Swim with Dolphins in Hurghada: A once-in-a-lifetime experience

Dolphin underwater

Is being able to Swim with Dolphins in Hurghada top of your bucket list? Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable experience during your holiday?

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This is an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with these highly intelligent and friendly creatures, in their natural habitat of the Red Sea.

There are a number of places where you can swim with dolphins in Hurghada, including Dolphin House – which we think is the best place to head for. There are plenty of organised trips here. But it’s worth remembering that none of them offer any guarantees.

However, with a bit of luck you’ll have the chance to swim with dolphins in a safe and controlled environment, under the guidance of experienced trainers.

You can expect to learn all about these amazing creatures and their behaviour, along with plenty of opportunities to snap some unforgettable photos of your day.

What’s the Best Dolphin Trip?

There is a wide choice of dolphin trips in Hurghada, but we believe the best one is GetYourGuide’s Private Speedboat Trip to Dolphin House.

Here’s what you can expect:

Meeting point and departure time

Your private speedboat trip will start from the Hurghada Marina. The exact meeting point and departure time will be confirmed with you by the tour operator once your booking has been confirmed. It is important that you arrive at the meeting point on time as the boat will not wait for latecomers.

Boat journey

You will travel in a private speedboat with a personal captain who will take you to the Dolphin House, which is located in the open sea approximately 60 minutes from Hurghada. On the way, you will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Red Sea and the surrounding coastline.

Dolphin House

Once you reach the Dolphin House, your captain will anchor the boat and you will have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. The Dolphin House is home to a large number of wild dolphins, so keep an eye out for these playful creatures as they swim around you. The tour operator will provide you with all the necessary snorkeling equipment.

Lunch

After your snorkeling experience, you will be served a delicious lunch on the boat. The lunch will consist of a variety of Egyptian dishes, including meat, vegetables, and salads.

Return journey

Once you have finished your lunch, your captain will start the return journey back to Hurghada. On the way back, you will have the opportunity to relax on the boat and enjoy the views of the Red Sea.

Duration

The private speedboat trip to Dolphin House usually lasts for around 5-6 hours in total. However, the exact duration may vary depending on factors such as sea conditions and the amount of time spent snorkeling.

What to bring

It is recommended that you bring a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. You may also want to bring a waterproof camera to capture your snorkeling experience.

How to Book?

Use our availability checker to get the latest prices and see if your dates are available.

Best Places to Swim with Dolphins in Hurghada

If you’re excited to swim with dolphins in Hurghada, you’re in for a real treat. The area is home to several incredible spots where you can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.

There are plenty of popular day trips from Hurghada, but if it’s Dolphins you want, we’ve put together a list of the best places to get up close to dolphins in Hurghada.

Dolphin House Hurghada

Also known as Shaab el Erg, Dolphin House – check out the Tripadvisor reviews – is a famous diving site boasting a vibrant, colourful and healthy coral reef. It is home to over 60 dolphins, who are quite friendly and playful with humans.

There are boat rides from the main part of Hurghada to Dolphin House.

Abu Dabab Beach

Located about 30 kms south of Hurghada, Abu Dabab Beach is an excellent spot for snorkelling and diving. There’s a high probability of spotting dolphins in the clear water.

Sataya Reef

Sataya Reef is located near the famous Hamata Island and offers a unique experience for dolphin-lovers. With luck, visitors can swim with hundreds of bottlenose dolphins at a time.

Makadi Bay

Makadi Bay is just south of Hurghada and is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. It’s also a great spot for swimming with dolphins. As you take a boat ride into the sea, you can spot several dolphins jumping playfully in the water.

What to Expect While Swimming with Dolphins

If you’re visiting Hurghada, swimming with dolphins is an absolute must-do activity. It’s an incredible experience that you will always remember.

But what to expect? It’s probably not something you’ve done before, so we’ve put together a handy guide so you get yourself prepared, and make the most of the experience.

Here’s what you can expect while swimming with dolphins in Hurghada:

  • Before entering the water, you’ll be briefed on how to properly interact with the dolphins. The briefing will include do’s and don’ts to help you and the dolphins have a safe and fun experience altogether.
  • Generally, you’ll be swimming with bottlenose dolphins, which are known for their playful and friendly nature.
  • You’ll also have an opportunity to watch the dolphins leap and play in the water. It’s a sight to behold and one that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
  • While in the water, make sure to listen to the instructions of your tour guide. They are there to ensure that you and the dolphins are having a safe and enjoyable experience.
Dolphin underwater

Tips for a Safe Dolphin Swim

Swimming with dolphins is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many people dream of. However, it’s important to keep in mind the safety and ethical concerns of interacting with these intelligent animals.

Here are some tips to ensure a safe and ethical dolphin swim:

Do Your Research

Research the tour provider and make sure they have a good reputation for conservation and welfare. Ask if they follow the guidelines set by organizations such as the International Dolphin Watch and adhere to local laws and regulations regarding dolphin interactions.

Respect Personal Space

Approaching dolphins too closely or touching them can be harmful to their wellbeing. Respect their personal space and let them approach you if they want to interact. Remember, dolphins are wild animals, and it’s important to treat them with respect and care.

Don’t Feed or Chase Dolphins

Feeding and chasing dolphins can disrupt their natural habits and cause undue stress. Avoid feeding them or trying to lure them with food. Similarly, avoid chasing dolphins or moving quickly towards them, as they may perceive it as a threat.

Be Mindful of Your Behavior

When swimming with dolphins, be careful not to make sudden movements or loud noises. These actions can cause stress and anxiety for the animals. Additionally, don’t attempt to ride or grab onto the dolphins, as this can cause harm and disorientation.

Respect the Environment

When swimming with dolphins, take care not to damage the environment. Avoid touching or stepping on coral and other marine life. Don’t litter or leave any items behind on the boat or in the water.

Things to Pack for Your Dolphin Swim

Are you excited about your upcoming dolphin swim in Hurghada? It’s an experience you will never forget.

But it’s important to make sure you have the essentials with you, to make sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable time. Make sure to bring your swimsuit and towel. You will have a chance to swim with the dolphins, so we recommend wearing a swimsuit under your clothes when you come to the dolphin swim location.

Picture of a boat used for diving

Hurghada is also blessed with beautiful sunshine and weather, and you don’t want to get a painful sunburn. Bring plenty of sunscreen, with at least SPF 30, and make sure to apply it before leaving for the dolphin swim excursion.

To protect your eyes from the bright sunlight, we recommend bringing a pair of sunglasses and a hat. It’s also a great way to add style to your dolphin swim picture!

If you have your snorkeling gear, it’s advisable to bring it with you. Otherwise, you can usually rent them on the spot at the dolphin swim location.

A good waterproof camera is ideal to take lots of pictures and capture the unforgettable moments of your dolphin swim ensure your memories are preserved.

Other Activities to Enjoy in Hurghada

Apart from swimming with dolphins, Hurghada has plenty to offer for its visitors. The following are some of the exciting activities and places to explore during your stay in Hurghada:

  • Snorkelling and diving Hurghada boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving spots, with a diverse range of coral reefs that are home to various marine life. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced snorkeler/diver, Hurghada’s offerings are bound to blow your mind.
  • Boat Tours A boat tour is an excellent way to explore the beauty of Hurghada from the water. You can book a private yacht or join a group tour to experience the stunning blue waters, pristine beaches, and the coastline.
  • Quad Biking Get ready for an adventure with thrilling quad biking in the vast desert dunes surrounding Hurghada. This activity allows you to enjoy a unique perspective of the landscape and capture some of the best views along the way.
  • Visit to Giftun Islands A trip to the Giftun Islands, famous for its crystal clear waters, is a must-do when visiting Hurghada. A boat trip to the islands will offer you an opportunity to relax, sunbathe, and swim in the turquoise waters.
  • Kite Surfing With steady winds and shallow waters, Hurghada provides an excellent spot for kite surfing, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you can experience kite surfing in one of the various spots in Hurghada.
Two ladies sat on camels in the desert

Final Thoughts

You’ve learned a lot about swimming with dolphins in Hurghada! Let’s recap what you should keep in mind before booking a tour:

  • Hurghada has a unique location where you can swim with both spinner and bottlenose dolphins.
  • Choose a reputable tour operator who abides by responsible and ethical practices towards the dolphins and the environment.
  • Always follow the instructions given by your guide while swimming with the dolphins to ensure both your safety and the dolphins’ wellbeing.
  • Be respectful and avoid touching, feeding or harassing the dolphins to maintain a positive interaction between humans and these magnificent creatures.
  • Don’t forget to capture the moment, but remember to use a waterproof camera and avoid using flash photography to avoid disturbing the dolphins.

By following these guidelines, you can make the most out of your experience with the dolphins while ensuring their safety and conservation. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour now and swim with the dolphins in Hurghada!