Some boat days give you one beach and one reef. The three-islands cruise gives you a chain of stops, each with a different character, which makes it a good pick for travellers who like variety or who want to see more of the coast before deciding where to spend the rest of their week. This trip takes in Magawish, a small island with a house-reef feel and a sheltered snorkeling lagoon, Amwaj and White Island, a pale sandbank that seems to float on turquoise water and is a favourite place to swim and take photographs. Between stops the boat moves along the coast, so you see the shoreline of Hurghada from the sea, and there is time for lunch on board and for sunbathing. It is a social day with other guests, but the mix of swimming spots keeps it from feeling repetitive.
What the day looks like
Pickup early in the morning, a transfer to the marina and a boat ride of well under an hour to the first stop. Snorkeling is usually offered first, while the water is calm, with masks, snorkels and fins provided. At the next island, you can swim, sunbathe or walk on the sand, and the boat then moves on for lunch and a final stop.
The return to the marina is in the afternoon, followed by the drive back to your hotel. Details vary by operator, so read what is included, including drinks and fees.
What to bring
Reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest, a hat, a towel, sunglasses, a dry bag and a little cash for tips and any extra fees. Reef shoes are useful for stony entries and for walking on sand where the water is shallow. If you are prone to seasickness, take a tablet beforehand, because the boat spends time in open water. Never stand on or touch coral, and avoid feeding the fish, which harms the reef and is discouraged by operators.
Choosing the right trip
Three-island cruises are sold at a wide range of group sizes. Smaller boats mean more time in the water and fewer people at each stop, while big boats are cheaper and more social. Ask which islands are on your itinerary, how long you stay at each, whether lunch and drinks are included and whether a park or island fee must be paid separately.
White Island conditions depend on the tide and the wind, and some days the sandbar is smaller, so keep expectations flexible. Pair this day with a desert evening or the Grand Aquarium, and compare it with the Giftun and Orange Bay cruise if you want one longer beach stop rather than three shorter ones.
Practical notes
Because the day has several landings, bring a lightweight bag that is easy to carry on and off the boat and a pair of sandals you can slip on quickly. White Island can be crowded around midday, so ask the crew to land early or late if you want fewer people in your photographs.
Keep valuables with the crew or in a locked area of the boat, and note that not all stops have toilets. Tides and wind change conditions at sandbars, so the crew may adjust the order of the stops. Tip the crew if they have looked after you, and remember to take your rubbish with you.
What to expect
The experience
A guided boat day with three island or reef stops, snorkeling, swimming time, sunbathing and lunch on board.
Best time
Spring to autumn for the warmest water; mornings are calmest for the first snorkel.
How long
About seven to eight hours including transfers.
Tips
Check what is included, bring reef-safe sunscreen and cash, and take seasickness tablets if you need them.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want variety in one day, with several swim and snorkel spots.
- Families
- Good for confident swimmers and children in life jackets, with shallow sandy water at several stops.
- Couples
- A sociable day with some quiet moments, especially at the first stop.
- Pair with
- A desert evening or the Grand Aquarium on another day to balance the week.
- Time needed
- One full day.
Good questions
Which islands does the cruise visit?+
The trip is sold around Magawish, Amwaj and White Island, but stops can change with weather and operator. Check your itinerary.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
Not necessarily. Life jackets and snorkeling vests are available, and many stops have shallow water.
Is lunch included?+
Lunch on board is normal for full-day cruises. Check whether drinks and fees are covered.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, with life jackets and supervision. Ask about minimum age and the size of life jackets.
What if the sea is rough?+
Operators may change the route or cancel for safety. Ask about their policy when you book.
