Hurghada or Makadi: Discover the Magic of Dolphin House

Travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and memorable wildlife encounters will find this tour to be quite appealing. Offering a chance to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat, snorkel among colorful fish and corals, and indulge in tasty local food, it’s a full-day experience designed to keep everyone entertained.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the professional guides like Mohamed, the stunning underwater visuals, and the good value for money with all-day drinks and meals included. However, one consideration is that swimming with dolphins isn’t guaranteed — natural factors like weather and boat traffic can impact sightings. Still, it remains a fantastic option for those who want a genuine sea adventure with plenty of activities. This tour suits anyone who loves the ocean, wildlife, or simply wants a fun day out on the water, whether you’re a snorkeler, a family, or a solo traveler craving some sun and sea.

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Key Points

Authentic dolphin sightings: Not guaranteed, but a high chance (around 95%) of seeing dolphins in their natural environment.
Multiple snorkeling stops: Explore two vibrant spots filled with colorful fish and corals.
Water sports fun: Includes a sofa boat ride, adding extra splashy entertainment.
Tasty local cuisine: Enjoy a well-prepared Egyptian lunch with fresh fruits and drinks.
Professional crew: Guides like Mohamed and Adam are praised for their helpfulness and friendliness.
Flexible pickup options: Available from Hurghada and Makadi Bay, with optional transfers to nearby resorts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical and Thrilling Sea Day

From the moment you’re picked up (some as early as 7:30 AM), the day is packed with engaging activities and stunning ocean views. The boat is roomy, clean, and comfortably accommodates all guests, with well-organized schedules that keep the day flowing smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, you’ll find the experience rewarding, thanks to guides who are attentive and patient—like Mohamed, who gets frequent shoutouts in reviews for his helpfulness and friendly demeanor.

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Snorkeling in the Clear Blue Waters

The tour includes two snorkeling stops at spots famed for their vibrant marine life. Expect to see schools of colorful fish, coral reefs, and plenty of underwater scenery that photograph well. Several reviews highlight how much they enjoyed these stops — it’s a chance to connect with the ocean on a close-up level. The guides are knowledgeable and ensure everyone feels safe, even assisting with less confident swimmers.

Swimming with Dolphins

The highlight, naturally, is the chance to see dolphins swimming freely in their natural habitat. While the tour doesn’t promise a dolphin encounter every time (due to natural conditions like weather and boat traffic), the sightings are frequent — about 95%. Reviewers like Jonathan and Daniel appreciated the opportunity to see and swim near dolphins; some even got to swim with them for 15-20 minutes. Note that children under 12 aren’t permitted to swim with dolphins, but everyone else can enjoy the thrill of watching these intelligent creatures. The guides explain safety rules thoroughly, so expect a respectful, secure environment.

Water Sports & Relaxation

Water inflatables, like the sofa boat, add an extra layer of fun. Reviews from happy guests mention jumping off the boat and relaxing on the water as highlights. If weather permits, you’ll get a chance to splash around freely, creating memorable moments with friends or family. Even those who didn’t get to do water sports praised the overall chill vibe on the boat, with music, sunbathing, and beautiful coastal scenery.

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Local Cuisine & Refreshments

Lunch is served buffet-style, featuring Egyptian dishes like fried chicken, kofta, fish, rice, pasta, and salads. Several reviews highlight the good quality of the food, with guests appreciating the variety and taste. Fresh seasonal fruits and a range of soft drinks keep everyone well-hydrated throughout the trip. Many reviewers find this meal to be more than enough for a full day at sea, making the trip excellent value considering the included food and drinks.

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The Logistics and What You Should Know

Transportation is convenient, with hotel pickups and drop-offs included in the price. Optional transfers are available from resorts like Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Safaga, and Soma Bay, adding flexibility for different travelers.

The tour runs for a full day, with the boat cruise typically lasting several hours, guided snorkeling, and dolphin-watching. The group sizes are moderate, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd. The price of $27 per person is competitive, especially considering the all-inclusive nature—meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, life vest, and water sports are included.

What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack essentials such as sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, cash (for souvenirs or extra snacks), and your passport or ID. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothing, especially if you’re likely to be in the sun for extended periods.

Weather and Conditions

Because snorkeling and dolphin sightings depend heavily on weather, wind conditions are a factor. Reviews note that very windy days can limit dolphin interactions and water sports. The guides are clear about safety, and if conditions aren’t suitable for swimming with dolphins, they prioritize safety over sightings, which most travelers appreciate.

Authentic Encounters & Genuine Value

This tour earns high praise for its professional guides, especially Mohamed, who is frequently mentioned in reviews for his attentiveness. Guests also appreciate the high-quality photos taken during the trip, which can be purchased afterward. Many mention that the trip offers excellent value — a full day of activities, delicious food, and the chance to witness remarkable marine life all for a reasonable price.

The experience’s social aspect is also worth mentioning. Guests often comment on the friendly crew, the lively atmosphere, and the camaraderie that develops on the boat, making it more than just a sightseeing tour but a shared adventure.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

If you love marine life, swimming, or snorkeling, this tour is a no-brainer. It’s especially great for families with children over 12 (who can swim with dolphins) and couples looking for a relaxed yet active day. It also suits solo travelers who enjoy meeting new people in a friendly setting. However, if your main goal is guaranteed dolphin sightings or deep-sea adventure, keep in mind that sightings depend on natural factors.

The Sum Up

This tour from Hurghada or Makadi offers an authentic, reasonably priced blend of wildlife encounters, underwater exploration, and local cuisine. You’ll appreciate the professionalism of the guides, the scenic beauty, and the variety of activities packed into one day. Although dolphin sightings can never be guaranteed 100%, the high chance of seeing these intelligent creatures in their natural environment makes it worth the effort. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a well-rounded sea adventure, with enough relaxation, adventure, and cultural flavor to satisfy most travelers.

This experience is perfect for anyone eager to combine wildlife watching with snorkeling, water sports, and delicious Egyptian food. It’s especially suitable for families, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy being on the water and appreciate professional, friendly guides. Just remember to pack sun protection and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Hurghada hotels and optional transfers from Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, Safaga, and Soma Bay.

Can I swim with dolphins?
Swimming with dolphins is available but depends on weather, water traffic, and safety considerations. It lasts about 15-20 minutes, and children under 12 are not permitted to swim with dolphins.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, cash, and your passport or ID. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sun exposure and water activities.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, snorkel gear and life vests are provided, and guides help ensure everyone feels safe. Non-swimmers can enjoy snorkeling and observing marine life from the boat.

What is the food like?
The included lunch features Egyptian dishes such as fried chicken, kofta, fish, rice, pasta, and salads. Fresh fruits and soft drinks are available throughout the day.

What if the weather isn’t good?
If weather conditions are too windy or unsafe, water sports and dolphin swimming might be limited or canceled, but you’ll still enjoy snorkeling and the boat cruise.

Ready for a day of oceanic wonder, lively snorkeling, and delightful food? This tour from Hurghada or Makadi offers a genuine taste of the Red Sea’s wonders—an experience worth considering for your Egyptian getaway.