Hurghada: Giftun Island Orange Bay Speedboat Cruise & Lunch

The best part of this Hurghada outing is the combination of two reef stops and Orange Bay in one compact trip. You get real time in the water, a fast ride across the Red Sea, and about 90 minutes on a white-sand island instead of spending the whole day on a large excursion boat.

I like the small-group feel and the attentive crew. Guides such as Mido, Ahmed, Youssef, and Hamdy have helped nervous swimmers, led people toward fish and coral, and kept families comfortable. I also like the practical extras: fresh fruit, water, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, shaded seating, and music on board. The main consideration is that Orange Bay can be crowded, and the speedboat ride can be quite bumpy when the wind picks up.

Key points to know before booking

• Two snorkeling stops: Plan on about 20 minutes at each site, with equipment and help from the guide.
• A quick, lively boat ride: The speedboat reaches the first reef in roughly 20 minutes, but rough weather can make the trip uncomfortable.
• About 1.5 hours at Orange Bay: You can swim, sit on the sand, take photos, or enjoy the island’s tropical beach setting.
• Helpful crew for beginners: Guides have assisted children, nervous swimmers, and solo visitors in the water.
• Private group format: The experience is sold as a private group, with small boats used for a more personal outing.
• Pickup needs attention: Hotel collection can shift by 60 to 90 minutes, and the bus waits only five minutes.

Why this Red Sea trip works so well

Hurghada is famous for its reefs, but the choice of boat trip matters. Large group boats can mean long waits, crowded decks, and a slow ride to the islands. This excursion uses a speedboat, so the journey itself becomes part of the fun. You move quickly between Hurghada, the snorkeling areas, Giftun Island National Park, and Orange Bay.

The schedule is also nicely balanced. You are not asked to spend four or five hours only snorkeling, which can be tiring in the sun. Instead, the tour gives you two short water sessions, a beach break, and a return ride to the marina.

I especially like this setup for people staying at a resort who want more than pool time but do not want a full-day sailing trip. You see the Red Sea from the water, get a close look at marine life, and still have part of your day free.

The experience lasts about four to six hours. That range reflects the pickup area, boat schedule, and time spent at the marina. The actual island and snorkeling program is fairly clear, but your hotel pickup time may vary. Keep your plans flexible that morning.

Getting from your hotel to the marina

Pickup is included from Hurghada, with listed pickup areas including Hurghada 1 and Hurghada 2. Longer rides from Makadi Bay, Safaga, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Soma Bay cost extra and must be selected as an add-on.

The company sends the final pickup details at about 10:00 PM the night before by email or WhatsApp. You need to provide your nationality, hotel name, address, room number, and a passport copy. This may feel like a lot of information for a boat trip, but it helps the driver locate the right hotel and passenger list.

On the morning itself, wait at the main entrance by the road, not at the reception entrance or inside the hotel grounds. Look for a white or black bus with the Go Shalabi logo. The pickup window can be about 60 minutes in Hurghada and up to 90 minutes in the extended areas.

The five-minute waiting rule is important. The driver may have several hotels to visit, so you need to be ready at the stated pickup point. If you dislike uncertain morning timing, ask your hotel to help you identify the correct road entrance the night before.

One practical warning concerns long-distance pickup. If you stay in one of the extended areas and do not book the add-on, you may need to pay at the harbor. The instructions also say there are no cancellations after 6:00 PM the day before for that service.

The speedboat ride to Giftun Island

At the marina, you meet the guide, receive a short safety briefing, and board the speedboat. Life jackets are provided, and the boat has a shaded area, which matters more than it sounds under the strong Red Sea sun.

The first ride takes about 20 minutes. A speedboat is much quicker than a standard day boat, and you get open views of the sea as you head toward Giftun Island National Park. The ride can also be noisy and bumpy. Several people have enjoyed the rough-and-ready excitement, while others have warned that windy days make the crossing less comfortable.

If you have back problems, this activity is not suitable. You should also think carefully about the ride if you are prone to motion sickness. The supplied advice about bringing a rain jacket or poncho and a change of clothes may sound odd for Egypt, but spray can reach the boat when the sea is choppy.

The crew often adds music to the ride. That gives the outing a cheerful, social feel, though it may not suit you if you prefer a quiet boat trip. The shaded area, stereo, drinks, and fruit make the boat more comfortable between water stops.

Two short snorkeling sessions on the Red Sea

The snorkeling portion includes two different locations, with about 20 minutes at each. The crew supplies masks and fins, and the guide can point out fish and coral rather than leaving you to swim around without direction.

Twenty minutes is not a long time, but two separate stops give you a useful chance to see different reef areas. You can also stay on the boat if you prefer not to enter the water. One family group split up this way, with some people snorkeling and others remaining on the island later.

The water is known for clear visibility, colorful fish, and coral formations. Sightings can include sea turtles, dolphins, flying fish, and moray eels, but none of these should be treated as guaranteed. Dolphins have been seen near the boat on some outings, especially on the return journey, while other trips have had no such encounter.

The guides are one of the strongest parts of the experience. Youssef has been praised for patiently helping a first-time snorkeler, while Ahmed has accompanied less confident swimmers with a buoyancy aid. That sort of personal help is valuable if you feel unsure in open water.

You still need to be honest about your ability. The guide can assist, but this is a sea excursion, not a swimming lesson. Listen closely to the safety briefing, use the life jacket if you need it, and do not feel pressured to enter the water.

The reef stops may be quieter than the island. One captain has taken groups to less commercial reef areas away from other boats, which can make the water time feel more personal. The exact sites can change with sea conditions and the captain’s judgment.

Orange Bay, the pretty part with a crowd

After snorkeling, the boat makes a short ride of about five minutes to Orange Bay. You get roughly 1.5 hours on the island, enough time for a swim, beach rest, photos, and a little wandering.

Orange Bay is attractive for a simple reason: soft white sand and clear, shallow-looking water create the tropical scene many people expect from a Red Sea island. The beach has a Caribbean feel, with plenty of spots made for photographs. If you want the classic island picture from your Hurghada holiday, this is where you will take it.

The island is also the least private part of the excursion. Orange Bay is popular, and it can get busy. One useful tip is to choose an early departure if available. An early arrival may give you more space and a calmer atmosphere before more boats reach the beach.

Do not expect 90 minutes to feel long. Time passes quickly once you have walked around, taken photos, swum, and settled on the sand. Some island refreshments and treats can be expensive, so bring cash if you want to buy anything beyond what is supplied on the boat.

The island’s beauty is real, but the experience is organized for visitors. That is not a criticism, just a fair expectation. You are visiting a popular beach stop, not an empty desert island. I would treat Orange Bay as a scenic break between the reef sessions rather than the sole reason to book.

Food, drinks, and what is actually included

The experience includes seasonal fruit, soft drinks, and mineral water. Several outings have also included lunch, and one detailed account described it as well presented and delicious. Since the supplied inclusion list focuses on fruit and drinks rather than spelling out the meal menu, check the current booking details if lunch is important to you.

Pack your own snack if you have allergies, follow a special diet, or are simply picky about food. One person specifically wished for more suitable snack options. A small personal supply is sensible because the schedule keeps moving and island food can cost more.

Bring a towel, sun hat, and cash. A change of clothes is useful after snorkeling, especially on a windy day. Keep phones, wallets, and sunglasses secure because you are moving between hotel, bus, marina, boat, water, and beach.

The company does not accept responsibility for lost or damaged belongings. Use a waterproof pouch for essentials and avoid leaving bags unattended at the island tables. A crew member has helped return forgotten bags in the past, but you should not rely on that.

Parasailing and optional extras

Parasailing is available only if you select it as an add-on. It is not part of the standard water program unless you pay for it.

This is one area where I would read the exact add-on terms before paying. One person found the parasailing session far too short, reporting about two minutes in the air for the price. That does not mean every session will be identical, but it does mean the extra may not offer the same value as the boat ride and snorkeling.

The standard trip already includes a lot: transport, guide, speedboat, two reef stops, island entry, gear, water, soft drinks, fruit, shade, and life jackets. If your budget is limited, I would put the extra money toward the base excursion rather than assume parasailing will be the highlight.

Photography may also be offered at an additional cost. Crew members have taken underwater and Orange Bay photos, and some people have liked the results. Ask about the price before agreeing, and keep your own phone protected if you want personal photos.

Is $174 good value for two people?

The listed price is $174 per group of up to two people. At that rate, the value depends on the final group arrangement and your pickup location, but the package covers the parts that often create extra charges on Red Sea outings.

You are paying for hotel transport from the main Hurghada area, a guide, the speedboat, two snorkeling sessions, equipment, island entry, drinks, fruit, and the time on Orange Bay. The small-boat format is the key value point. For a couple, a private-group rate can make more sense than paying separate seats on a larger cruise if you want a faster and more personal day.

Long-distance pickup is extra from the southern and northern resort areas. Add that cost before comparing this trip with another operator. You should also budget for optional photos, island purchases, tips, and any parasailing add-on.

For two people who want both reef time and beach time, the package is strong. For someone interested only in snorkeling, a dedicated reef trip might give you longer in the water. For someone who wants a silent, empty island, Orange Bay may feel too developed and busy.

The crew can shape the whole day

The boat itself is only part of the experience. The guide and captain determine how safe, relaxed, and enjoyable the outing feels.

Names that have received particularly warm feedback include Mido, Ahmed, Karim, Captain Wissam, Captain Islam, Youssef, Hamdy, Mahmoud, and Hassan. Different departures have different crew members, so you cannot request a particular person unless the operator confirms it. Still, the pattern is clear: personal help in the water and friendly communication are central to the service.

Mido has been described as entertaining and reassuring. Ahmed has helped families and nervous swimmers. Captain Islam has kept groups engaged with music and explanations of where they were going. Youssef has been patient with people trying snorkeling for the first time.

That matters more than polished speeches. You want a guide who checks that everyone is comfortable, shows you where to look, and keeps the group together. On a speedboat in open water, a calm crew makes a real difference.

Who should book this excursion?

I would recommend it to couples, families with older children, small friend groups, and first-time snorkelers who want support. It also suits solo visitors who like a social outing and want a guide nearby.

Families should note that the boat is fast and the ride can be bumpy. One parent found the trip enjoyable with young children, but sea conditions will always affect comfort. Ask the crew for help with life jackets and stay close during the snorkeling stops.

This is less suitable for people with back problems, anyone who dislikes rough boat rides, or visitors who need a slow and quiet day. It is also not the best pick if your main goal is a long snorkeling session. You get two short water stops, not hours in the sea.

The activity is conducted in English. Pickup confirmation arrives the night before, and the cancellation policy allows a full refund when you cancel at least 24 hours ahead. That gives you some flexibility, but the extended-area pickup rules are stricter, so read those details carefully.

Should you book the Giftun Island and Orange Bay trip?

Book it if you want a lively half-day on the Red Sea with fast transport, helpful guides, two reef stops, and a photogenic beach. The strongest value comes from the mix of activities and the small-boat setup, not from Orange Bay alone.

Choose an early departure when possible, pack a snack and dry clothes, and expect spray, music, sun, and some bouncing over the waves. If you accept that Orange Bay may be crowded and the parasailing add-on may be brief, this is a well-rounded way to get beyond your Hurghada resort.

FAQ

How long does the Giftun Island and Orange Bay trip last?

The activity lasts about four to six hours. The exact length can depend on your hotel location, pickup timing, and the day’s schedule.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup and drop-off are included from Hurghada, including listed Hurghada 1 and Hurghada 2 areas. Pickup from Makadi Bay, Safaga, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Soma Bay requires an extra-cost add-on.

Where should I wait for the pickup?

Wait at the main entrance of your hotel by the road, not at the reception entrance or inside the hotel grounds. Look for a white or black bus with the Go Shalabi logo.

When will I receive the pickup details?

The pickup information is sent at about 10:00 PM the night before by email or WhatsApp. You need to provide your nationality, hotel name, address, and room number.

How much time is spent snorkeling?

The trip includes two snorkeling stops, with about 20 minutes at each location. Snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided.

Can a beginner join the snorkeling?

Yes. Guides can assist beginners and less confident swimmers, and one guide has helped a nervous swimmer with a buoyancy aid. You should still be comfortable following safety instructions in open water.

How long do I stay at Orange Bay?

You spend about 1.5 hours at Orange Bay. You can swim, relax on the sand, take photos, and enjoy the island setting.

Is lunch included?

The experience is sold as a cruise with lunch, and lunch has been provided on some outings. Seasonal fruit, soft drinks, and mineral water are included. Check the current booking details for the exact meal arrangement and menu.

Is parasailing included?

Parasailing is available only when selected as an add-on. It is not included in the standard trip price.