Orange Bay Island Tour: 8 Beautiful Reasons Why This Hurghada Trip is Pure Paradise
Orange Bay Island Tour Hurghada
The Red Sea is famous for its vibrant marine life, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious island escapes—but few places capture this magic quite like Orange Bay Island. Situated off the coast of Hurghada, this dreamy island offers travelers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and postcard-worthy scenery.
Whether you’re into snorkeling colorful coral reefs, lounging on white-sand beaches, or swinging gently over turquoise waters, the Orange Bay Island Tour is your ultimate escape. It’s not just a beach trip—it’s a full-day experience that lets you unwind, explore, and soak in the beauty of the Egyptian coast.
Where Is Orange Bay Island?
Orange Bay is located on the western shore of Giftun Island National Park, just off the coast of Hurghada. It’s approximately a 40-minute boat ride from Hurghada Marina, depending on the sea conditions and the type of vessel.
This slice of paradise lies in a protected marine area, ensuring its waters remain incredibly clean and rich in biodiversity. The island itself is known for its shallow waters, wide beaches, and Instagram-famous wooden swings in the sea.
Why Orange Bay is Called the “Maldives of Egypt”
Locals and travelers alike affectionately refer to Orange Bay as the “Maldives of Egypt,” and for good reason:
Aesthetic wooden hammocks and swings in the water
Soft, white sand beaches
Clear, shallow turquoise water perfect for swimming
Stylish beach bars and natural wooden walkways
It’s a tropical dream—but one you don’t have to fly halfway around the world to reach.
How to Book the Orange Bay Island Tour from Hurghada
You can book your Orange Bay tour in several ways:
Online Platforms: Viator, GetYourGuide, and TripAdvisor offer multiple packages.
Local Tour Desks: Hotels and resorts in Hurghada work with trusted operators.
Private Operators: Ideal for customized or luxury experiences.
Make sure your booking includes key items like:
Snorkeling equipment
Lunch or buffet
National park fees
Hotel transfers
Half-Day vs Full-Day Orange Bay Tours
Type | Duration | Activities | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Half-Day | 4–5 hours | Boat ride + Beach time | Short stays, families |
Full-Day | 6–8 hours | Snorkeling + Island stay + Lunch | Full experiences, couples |
Both offer stunning views and access to the island. But if you want to snorkel and still relax with a cocktail on the beach, full-day tours offer more value.
Orange Bay Tour Itinerary
Here’s what a full-day tour might look like:
Time | Activity |
---|---|
8:30 AM | Hotel pickup and transfer to marina |
9:00 AM | Depart for Giftun Island |
10:00 AM | Snorkeling stop en route |
11:00 AM | Arrive at Orange Bay Island |
11:30 AM | Explore beach + optional activities |
1:00 PM | Buffet lunch at beach restaurant |
2:00 PM | Free time for sunbathing & photos |
3:00 PM | Return boat ride |
4:00 PM | Transfer back to hotel |
Snorkeling Adventures in Coral Reefs
Before reaching Orange Bay, most tours stop at one or two vibrant coral reef spots where you’ll snorkel in the open sea. Expect:
Crystal visibility up to 30 meters
Clownfish, parrotfish, and even rays
Guided snorkeling for safety and support
Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, life jackets) is usually provided.
Beach Time on Orange Bay
Once on the island, the vibe turns from energetic to blissful. You can:
Relax on sunbeds and shaded cabanas
Swing in a hammock partially submerged in water
Take stunning beach selfies on the wooden swings
Stroll the wooden pier or natural paths
It’s truly a “no shoes, no problem” destination.
Water Activities and Extras Available
Want to amp up the fun? Orange Bay offers:
Kayaking
Banana boat rides
Volleyball and beach games
Shisha and mocktails from the beach bar
Some activities are included, others come at a small additional cost. Always ask your guide or the beach staff.
What’s Included in the Orange Bay Island Tour
Typical packages include:
Round-trip hotel transfers
Boat ride with multiple snorkeling stops
Entrance to Orange Bay Island
Lunch buffet or BBQ
Water and soft drinks
Snorkeling equipment
Multilingual guide
Luxury or private packages may include GoPro footage, wine, and private cabanas.
Best Time to Visit Orange Bay Island
The ideal months to visit are:
October to April – Mild temperatures, calmer seas
May to September – Warm water, fewer waves, but intense midday heat
Avoid overly windy days as some tours may be canceled for safety.
Family-Friendly Features of Orange Bay
Parents love Orange Bay because:
Shallow, warm water is ideal for kids
Soft sand makes barefoot play easy
Relaxing areas with shade and refreshments
Plenty of seating and wide open space
Just pack extra sunscreen and maybe a beach toy or two.
Photography Tips on Orange Bay Island
Want to flood your feed with envy-worthy shots?
Golden hour is around 4:30 PM
Use portrait mode near the swings and hammocks
Bring a waterproof case for boat and snorkeling photos
Drones are allowed—but check with staff first
Orange Bay vs Paradise Island vs Mahmya
Island | Best For | Key Feature |
---|---|---|
Orange Bay | Stylish, laid-back | Water swings & hammocks |
Paradise | Peaceful, less busy | White sands, fewer tourists |
Mahmya | Eco-tourism focus | Coral reef conservation |
Each offers something unique—but Orange Bay wins on charm and Instagram value.
Sustainable Tourism at Orange Bay
As a protected area, Orange Bay takes sustainability seriously:
No single-use plastics
Recycling bins available
Marine life and coral protection policies
Locally sourced food and eco-friendly infrastructure
Visitors are encouraged to leave no trace and support the conservation mission.
What to Pack for the Orange Bay Tour
Swimwear + change of clothes
Towel and flip-flops
Reef-safe sunscreen
Hat and sunglasses
Snorkeling mask (if you prefer your own)
Waterproof phone pouch
Travel light, but stay sun-smart.
Food and Drinks on the Island
Most packages include a buffet lunch with:
Grilled chicken or fish
Rice or pasta
Fresh salads
Bread and fruit
Soft drinks are free-flowing. Alcohol and specialty drinks are available for purchase at the beach bar.
Romantic Escapes on Orange Bay
Couples love:
Private sunbeds and hammocks
Seaside lunch setups
Sunset beach strolls
Shared snorkeling adventures
It’s the perfect setting for proposals, anniversaries, or just unplugging from the world together.
How Much Does the Orange Bay Tour Cost?
Package Type | Price per Person (USD) |
---|---|
Standard Full-Day | $35 – $50 |
Half-Day Tour | $25 – $35 |
Private Boat Tour | $150 – $300 |
Prices vary by inclusions, season, and operator reputation.
Boat Types: Luxury vs Budget Cruises
Feature | Budget Tour | Luxury Cruise |
---|---|---|
Group Size | Larger groups | Smaller, more private |
Food Quality | Standard buffet | Premium BBQ or seafood |
Comfort | Basic benches | Cushioned sun decks |
Extras | Few or none | GoPro, drinks, towels |
Orange Bay Island Tour for Groups or Events
Planning a celebration? The island is ideal for:
Birthday parties
Engagement photos
Family reunions
Corporate getaways
Private bookings can include DJs, decor, and custom meals.
Safety Tips for Visiting Orange Bay Island
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Don’t stand on coral while snorkeling
Stay hydrated
Keep personal items in waterproof bags
Listen to lifeguards and guides
FAQs About Orange Bay Island Tour Hurghada
Is Orange Bay suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes! The water is shallow and calm. You can enjoy the beach, sunbathe, and explore without getting wet.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
It’s provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own for comfort and hygiene.
Can I bring alcohol?
Some tours include alcohol or allow BYOB on private trips. Check in advance.
Is Orange Bay kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The shallow waters and soft sand make it a favorite for families.
What if I get seasick?
Bring motion sickness tablets. The boat ride is short and usually smooth, but it’s best to be prepared.
Are bathrooms available?
Yes, there are clean restrooms on the island and most tour boats.
Conclusion: A Slice of Heaven You Can’t Miss
The Orange Bay Island Tour from Hurghada is more than just a boat trip—it’s a full-sensory escape into Egypt’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re craving relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Orange Bay delivers with style. From snorkeling coral gardens to lounging in sun-kissed hammocks, every moment feels like a chapter from a travel magazine. Add it to your itinerary—you won’t regret it.
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