Best Hurghada Boat Trips: Snorkeling, Diving & Yacht Cruises

Hurghada's position on the Red Sea makes it the gateway to some of the world's most spectacular marine experiences. Boat-based excursions are the most popular activities for both first-time visitors and returning travelers.

Snorkeling Boat Trips

Giftun Island Snorkeling

The most iconic boat trip from Hurghada, Giftun Island offers:

• Pristine white-sand beaches
• Incredibly diverse coral ecosystems
• Strong opportunities for fish spotting
• Calm, clear water suitable for all swimming levels
• Included buffet lunch on the beach

Most Giftun Island tours depart around 09:00 AM and return by 05:00 PM, giving you 6-7 hours in the water and on the beach.

Paradise Reef & Careless Reef Trips

These reef-specific tours focus on snorkeling rather than beach relaxation, making them ideal for:

• Marine life photography enthusiasts
• Repeat visitors to Hurghada
• Divers exploring pre-dive sites
• Serious snorkelers seeking different ecosystems

The boat rotates between 2-3 reef sites, allowing 40-50 minutes at each location.

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Experience Red Sea marine life without getting wet. Glass-bottom boats offer:

• Clear underwater viewing from boat cabins
• Perfect for non-swimmers and young children
• Close encounters with coral and tropical fish
• Shorter, more relaxed tour durations

Scuba Diving Boat Trips

Beginner PADI Certification Dives

If you've never scuba dived before, Hurghada's calm, clear waters are ideal for learning. Typical certifications include:

• Confined water training
• 4-5 open water dives
• Full gear and equipment included
• Professional English-speaking instructors

Advanced Wreck Diving

For certified divers, explore famous wrecks including:

• Abu Nuhas Wreck (3-4 wrecks in one area)
• SS Carnatic
• Giannis D Wreck
• Small and Big Giftun reefs

These dives are typically 40 meters deep and take 45-60 minutes.

Liveaboard Diving Safaris

Multi-day liveaboard experiences let you dive 4-5 times daily while cruising between different reef systems.

Luxury Yacht & Dinner Cruises

Sunset Felucca Sail

Traditional wooden sailing boats offer an authentic Red Sea experience:

• 2-3 hour sunset cruises
• Swimming stops
• Light refreshments
• Perfect for couples

Dinner Cruises with Entertainment

Full-service dinner cruises include:

• Buffet or à la carte dining
• Egyptian belly dance performances
• Traditional folk music
• Scenic Nile and Red Sea views

Private Yacht Charters

Rent a luxury yacht for exclusive use with:

• Captain and crew included
• Customizable itineraries
• Snorkeling at secluded reefs
• VIP treatment and service

Dolphin & Marine Life Tours

Spinner Dolphin Watching

Early morning tours increase chances of seeing wild spinner dolphins. Tours feature:

• 4-5 hours on the water
• Multiple snorkeling stops
• High success rate for dolphin spotting
• Photography opportunities

Dugong Tours (Seasonal)

From December to March, dedicated tours search for the elusive dugong, an endangered marine mammal.

Practical Boat Trip Information

What's Typically Included?

• Boat transport and crew
• Snorkeling equipment (if applicable)
• Life jackets
• Lunch (on full-day trips)
• Professional guide
• Sunscreen recommendations

What to Bring?

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Waterproof phone case
• Light cover-up for deck time
• Seasickness medication (if prone)
• Cash for optional purchases

Booking Tips

• Book 24 hours in advance for better rates
• Group discounts available for 4+ people
• Budget 40-70 USD for budget snorkeling trips
• Premium yacht cruises range 80-150+ USD per person
• Early morning departures offer better marine visibility

Best Times for Boat Trips

• October-May: Ideal weather, calm seas, excellent visibility
• June-September: Hotter, occasional choppy conditions, fewer tourists
• Water Temperature: 23°C (73°F) in winter, 28°C+ (82°F+) in summer

Most visitors spend 2-4 days doing boat trips during their Hurghada stay, combining different experiences for variety.

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Explore Hurghada Tours

Ready to book your boat adventure? Browse our complete selection of Hurghada tours and activities to find the perfect experiences for your travel style and budget.