El Gouna Lagoon, Diving with Dolphin, Snorkeling & Lunch

If you’re considering a day out in Egypt’s Red Sea region, the El Gouna Lagoon, Diving with Dolphin, Snorkeling & Lunch tour offers a compelling mix of relaxation and adventure. While it’s not a guarantee to swim with dolphins, this excursion delivers stunning scenery, lively marine life, and a tasty onboard buffet at a very reasonable price—just $56 per person.

We love how this trip combines the best of El Gouna’s man-made lagoons with the chance to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. The picturesque boat cruise through turquoise waters, framed by luxurious villas, is a highlight that offers both serenity and spectacular views. Plus, the included lunch, with grilled seafood and Egyptian salads, really elevates the experience.

That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the snorkeling spots could be more vibrant, and dolphin sightings, while common, are never guaranteed.

If you’re someone who enjoys being on the water, appreciates good food, and is okay with a bit of variability in wildlife encounters, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suited for families and travelers eager to enjoy a relaxed day with some marine adventure thrown in.

This experience made our article of 5 Best Tours & Things To Do In El Gouna (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Stunning Lagoon Views: The boat journey through El Gouna’s artificial waterways offers scenic vistas of villas and water channels.
• Marine Encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins and explore coral reefs, with all gear provided.
• Gourmet Lunch on Board: An included buffet featuring seafood, salads, and Egyptian fruits, served with unlimited drinks.
• Professional Guides: Experienced PADI instructors and friendly crew ensure safety and enjoyment.
• Flexible Experience: Option to snorkel or dive, depending on your comfort level and preferences.
• Mixed Reviews on Dolphin Sightings: While sightings are common, swimming with dolphins isn’t guaranteed, and some spots may be less colorful than expected.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with convenient hotel pickup, making the logistics smooth and hassle-free. Once on board a luxurious boat, you’ll glide through El Gouna’s serene lagoons—an ideal way to appreciate this carefully planned resort town. The vistas of modern villas, water channels, and floating gardens create a peaceful backdrop for your day.

This boat cruise isn’t just a scenic ride; it’s your gateway to the Red Sea’s underwater treasures. The guides are seasoned professionals—some of whom are PADI-certified instructors—ready to assist beginners or seasoned snorkelers. The marine environment near El Gouna is abundant with colorful coral reefs and an array of fish, ideal for underwater sightseeing.

One of the main draws is the chance to see dolphins in the wild. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, numerous travelers report spotting them regularly, and some even get the chance to swim alongside these friendly creatures. We’ve read heartfelt comments from visitors who loved the experience, describing it as “unforgettable” to see dolphins in their natural habitat. However, a few reviews mention that the snorkeling spots could be more colorful or lively, so don’t expect Hawaii-level reefs here.

The snorkeling or diving sessions are tailored to your level. All gear—fins, masks, wetsuits—is provided, ensuring comfort and safety. The guides are attentive, often circling nearby to give assistance or advice. Some reviews highlight how everyone appreciated the chance to do their own thing with the instructor, making it approachable whether you’re a novice or more experienced.

Following the water activities, a sumptuous buffet buffet awaits. The onboard meal includes grilled shrimps, calamari, fried fish fillet, and a variety of salads. The meal is often praised as “awesome,” with many noting the quality of the food and the generous portions. Unlimited soft drinks—Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Nescafe, teas, and fresh lemon with mint—keep everyone refreshed throughout the day. Many travelers mention the value of the food and drinks as a highlight, especially given the tour’s modest price.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour price of $56 covers a lot: hotel pickup and drop-off, a luxury boat cruise through the lagoons, a professional guide, snorkeling gear, and an all-you-can-eat buffet with drinks. The soft drinks and hot beverages are unlimited, perfect for staying hydrated after snorkeling or just relaxing on deck. The buffet features Egyptian specialties and fresh fruits, making for a satisfying meal after your aquatic adventures.

Extras include optional pickup from further afield—Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, Soma Bay, and Safaga—for an additional fee, which is a good option if you’re staying outside Hurghada or El Gouna. Also, a professional photographer may be on board to capture your day, with photos available for purchase afterward.

However, note that the trip isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with serious health conditions, and children must be supervised by an adult. The minimum age for dolphin snorkeling is 10, so younger kids might find this experience less suitable.

The Authenticity of Marine Encounters and Sightings

Many reviews praise the crew and guides for their professionalism and helpfulness. One reviewer noted, “The crew was great and the guides did their best to ensure everyone had a good time.” Others appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, with one mentioning, “The boat had a smooth operation, and the whole team was super helpful and accommodating.”

The dolphin sightings are often a pleasant surprise, but it’s important to understand that seeing dolphins in the wild depends on luck and natural behavior—they’re not trained performers. Some travelers felt they “only saw dolphins” from the boat, while others were fortunate enough to swim with them. A review pointed out that some spots don’t quite live up to the “swim with dolphins” promise, but overall, the experience remains memorable.

Some guests found the snorkeling spots could be improved, noting the coral reefs might not be as vibrant as in other locations, but they still appreciated the chance to explore the marine environment and see a variety of fish.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, your camera, and some cash for extras or souvenirs. The tour is a full day, so comfortable clothing and footwear are advisable. Since alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed, plan accordingly for a family-friendly environment.

Be aware that pickup times are confirmed the evening before, and the trip may be rescheduled due to weather—safety comes first.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals to travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water with marine encounters, good food, and scenic views. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy aquatic activities without the pressure of demanding dive courses. If your main goal is a memorable boat trip with the chance to see dolphins and enjoy a hearty meal, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you are particularly eager to swim with dolphins or see vibrant coral reefs, you might want to temper expectations or consider other options. Those with mobility issues or health concerns should note the physical demands—though generally manageable, it’s a boat day with some water activity.

Final Thoughts

The El Gouna Lagoon, Diving with Dolphin, Snorkeling & Lunch tour offers excellent value, especially for first-timers or travelers wanting a taste of Egypt’s underwater world without breaking the bank. The scenic boat ride through the lagoons, combined with the chance to observe dolphins, makes for a memorable day. The quality of the meal and the professionalism of the guides add to its appeal.

While sightings of dolphins and the condition of snorkeling spots can vary, the overall experience remains positive—many travelers leave with stories of beautiful scenery, fun water activities, and delicious food. It’s a well-rounded excursion perfect for those wanting a combination of relaxation, adventure, and authentic marine life encounters.

In short, if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and engaging day on the water in Egypt’s Red Sea, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially ideal if you value good food, friendly guides, and the chance—albeit unpredictable—to see dolphins in the wild.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, and times are confirmed via WhatsApp or email the evening before.

Can I snorkel or dive?
Absolutely. You can choose to snorkel or dive depending on your preference and experience level. All gear is provided, and guides are there to help.

Will I see dolphins?
While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed. Many travelers do see dolphins, and some get the chance to swim with them, but it depends on the day.

What’s the lunch like?
A buffet lunch with grilled shrimp, calamari, fried fish, and a variety of salads is included. Drinks are unlimited, featuring soft drinks, tea, and fresh lemon with mint.

Is this suitable for children?
Children aged 10 and up can participate in dolphin snorkeling. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The trip isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with serious health conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, camera, and cash for extras. It’s a full-day trip, so pack comfortable clothes and water-friendly footwear.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour might be rescheduled for safety reasons. Weather conditions—like rough seas—are taken seriously, so check your confirmation messages for updates.

In summary, this tour offers a well-priced, scenic, and enjoyable taste of Egypt’s marine environment with friendly guides and tasty food. Whether you’re chasing dolphin sightings or simply want a relaxing day on beautiful waters, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby