Swimming with Dolphin VIP Snorkeling Sea Trip With Lunch and Transfer – Hurghada

This review explores a popular full-day snorkeling tour in Hurghada that promises the chance to swim with dolphins, explore vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy a hassle-free trip with included lunch and hotel transfers. With over 1,100 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it’s clear this experience appeals to many travelers seeking a memorable Red Sea adventure.

What we love about this tour is the seamless hotel pickup, the chance to see dolphins—sometimes swimming right alongside you—and the generous onboard buffet lunch. The professional guides and friendly crew also stand out, making sure you’re well looked after throughout the day.

A potential consideration is the variability of dolphin sightings. While many guests report swimming with dolphins, some reviews mention the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters. If dolphin magic is your main goal, be prepared for some luck involved.

This trip is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone wanting an all-in-one day of aquatic fun with expert guidance and good value for money. Let’s unpack this experience in detail so you know exactly what to expect.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day excursion covering top snorkeling spots and dolphin sightings
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple
• Guided snorkeling with equipment, suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike
• Delicious buffet lunch and soft drinks served onboard
• Opportunities for water sports, including speed boat rides and snorkeling at coral reefs
• Mixed reviews on dolphin sightings—luck plays a role, but many guests do see dolphins
• Well-organized with professional staff, though some mention minor disorganization
• Affordable price point at around $9 per person, offering great value

A Detailed Look at the Hurghada Snorkeling Experience

The Booking and Arrival Process

Booking this tour tends to be done about 28 days in advance on average, which suggests it’s popular enough to plan ahead. The price is quite affordable—about $9 per person—and that covers most essentials: transfers, boat trips, snorkeling guides, lunch, and soft drinks.

Guests are picked up from their Hurghada hotels in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The pickup is generally punctual, with some reviews praising the smooth, well-organized transfer process. Abdallah, the efficient crew member, and Mustafa, the patient instructor, are often highlighted as friendly and helpful, especially for first-time snorkelers.

The Itinerary and Boat Experience

The day kicks off with an 8:00 am pickup, and after a brief drive, you arrive at the boat dock. The vessel is described as spacious and clean—important for comfort on an 8-hour trip. The boat can host up to 30 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate group size that allows for better service.

Once onboard, you’ll cruise toward the Red Sea’s famed snorkeling sites. The main highlight is the Dolphin House, where you get approximately an hour to explore the coral reefs with guides providing equipment and support. Many reviewers mention the crew’s dedication to finding dolphins, with some lucky guests swimming alongside them. One guest shared, “the crew made it their mission to find dolphins,” which shows the staff’s enthusiasm and effort.

Snorkeling at Coral Reefs and Water Sports

The trip includes two guided snorkeling stops at coral reefs, with equipment provided. Expect vibrant fish, coral formations, and perhaps some sea plants—though some reefs might show signs of damage, as noted by a few reviewers. The water is crystal clear, offering excellent visibility, making it ideal for photography and close-up wildlife sightings.

Guests also have the chance to jump off the boat for extra snorkeling or to try water sports like speed boat rides with life jackets, adding an adrenaline boost to the day.

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet lunch is served onboard, with many reviewers describing it as tasty and plentiful—definitely more than just a snack. Alongside, tea, coffee, and soft drinks are available throughout the trip, keeping guests refreshed after snorkeling or water sports. Many reviewers comment positively on the food, with some saying it exceeded expectations for the price.

Dolphin Sightings and Wildlife

Swimmers often report seeing dolphins, sometimes quite close to the boat, creating magical moments. As one guest summed up, “Very friendly crew and they go above and beyond to help,” which is reflected in their efforts to locate dolphins. However, some reviews highlight the unpredictability—dolphins are wild animals, and not everyone gets to swim with them.

A few guests mention observing stressed dolphins due to the number of boats chasing them, which is a reminder that wildlife encounters can be a gamble. It’s important to keep expectations realistic; dolphins may appear, but guarantees aren’t possible.

The Final Stop: Orange Bay

The last part of the trip takes you to Orange Bay, a beautiful sandy stretch with clear waters perfect for relaxing or taking photos. Entry costs, like 1000 Egyptian pounds, are paid separately if you choose to go ashore, but many feel it’s worth the extra fee for the scenery and tranquility. Guests often say it’s a peaceful way to end the day.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of swimming, exploring, and relaxing, the boat returns to the docking point around 3 pm. Guests are transferred back to their hotels, often praising the smooth logistics and friendly staff who make the end of the trip just as pleasant as the start.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Professional and Friendly Guides

From the reviews, it’s clear that the staff’s friendliness and expertise make a difference. Guests mention guides like Mustafa and Abdallah for their patience and attentiveness, particularly helpful for first-time snorkelers or nervous swimmers.

Value for Money

At just $9 per person, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering the included hotel transfers, multiple snorkeling spots, water sports, and a hearty lunch. Several reviewers noted that the experience exceeded their expectations for the price.

Stunning Underwater Views

The combination of coral reefs, colorful fish, and potential dolphin sightings makes this trip appealing to anyone wanting to explore the Red Sea’s marine life. Many guests were thrilled with the clarity of the water and the variety of sea life, despite some reefs showing signs of damage, which is a common issue in popular spots.

A Memorable Dolphin Encounter

While not guaranteed, many guests have swum with dolphins, often describing it as the highlight of their trip. Some reviews mention seeing dolphins “up close and personal,” which adds a magical element to the day.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Wildlife Encounters Are Not Guaranteed

A handful of reviews narrate disappointing dolphin sightings or missed opportunities, which is normal in wildlife tourism. Be prepared for the possibility that you might see dolphins, but it’s not assured.

Weather-Dependent Conditions

Sea conditions like wind and waves can impact snorkeling quality. One traveler noted that windy weather limited fish sightings and caused some parts of the trip to be less enjoyable. Always check the weather forecast before booking, especially during windy seasons.

Slight Disorganization Somewhere in the Process

While most reviews praise the smooth logistics, a few mention slight disorganization or delays, particularly regarding timing and communication. It’s wise to arrive prepared for some waiting or minor schedule shifts.

Extra Fees

The trip may involve additional costs, like the national park fee (500 Egyptian pounds) or Orange Bay entry (around 1000 Egyptian pounds), paid on-site. Budgeting for these extras ensures no surprises.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for families, beginners, or budget-conscious travelers wanting a full day of snorkeling, water sports, and dolphin watching. It’s suitable for those who appreciate a relaxed, guided experience with good food and friendly staff. If you’re seeking exclusivity or guaranteed dolphin encounters, this might not be your best bet, but for many, the overall experience outweighs those uncertainties.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Hurghada in air-conditioned vehicles, making the day hassle-free.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 8 am and returning in the early afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat trips, guided snorkeling with equipment, water sports, lunch, refreshments, and transfers. Extra costs like park fees or Orange Bay entry are paid separately.

Can I swim with dolphins?
Many guests report swimming with dolphins, but it’s not guaranteed. Wildlife sightings depend on weather and luck.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Guided snorkeling with equipment is included, and guides are known for their patience and helpfulness.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, and the trip is family-friendly, though very young children should be supervised closely.

What should I bring?
Swimmers should bring sunscreen, a towel, a hat, and waterproof camera if desired. Some reviews mention that the water is clear and beautiful for photos.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling trip in Hurghada offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife sightings at a truly affordable price. The well-organized transfers, friendly guides, and tasty onboard lunch create a comfortable environment for both first-timers and seasoned travelers. While dolphin encounters are not guaranteed, many guests leave with unforgettable memories of swimming alongside these playful creatures and exploring vibrant reef life.

If you’re seeking a budget-friendly, all-in-one day out on the Red Sea, this tour presents excellent value. Be flexible about wildlife sightings and prepare for some variability, but expect stunning underwater scenery, friendly staff, and a fun-filled itinerary that captures the essence of a true Red Sea adventure.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a couple seeking a memorable day in Hurghada, this snorkeling trip delivers a solid mix of nature, fun, and relaxation.