Giftun Islands by private yacht: what to know

Short answer: The Giftun Islands are the most popular day out by boat from Hurghada. On a private yacht, the day runs at your group’s pace, and your quote says exactly where you go and what is included.

Planning the trip itself? See the Giftun Islands by private yacht.

Where the islands are

There are two islands off Hurghada: Giftun Kebir, the larger, and Giftun Soraya, the smaller. Both sit inside the Northern Red Sea Islands protected area. That is why the reefs around them are looked after, and why rules apply on board and in the water.

What you do there

Most days combine time near a beach with snorkelling stops on the reefs around the islands. The best-known beaches are Orange Bay and Mahmya. Your captain chooses the order of the stops and where to moor for the wind and the sea that day.

1. You meet the crew at the harbour named on your quote. Many private boats leave from Hurghada Marina in Sakala.
2. You sail out to the islands. Your quote states the departure time and the hours at sea.
3. You stop to swim and snorkel on the reefs, and spend time near a beach if your route includes one.
4. You sail back at the time on your quote.

This fits a full-day private charter in Hurghada.

Is there a fee?

The islands are part of a protected area, and protected areas in Egypt can charge visitors a fee. We have not found an official current figure for Giftun, so we do not print one. Your quote says whether a fee applies to your trip and whether it is included.

Rules on the reef

• Boats tie up to mooring buoys instead of dropping anchor on the coral.
• Do not touch or stand on coral.
• Take nothing from the sea, not even shells, and leave nothing behind.
• Swim with fins over the reef, never standing on it.

Your crew knows these rules and will remind you before you swim.

Which yacht suits Giftun

A motor yacht or a catamaran gives shade and space for a full day. A speedboat is quicker and suits a small group for a shorter trip. Tell us your group and we suggest yachts that fit.

What to bring

Your passport or a copy, because the port may check guests’ details before the boat leaves. Bring swimwear, a towel and sun protection. Your quote lists snorkelling gear, food and drinks if they are included. If it is not on the quote, it is not included.

Questions

• Can non-swimmers come? Yes. They can stay on board or snorkel in a life jacket. Your concierge confirms the life jackets, in children’s sizes if needed, with the operator in writing before you pay.
• Can we go from El Gouna? Ask in your request, and your concierge checks with the operator.
• What if the weather turns? If the port authority or your captain stops sailing, you choose a new date or a full refund.

More about the city: private yacht charters in Hurghada.