You came to Hurghada for winter sun and Red Sea colour, but there’s a moment that makes the whole trip feel “next level”: the first time you step onto a boat, watch the coast fade behind you, and realise you’re heading toward that famous shallow-turquoise water you’ve seen all over Instagram. That moment is exactly what an orange bay excursion is built for—especially for travellers from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and Scandinavia who want one perfect beach-and-reef day without any guesswork. Ready to secure your best day and pickup time? Book your trip now.
What is an Orange Bay Excursion?
An orange bay excursion is a day trip by boat from Hurghada to Orange Bay on Giftun Island, usually combining two “holiday highlights” in one plan: snorkelling stops over coral reefs, and beach time in Orange Bay’s shallow crystal-clear lagoon.
Orange Bay is a natural bay on the ecologically protected island of Giftun, surrounded by unspoiled coral reefs and marine life, with shallow turquoise water stretching for almost 1.5 km and a maximum depth of 5 meters.
Orange Bay is located about forty minutes by boat from Hurghada’s new marina.
Why Europeans love this day trip
For many European travellers, the best excursions are the ones that feel luxurious but simple: hotel pickup, a clear schedule, and a mix of activity + relaxation.
An Orange Bay beach day is popular because it:
- Looks tropical without long travel time (easy from Hurghada marina)
- Works for mixed groups (swimmers + non-swimmers) thanks to shallow water
- Gives you both reef time and beach time in a single day
If you’re travelling in cooler months, it’s also a great “sweet spot” trip: you can snorkel if you feel like it, or just enjoy the sun and scenery.
What your day typically looks like
Most Orange Bay boat trip itineraries follow a smooth rhythm—easy to enjoy, hard to mess up (if it’s organised properly).
Hotel pickup and marina start
Many bookings include hotel pickup, then you board near the marina. As a bonus, Hurghada Marina is genuinely enjoyable before/after the trip— it is a pleasant, car-free place to stroll, especially in the evening.
Reef stops: the “real Red Sea” moment
You’ll usually have snorkelling time at coral spots. Even if you’re a beginner, you can float, breathe, and watch the reef come alive underneath you—this is the part that makes Hurghada feel different from most European beach destinations.
Orange Bay beach time (the postcard section)
Then comes the famous lagoon: shallow turquoise water, white sand, and the relaxed beach setup. The long shallow stretch is exactly why it’s so float-friendly and photo-friendly.
Lunch and chill time
Many Orange Bay trips include lunch as part of the day. We “Orange Bay snorkeling cruise with lunch” listing highlights planning essentials (like what to bring) and is structured as a snorkelling cruise with lunch.
Why Giftun matters (and how to enjoy it responsibly)
Giftun isn’t just “pretty”—it’s ecologically important. HEPCA (a Red Sea conservation NGO) describes Giftun as the jewel in Hurghada’s diving crown and notes its coral diversity and that it’s a major nesting ground in the region for green turtles.
So the best Orange Bay guests do a few simple things:
- Float—don’t stand on coral
- Keep fins away from reef tops
- Don’t touch or collect shells/coral
- Follow guide boundaries (they’re there for safety and protection)
These tiny habits protect the exact beauty you came to see.
How to choose the right Orange Bay trip Hurghada
Not all Orange Bay days feel the same. When comparing options, focus on what actually changes your experience:
- Time allocation: more snorkelling vs more beach time
- Group size: standard group vs smaller group
- Clear inclusions: lunch, snorkel gear, transfers (and any fees)
- Communication: confirmation message, pickup time, meeting details (good operators make this easy)
If you’re travelling with kids or non-swimmers, prioritise comfort: shade, calm pacing, and clear safety instructions.
What to bring (so the day feels effortless)
We listing suggests basics like swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.
Add a couple of practical extras and you’re set:
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Sunglasses + hat
- Cash for small extras (photos, drinks, tips)
- Light long-sleeve top (sun + sea breeze)
Why book with Hurghada Royal Tours
Last season, we had a couple from the Netherlands who said they didn’t want a “random beach stop.” They wanted the real Giftun Island Orange Bay day: clear snorkelling time first (when the water is best), then proper beach time, then a relaxed cruise back—no rushing and no confusing add-ons.
That’s exactly how we organise your day at Hurghada Royal Tours. Book here: Hurghada Royal Tours
Here’s what you get when you book with us:
- A clear recommendation between Orange Bay snorkeling tour style (reef-focused) and Orange Bay beach day style (more island time)
- Transparent details you can trust (pickup window, inclusions, what to bring)
- A smooth, European-friendly plan so your orange bay excursion feels like a holiday—not logistics
FAQs about Orange Bay Excursion
How do I get to Orange Bay from Hurghada?
Most visitors go by boat on a day excursion from Hurghada; Orange Bay’s official site notes it’s about forty minutes by boat from the new marina.
How much is an Orange Bay excursion?
Prices vary by inclusions (pickup, lunch, snorkelling stops, fees) and group size. The best approach is comparing what’s included, not just the headline price.
Is Orange Bay worth it?
Yes if you want shallow turquoise water, beach time, and an easy “iconic Hurghada day” close to the marina.
Does the trip include snorkeling and lunch?
Many Orange Bay tours are marketed as snorkelling cruises with lunch, but inclusions differ—always confirm your specific option.
Orange Bay vs Mahmya — which is better?
Orange Bay is famous for its long shallow turquoise stretch and relaxed beach vibe, while other Giftun beach clubs can feel more premium/structured. Choose based on your preferred vibe and budget.
If you want one day that captures the Red Sea perfectly—reef colours, beach photos, and easy island relaxation—then an orange bay excursion is the trip to book.
Book now and we’ll secure your best date, confirm pickup, and organise the smoothest Orange Bay day from start to finish:
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