Hurghada: Dolphin House Snorkeling & Banana Boat with Lunch

Summary

Red Sea dolphins up close, playful waves and easygoing boat life

You’ll wake up on a boat in Hurghada, heading for Dolphin House with salty air in your hair. Swim with wild dolphins, snorkel warm Red Sea reefs with a local guide, then share lunch on deck before bouncing along on a banana boat ride — all with hotel pickup included. It’s less about perfection and more about those small moments you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping onto the boat in Hurghada was how everyone seemed half-awake but already grinning — maybe it’s the way the sun hits the water here, kind of blinding but soft at the same time. Our snorkeling guide, Mahmoud, handed out masks and cracked a joke about his “lucky fins.” I’m not sure if he was serious or just trying to calm nerves (mine included). The engine started up and we headed out toward Dolphin House — apparently that’s what locals call this stretch where dolphins like to hang around. Didn’t expect to smell so much salt in the air; it sticks to your skin before you even get wet.

I’ll admit I was nervous about seeing wild dolphins — what if they didn’t show? But then someone shouted and there they were, moving fast under the surface. It’s hard to describe what it feels like to slide into water knowing they’re right below you. My heart was pounding. The Red Sea is warmer than I thought, almost silky, and when I looked down through my mask there were flashes of silver everywhere. Mahmoud kept pointing things out — a little coral here, a school of fish darting away. He laughed when I tried to say “dolphin” in Arabic (I definitely butchered it). We stayed out there longer than I realized; time sort of disappears when you’re floating like that.

Back on board after snorkeling, lunch tasted better than any meal has a right to — maybe because you’re salty and tired and everything smells like grilled fish. People swapped stories about who saw what underwater. There was still time for banana boat rides (which are way bumpier than they look), more sunbathing, and just lying back listening to kids giggle somewhere behind me. I still think about that moment drifting with nothing but sky overhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day snorkeling and dolphin tour

• Transfer from hotel to boat
• Boat trip to dolphin habitat
• Snorkel with dolphins and coral
• Swim and observe dolphin behavior
• Sunbathe on board
• Enjoy lunch on boat
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Dolphin House tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Hurghada.

Do I need my own snorkeling equipment?

No, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour.

How long does the Dolphin House trip from Hurghada take?

It’s a full day trip including transfers, snorkeling stops, lunch, and activities.

Is lunch served on board during this Red Sea tour?

Yes, lunch is served on board after snorkeling sessions.

Are guides available during snorkeling?

A snorkeling guide assists throughout the activities.

Can pregnant travelers join this Hurghada dolphin tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to activity level.

What else is included besides swimming with dolphins?

The day includes banana boat rides, coral reef snorkeling, lunch, equipment use, and transfers.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour suits most fitness levels but isn’t advised for those with spinal or heart issues.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada hotels, all national park entry fees covered by your ticket, use of snorkeling equipment (so no need to bring your own), help from a friendly local guide throughout the activities, plus lunch served fresh on board between swims before heading back in comfort at sunset.