Orange Bay & Giftun Island Snorkeling Cruise

Twenty minutes offshore, the water turns five shades of blue. Giftun Island National Park holds Hurghada's finest reefs, and this full-day cruise anchors at two of them — expect clouds of anthias, parrotfish, moray eels and, with luck, a passing turtle. Guides snorkel with you at every stop; equipment and instruction are included.

Between swims, Orange Bay does the postcard work: a sandbar beach of white sand and swing-chairs over turquoise shallows, with three free hours to swim, sunbathe or order a coconut. Buffet lunch and soft drinks on board are included.