A speedboat beats the wait in Hurghada. This Magawish Island trip pairs hotel pickup with a private speedboat ride and a set snorkeling stop in the Red Sea. It’s a simple plan that trades a long day of commuting for time in the water.

I also like that snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks are included, so you can keep the day moving. One thing to keep in mind: you’ll likely pay extra on the spot for a national park fee, and you should ask about life jackets if you’re not a confident swimmer.

Quick hits: why this Magawish speedboat works

• Private speedboat feel with your group only, not a big cattle-call boat
• Pickup and return included by air-conditioned vehicle (with some location extras)
• One snorkeling stop plus provided equipment, so you can focus on the water
• Snacks, fruit, water, and soft drinks included for an easy day
• Clean gear and friendly crew are repeatedly praised, including captain Snoopy and guide Amr
• Easy sightings like dolphins, and sometimes even a turtle, depending on the day

Magawish Island by private speedboat: what you’re really buying

This tour is all about getting to Magawish fast, then spending your time where the fun is: saltwater, sun, and snorkeling over reef. The “private” part matters, because it changes the feel of the day. You’re not squeezing into the kind of setup where you’re constantly waiting your turn.

You’re also buying convenience. Hotel pickup and drop-off means you don’t have to figure out how to get yourself to the marina and back. And once you’re on the boat, the basics are handled: snorkeling equipment plus snacks and drinks are included.

The snorkeling plan is intentionally simple: one snorkeling stop. That’s good if you just want the best highlight without a long, scattered schedule.

Pickup, timing, and how the afternoon schedule plays out

The start time is 1:30 pm, and the total duration is about 4 hours. That timing is great for people who don’t want a full-day outing, but still want a proper chunk of beach-and-water time.

Because pickup is included by air-conditioned vehicle, your day starts on land, then moves to sea. If you’re staying outside central Hurghada, there may be an extra transfer charge (more on that under pricing), so it helps to plan for a quick add-on if your hotel is farther out.

If you’re traveling with kids or just want to avoid an early-morning scramble, the afternoon start usually feels more manageable. Reviews also mention children being especially happy with the pace and the crew’s approach.

Private speedboat experience: crew, captain names, and the small-boat feel

This isn’t a party cruise. The setup is described as private, meaning only your group participates. In practice, that usually means you’ll spend less time herding people and more time relaxing—especially once you’re moving across the Red Sea.

The crew experience seems to be a major reason people rate this so highly. In multiple accounts, the captain and guide are mentioned as friendly and helpful, with captain Snoopy and guide Amr specifically named. One common theme: the staff keeps things upbeat, and they actually help with the snorkeling parts rather than just pointing and shrugging.

One review also notes the boat for six people with crew. You might feel that compact size—great for attention and ease, but it also means the boat isn’t meant for a huge group vibe.

Magawish Island: what you’ll do once you land

Magawish Island is the payoff. The goal is to get to clear water, white sand, and low crowding rather than a packed beach scene. Once you arrive, you typically get a block of time on site (one account puts it at around two hours on site).

That on-island window is what you make it. For many people, it’s a mix of:

• time on the sand and in the shade
• a swim-ready setup before snorkeling
• quick chances to spot marine life just by looking over the water

Snorkeling is the centerpiece, but the island time is what turns it into a real “island day” instead of a quick in-and-out stop.

Snorkeling stop: gear, what you can expect, and what to ask for

You get one snorkeling stop, and snorkeling equipment is included. That’s a big value point because buying or transporting gear on your own can turn a short trip into a hassle.

You’ll likely see plenty of fish, and sightings can get fun. Dolphins show up in some accounts, and there are mentions of a turtle sighting as well. One person also describes additional stops beyond the main island plan, including a wreck area for more fish and coral. That’s not guaranteed, but it gives you a sense that the crew may look for extra sea-life opportunities depending on conditions.

Before you get in, do a quick check:

• Make sure the mask fits comfortably and doesn’t leak.
• If you’re not a strong swimmer, ask specifically about life jackets before the water time.
• If you wear sunscreen, keep it reef-friendly if possible (and try not to rub it into your snorkel gear).

One account flagged that life jackets weren’t always provided for people who aren’t super confident swimmers. That’s a small detail, but it’s the kind of detail that can make your experience feel safe or stressful. Asking early is worth it.

Water sports and beach time: included extras that change the mood

The trip includes water sports, not just snorkeling. Even if you don’t plan a full “activity checklist,” that matters because it keeps the day from feeling like you only get one thing.

Also included: fruits, snacks, water, and soft drinks. On a sea day, this is more important than it sounds. It keeps everyone fueled, especially families, and it reduces the temptation to spend more money on the spot.

In accounts where the crew was described as kind, there’s often a mention that they help with everything you need. That usually includes getting you ready for water time and making sure the group is comfortable with the equipment and plan.

Price and logistics: the real cost after the base fare

The listing price is shown as $5.00 per person, which is unusually low. With that kind of base price, the smart move is to focus on what else can be added on the day.

Two add-ons are explicitly mentioned:

• National park fee: 5 € per person, paid in cash on the spot
• Transfer supplement: 10 € per person, paid in cash on the spot if you’re coming from Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Safaga, or Soma Bay

So your real budgeting question is simple: are you staying within the normal pickup zone, or outside it? If you’re outside, the transfer supplement can matter as much as the national park fee.

The good news is that a lot is already bundled into the base experience. Pickup/drop-off, the speedboat ride, island entrance, snorkeling gear, and the included snacks/drinks are all listed as included. That’s why the value feels strong even with the on-the-spot fees.

Also worth noting: the product is marked as private and most travelers can participate. Service animals are allowed as well, which can matter for some families.

Who this tour is best for (and who should think twice)

This is a great fit if you want:

• a shorter day (about 4 hours)
• a sea highlight without a complex schedule
• private-group comfort
• included gear and included food so you don’t manage logistics while you’re sun-tired

Families show up in the feedback, including mentions of kids being very happy. Couples also tend to like this format because it feels like a mini escape rather than a day-long tour bus marathon.

Who should think twice:

• If you need a lot of time in the water beyond a single snorkeling stop, this may feel brief.
• If you’re a weak swimmer, make sure you confirm life jacket availability before boarding.
• If you’re staying far from the pickup zone, factor in the extra 10 € per person transfer charge.

Practical tips to make the day smoother in Hurghada

A few small habits can make a big difference on a boat day.

Arrive ready for the water

Pack a towel and bring a change of clothes for afterward. Even with snacks and a smooth schedule, you’ll likely feel damp after snorkeling.

Ask one safety question early

If you’re not confident in open water, ask about life jackets before the snorkeling stop. It’s an easy question, and it helps you relax the whole trip.

Bring cash for the two fees

You’ll likely need cash for the national park fee (5 € per person), and possibly the transfer supplement (10 € per person) depending on where you’re staying.

Plan for a sea-life bonus, not a guarantee

Dolphins and turtles are mentioned in accounts, and there’s even discussion of an extra wreck stop for more fish and coral on some outings. Still, sea days depend on conditions, so treat it as a bonus when it happens.

Should you book Magawish Island by private speedboat?

I think this is an easy “yes” if you want a compact, high-convenience outing with a private feel and a clear snorkeling highlight. The combo of pickup, island time, included snorkel gear, and snacks/drinks makes it simple, especially for families and people who don’t want a long schedule.

I’d book it with one caveat: confirm what safety support looks like for your group, especially if anyone isn’t a confident swimmer. And budget for the national park fee and any transfer supplement based on your hotel area.

If you’re aiming for that Egyptian Maldives style moment—white sand, clear water, and fish right under the surface—this is the kind of trip that can deliver it without turning into a big production.

FAQ

How long is the Magawish Island private speedboat trip?

It’s about 4 hours.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 1:30 pm.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included by air-conditioned vehicle, though there can be an extra transfer fee for certain areas.

What’s included for snorkeling?

Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is one snorkeling stop during the trip.

Do I have to pay any fees on the spot?

Yes. A national park fee of 5 € per person is paid in cash on the spot.

What’s included for food and drinks?

Fruits, snacks, water, and soft drinks are included.

Is this tour really private?

Yes. It’s listed as private, meaning only your group participates.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

St. Julian’s: Jet Boat RideSpeedboat Tour Swimming in the Five Island of KsamilPreguicas River Speedboat TourPanama City Beach: Xtreme Jet Boat Thrill Ride