Adventure Collective Journal

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Adventure Collective Journal

Giftun Island Snorkeling from Hurghada: Full-Day Red Sea Boat Trip

Giftun Island Snorkeling from Hurghada: Full-Day Red Sea Boat Trip

Spend a full day from Hurghada exploring Giftun Island’s reefs and beaches. This guided Red Sea boat trip includes two snorkeling sessions, lunch on board, and entry to Giftun Island National Park.

Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate
8 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring reef-safe sunscreen

Use mineral-based sunscreen to protect both your skin and fragile coral—apply at least 20 minutes before entering the water.

Wear snug fins and a mask

Proper-fitting snorkel gear improves your experience and reduces fatigue during long surface swims.

Pre-book pickup details

Confirm hotel pickup time and location—operators collect guests across Hurghada and require 30 minutes’ notice before departure.

Protect your electronics

Use a waterproof housing or dry bag—saltwater and spray are constant companions on an open boat.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Snorkel the channel between Big and Small Giftun for concentration of bommies
  • Walk the quieter eastern stretch of Giftun’s beach for better birdwatching and fewer crowds

Wildlife

  • Parrotfish
  • Green sea turtle

Conservation Note

The reefs face pressures from warming seas and tourism; choose operators who follow park rules, use reef-safe products, and limit anchoring on coral.

Giftun lies within a protected marine park created to preserve Red Sea reefs that have long supported local fishing communities and now draw international divers.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (approach and return), Midday for underwater clarity, Late afternoon for shoreline portraits
Key viewpoints:
  • Aft deck during the approach to the island
  • Above a coral bommie during a shallow snorkel
  • On the beach looking back at the boat with reef in foreground
Subjects to capture:Underwater reef formations and colorful fish, Turtle encounters and close-ups of parrotfish, Boat-to-island transition shots and shoreline textures

What to Bring

Snorkel mask and finsEssential

Proper-fit gear improves comfort and lets you stay in the water longer.

Rash guard or sun shirtEssential

Protects skin from sun and reduces chafing from life vests and movement.

Waterproof camera or housing

Captures underwater scenes without risking your phone or camera.

Water shoesEssential

Useful on rocky landings and for walking the island’s shoreline.

Common Questions

How long is the trip?

The tour is approximately eight hours door-to-door from Hurghada, including boat time, two snorkeling sessions and lunch on board.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes—guides provide masks, snorkels, fins and life vests; you may bring your own if preferred.

Can beginners join?

Absolutely—this excursion is rated easy and guides provide buoyancy aids and basic instruction for newcomers.

Is transportation from my hotel included?

Pickup from Hurghada hotels is offered (extra cost may apply); confirm pickup point when booking.

Are there restroom facilities?

Onboard boats typically have a small restroom; facilities on Giftun Island are minimal, so plan accordingly.

What about coral safety and conservation?

Guides enforce no-touch policies and national park fees support local conservation; avoid sunscreen with harmful chemicals and don’t take shells or coral.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

8 hours

Location

Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; swimmers should be comfortable floating and swimming short distances.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Hurghada?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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