Discovering the Red Sea in Style: The Private Dolphin House Boat Tour from Hurghada

When it comes to exploring Egypt’s stunning coastline, a private boat trip like the Dolphin House Boat Tour offers a blend of exclusivity, comfort, and adventure. While I haven’t personally taken this particular trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that’s both memorable and well worth the price.

What we love about this tour is how it emphasizes personalized service with a private boat for up to 10 guests, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd. The option to visit Giftun Islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a delicious seafood buffet all in one day makes it a fantastic choice for families, friends, or couples seeking quality time at sea.

One potential consideration is the cost—at $110 per person, it’s a premium outing, but most travelers seem to agree it offers good value, especially given the inclusive lunch, drinks, and private setting. This tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, intimate day on the water with the flexibility to customize their experience.

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Key Points

Exclusive Private Experience: Perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting a tailored day without sharing the boat with strangers.
Snorkeling in the Red Sea: Multiple stops, guided by knowledgeable crew to explore underwater life in beautiful coral reefs.
All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, fresh fruits, drinks, and snorkeling gear are included, making it easy to relax without extra costs.
Flexible Itinerary: Choose between Dolphin House, Giftun Island, or leisure snorkeling—your day, your rules.
Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off with air-conditioned transportation save hassle and provide a smooth start and end to your day.
Authentic Experience: Many reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and the chance to see dolphins and vibrant marine life, making it more than just a boat ride.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup around 8:00 am, a crucial detail for those wanting to start their day without stress. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a blessing under the Egyptian sun, and ensures a comfortable transfer to the marina, where your private vessel awaits.

Once aboard, the boat itself is designed to maximize comfort and flexibility. With a crew led by a friendly captain—many reviews highlight helpful guides like Ramkn—the atmosphere is relaxed from the start. As only your group will be on the boat, you won’t have to contend with noisy strangers or crowded decks. This setup allows for a more personalized experience and makes the crew more attentive to your needs.

The itinerary is centered on exploring two snorkeling stops, each guided by experienced snorkel guides. The marine environment you’ll encounter is vibrant, with coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling spots are carefully chosen to avoid crowds and maximize wildlife sightings, making it an ideal activity for underwater enthusiasts.

One of the standout parts of this tour is the visit to Dolphin House Hurghada—a spot known for its marine life and the possibility of spotting wild dolphins. While the reviews don’t specify whether you’ll see dolphins every time, the name suggests a good chance, which adds an element of excitement.

Lunch onboard is another highlight. The seafood buffet is described as “amazing” and “huge,” with many travelers appreciating the quality and variety of the food. Fresh fruits, tea, coffee, and soft drinks keep you energized for the rest of the day, and the all-inclusive nature means no surprise costs—just pure, hassle-free enjoyment.

The boat’s deck provides ample space for lounging, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the scenery. Reviewers rave about the scenic views, especially when cruising around Giftun Islands, where the scenery is postcard-worthy. Some mention that the crew is attentive, offering drinks and snacks as needed, making it a very comfortable experience.

As the day winds down, the boat gently returns to Hurghada with broad views of the coastline and the Red Sea’s sparkling waters. The return transfer is smooth, with drop-off at your hotel ensuring a hassle-free end to the day.

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What Sets This Tour Apart?

The private nature of this tour is its biggest selling point. Unlike group excursions, you can customize your snorkeling spots, enjoy more relaxed meals, and have a crew that caters specifically to your group. This is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet day with close friends.

The emphasis on quality is evident in the reviews praising the staff’s friendliness and helpfulness. Many mention the guides’ knowledge, which enhances the snorkeling experience and makes even beginners feel comfortable in the water.

The value for money is highlighted by the inclusive food, drinks, and transfers—most travelers agree you get a lot for what you pay. The longer duration (around 8 hours) allows enough time to explore multiple sites and relax without feeling rushed.

Practical Details & Booking Tips

Booking this tour around 31 days in advance is typical, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot. The tour starts early at 8:00 am, so be prepared for an early start, but this timing allows for a full day of activities and scenic cruising.

The cost of $110 per person offers good value considering all the inclusions—private transport, snorkeling gear, meals, and drinks. Keep in mind the additional costs like the National Park fee (around five USD per person) payable in cash on the spot, along with optional transfers from nearby resorts like El Gouna or Safaga.

Most travelers can participate, as the tour is suitable for those comfortable with swimming and being on a boat. Service animals are allowed, which could be helpful for those traveling with pets.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a relaxed, personal day on the water with the chance to snorkel in some of Egypt’s clearest waters. It’s perfect for families with kids, as the crew is friendly and safety gear like life jackets is provided. It also suits groups of friends or couples wanting an exclusive experience away from bustling crowds.

For those celebrating something special—like a birthday or anniversary—the private setting adds a touch of luxury and intimacy. The flexibility to choose snorkeling spots and the option to relax on deck makes it adaptable to different moods and plans.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to snorkel, relax, and enjoy lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Your price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the private boat trip, two snorkeling stops with guides, snorkeling equipment, a seafood buffet lunch, fruits, and drinks (coffee, tea, water, soda).

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the National Park fee is about five USD per person and payable in cash on the spot. Optional transfers from other resorts like El Gouna or Safaga are also paid locally.

What if I want to snorkel at different spots?
The tour offers a choice: visit Dolphin House, Giftun Island, or enjoy leisure snorkeling. Customization depends on the crew’s schedule, but flexibility is often possible.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While most activities involve swimming, the snorkeling is guided, and life jackets are provided. If you’re uncomfortable in the water, inform the crew—they’re friendly and accommodating.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, waterproof camera, and a light cover-up for sun protection when not in the water.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Most meals are seafood-based, so if you have allergies or dietary needs, it’s best to inform the tour provider in advance.

Is the boat air-conditioned?
The pickup vehicle is air-conditioned, but the boat’s deck is open-air, perfect for enjoying the breeze and views.

What about the reviews?
Most travelers praise the crew, the delicious food, and the scenic snorkeling spots, though a few mention minor issues with pickup times. The experience is highly rated.

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Final Thoughts

In essence, the Private Dolphin House Boat Tour from Hurghada offers a fantastic balance of personalized service, immersive marine activities, and delicious cuisine—all within a comfortable and flexible setting. It’s a top choice for travelers who want to avoid crowded tours and prefer the quiet pleasure of exploring Egypt’s renowned Red Sea reefs with their own group.

If you’re after a day of relaxation, snorkeling, and stunning scenery, this experience delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy Egypt’s coastline with fewer compromises.

For anyone seeking a private, well-organized, and authentic experience on the Red Sea, this tour seems to tick all the boxes. Just remember to book early and be prepared for a full day of adventure, relaxation, and tasty seafood.