Meet the dolphins in snorkeling tour

Taking a day out to see dolphins in their natural habitat is often high on travelers’ wish lists when visiting Hurghada, Egypt. This Meet the Dolphins in Snorkeling Tour promises a full-day adventure that combines marine wildlife encounters with relaxed beach vibes and good food. While I haven’t personally done this trip, I’ve gathered insights from numerous reviews and the detailed itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out for us are three key features: first, the opportunity to see and swim with dolphins—a rare treat for marine lovers; second, the well-organized itinerary including multiple snorkeling stops and a visit to dolphin house; and third, the value for money, given the extensive experience packed into a price tag of around $46.50 per person. A possible downside? Some travelers noted that dolphin sightings can vary, and not everyone may get a chance to swim with the dolphins every time.

This tour is best suited for families, solo travelers, and groups of friends who want an affordable yet memorable day exploring the Red Sea’s vibrant marine life and enjoying some relaxed beach time.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Experience: Swim or observe dolphins in their natural environment.
• Multiple Snorkel Stops: Enjoy calm reefs and colorful fish at different locations.
• Organized & Reliable: Usually includes hotel pickup, with a professional crew ensuring smooth logistics.
• Delicious Onboard Food: Expect a tasty buffet lunch that keeps you energized.
• Upgraded Options: Possibility to add a snorkeling guide for more confidence in the water.
• Good Value: The tour offers a comprehensive day out at a reasonable price.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your adventure begins early, with pickups around 8:00 am from your Hurghada hotel—a convenience that saves you the hassle of organizing transfers. Once on board, the boat typically heads towards Dolphin House in the Sharb el Erg lagoon, a beautiful coral reef known for its large dolphin colony. According to reviews, this lagoon is a spectacle: “The Dolphins tour was great. We are luck group named Valesa Sparta to see the dolphins making their show to us,” shares a happy traveler.

Dolphin House: The Main Attraction

The highlight is, of course, seeing the dolphins. The crew usually takes about 50 km out to the dolphin house, which is often described as a vibrant and lively spot packed with playful dolphins. Some reviews mention that the dolphins actively put on a show, splashing and jumping close to the boat, making for fantastic photo opportunities. Others highlight the chance to swim with them: “Jumped into the water…many swimmers…followed carefully the dolphins,” reports one reviewer.

However, not everyone gets to swim every time, as dolphins are wild animals and tend to be shy or playful depending on their mood. Some reviews point out that observing from the boat can be equally rewarding, especially if you’re not comfortable in open water.

Snorkel Stops: Coral Reefs & Fish

After dolphin excitement, the tour typically makes two additional snorkeling stops. These are often calmer, more relaxed moments, ideal for spotting colorful reefs, tropical fish, and perhaps some starfish or sea cucumbers. One reviewer mentions that the stops are “more calm by the riffs,” highlighting their peaceful and scenic nature.

Onboard Amenities & Food

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to soft drinks, coffee, and tea, plus a buffet lunch that reviewers consistently praise. “Lunch, treats, and drinks was buffet. We liked so much and had a great day,” shares a reviewer. The food is described as tasty and plentiful, keeping everyone energized for the day’s activities.

The crew, often praised across reviews, are described as “friendly” and “helpful,” doing their best to ensure everyone’s comfort. Many mention that the boat itself is well-maintained and spacious enough so that groups of around 33 travelers can enjoy the experience without feeling crowded.

Optional Upgrades & Special Tips

Travelers who might feel uneasy about snorkeling can opt to hire a snorkeling guide for about 25 Euros. This is especially valuable if you’re unsure about staying secure in the water or want a more personalized experience. One reviewer shared that their guide, Hany, “showed us beautiful spots” and made the experience more comfortable.

A practical tip from reviews: bringing a waterproof camera is highly recommended. Many guests captured incredible footage of dolphins and fish, but a number mentioned struggling to keep videos horizontal, so a sturdy underwater camera or waterproof phone case could be your best investment.

The Group Experience & Atmosphere

The group size of around 33 travelers ensures a friendly, intimate vibe. The crew’s genuine enthusiasm shines through; “Everyone in the crew team was so kind and nice,” mentions a happy guest. The atmosphere tends to be lively but not chaotic, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, or simply relaxing on the boat.

Multiple reviews emphasize the professionalism of the team, with transfers running smoothly and the boat being “well-organized from start to finish.” Travelers often mention the punctual pickup, which sets a positive tone for the day.

The Value Proposition

At around $46.46 per person, this tour offers an impressive blend of marine wildlife encounters, snorkeling, food, and transport—all in a single day. Many reviews echo this sentiment, noting that the experience surpassed expectations for the price paid.

While not guaranteed to see dolphins every trip, the chances are high enough to justify the cost, especially considering the multiple stops, the delicious lunch, and the friendly crew. The full-day duration of about 9 hours allows plenty of time to enjoy each aspect without feeling rushed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

• Families will appreciate the safe, guided environment and the chance for children to see dolphins and colorful fish.
• Solo travelers will enjoy meeting new people in a relaxed setting, with ample opportunities to snorkel or just observe.
• Marine life enthusiasts will love the chance to see dolphins and explore coral reefs in their natural habitat.
• Budget-conscious travelers benefit from the comprehensive nature of the tour, which packs in so much at a reasonable price.
• People seeking a memorable, Instagram-worthy experience will find plenty of photogenic moments, from dolphins jumping to vibrant underwater scenes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour is a solid choice for anyone visiting Hurghada who wants an authentic encounter with dolphins, colorful reefs, and good food, all in one day. The professional crew, the well-organized itinerary, and the value for money make it stand out. While dolphin sightings can never be 100% guaranteed, reviews suggest that most participants are pleased with their experience—whether they swim with dolphins or just marvel from the boat.

This trip is especially well-suited for those who love nature, are eager to explore the Red Sea’s marine life, and want a hassle-free, enjoyable day out. It offers a genuine chance to connect with Egypt’s waters and wildlife in a friendly, safe environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your Hurghada hotel are generally offered, making logistics straightforward.

Can I upgrade to a snorkeling guide?
Absolutely. For an additional fee of 25 Euros, you can hire a guide to help you feel more secure and enhance your snorkeling experience.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, giving you plenty of time for stops, lunch, and relaxation.

What should I bring?
A waterproof camera is highly recommended to capture dolphins and underwater scenery. Also, bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

What food is included?
A buffet lunch along with soft drinks, coffee, and tea is served onboard, receiving consistent praise from past travelers.

What if I don’t see dolphins?
While dolphin sightings are common, they are wild animals, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. Observing from the boat can still be rewarding due to the beautiful environment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most reviews mention children enjoying the day, especially given the safe environment and engaging marine activities.

This tour offers a delightful glimpse into the marine wonders of the Red Sea, combining adventure, relaxation, and authentic wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a dedicated snorkeler or simply seek a day of sun and sea, it’s an experience worth considering during your Hurghada stay.