 hours, from pickup to drop-off, giving ample time to enjoy the key features of the excursion without feeling rushed. The boat’s onboard amenities include a buffet lunch, water, soda, and water sports like banana boat rides and floating sofas—perfect for adding fun and relaxation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Orange Bay and the Giftun Islands

The adventure begins early, with a start time of 8:30 am. The first stop is at Orange Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sands. This spot is ideal for swimming and soaking up the sun. As one reviewer notes, “Orange Bay is nice, beautiful water,” and another called it “paradise,” though they did mention it can get crowded.

Here, you get about two hours to unwind, take photos, or simply enjoy the tranquility. The soft dunes and calm waters make it a picture-perfect setting for a peaceful break. It’s a chance to float in the calm ocean or explore the shallow reefs with your snorkel gear.

Stop 2: Snorkeling at the Coral Reefs of Orange Island

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stops—two separate occasions where you can glide over vibrant coral reefs packed with tropical fish and other marine creatures. Reviewers describe the experience as “lovely,” with “brilliant fish and corals.” Guides are usually knowledgeable and helpful, often assisting less confident swimmers or pointing out interesting marine life.

One guest shared that the snorkeling was “really good,” with the best part being the diverse and colorful coral reefs. The clarity of the water, the variety of fish, and the opportunity to capture underwater shots make this a memorable activity.

Beach and Leisure Time

Apart from snorkeling, travelers love relaxing on the pristine beaches of Orange Island. The dunes are described as “soft and inviting,” perfect for lounging after a swim. Some reviewers mentioned that the water is very blue, and the scenery is postcard-worthy.

Food and Water Sports

The onboard buffet is a pleasant surprise—generous, tasty, and filling. Several travelers praised the delicious meals and refreshing drinks. The inclusion of soda and water keeps everyone hydrated, especially after swimming and sunbathing.

Water sports are available, including Banana rides and floating sofas, adding an extra layer of fun for those seeking a bit of adrenaline or just a relaxing float.

Group Size and Guide Experience

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Guides are consistently described as friendly, funny, and helpful, making everyone feel comfortable, especially during snorkeling.

One reviewer, Elsayed, even called the team “amazing and cooperative” all day, highlighting the staff’s dedication to guest enjoyment.

Cost and Additional Fees

At approximately $23.81 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the included meals, gear, and water sports. However, it’s important to note that additional tax and entrance fees of USD 10 are not included in the base price, which can add up if you’re not prepared.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travellers who want a straightforward, well-organized day of snorkeling and beach relaxation. It’s suitable for all levels—beginners and experienced snorkelers alike—thanks to the guides’ assistance. Also, it’s perfect for those on a budget but still eager to see the iconic underwater beauty of the Red Sea.

While it’s not a deep-sea adventure, the combination of scenic island time, coral reef exploration, and water sports makes it a well-rounded experience for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is the Giftun Island Orange Sea Excursion Right for You?

This tour offers a compelling mix of beautiful scenery, engaging snorkeling, and tasty onboard meals, all at a sensible price. The professional guides and well-maintained boat ensure comfort and safety, making it a reliable choice for your Red Sea adventure.

If you’re looking to see vibrant coral reefs without spending a fortune, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for travelers who value authentic, relaxed experiences over luxury, and those keen on exploring the underwater world firsthand.

The additional fee for entrance and taxes is a small extra, but it’s worth factoring into your budget. This excursion is a fantastic way to spend a day in Hurghada, especially if you’re eager to combine sun, sea, and snorkeling into one affordable and enjoyable package.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat trip to Orange Island, two snorkeling stops with gear and guides, a buffet lunch, water, soda, and water sports like Banana rides and floating sofas.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

Is there any extra cost I should be aware of?
Yes, there is a USD 10 fee per person for tax and entrance fees, which is not included in the base price.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, ensuring a friendly and manageable group size.

Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, including life jackets, is included and available at each stop.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, and a waterproof camera if you wish to capture underwater moments.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers in reviews found guides helpful, and the shallow reefs make it accessible for less experienced swimmers. However, always check with the provider if you have very young children or non-swimmers.

How is the food served on the boat?
A buffet lunch with drinks (water and soda) is served on board, and many guests find it delicious and satisfying after snorkeling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Whether you’re after vibrant coral waves or a relaxing beach day, this tour offers a well-balanced taste of Hurghada’s stunning marine environment. It’s simple, reliable, and packed with memorable moments—an excellent choice for a day out on the Red Sea.