Mahmya Island beach in Hurghada with palm shade, white sand, and turquoise Red Sea boats offshore
Scuba divers exploring Mahmya Island coral reef with colorful fish in the Red Sea near Hurghada
Luxury yacht cruising the Red Sea on a Mahmya Island day trip from Hurghada, Egypt with sea views
Listing ID : 69551

Activity

Duration8 Hours
Group SizePrivate Group
Starts AtHurghada Marina
LanguagesEnglish
Hurghada Island Excursion

Discover Mahmya Island: A Tropical Paradise in the Red Sea

A private boat journey to Giftun Island's most celebrated eco-sanctuary


This Mahmya Island snorkeling and beach day from Hurghada combines a private boat crossing, guided reef exploration, and an open buffet lunch into one seamless Red Sea experience. Departing from Hurghada Marina, guests reach the protected shores of Giftun Island in just under an hour. The itinerary suits all comfort levels, from active snorkelers to those seeking a quiet afternoon on the sand.

Mahmya on Giftun Island sits within a designated marine protected area, which means the reef at Sabina retains a clarity and biodiversity rarely found at busier dive sites. Schools of parrotfish, sergeant majors, and the occasional reef shark move through coral formations that have been actively conserved for decades. The snorkeling equipment provided on board is well-maintained, and the crew offers orientation for first-time snorkelers before entering the water.

Beyond the reef, the island's beach area offers a relaxed setting with volleyball courts, open swimming areas, and shaded restaurant seating. The buffet draws from both Egyptian and international traditions, with fresh fish, slow-cooked beef, and a produce-forward salad bar available at midday. Soft drinks and water are included throughout the day, keeping the logistics uncomplicated from start to finish.

The private boat format distinguishes this experience from the large group ferry services that also serve Mahmya. Guests control the pace of the day to a meaningful degree, with crew attentive to individual preferences rather than managing a crowd. It is a practical choice for couples, families, and small groups who value a quieter setting without sacrificing access to the island's full range of activities.

Tour Highlights

Snorkeling at Sabina Reef, one of the Red Sea's well-preserved coral sites within the Giftun Island marine protected area.

Exclusive private boat transfer from Hurghada Marina, offering a more personal and unhurried crossing to the island.

Open buffet lunch in the island restaurant featuring Egyptian rice, grilled fish, beef dishes, and a full salad bar.

Beach activities including swimming, volleyball, and football on the soft sandy shores of Mahmya.

Complimentary snorkeling equipment provided on board, plus soft and hot drinks available throughout the day.

Access to a certified eco-tourism destination where conservation standards actively protect the surrounding marine habitat.

Day Itinerary

1
Hotel Pick-Up and Transfer to Marina

A private vehicle collects guests from their Hurghada hotel and transfers them directly to the Marina. The process is straightforward, with coordination handled by the tour team ahead of departure.

2
Departure and Crossing to Mahmya

The private boat departs from Hurghada Marina and navigates toward Giftun Island, arriving at Mahmya approximately one hour later. The crossing offers open-sea views and a first look at the island's turquoise shoreline.

3
Snorkeling at Sabina Reef

Guests enter the water at Sabina Reef with provided snorkeling masks and fins. The reef hosts a dense variety of coral and fish species, and crew members accompany the group to assist less experienced swimmers.

4
Beach Activities and Free Time

After the reef excursion, the afternoon opens up for swimming, beach volleyball, football, or simply relaxing on the sand. The beach area is well-maintained and supervised by island staff.

5
Open Buffet Lunch at the Island Restaurant

The midday buffet includes an Oriental salad bar, steamed vegetables, Egyptian rice, and main courses such as grilled fish, chicken, beef goulash, or beef sausage. A children's meal option and fresh fruit dessert are also available. Open water and soft drinks are complimentary during the meal.

6
Return Crossing and Hotel Drop-Off

The boat departs Mahmya on Giftun Island and returns to Hurghada Marina. A private transfer then takes guests back to their hotel, completing the day's itinerary.

What Is Included

Included

  • Private boat transfer from and to Hurghada Marina
  • Round-trip hotel pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
  • Snorkeling equipment (mask and fins) on board
  • Guided snorkeling excursion at Sabina Reef
  • Open buffet lunch at the Mahmya island restaurant
  • Complimentary water and soft drinks during lunch
  • Soft and hot drinks available on the boat throughout the day
  • Beach activities access including volleyball and football
  • Children's meal (chicken nuggets, French fries, ice cream)

Not Included

  • Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks (available for cash purchase)
  • Optional water sports or motorized activities on the island
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for crew and service staff
  • Any personal purchases made on the island

Important Information

Please read the following details carefully before booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the day of your visit.
Duration
The full day runs approximately 8 hours, including transfers, the boat crossing, reef snorkeling, beach time, and the return journey to your hotel.
Meeting Point
The tour begins with a hotel pick-up in Hurghada. Guests are transported to Hurghada Marina, where the private boat departs for Giftun Island.
What to Bring
Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any personal medications. Cash is useful for purchasing additional drinks or optional activities on the island.
Cancellation Policy
Please refer to the booking confirmation for the applicable cancellation terms. Cancellations due to adverse weather conditions will be handled by the operator on a case-by-case basis.
Accessibility
This tour involves boarding a boat and walking on sandy terrain, which may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations. Please contact us prior to booking if you have specific requirements.
Age Range
This experience is suitable for all ages. A dedicated children's meal option is available, and younger guests can participate in beach activities under adult supervision.

Reserve Your Place on Mahmya Island

Spaces on the private boat are limited by design. Securing your booking in advance ensures availability, especially during peak Red Sea travel periods between October and April.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling experience required to join this tour?
No prior snorkeling experience is necessary. Crew members provide orientation before entering the water and accompany guests during the reef excursion to offer assistance as needed.
What is Mahmya on Giftun Island, and why is it significant?
Mahmya is a designated eco-tourism site located within the Giftun Island marine protected area near Hurghada. It is recognized for its conserved coral reef systems, clear water, and managed beach environment that limits ecological impact.
Are vegetarian or dietary-specific options available at the buffet lunch?
The buffet includes an Oriental salad bar and steamed vegetables alongside the main meat and fish courses, providing plant-based options. Guests with specific dietary needs are encouraged to notify the operator at the time of booking.
Can additional drinks be purchased on the island or on the boat?
Yes. Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks not covered in the inclusion are available for purchase on the island and on the boat. Payment is made in cash at the point of service.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable for the excursion?
The operator monitors weather conditions and will contact guests in advance if the trip cannot proceed safely. Arrangements in such cases are handled directly by the tour team according to the applicable policy.
Is the hotel transfer included for all areas of Hurghada?
The private hotel pick-up and drop-off service covers hotels within the Hurghada area. Guests staying outside the standard pickup zone should confirm their location with the operator prior to booking.
Mahmya IslandHurghada Day TripRed Sea SnorkelingGiftun IslandPrivate Boat TourSabina ReefEco Tourism EgyptBeach Day HurghadaSnorkeling ExcursionIsland Lunch TourFamily Beach TripMarine Protected Area
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: mahmya-island-private-boat-hurghada

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

8 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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