If you’re dreaming of sharing the water with wild dolphins in their natural habitat, this tour from Hurghada offers a compelling chance. While we haven’t personally tested it, detailed reviews and thorough descriptions make it clear that this experience combines the thrill of dolphin sightings with the relaxing beauty of the Red Sea. From the comfort of a well-equipped boat, you’ll have opportunities to spot pods, swim alongside these intelligent creatures, and explore vibrant coral reefs.
What draws us in are the authenticity of the experience—no controlled pools, just genuine encounters in the open sea. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, drinks, and hotel pickup makes it a seamless day trip. However, travelers should be aware that dolphins are wild animals, so sightings can’t be guaranteed every single trip. This tour is best suited for those eager to combine marine wildlife adventures with snorkeling and sunbathing, all at a very reasonable price.
Key Points
- Wild Dolphin Encounters: Chance to see and swim with dolphins in their natural environment.
- Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and onboard lunch.
- Multiple Stops: Three different snorkeling locations with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff help enhance the experience and safety.
- Value for Money: At around $41.11, the full day includes food, drinks, and transport.
- Limited Group Size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
What to Expect on Your Hurghada Dolphin Trip
This full-day adventure is designed to give you a taste of the Red Sea’s natural marine life, with plenty of time to relax and explore. The journey begins with an early pickup (around 7:00 am) from your Hurghada hotel, making for a smooth start without hassle. The transfer in an air-conditioned minivan sets the tone for a comfortable day, topped off with a friendly guide from Egyptio Tours.
Looking for more options in Suez? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Boat and the Journey
Once aboard the boat, you’ll spend roughly 80 minutes sunbathing and enjoying the sea breezes. The vessel is described as comfortable, and the experience of cruising to the dolphin hotspots is a highlight in itself—as you drift on the water, the anticipation of seeing these playful mammals grows. The boat’s design allows for easy spotting of dolphins around the vessel, making it a prime place for wildlife watching.
Dolphin Watching and Swimming
The core allure of this tour is the opportunity to see dolphins in the wild. Reviewers, like Rick G, mention snorkeling with a pod of six dolphins about 20 feet below them, highlighting how close and interactive these encounters can be. Guides help locate pods, and there’s a real chance that some dolphins may swim near you, sometimes allowing for a touch if you’re lucky.
However, since these are wild animals, sightings aren’t guaranteed on every trip. According to reviews, guides like those from Egyptio are experienced at maximizing your chances, and some guests have reported spectacular close encounters. Keep in mind, jumping into open water with dolphins can seem daunting initially, but most find the experience well worth it.
Snorkeling at Three Locations
The tour includes visits to three different snorkeling spots, each chosen for their vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Using the supplied snorkeling equipment, you’ll explore underwater worlds filled with colorful fish and fascinating corals. These stops allow for varied underwater scenery, making the trip more engaging than a single snorkeling session.
Lunch and Refreshments
The onboard buffet lunch is a welcome feature—offering a variety of dishes, plus mineral water and sodas—ensuring you’re recharged for the afternoon. The reviews note that the lunch is good value, especially considering the tour cost. Staying refreshed and energized is key, especially on a day-long trip under the sun.
Relaxation and Sunbathing
For non-swimmers or those simply wanting a break, the boat deck is a perfect place to sunbathe or just soak up the views. The gentle sea breeze combined with scenic vistas makes it a peaceful retreat during the stops.
The Overall Experience: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Authentic wild dolphin encounters, not a controlled environment.
- Well-organized transfers and a comfortable boat.
- Multiple snorkeling stops with rich marine life.
- Inclusive lunch and drinks provide great value.
- Small group size ensures more personalized attention.
- Experienced guides, like those praised in reviews, help locate dolphins and ensure safety.
Possible Drawbacks:
- Dolphin sightings depend on luck, as they are wild, and not all trips will guarantee encounters.
- The early start (7:00 am) might be tough for some, but it’s necessary to maximize dolphin activity.
- For travelers with limited physical mobility, jumping into open water might be challenging, though moderate fitness is recommended.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for marine wildlife enthusiasts who want a genuine experience with wild dolphins. It’s also ideal for snorkelers eager to explore colorful reefs, and those seeking a relaxed day on the water with good food and company. It’s a solid choice for travelers who prioritize authentic encounters over commercialized attractions, and who are comfortable with the unpredictability of wild animal sightings.
Practical Details
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full day of activity and relaxation. The cost of around $41.11 per person includes all essentials—transport, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and drinks—offering excellent value for such a comprehensive experience. There’s a maximum group size of 20, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and personal.
Booking in advance is advisable, as the tour operates with confirmation within 48 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, adding flexibility for your travel plans. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level for swimming and getting on and off the boat comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup usually around that time to ensure an early start.
Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Hurghada hotels, making it very convenient.
How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 9 hours, giving plenty of time for dolphin watching, snorkeling, and relaxing.
What should I bring? Comfortable swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you may bring your own if preferred.
Are the sightings guaranteed? No, as dolphins are wild animals, sightings depend on their location and behavior on the day. Guides will do their best to help you spot them.
Is lunch included? Yes, a buffet lunch plus mineral water and sodas are part of the package.
Can children join? Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.
Final Word
This Hurghada dolphin tour delivers an adventurous, authentic marine experience at a very reasonable price. By combining wildlife watching, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard amenities, it offers a well-rounded day out on the Red Sea. The chance to see and potentially swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment is a rare treat that will appeal to nature lovers and snorkelers alike.
While the unpredictability of wildlife encounters is worth keeping in mind, the knowledgeable guides and the overall organization mean you’ll likely enjoy a memorable day filled with stunning sea views, lively marine life, and the thrill of seeing dolphins freely play in their home waters. If you’re looking for an active, genuine, and value-packed adventure, this tour is well worth considering.