Planning a day out at sea in Hurghada? This Royal Dolphin House & Water Sports Snorkeling Sea Trip promises a full day of marine discovery, fun water activities, and a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Our review is based on dozens of traveler experiences, so you’ll get a real sense of what to expect.
What we love about this tour? First, the affordable price point of just $10 per person makes it incredibly accessible. Second, the expert guides and friendly crew are often highlighted as a major plus—making sure even beginners feel supported. And third, the opportunity to swim with dolphins in their natural environment is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many.
However, some travelers do note organizational hiccups like delays and limited snorkeling time, so being flexible and patient is a good idea. This tour suits families, solo travelers, or anyone eager to combine marine wildlife encounters with water sports—all in a relaxed, group setting.
Key Points
- Affordable adventure: At just $10, it offers great value for a full day at sea.
- Dolphin sightings: You might get the chance to see and swim with dolphins in their natural environment.
- Supportive guides: The crew, including guides like Eslam, are praised for their attentiveness and professionalism.
- Varied activities: Snorkeling, water sports, and a seafood lunch keep the day lively.
- Mixed reviews on organization: Some delays and equipment concerns, but overall positive experiences.
- Ideal for: Families, water lovers, and those seeking an authentic marine experience in Hurghada.
A Full Breakdown of the Experience
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Pickup and Transfer: Starting the Day Smoothly
Your day begins around 8:00 am, with hotel pickup via air-conditioned vehicles. Many travelers appreciate this seamless collection, which means no fuss about finding the meeting point. However, a few reviews mention delays, so it’s wise to plan for a slightly flexible schedule.
Once on board, you’ll be transported to the pier where the luxury boat awaits. The vessel itself is described as neat and cozy, providing a comfortable setting for the day ahead. With a maximum of 30 travelers, it feels well-sized for socializing but avoids overcrowding.
Setting Sail in the Red Sea
As the boat departs, the excitement builds. The crew, including guides like Eslam, are often highlighted for their attentiveness, ensuring everyone is comfortable and well-informed. The journey offers stunning views of the coast and coral reefs, which you’ll get glimpses of as you cruise past vibrant lagoons and the Dolphin House natural reserve.
This part of the trip is approximately 2 hours long, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. Notes from reviews mention the boat can be a little rocky, so bringing a seasick remedy or a jacket might be wise.
Snorkeling and Dolphin Encounters
The core highlight? Visiting the Dolphin House, a natural reserve where dolphins are often spotted in their habitat. Reviewers like Megan_K describe the experience as “incredible” and “magical,” highlighting how close they got to dolphins and the vibrant coral landscapes. Some even managed to swim with dolphins, which many say is a surreal and unforgettable moment.
The tour supplies snorkeling gear, including masks, tubes, and life jackets. The guides are experienced, helping both newbies and seasoned snorkelers get the most out of the experience. One reviewer, Adrian_L, praised Eslam for “taking great care” and making everyone feel safe, especially during the dolphin swim.
However, some travelers, like Jarmila_V, mention feeling disappointed if they aren’t confident swimmers or if the guides don’t check in on their comfort. So, if you’re not a confident swimmer, it’s worth communicating your needs beforehand.
Water Sports and Additional Activities
After snorkeling, the crew often organize water sports and beach fun. While reviews indicate that some water sports were canceled on certain days (due to government regulations), the overall vibe remains upbeat. For thrill-seekers, the water activities are a chance to add some adrenaline, while others simply enjoy relaxing on deck or swimming in the clear waters.
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Lunch and Refreshments
A significant perk—many reviews mention delicious seafood lunch, fruits, and drinks provided onboard. The food is described as fresh and tasty, and a nice break from the water-based activities. Conecptually, this adds value, especially considering the modest ticket price.
Note that some reviews mention drinks, including alcohol, are not included and must be paid for separately, which is common on similar tours. The tour also provides coffee, tea, soda, and fruits, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day.
Return Journey and Drop-Off
After a full day of marine fun—snorkeling, dolphin watching, water sports, and relaxing—the boat heads back to Hurghada. The journey back offers more coastal scenery, with many travelers saying the boat ride itself is enjoyable.
Once ashore, transportation takes you back to your hotel, typically around 4-5 pm. While most travelers find this end to the day smooth, a few reviewers mention delays or a shorter trip than expected, so keeping an eye on the schedule is smart.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Authentic Dolphin Encounters
One of the biggest draws is the chance to spot dolphins in their habitat. Many reviewers describe the moment of swimming with dolphins as “unbelievable” and “magical,” with some experiencing close encounters with up to five dolphins. Guides like Eslam are praised for their professionalism and kindness, making the experience both safe and memorable.
Value for Money
At only $10 per person, the overall experience delivers impressive value. For that price, you’re getting a full day of marine activities, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and transportation. Given the high reviews about the quality of food and organization, most travelers agree it’s a smart budget choice.
Supportive and Friendly Crew
Several reviews emphasize the attentiveness of the guides and crew. They are described as genuine, supportive, and well-organized, often going above expectations to help beginners or those nervous about water activities. For many, that personal touch makes all the difference.
Coastal and Marine Beauty
From coral reefs to lagoons and the natural Dolphin House reserve, the scenery alone is worth the trip. Travelers frequently mention the vibrancy of the underwater life, with plenty of fish and coral shapes to marvel at during snorkeling.
Areas for Improvement
Organizational Flaws
A handful of reviews mention delays at pickup or waiting on the boat before sailing. Some say the boat was late by about an hour, which can cut into your precious time in the water. The crew, however, often responded positively to feedback, indicating they’re working to improve.
Limited Snorkeling Time
While the tour promises up to 8 hours, some travelers felt the snorkel stops were rushed—particularly if the weather caused cancellations or delays. The trip lasted around 6 hours in some cases, which still offers plenty of marine fun but might be disappointing if you’re hoping for a full 8-hour adventure.
Equipment and Water Sports Cancellations
A few reviewers mention that water sports were canceled on their trips, citing government restrictions. This is out of the operator’s control, but it’s worth noting if water sports are a priority for you.
Extra Charges
A couple of travelers were caught off guard by additional fees, like the $5 national park entry fee and extra charges for drinks onboard. These are paid in cash on arrival or during the day, so it’s best to carry some small bills.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a full day of marine activity without breaking the bank. If you’re eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat or want to snorkel alongside colorful fish and coral, this is a great choice. Families and solo travelers will appreciate the friendly guides and relaxed pace.
However, if timing or organizational issues are a concern, or if you’re hoping for a highly polished, luxury experience, you might want to explore other options. Also, those specifically interested in extensive water sports or longer snorkeling may find the time somewhat limited.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned vehicles, making logistics easy and hassle-free.
What is the duration of the trip?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, although some reviews mention it can be slightly shorter depending on weather and organization.
Are water sports included?
Water activities are included, but some may be canceled due to government restrictions. Confirm with the operator if this is a priority for you.
How much does the national park fee cost?
It’s five USD per person, paid in cash on the spot, and not included in the ticket price.
Can I swim with dolphins?
Many travelers report the opportunity to swim with dolphins, often in the natural Dolphin House reserve. Guides are usually supportive, especially for beginners.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, bottled water, and some cash for extras like drinks or additional fees.
Final Thoughts
This Royal Dolphin House & Water Sports Snorkeling Sea Trip offers a budget-friendly, authentic chance to enjoy the Red Sea’s marine wonders. The friendly guides and scenic stops make it a solid pick for travelers seeking a relaxed yet exciting day at sea. While organizational hiccups can occur, most guests find that the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment and snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs outweigh the minor inconveniences.
If you’re after a memorable, affordable adventure that combines wildlife, water sports, and local cuisine, this trip is hard to beat. It’s best suited for families, solo explorers, or anyone eager to experience the beauty of Hurghada’s waters without spending a fortune.
End of Review
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