Private Yacht Cruise to Dolphin House with Lunch : Hurghada

Planning a day out on the Red Sea can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially with so many options available. The Private Yacht Cruise to Dolphin House with Lunch offered by Sea Memories promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and nature, making it a popular choice among travelers. While we haven’t personally set sail on this exact trip, the detailed reviews and tour features give us a strong sense of what to expect.

What draws us to this experience? First, the personalized nature of a private yacht ensures a more intimate, tailored adventure. Second, the chance to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat is undeniably a highlight and something many travelers dream of. Lastly, the inclusion of snorkeling stops and a freshly prepared onboard lunch makes this outing feel well-rounded and value-packed. The only consideration might be the actual duration of the trip—some reviewers mention that it can extend well beyond the advertised time, so flexibility is key.

This experience is ideal for those who crave a luxurious day on the water, enjoy marine life, and want a more private, less crowded excursion. Families, couples, and groups looking for a memorable day filled with snorkeling, dolphin encounters, and gourmet food will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: The tour is tailored for your group only, providing more comfort and flexibility.
• Multiple Snorkeling Stops: Two stops allow ample time to explore coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Dolphin Encounters: Swim in the natural habitat of friendly dolphins, a rare and special opportunity.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Equipment, soft drinks, fruits, and a delicious onboard lunch are included.
• Flexible Transportation: Pickup and drop-off at your hotel, with additional transfers available for a small fee.
• Potential for Longer Duration: Review comments suggest the trip can sometimes extend beyond the expected two hours, which may impact your plans.

An Authentic Look at the Experience

Booking and Planning

The tour is priced at $150 per person, which for many will seem reasonable considering the inclusions and exclusivity. Interestingly, on average, travelers book this tour 86 days in advance, indicating strong demand and positive anticipation. The booking process includes a mobile ticket option, making it straightforward to plan ahead.

The tour starts at 8:00 am, a smart choice to maximize your day. The fact that pickup is included—with an air-conditioned vehicle—adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re staying in Hurghada or nearby resorts like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh. Extra fees apply for transfers from places like Safaga or El Gouna, so if you’re staying outside Hurghada, it’s worth factoring that into your budget.

The Yacht and the Marine Experience

Once aboard your private yacht, you’ll immediately notice the top-of-the-line snorkeling gear provided, along with comprehensive safety equipment, including life jackets and showers. The boat’s crew, as noted in reviews, is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making sure everyone feels secure and comfortable.

The journey to Dolphin House involves two snorkeling stops. These typically offer the chance to explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish, which is what most travelers cherish. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides were friendly and knowledgeable,” adding that the crew’s expertise contributes greatly to a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Swimming with Dolphins

This is undoubtedly the star of the day—swimming with dolphins in their natural environment. It’s a fleeting moment for most, but incredibly memorable. The reviews praise the opportunity to get close to these friendly creatures, a highlight for many. The experience is made more special by the setting—the open sea, clear waters, and the chance to witness these intelligent mammals in their natural habitat.

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet lunch onboard is included, with the chef preparing fresh dishes that satisfy after a morning of activity. Unlimited soft drinks, fruits, and hot drinks are available, ensuring hydration and energy throughout the trip. Travelers often mention how the onboard meal adds to the overall experience, turning it into a full-day adventure rather than a quick outing.

Extra Activities and Flexibility

Some guests have expressed a desire for a shorter experience, as one review notes, “the trip took 9 hours” instead of just two. This suggests that while the advertised duration might be around 8 hours, actual times can vary, sometimes extending longer. It’s a good idea to set expectations with the crew at the start and be prepared for a potentially longer day.

The Practical Side: What to Know Before Booking

Transportation and Group Size

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge convenience. The boat is private, and group sizes are capped at eight participants, enhancing comfort and intimacy. This smaller group size is appreciated by travelers who prefer personalized service and fewer crowds.

Cost and Value

At $150 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package—snorkeling gear, dolphin encounters, lunch, drinks, and transportation. While it’s not the cheapest option in Hurghada, the inclusiveness and private nature justify the price for many. Considering the marine encounters and the luxury of a private yacht, it’s a solid value.

Additional Fees

Keep in mind the National Park admission fee of $5 per person if you visit Dolphin House. Extra charges apply for transfers from certain locations, so budget accordingly if you’re coming from outside Hurghada.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families, couples, and small groups seeking a relaxed, private day on the water. If you love snorkeling and marine life, the stops at coral reefs and the chance to swim with dolphins are irresistible. The inclusive lunch and drinks make it a hassle-free way to enjoy a full day without worrying about logistics.

Those wanting a luxury, personalized experience will appreciate the private yacht setting, while travelers who enjoy marine encounters and nature will find it particularly rewarding. On the flip side, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer shorter excursions, be aware that some trips might extend longer than initially advertised.

Final Thoughts

This private yacht tour to Dolphin House from Hurghada strikes a nice balance between comfort, adventure, and exclusivity. The ability to enjoy two snorkeling stops, the chance to swim with dolphins in their natural surroundings, and the onboard gourmet lunch combine to create a memorable day. The positive reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the stunning marine scenery as standout features.

While the trip’s length can sometimes be longer than expected, the overall experience seems worth it for those looking to indulge in a luxurious, intimate day by the Red Sea. Pricing is quite reasonable considering the inclusions, and the small group size enhances the feeling of a tailor-made adventure.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a scenic, relaxing day surrounded by marine beauty, this tour offers good value and authentic experiences that will stand out in your memories of Hurghada.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private hotel pickup and drop-off, access to a private yacht, visits to Dolphin House with two snorkeling stops, professional snorkeling guides, all snorkeling safety equipment, a buffet lunch onboard, and unlimited water, soft drinks, and hot drinks.

How long does the trip last?
The tour is approximately 8 hours long, starting at 8:00 am, though some reviews mention it can extend longer, sometimes up to 9 hours.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, all snorkeling equipment is provided, including safety gear and life jackets.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
Yes, there’s a $5 national park admission fee at Dolphin House. Transfers from some locations may also incur extra charges—$5 from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh, and $10 from Safaga or El Gouna.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. With small group sizes, professional guides, and all safety equipment included, it’s family-friendly and very flexible.

What if the weather is unsuitable?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior aren’t refunded.

To sum it up, this private yacht trip offers a well-rounded, luxurious way to explore the waters around Hurghada. It’s perfect for marine life lovers, those seeking privacy and comfort, and anyone wanting a full day of snorkeling, dolphin encounters, and gourmet food in a stunning setting. With knowledgeable guides, good value, and a focus on authentic experiences, it tends to be a memorable highlight of any trip to Egypt’s Red Sea coast.