Hurghada Dolphin Swim 2025: A Sea Trip Adventure Review

Hurghada Dolphin Swim 2025: A Sea Trip Adventure Review

A vibrant view of dolphins swimming in the Red Sea near Hurghada

You know, lots of people who come to Hurghada really dream about swimming with dolphins in the wild. The idea of being in the big, open Red Sea and seeing these creatures is, like, absolutely magical. I recently went on the 2025 ‘Swimming With Dolphins in SeaTrip’ which, by the way, includes lunch, and I wanted to share what the experience was honestly like. This is, you know, not just about the good parts, but it’s sort of a real look at the whole day, from getting on the boat to the moment you get back to your hotel. So, at the end of the day, you’ll have a much better idea of what to expect from this kind of trip. It’s pretty much an account of the entire day.

The Morning Pickup and Boarding Experience

A tour boat moored at the Hurghada marina in the early morning light

The day began quite early with a pickup from the hotel, which, to be honest, was fairly on time. You get taken to the Hurghada marina in a small van, which is actually buzzing with other people heading out on different sea adventures. The air, I mean, is filled with this feeling of excitement and, of course, the smell of the sea. Seeing all the boats bobbing in the water is, frankly, a pretty cool way to start your morning. The one we were going on was a double-decker boat, which was actually quite roomy. You get a really friendly greeting from the crew, who, you know, sort of make you feel welcome straight away.

Finding a good spot on the boat is kind of easy since there’s plenty of space for everyone. Some people, for example, headed straight for the sunny top deck, while others, like me, found a shaded spot on the lower deck for a little while. The crew, I mean, gave a quick safety talk and told us what the plan for the day was, which was very clear. Honestly, they seemed very professional, yet the mood was, at the end of the day, super relaxed and casual. We were all just handed our snorkeling gear—masks and fins—and, seriously, it looked clean and in good shape. Read our full review: Swimming With Dolphins Hurghada Full Review and Details

Sailing Out into the Red Sea’s Blue Expanse

Crystal clear blue waters of the Red Sea seen from the side of a boat

So, the feeling you get as the boat pulls away from the marina is, like, really freeing. You are, basically, leaving the busy coast behind and heading out into what looks like an endless stretch of beautiful blue water. The sun on your skin feels absolutely amazing, and, you know, there’s a light spray from the sea that just adds to the whole vibe. Frankly, the journey out to the dolphin spots is an experience in itself. The color of the water changes from a kind of turquoise near the shore to a deep, dark blue further out. I mean, it is seriously beautiful to just sit back and watch the scenery go by.

The best part of the trip is just being out on the open water. The sea breeze and the sun make you forget everything else. It’s almost a kind of therapy, right?

Finding the Dolphins: Patience is Key

A pod of dolphins leaping near a tour boat in Hurghada

Alright, so this is what everyone is really waiting for. The captain and crew, obviously, start looking for dolphin pods as soon as we reach an area they call “Dolphin House.” You just have to remember that these are wild animals, so finding them takes a bit of patience. Our crew was, like, in constant communication with other boats in the area, which, I mean, increases the chances of a sighting. You can just feel the excitement on the boat grow with every passing minute. Suddenly, a crew member shouts and points, and you see them. Honestly, the first time you see a dorsal fin cutting through the water is just a completely thrilling moment for everyone on board.

The In-Water Encounter: What It’s Really Like

A person snorkeling in the water, looking at a dolphin swimming nearby

When the dolphins are found, the boat, you know, slows down and keeps a very respectful distance. The guide tells everyone when it’s okay to get into the water, and, well, you just slide in as quietly as possible. I mean, it’s not about chasing the dolphins, but more about just being in the water near them. The water is incredibly clear, so you can see them swimming below and around you, sometimes quite a ways off. Hearing their clicks and whistles underwater is, at the end of the day, something you will probably never forget. It’s a very different experience than seeing them in a show; this is, like, them in their natural home, which is frankly way better. The crew just keeps telling you to look, not touch, and that respect for the animals is their number one rule.

Beyond the Dolphins: Snorkeling Stops and Coral Reefs

Colorful coral reef with tropical fish in the Red Sea, Hurghada

After the time with the dolphins, the boat trip typically includes one or two stops for snorkeling. To be honest, these are often just as amazing as seeing the dolphins. The Red Sea coral reefs are, you know, absolutely world-class. You just float on the surface and look down at a whole other world. There are, for instance, bright corals of all shapes and sizes, and tons of colorful fish swimming all around you. You’ll probably see parrotfish, clownfish, and maybe even a stingray if you are lucky. The guides are in the water with you, which is great, pointing out interesting things and making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. So, you definitely get a lot more than just a dolphin search on this trip.

The equipment provided was, as I was saying, pretty decent, but you can always bring your own mask if you have one you really like. The water is so warm you really don’t need a wetsuit, especially in the summer months. So, the guides pick snorkeling spots that are usually protected from strong currents, making it, more or less, an easy and relaxing experience for everyone, even for people who aren’t strong swimmers. Honestly, it’s a big highlight of the day. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Reserve Your Hurghada Dolphin Trip)

Lunch on Board: A Well-Deserved Meal at Sea

A buffet-style lunch spread on the deck of a boat in the Red Sea

Anyway, after all that swimming and excitement, you work up a pretty big appetite. The crew prepares a buffet-style lunch right there on the boat, and, I mean, the smell of it cooking is fantastic. The spread is usually quite simple but really tasty. We had, for instance, grilled chicken and kofta, with sides like rice, pasta, salads, and bread. They also offer soft drinks and water throughout the day, which, seriously, is a nice touch. Eating a good meal while you are floating in the middle of the Red Sea is, like, a really special kind of dining experience. It’s a nice, calm moment in the day to just relax and chat with other people on the tour.

A Few Practical Tips for Your Dolphin Trip

A collection of snorkeling gear, a sun hat, and reef-safe sunscreen

To make sure you have the best possible time, it’s probably a good idea to come prepared. First, even if it feels cool on the water, the Egyptian sun is very strong, so bringing sunscreen is just not optional. Anyway, here are a few more thoughts that might just help you out. Thinking about these little things beforehand can sort of make your day much smoother. So, at the end of the day, you can just focus on having a great time.

  • Sun Protection is Your Best Friend: Honestly, bring high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You will be really glad you did.
  • Bring a Towel and Change of Clothes: The boat provides gear, but, obviously, not your towel. A dry shirt for the ride back is kind of a good idea too.
  • Manage Your Expectations: Remember, you know, that these are wild animals. You’ll likely see them, but swimming right next to them isn’t guaranteed. Just being there is the real magic.
  • Consider Seasickness Medicine: If you are someone who sometimes gets motion sickness, taking something beforehand is, like, a really smart move. The sea can get a bit choppy sometimes.
  • Listen to Your Guides: They, frankly, know what they are doing. Their rules are there to keep you and the dolphins safe, so just follow their lead.
  • Waterproof Camera or Phone Case: You are absolutely going to want to take pictures, so a waterproof way to do that is almost necessary.