Paradise Island is one of the favourite destinations for day cruises from Hurghada, a small sandy island ringed by reef where the water is calm enough for beginners and clear enough for photographs. The name is a bit of marketing, but the setting lives up to enough of it that the trip is a regular choice for visitors who want a beach day without spending too long on the boat. The cruise leaves the marina in the morning, makes its way out to the island, and gives you a long block of time to snorkel the reef, swim off the beach or lie in the shade. Food and drinks are included on many versions, and music plays on the boat for part of the day. It is well suited to families and groups, and it works as a lower-key option when the Giftun beaches are at their busiest.
What the day looks like
A pickup from your hotel, a transfer to the marina and a short boat ride to the island. The first activity is usually snorkeling on the reef, with masks, snorkels and fins provided and crew members in the water or on the boat to help.
After that comes beach time, with sun loungers or mats, then a lunch of grilled food, salads and rice. Some trips offer extras such as banana boat rides, which may be charged separately. The boat returns in the afternoon, and you are back at the hotel before dinner.
What to bring
Reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest or T-shirt, a hat, sunglasses, a towel and a little cash for tips and extras. A waterproof pouch for your phone is useful, and reef shoes help if the beach entry is rocky. If you get seasick, take medication before boarding. Keep to the marked areas, do not stand on coral and follow the crew's advice about currents and where it is safe to swim.
Choosing the right trip
Paradise Island trips range from small-group boats to large cruisers with dozens of guests, and the difference shows in how crowded the beach feels. Read the inclusions to see whether lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear and any island fee are covered. Mornings are calmer and the water is clearer, while afternoon winds can bring chop and reduce visibility.
Families with small children should ask about shade, life jackets in small sizes and shallow areas. If you want to compare island days, look at the Giftun and Orange Bay cruise for the best-known beach, the Mahmya trip for a more all-inclusive day and the three-islands cruise for variety. Pair the trip with a desert night or a spa visit so the week has a gentle rhythm.
Practical notes
Use the first snorkeling session to learn the layout of the reef, then repeat it after lunch when you are more confident. Keep a safe distance from the coral edge and watch for strong currents near the drop-off, where the crew will tell you to stay inside the marked area.
If the sun is strong, wear a rash vest in the water and keep a shirt for the boat. Alcohol and snorkeling do not mix, so go easy on drinks before getting in the water, and watch younger children closely at all times, including in the shallows.
What to expect
The experience
A boat trip to a small reef-fringed island with snorkeling, beach time, lunch and drinks, plus hotel pickup.
Best time
Spring to autumn for the warmest water; go on a calm morning for the clearest snorkeling.
How long
About seven to eight hours including transfers.
Tips
Check what food, drinks and fees are included, bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash vest, and protect your phone from water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beginners and families who want an easy reef and beach day with food included.
- Families
- Good for children who can swim with a life jacket, with calm shallow water near the beach.
- Couples
- Relaxed, with time to snorkel together and lie on the sand, though music on board can be loud.
- Pair with
- A desert evening or a spa visit on another day.
- Time needed
- One day.
Good questions
Is Paradise Island a real island?+
Yes, it is a small sandy island with a reef that day boats from Hurghada visit for snorkeling and beach time.
Is lunch included?+
Most trips include food and drinks, but check your ticket for exactly what is covered.
Do I need to swim?+
Not strongly. Life jackets are available and non-swimmers can enjoy the beach and the boat.
Are there extra costs?+
Water sports and some island fees may be charged separately. Keep some cash for tips and extras.
When is the best time to go?+
Spring to autumn for warm water, and mornings for calm conditions.
