Hurghada Red Sea: Speedboat Dolphin Swim & Island Stop

Summary

Swim with dolphins snorkel coral reefs and relax on Red Sea islands

You’ll head out from Hurghada by speedboat with a local guide searching for dolphins before snorkeling vibrant Red Sea reefs and relaxing on peaceful Giftun Islands beaches. Expect salty air, laughter, fresh fruit on board—and moments that stick with you long after your skin dries off.

What’s the experience like?

We zipped out from Hurghada just after sunrise, the city still yawning behind us. The speedboat felt like a little rocket skimming over the Red Sea — spray in my face, salt on my lips. Our captain, Mahmoud, grinned as he cranked up some Arabic pop on the stereo. I tried to keep my hair out of my eyes but gave up pretty quick. There’s something about that first rush of wind that makes you forget you woke up at 6am for this.

The search for dolphins was longer than I expected — maybe an hour? Time got weird out there. We scanned the water for those quick silver arcs, everyone squinting into the sun. Suddenly Mahmoud pointed and shouted something (I think it was “look!” in Arabic). There they were — a whole pod weaving through the blue. We watched quietly at first, then someone laughed and it broke the spell. If you’re lucky (we were), you can slip into the water and swim near them — not too close though, Mahmoud made sure we kept our distance so we didn’t bother them. I still remember how cold the water felt compared to the air.

After that we stopped at two different spots to snorkel. The corals here are wild — pinks and oranges that look fake until you see them moving in the current. I kept losing track of time chasing little fish around. The boat had shaded spots if you needed a break (which I did after swallowing half the sea). Someone handed me a slice of melon while I dried off; tasted sweeter than any fruit back home.

The last stop was one of those sandy islands near Giftun — honestly I never caught its name because I was too busy just floating in shallow water staring at nothing in particular. Sun on my face, sand between my toes, no rush to do anything except maybe nap or watch tiny crabs scuttle by. On the way back Mahmoud played quieter music and nobody talked much — tired in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and snorkeling cruise

• Board speedboat in Hurghada
• Search for dolphins (45-90 mins)
• Watch dolphins up close
• Swim near dolphins if possible
• Snorkel at two coral spots
• Relax and swim at island

Top questions

How long does it take to find dolphins near Hurghada?

The search usually takes about 45-90 minutes depending on conditions.

Is swimming with dolphins allowed on this tour?

You may swim near dolphins if possible but must follow environmental rules and keep your distance.

Are snorkeling spots included during the trip?

Yes, there are stops at two different snorkeling locations in the Red Sea.

Does this tour include visiting Giftun Islands?

Yes, one of the final stops is at an island near Giftun where you can relax or swim.

What is included with this dolphin watching tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, life jackets, snorkeling gear, shaded boat area, showers, fruits, soft drinks & water.

Is this day trip suitable for families?

It’s suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Are guides or captains local?

Yes, your captain and guide are locals familiar with Red Sea waters and wildlife regulations.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada, all snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided by your local captain, shaded areas onboard for comfort between swims, fresh fruit along with soft drinks and water to keep you cool under the sun—and even a freshwater shower before heading back ashore.