Dolphin House Yacht Trip with Snorkelling and Lunch Sahl Hasheesh

The dolphin area in the open Red Sea

Dolphins live wild in the Red Sea off the Hurghada coast, including spinner and bottlenose dolphins, and the boat goes to areas where they are often seen resting and travelling in pods. The captain and crew watch for fins and breaking water, and the yacht slows as soon as animals are spotted so that the group can look from the deck.

Swimming near dolphins depends on the weather, the sea and how many boats are in the area, and it is not guaranteed. If you are searching for a Dolphin House trip from Sahl Hasheesh, this is a half-day option built around the animals. Please keep your distance and never chase, touch or feed them.

Swimming and watching dolphins responsibly

When conditions allow, the guide invites guests into the water in a controlled group to float quietly where the animals pass. The best encounters are calm ones, with slow movement and no splashing, which lets the dolphins decide how close to come. Life jackets are recommended, and the guide explains the rules before anyone enters the water.

Dolphins are wild animals, so some days they are close and other days far away. The trip is still enjoyable because of the sea, the boat and the snorkelling stop. Responsible operators keep boats at a respectful distance and limit time in the water to reduce stress on the animals, and our crews follow the same approach.

The guided snorkelling stop

The boat also stops at a coral reef for one guided snorkelling session, where hard and soft corals, anemonefish, parrotfish and butterflyfish live in clear, warm water. Mask, fins and snorkel are provided, and a snorkelling instructor stays with the group, so beginners can join confidently.

The Red Sea is well known for reefs close to the surface, so you do not need to dive to enjoy them. A rash vest is useful for sun protection and warmth. Do not stand on the coral or touch marine life, and ask the instructor for help adjusting your mask if water enters. Bring a waterproof camera if you have one, because the underwater views are bright and clear.

The yacht, the sun deck and meals

The yacht is spacious, with a shaded area and a sun deck where you can relax between activities, feel the sea breeze and watch the horizon for dolphins. Depending on the departure, a breakfast buffet is served on the 8 am trip or a seafood lunch on the afternoon trip, including fish fillet and calamari.

Hot drinks, soft drinks and water are included, so you stay refreshed in the sun. Towels are not included, so bring your own. The trip is about four hours on the water, plus transfer time from your hotel, which makes it ideal for families with children and for guests who want a morning or afternoon at sea.

Pickup, timing and planning

Pickup is arranged from Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay and El Gouna, and the details are sent the evening before. The long-range pickup takes extra time, so expect an early start for the 8 am departure. A nature reserve fee is payable on the day, and underwater photos, towels and optional water toys are extra.

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and a camera. The best weather for the sea is spring and autumn, but dolphins can be seen all year. The trip is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments because of boarding and moving on the boat. Our team can also advise you on which departure suits your hotel, since the 8 am trip includes a breakfast buffet and a later trip offers a seafood lunch.