Giftun Island sits inside the Giftun Islands National Park off Hurghada, about a 45-minute big-boat ride (20–30 minutes by speedboat) from the marina. The shallow patch reefs fringing white-sand spots like Orange Bay and Mahmya (2–8 m deep, 15–30 m visibility) are calm and crystal-clear, which is exactly why they've become Hurghada's signature beginner snorkeling day-trip. More than 196 hard and soft coral species and over 1,000 fish species gather here, so you can spot Napoleon wrasse, parrotfish, moray eels and clouds of butterflyfish straight from the surface, with green and hawksbill turtles turning up on lucky days. In 2026 it remains the classic Hurghada day-boat route, run under national-park rules and a separate entry fee.
Shallow 2–8 m patch reefs where coral and reef fish are visible right from the surface — ideal for first-timers
Signature Red Sea species: Napoleon wrasse, parrotfish, moray eels, angelfish, butterflyfish and sweetlips
White-sand beaches and a turquoise lagoon — Orange Bay's sandbar is nicknamed the 'Caribbean of the Red Sea'
Intermittent green and hawksbill sea turtles, plus the occasional eagle ray or dolphin
Excellent 15–30 m+ visibility and warm 22–28°C water year-round
Three beach clubs to pick from: Orange Bay (photogenic), Paradise Island (lively), Mahmya (quiet, snorkel-focused)
Good to know
SafetyEven though the reef is shallow, Orange Bay and Mahmya see heavy day-boat and jet-ski traffic. Stay inside the buoy/float lines, wear a bright rash guard, and keep watching around you — boats can approach while you're floating face-down.
SafetyHead toward the outer reef or open water and wind and current pick up fast, pushing you offshore (notably toward Abu Ramada). Never go out alone; stay with a guide or buddy, and signal the guide or boat immediately if you tire.
SafetySnorkeling is a surface activity, not deep diving, but a fogged mask or a mouthful of water can still trigger panic. If you're new, wear a life vest or use a float, and never stand on the coral to rest — you'll damage it and risk painful, infection-prone stings from sea urchins, stonefish and fire coral. Reef shoes are recommended.
RulesGiftun is a national marine protected area. Do not touch, collect or feed marine life, use reef-safe sunscreen only, and bring no single-use plastics — these rules are enforced.
MannersIf a turtle or ray appears, keep a few metres' distance and never chase, touch or feed it. Hold a horizontal, buoyant position so your fins don't kick or brush the coral.
SeasonIt's snorkelable year-round, but October–April brings the calmest, most comfortable seas, while June–August has the warmest water alongside intense heat. Jellyfish and stinging plankton can increase in summer, though they're usually mild. Water runs 22–28°C, so a rash guard or thin wetsuit helps against chill on long swims.
CautionThe marine-park entry fee (about US$5 / ~300 EGP per person) is often not included in the tour price and gets collected on the spot. Confirm whether the fee and any gear-rental charge are included when you book.
Practical info
Trips run as day-boat packages from Hurghada Marina (about 45 minutes, or 20–30 by speedboat), usually including transfers, lunch and gear rental. The marine-park entry fee (roughly US$5 / ~300 EGP per person) is often charged separately, and October–April offers the calmest seas. Confirm current prices, departure times, whether the park fee is included, and the reef-safe-sunscreen rule before you book.
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