Hurghada: Giftun Island Orange Bay Speedboat Cruise & Lunch

Speedboats, reefs, and soft sand. This Hurghada day trip zips you to Giftun Islands National Park for two snorkeling stops, then lands you at Orange Bay for beach time that feels like the Caribbean.

I really like the combo of guided Red Sea snorkeling and a relaxed island break. Even on the water, the crew makes the experience feel hands-on, with help for beginners and support in the water from guides like Yousif and Ahmed.

One thing to plan for: the ride can be bumpy, and Orange Bay can feel busy when you get there. Also, hotel pickup is tightly timed, with only a short wait at your main gate.

Key points before you go

• Two snorkeling stops around 20 minutes each gives you time to see coral without feeling rushed
• Orange Bay for about 1.5 hours is the beach reset, with swimming and photo spots
• Speedboat comfort includes a shaded area, stereo system, and life jackets
• Crew focus on safety and comfort often includes extra help in the water for first-timers
• Dolphin sightings happen often enough to hope for one, especially on the way back

Hurghada-to-marina pickup and the Go Shalabi speedboat vibe

This trip starts with a hotel pickup in the Hurghada area, and it’s set up to get you moving fast. You can have pickup from several Hurghada locations, and the operator uses a white or black bus with the Go Shalabi logo. You’ll get pickup instructions late the night before, and the confirmation comes by email or WhatsApp.

What matters for your day is how the timing works. Hurghada hotels typically use a pickup window of about plus or minus 60 minutes, and the operator says they can wait only around 5 minutes once you’re at the pickup point. Your best move is to be at your hotel’s main entrance by the road, not the reception gate.

Once you’re at the marina, you’ll go through express security. Then comes the fun part: climbing onto the speedboat for a quick run out onto the Red Sea. Expect a lively ride, and from what I’ve seen, it can be noticeably bumpy when the sea is active. If you get motion sick, this is worth thinking about before you book.

Private feel, even when you share

The experience can be booked as a private group, and the day also runs in smaller groups on some departures. Either way, the common theme from the crew on the water is attention, not chaos. People often mention that the captain and guide explain where you’re going and keep the group comfortable with music and snacks.

Giftun Islands National Park snorkeling: how you get the reef time right

This is the heart of the excursion. You’ll reach your first snorkeling spot in about 20 minutes after boarding, and you’ll do two separate snorkeling stops during the trip. Each stop is roughly 20 minutes, which is a sweet spot for first-timers and repeat snorkelers alike.

You’ll get snorkeling equipment included, and guides typically lead you to areas where the reef and fish are easier to see. A big reason people love these stops is that the guides focus on making the water time feel achievable. For example, some guests specifically mention how a guide stayed close, including support with buoyancy aids for guests who weren’t confident.

What you can realistically expect to see

The Red Sea reputation is real here. You’re looking at colorful reef systems and lots of small marine life, especially colorful fish. If you’re lucky, you might also spot sea turtles. One bonus pattern I noticed from the day-to-day accounts is that dolphins can show up on the route back, so you’re not just staring at the water while snorkeling.

The quick snorkeling rhythm

The structure is simple: you snorkel, then you’re back aboard to cool down, drink water, and reset before the next stop. That onboard downtime matters because it keeps the day from feeling like you’re constantly in and out of the water.

If you’re a nervous snorkeler, take comfort in how this trip is paced. The time in the water is long enough to feel like you did something, but short enough that you’re not stuck there until you’re exhausted.

Orange Bay Island: beach time that feels like a reset button

Orange Bay is where the day shifts from underwater action to straight-up beach life. You’ll take a short ride to the island, then get around 1.5 hours on the sand. This is the window for swimming, relaxing, and photos.

The vibe is often described in tropical terms, and the water quality is a big part of why people enjoy just hanging out. You can spend your time floating, wading, taking pictures on the shoreline, and enjoying that clean, calm beach feeling.

One caution: crowds and pace

Orange Bay can get busy, and the hour passes quickly when the beach is active. If you want a calmer feel, choose an earlier departure if your schedule allows. That’s not a guarantee, but it often helps.

Also, be ready for prices once you’re on the island. Some people suggest bringing cash in euros for extra purchases because it can work out better than local currency when paying for small items or services. Even if you don’t plan to buy much, having some cash just reduces friction.

Food and drinks: seasonal fruit, water, and likely lunch

Included on board you’ll find seasonal fruits, soft drinks, and mineral water. That’s not just a nice gesture, it also helps you stay comfortable during the snorkeling stops. When the water time is followed by a bumpy boat ride, hydration matters.

The title of the experience includes lunch, and guests highlight that lunch can be part of the day. If you have dietary restrictions, don’t assume it will match your exact needs. One practical idea from experiences shared by others: if you’re a picky eater, bring a few backup snacks so you’re not hunting for something you like.

What onboard comfort includes

This isn’t just a bare-bones boat day. You’ll have an onboard shaded area and a stereo system. Plus, life jackets are provided, so you can focus on the water without worrying about basic safety gear.

The captain and guide: why names keep coming up

This trip’s difference is the people handling it. The captain and guide often control how smooth the day feels, especially in choppy conditions and during snorkeling.

I’ve seen repeated praise for crews such as Captain Wissam and Ahmed, plus guides like Mido, Hassan, and Talaat and Mustafa. People mention that the guide explains what’s happening, which reduces the nervous energy for first-timers. There are also accounts of guides going out of their way to help guests feel safe and comfortable in the water.

One more detail that makes the day feel well managed: music and a friendly rhythm. Several guests describe a lively atmosphere on board, which matters because the speedboat ride is the “connective tissue” of the whole day.

Photos and extra media

There may also be a photographer on board or at the island offering photo or video packages. Some guests mention GoPro-style videos or camera services for an extra fee. If you care about photos, ask what’s included on the day and have a simple payment plan ready (cash is useful).

Parasailing add-on: optional, but check the value for your taste

Parasailing is listed as an add-on if you choose it. The key thing is not everyone feels the same about value. One guest said the parasailing felt expensive for a very short experience.

So here’s the smart approach: if parasailing is a must-do for you, it can be a fun extra. If you’re unsure, weigh the cost against how long you’ll actually be in the air. If you want to keep the day simple and focus on snorkeling and beach time, you can skip it.

Price and value: what $174 really buys you

The price is listed at $174 per group up to 2, and that’s the first point where value can be confusing. A lot of excursions in the region price per person. Here, the group pricing approach can make sense if you’re traveling as two people and you want a more private-feeling day.

For that cost, you’re getting a lot of what typically costs extra elsewhere:

• hotel pickup and drop-off from the Hurghada area options listed
• a guide
• speedboat cruise
• snorkeling equipment and two snorkeling stops
• island entry fees
• seasonal fruits plus soft drinks and mineral water

When you add it up, you’re paying for transport plus access plus gear plus guided reef time. That’s usually where the best value happens, because you’re not buying those parts separately.

Where value can drop is if your priorities don’t match the day structure. If you don’t want snorkeling, the day can feel more like a speedboat to a beach than an underwater adventure. But if you want reef time and a beach reset in one half-day, this price can feel fair fast.

What to pack for a bumpy speedboat day

Bring the basics that are explicitly recommended:

• sun hat
• towel
• cash

Also, plan for the reality of a fast boat ride. A few guests suggest packing a light rain jacket or poncho and bringing a change of clothes, especially if conditions turn windy or wet.

For documents, you’ll need to share a passport copy and your nationality, plus your hotel details and room information. Even if the day runs smoothly, having the details correct helps the operator line up your pickup fast.

Who this trip fits best

This is a great match if you want:

• snorkeling with clear time blocks and included gear
• Red Sea views without a long travel day
• a satisfying beach stop at Orange Bay for swimming and downtime

It may not be the best fit if you have back problems, since it’s explicitly listed as not suitable for people with back issues. And if you get motion sick easily, the speedboat ride and possible rough water are worth factoring in.

A note for families and first-timers

There are accounts of families and guests who were nervous about snorkeling at first, including support with buoyancy aids and patient guidance. If you’re bringing kids or snorkeling for the first time, this trip can work well because the time in the water is structured and the guides focus on making it manageable.

Should you book the Hurghada Giftun Island and Orange Bay cruise?

I’d book it if you want a day that’s split between reef time and a real beach break. The combination of two snorkeling stops, included equipment, and then 1.5 hours at Orange Bay gives you that rare mix of action and rest.

I’d think twice if you hate speedboats, you’re sensitive to rough rides, or you’re not interested in snorkeling at all. Also, if you’re very picky about food or have dietary needs, pack backup snacks so you stay in control of your day.

If your goal is classic Red Sea boating, colorful underwater life, and Caribbean-style beach scenery in one go, this excursion hits that target well.

FAQ

How long is the Giftun Island Orange Bay speedboat cruise?

The duration is listed as 4 to 6 hours.

How many snorkeling stops do I get?

You do 2 snorkeling stops during the trip.

About how long do I snorkel at each stop?

Each snorkeling location is about 20 minutes.

How long do I spend on Orange Bay Island?

You get around 1.5 hours on Orange Bay.

What snorkeling equipment is included?

Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is the island entry fee included?

Yes, the island entry fee is included.

Do you offer parasailing?

Parasailing is included if you select it as an add-on.

What should I bring, and what is not allowed?

Bring a sun hat, towel, and cash. Pets are not allowed.

Are there restrictions on who should join?

The tour is listed as not suitable for people with back problems.