Clear Water, Colorful Life: A Day Snorkeling Giftun Island from Hurghada
A sun-drenched day on the Giftun reefs — easy access to vibrant coral gardens and marine life off Hurghada.
The marina is a scatter of voices, flip-flops slapping wood and the smell of diesel and sunscreen. A low-slung boat rocks against its berth, blue hull catching the sun like a promise. You step aboard with a towel and a pair of borrowed fins, and the harbor slips away — Hurghada’s low skyline shrinking into a strip of beige and palms as the Red Sea opens into something huge and patient. The day stretches ahead: three or four snorkel stops, a sheltered beach on Giftun Island, a casual lunch on deck and, if you’re lucky, the sudden ribbon of a pod of dolphins slicing the horizon.
Trail Wisdom
Choose Morning Departures
Book the earliest trip to get the calmest seas and best underwater visibility before the afternoon winds pick up.
Use Reef‑Safe Sunscreen
Apply a biodegradable, reef-safe SPF before boarding; reapply on deck rather than in the water to protect corals.
Secure Your Camera
Use a wrist strap or small dry bag for phones and cameras to avoid accidental loss overboard.
Bring Seasickness Prevention
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication or use a patch before boarding — the crossing can be bouncy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mahmya Beach on Giftun Island — a quieter stretch of sand for post‑snorkel lounging
- •Abu Ramada and nearby bommies — lesser‑visited shallow coral gardens for curious snorkelers
Wildlife
Loggerhead and green sea turtles, Dolphins and colorful reef fish (parrotfish, butterflyfish)
Conservation Note
The reefs around Giftun are sensitive; visitors are asked to use mooring buoys, avoid standing on coral, and use reef‑safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
Hurghada evolved from a small fishing village into a major Red Sea resort town in the late 20th century, shifting local economies toward tourism while retaining fishing traditions.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild water temperatures, Good visibility, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Occasional spring winds, Cooler mornings while boarding
Spring offers pleasant water temperatures and typically clear conditions; expect comfortable swims and thinner crowds than peak season.
summer
Best for: Warmest water, Long daylight hours, Easy beach lounging
Challenges: High sun exposure, Heat during transfers, Occasional strong afternoon winds
Summer brings hot days and warm sea temperatures — ideal for long swims, but plan for strong sun and stay hydrated.
fall
Best for: Calm seas, Excellent visibility, Comfortable air temps
Challenges: Busy tourist periods in peak months, Higher booking demand
Autumn is often the best balance of calm water and pleasant air temperatures; visibility is excellent and marine activity is lively.
winter
Best for: Fewer tourists, Cooler air for hiking onshore, Clear mornings
Challenges: Cooler water temperatures, Occasional choppy weather
Winter is quieter on the water but bring a thin wetsuit or long-sleeve rashguard for cooler swims and chillier winds on deck.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Mask and SnorkelEssential
Although often provided, your own mask ensures a proper fit and clearer views underwater.
Rashguard or Thin WetsuitEssential
Protects from sun and jellyfish; in winter a thin wetsuit adds warmth for longer swims.
Reef‑Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems — apply before boarding and reapply on deck.
Waterproof Phone Case or Small Dry Bag
Keeps valuables dry and secures electronics while snorkeling and on deck.
Common Questions
How long is the trip and what’s included?
The tour runs about 8–9 hours (480–540 minutes) and typically includes hotel transfers, boat transport, snorkeling gear, a light lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
Do I need to be an experienced swimmer?
No — basic swimming ability is sufficient. Guides stay close to the group and most sites are shallow and sheltered; life jackets are available for less confident swimmers.
Will we see turtles or dolphins?
Turtles and dolphins are regular visitors in the area but sightings aren’t guaranteed; guides know likely spots and will adjust the route if conditions favor wildlife encounters.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, most operators supply masks, snorkels and fins, but bringing your own mask improves fit and comfort.
What about seasickness?
The crossing can be choppy depending on wind; if you’re sensitive, take anti‑nausea medication before boarding and sit mid-boat where motion is less pronounced.
Are there entry fees for Giftun Island?
Some operators include park or island fees in the tour cost; confirm at booking. Independent day visitors may face a small conservation fee.
What to Pack
Mask & snorkel (better fit than rental), reef-safe sunscreen (protect coral and skin), light dry bag (keep phone and wallet dry), water and snacks (stay hydrated during the day)
Did You Know
Hurghada transformed from a small fishing village into a tourist destination starting in the 1980s, and Giftun Island is part of the region’s protected reef areas aimed at preserving coral habitats.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures for calm seas; bring cash for port or park fees; wear a rashguard to avoid sunburn; confirm pickup time with your hotel the night before
Local Flavor
After the boat returns to Hurghada, head to the marina or Al Dahar (old town) for grilled hammour (local grouper), tangy tomato salads and mint tea; for post‑snorkel beers and chilled vibes, Sheraton Road has a lineup of bars with sea views.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Hurghada International Airport (HRG). Typical marina departure: 10–25 minutes from most Hurghada hotels. Cell service: good near shore, spotty offshore. Permits: some operators include park fees; ask if conservation fees are covered.
Sustainability Note
This trip visits fragile coral reef habitat — use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching or standing on corals, and follow crew instructions about where to enter and exit the water.
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