A boat trip to Giftun Island is the classic Red Sea day out from Hurghada – turquoise water, white sand and coral reefs just a short cruise from the marina. This guide walks you through a typical Giftun Island itinerary, the reef stops, what gear and lunch to expect, and how to choose between a shared and a private boat for the perfect lazy sea day.
Where Is Giftun Island?
Giftun (also spelled Giftoun) is a pair of uninhabited islands – Big Giftun and Little Giftun – off the coast of Hurghada, inside the protected Giftun Islands National Park. Boats leave from the Hurghada marinas in the morning and reach the island area in well under an hour, which makes it the easiest island escape for families, couples and first-time snorkellers.
A Typical Giftun Island Boat Trip Itinerary
- Hotel pickup (around 08:00): an air-conditioned car or minibus collects you from your hotel in Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh or Makadi Bay.
- Boarding at the marina: you meet the crew, get a safety briefing and choose your snorkelling gear and life vest.
- First reef stop: a calm coral garden where beginners can practise with the crew watching.
- Second reef stop: deeper, clearer water with more coral and colourful reef fish.
- Lunch on board: freshly cooked lunch – usually rice, vegetables, salads, chicken or fish – with water and soft drinks.
- Beach time on the island: relax on the white sand, swim in the shallow lagoon and take photos.
- Return to the marina and hotel drop-off in the late afternoon.
What Will You See Snorkelling Around Giftun?
The reefs around Giftun are home to hard and soft corals, parrotfish, clownfish in anemones, butterflyfish and – with a bit of luck – turtles, rays and even dolphins on the way. Visibility in the Red Sea is excellent most of the year, so even non-swimmers using a life vest can enjoy the underwater world from the surface.
Shared Or Private Boat?
- Shared boat: the best value option, with a fun atmosphere and fixed reef stops – ideal for solo travellers and couples.
- Private boat: your own captain and crew, flexible timing and quieter reefs – perfect for families, birthdays and groups.
If you want a beach-focused day, look at our Paradise Island trip or the Orange Bay island escape, both full-day sea trips from Hurghada with snorkelling and lunch.
What To Bring
- Swimwear, towel and a change of clothes
- Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Cash for the national park fee (if not included), drinks and tips
- A waterproof phone pouch or action camera
- Seasickness tablets if you are sensitive to waves
Best Time To Visit Giftun Island
You can visit all year round. The sea is warmest from June to October, while spring and autumn bring pleasant air temperatures and calm water. In winter (December to February) the water is cooler, so a short wetsuit makes snorkelling more comfortable.
Tips For A Perfect Day
- Choose a morning departure for the calmest sea conditions.
- Never stand on or touch the coral – it protects the reef and your feet.
- Tell the crew if you are a beginner; they will gladly swim with you.
- Drink plenty of water – the sun on the sea is stronger than it feels.
Ready to plan your Red Sea day? Browse all Hurghada tours and boat trips or contact us on WhatsApp for a private boat quote.
