Two reefs, one easy day.

This Hurghada yacht cruise is built around Magawish Island and two snorkeling stops in the Red Sea, so you get sea time right away. I like that it pairs a simple morning ride with a real activity plan: beach relaxation, an onboard lunch with fruit, then guided snorkeling at prime spots.

The main thing to consider is that the day follows a schedule and group pace. You’ll get coaching (great for first-timers), but if you’re hoping for lots of free, unsupervised swimming time, you may find it’s more structured than you’d like.

Why This Magawish Snorkeling Cruise Appeals in One Day

I get it: Hurghada can feel like a menu of boat tours, many of them similar. What makes this one worth a look is how straightforward it is—pickup, sail out, two planned snorkeling locations, then water sports—without turning your day into a logistical puzzle.

I especially appreciate the mix of options. You can switch between relaxing on Magawish Island, snorkeling at two reef stops, and even adding a banana boat ride afterward if you want something a bit louder and more fun.

A small practical note: communication can be imperfect. That doesn’t kill the day, but I recommend staying alert at boarding time and watching for your group so you don’t lose track during the handoffs.

The 8-Hour Rhythm: From 8:00 AM Pickup to Marina Return

This tour runs about 8 hours and starts at 8:00 am. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Hurghada, then head to the marina where the day officially begins.

Once you’re at the harbor, everything is geared toward getting you into the water. You’ll receive your snorkeling gear before the boat sets sail, so there’s less waiting around when you arrive at Magawish.

After the snorkeling and on-board meal, you’ll return to the marina and get dropped back at your hotel. If you like days that feel active but not exhausting, this timing hits a good balance.

Luxury Yacht Sailing: Comfortable Sea Time Before You Get Wet

The cruise is described as sailing on a luxury boat, and the value here is less about fancy extras and more about comfort while you’re traveling on open water. That matters because you’ll spend time onboard before each snorkeling stop.

You’ll also be fed. Lunch plus fresh fruits are served onboard while you’re on the move between activities. That’s a big deal in a place where many tours either skip meals or make them feel rushed.

In a day like this, comfort also affects your energy level. If the boat is calmer and more comfortable than a bare-bones speed option, you tend to arrive for snorkeling feeling ready instead of seasick and annoyed.

Magawish Island First: Beach Break and Crystal-Water Chances

Once you reach Magawish Island, you get a block of downtime. You can relax on the beach, or go for a swim in the clearer water right there around the island.

This first stop is a smart warm-up. Instead of forcing everyone straight into reef snorkeling immediately, you’re given time to settle in, rinse your brain from travel mode, and judge your comfort level before the guided sessions.

A heads-up: the island time feels like part of an itinerary, not an all-day independent beach hang. If you want maximum loafing time, you might wish it were longer. But as a first segment, it’s a good way to experience the island without burning your whole morning in the water.

Snorkeling Stop #1: Guided Basics So You Can Swim Confidently

After about an hour on the island, you hop back onboard and head to the first snorkeling location. This is where the professional support really matters.

You’ll have a professional snorkeling master who explains the basics so you can complete the first snorkeling session with less guessing. If you’re new to snorkeling, that coaching usually turns a maybe into a yes.

Even if you’re experienced, the guidance can help you get your breathing and movement down quickly so you spend more time looking at fish and less time fighting your gear. The plan also keeps the group organized, which is a plus when you’re sharing the water.

Magawish Reef Snorkeling: The Best Reef Payoff on the Route

The second snorkeling spot is the Magawish Reef, and this is the main reason most people book. The reef is described as one of the most beautiful in the Red Sea, with a large variety of marine life.

The numbers given are impressive: over 1000 species of fish and 150 species of coral. Real talk: you won’t see every single species on one swim. But the claim tells you the reef is the kind of place where you should be able to spot plenty of different shapes, colors, and behaviors during your time in the water.

This is also where your expectations should shift. Treat this as a “look closely and be patient” stop. Coral and fish often hang near structure, and movement can be subtle—especially when you’re trying to balance snorkel time with not kicking up sand.

If you come prepared (mask that fits, gear adjusted, and some sunscreen on board time), this is the part of the day most likely to feel memorable.

Lunch and Fruit Onboard: Good Fuel, Not Just a Token Meal

Between snorkeling and the next activity, you’ll enjoy lunch and fruit served onboard. For an 8-hour outing, that’s not just nice—it’s practical.

Snorkeling works up an appetite, and the sun on deck can be tiring fast. Having lunch included means you can focus on the water instead of searching for food mid-tour.

The fruit component is especially helpful. It’s a low-effort way to keep energy up while you’re still in “vacation mode.” If you tend to get sluggish in the afternoon, this meal timing can make the later water sports feel more fun and less like a chore.

Banana Boat Along the Coast: A Fun Speed Break

After the snorkeling adventure, the itinerary adds water sports—specifically a banana boat ride along the coast.

This is a good follow-on because it gives you a different kind of thrill. Snorkeling is slow, visual, and quiet. The banana boat is loud, bouncy, and team-based, which changes the pace of the day.

It’s also a nice option if you want a bit of action even if you weren’t chasing the reef for hours. Think of it as your “last big moment” before the return to the marina.

Price and Value: Why $27 Can Make Sense Here

At about $27 per person, this cruise is priced for value if you want multiple activities in one booking. The cost is low enough that it can work even if you’re keeping expenses tight.

What makes the price feel more reasonable is that it includes a lot of the usual add-ons:

• Hotel transfer from and back to Hurghada
• Snorkeling equipment
• Two snorkeling spots with a professional guide
• Lunch and fruits onboard
• Water sports (banana boat ride)

In other words, you’re paying for an organized day, not just a boat ride. If you were to piece this together yourself—transport, gear rental, and a guided snorkeling plan—your total would likely creep up.

That said, you should check where your pickup is coming from. The tour notes that Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, and El Gouna may have extra fees for pickup. If you’re outside the main Hurghada pickup zone, budget a little more.

Group Size and What That Means for Your Day

This tour has a maximum of 30 travelers. That size is important because it helps keep things moving without feeling like you’re stuck in a massive herd.

Smaller groups often mean better boat logistics and less time waiting around for equipment or instructions. It also tends to make snorkeling coordination smoother—especially when you’re relying on a snorkeling master for the first session.

You’ll still be part of a group schedule, but 30 is a manageable number for a day that’s meant to feel fun and not stressful.

Weather Matters: When the Sea Doesn’t Cooperate

This experience requires good weather. That’s common for Red Sea boat days, but it affects your expectations.

The good news is that if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. So while you should plan with fair-weather expectations, you’re not stuck with a dead booking.

If you hate uncertainty, pick a travel window with some flexibility. If your schedule is tight, just be aware that weather can be the deciding factor for when you get out to the reef.

Who Should Book This Cruise (And Who Might Skip It)

I’d book this if you want:

• A single-day outing with two snorkeling locations
• Guidance for the first snorkeling stop (useful for beginners)
• Included meals and transfers so you don’t spend your day chasing logistics
• A mix of calm island time and a fun water sport afterward

I’d think twice if your top priority is long, independent snorkel time in multiple areas. This plan is built around two planned reef stops and a set island window. It’s not marketed as a freeform day where you roam wherever you want.

It’s also a solid choice for groups of friends or couples who want an active day without committing to a full-day liveaboard style trip.

Quick Tips to Get More From Your Snorkeling Day

Here’s how to set yourself up for success using what the tour promises and what your time will likely feel like.

• Arrive ready for sun. You’ll be on a boat and on deck before and after snorkeling, and sunscreen helps more than you think.
• Bring or wear water shoes if you’re comfortable with them. You’ll be around the island and water entry points.
• Listen carefully during the first guided basics session. The quality of that coaching directly affects how easy the second reef stop feels.
• If you want more independent exploration, pay attention to when group rules allow extra time during the snorkeling stops. Don’t assume you’ll have unlimited freedom.

Most importantly, keep your expectations aligned: this is a structured day with two reef visits, not a free roaming snorkel marathon.

Should You Book the Hurghada Magawish Island and Reefs Yacht Cruise?

Book it if you’re looking for a good-value, organized Red Sea day. The best reasons are simple: two snorkeling stops with professional guidance, a real lunch onboard with fruit, and the bonus banana boat ride that changes up the pace.

Skip it or look for an alternative if you know you want lots of unstructured swimming time. With this itinerary format, you’ll get the planned stops and guidance—but the day won’t be designed around lingering wherever you want.

If you want a fun, low-stress way to see Magawish Island and the Magawish Reef on one outing, this cruise fits the bill.

FAQ

What time does the Magawish Island and Reefs snorkeling cruise start?

The start time is 8:00 am.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off in Hurghada?

Yes. Transfer from/to your hotel in Hurghada is included.

How many snorkeling stops are included?

There are two snorkeling spots included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

Yes. Lunch and fruits are served onboard.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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