A fast boat ride in the Red Sea beats most day trips. This private speedboat excursion takes you from Hurghada to the Magawish Islands area—roughly 30 minutes out—where calm water and coral-rich swimming make the trip feel special even in a short time window.

I like the set-up because you get real time on the water without the “everyone stand here” chaos. Two things I especially enjoy here are the pickup and drop-off convenience and the fact that snorkeling basics are included, so you can focus on the water instead of shopping at the dock.

One consideration: I did come across an account describing an overly pushy guide who wouldn’t stop pitching other tours and handled a phone without asking. I can’t judge what will happen on your day, but it’s a good reminder to stay firm if you don’t want add-ons—and keep your belongings with you.

Key highlights that matter

• Magawish Islands are about 30 minutes by boat, so you spend more time in the water and less time in transit.
• Windy private speedboat experience with 3 hours on the water total (including island time).
• Dolphins watching has an 80% chance, so plan for it, but don’t treat it like a guarantee.
• One snorkeling stop (30 minutes) + snorkeling equipment is included, aimed at seeing coral and fish.
• Snacks, fruit, and soft drinks/water are provided, which helps on a tight 4-hour schedule.

Why Magawish Islands feel like a mini Red Sea escape

Magawish Islands are a two-island area surrounded by coral gardens—exactly the kind of place where you don’t need a full day to get a real Red Sea payoff. The trip is built around that idea: short travel time, focused water time, and a simple rhythm you can handle even if you’re not a confident swimmer.

What I like most for your vacation planning is the balance. You’re not stuck on a long bus ride, and you’re not trapped in a packed boat with strangers. It’s private for your group, which changes the vibe. You can move at your own pace when it’s time to put on gear, grab a drink, or hop in for snorkeling.

And because it’s a relatively short outing (about 4 hours), you can still keep your evening open for dinner along Hurghada’s seafront instead of turning the day into a full write-off.

Private speedboat ride: the Windy details that matter

This is a private tour/activity, meaning only your group is on the boat—no mixing into a larger crowd. That’s not a small detail. When you’re on the water, group logistics can ruin the feel fast. Here, the pace tends to be smoother because you’re not constantly waiting for strangers to untangle fins or find missing towels.

The boat is listed as the Windy private Speedboat, and the schedule is built around a total of 3 hours private speedboat time, including 2 hours at Magawish Island. In practice, that translates to:

• A quick run out to the islands (they’re about 30 minutes from departure)
• A set block of time on the island area
• A snorkeling stop before/around the island time
• Enough return time to keep the whole trip within the ~4-hour window

There’s also practical comfort built in. While you’re cruising, you can use the sundeck for sun, relax in the cabin if you want shade, and enjoy snacks and soft drinks/water. It’s a small thing, but after a morning of sun and heat, having food and water already handled is worth a lot.

One more practical note: you’ll have a mobile ticket, which is convenient. It also usually means less friction at the start compared with paper-only check-ins—helpful when you’re traveling with kids or just want the day to start cleanly.

Dolphins watching odds: how to set expectations without getting bummed

Dolphin watching is listed at 80%. That’s good odds, but it’s not a promise. What that means for you is simple: plan your mood like a pro.

If you’re the type who gets disappointed when nature doesn’t cooperate, set a mindset ahead of time. Focus on the whole experience: open-water views, coral gardens, and snorkeling. Dolphins are a bonus. When they show up, you’ll enjoy it more because you’re not spending the entire trip bracing for letdown.

Also, since this is a speedboat, you’ll want to keep your timing sensible. Sit back, scan the water ahead, and don’t rush to the edge every time you see a ripple. Dolphins can surface fast and move on quickly—steady attention beats frantic movement.

Snorkeling stop and coral gardens: the 30-minute rhythm

The trip includes one stop snorkeling for 30 minutes, plus snorkeling equipment. That’s a big value item, because decent snorkeling gear rental can add up in beach areas. It also helps you avoid the classic vacation problem of arriving without the right mouthpiece or fins.

The tour’s coral gardens around the Magawish Islands are the star here. The listing describes them as among the Red Sea’s most exquisite coral areas, with exotic fish and sea creatures around the islands. Even if you’ve snorkeled before, these conditions are the kind that make a short snorkeling stop worthwhile.

A practical caution: the tour notes a new snorkel mouthpiece costs extra (€5) if you request one. That’s not surprising—some operators offer a fresh mouthpiece on request. If you’re picky about hygiene (many people are), consider requesting it early so it’s not a last-minute hassle.

During your snorkeling window, keep your expectations matched to the time. Thirty minutes is enough for a good look, but it’s not a long, slow drift. Plan for one or two solid swims and then get out while you still feel fresh. You’ll get better viewing that way, instead of spending your last minutes fighting fatigue.

Two hours at Magawish Island: what you actually get to do

The schedule includes 2 hours at Magawish Island within the 3 hours of private speedboat time. That island block is what makes this feel like more than just a quick photo stop.

While the exact on-island activities aren’t spelled out in detail, you can expect the core benefits of time on location:

• Time to enjoy the island surroundings and sea views
• A place to regroup between boat segments
• Space to get ready for snorkeling and then recover afterward

This is also a good window to slow down. Coral and fish watching is easier when you’re not rushed. You’ll likely see more by taking a calm approach—watching where the water movement concentrates rather than trying to spot everything at once.

If you’re traveling with kids or anyone who’s not sure about swimming, the island time can be a flexible anchor. Even if someone doesn’t snorkel, they can still enjoy the sea air, and you can take turns.

Price and logistics: where the $19 value really comes from

At $19 per person, this is priced like a budget-friendly Red Sea outing. The key is what’s included that would cost you elsewhere: pickup/drop-off, snacks/fruit/soft drinks/water, tax & entrance fees, the private speedboat itself, and snorkeling equipment. For many visitors, those items are the difference between a low-cost trip that feels worth it and a low-cost trip that feels like a headache.

That said, check the add-on transfer fees carefully, because they vary by area:

• Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh: extra EUR 5 per person
• El Gouna or Safaga: extra EUR 10 per person

If you’re staying in central Hurghada, you may not pay those extras. But if you’re out in one of the resort zones, do the quick math before you book. A few euros can change the value.

There are also small possible costs tied to comfort:

• €5 for a new snorkel mouthpiece upon request

My advice: if you’re sensitive to hygiene, request it. If not, you may be fine skipping it and putting that money toward an extra drink or a later activity.

One more logistic win: the tour is listed as requiring good weather. That’s common on the Red Sea, but it matters for your planning. If you want this trip, don’t stack it as your only sea activity on the same day as another water plan. Give yourself flexibility.

Weather, timing, and staying comfortable in 4 hours

This is a 4-hour outing in total, so timing is tight. The advantage is that you don’t burn half your vacation day. The downside is you need to be ready when it’s time to go.

Plan for heat and sun exposure. Even if the boat has shade options, you’ll be on open water and near the sun for portions of the day. Bring reef-safe sunscreen if you have it, and keep water nearby even though drinks are included. The free water is helpful, but you’ll drink more when you’re active.

Also, treat the dolphin chance as flexible. An 80% probability suggests you’re likely to see something, but you’re still at the mercy of sea conditions. If the water is calm and visibility is good, your snorkeling stop will feel better too.

Finally, if the operator cancels due to poor weather, the listing says you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s the kind of safety net you want for a short water trip.

Who should book this, and who might want a different option

I think this tour is a strong match if you want:

• Private boat time without paying for a full-day charter
• A realistic plan for dolphins and snorkeling in about 4 hours
• Included snacks and drinks so you’re not rationing your energy

It also works well for couples, small friend groups, and families who want a simple, single-activity day: ride out, snorkel, relax, return.

You might want to think twice if:

• You’re extremely sensitive to guide behavior or you hate sales pressure. One account I saw described an intimidating, hard-selling approach on the day, including grabbing a phone to write a review. I can’t confirm how common that is, but if that kind of thing would ruin your day, ask how add-ons are handled, and set your boundaries early.
• You’re looking for a long snorkeling session or multiple reef stops. This is structured for one 30-minute snorkeling window.

My booking advice: should you book this Bella Tours speedboat?

If you’re choosing between a cheap group excursion and paying a bit more for comfort, this can be a sweet spot. The value comes from the bundle: private speedboat, pickup/drop-off, snacks and drinks, and snorkeling equipment—not just the boat ride.

Here’s how I’d decide fast:

• Book it if you want a short, focused Red Sea day with a decent chance of dolphins and a clear snorkeling stop.
• Skip add-ons you don’t need, and keep your expectations realistic about dolphins (80% chance).
• If you’re booking from Makadi/Sahl Hasheesh or from El Gouna/Safaga, do the extra-fee math so the final price still feels fair.
• Bring your patience and good sun habits. Four hours can feel long in the sun if you underpack, and it can feel perfect if you’re ready.

Given the overall 4.3 rating, the trip’s format likely lands well for many people: the private feel, the Magawish area coral time, and the simple included comforts. Just go in with a clear boundary mindset so your day stays yours.

FAQ

How long is the Private Speedboat To Dolphin House & Magawish Island tour?

The total duration is about 4 hours.

Is pickup and drop-off included in the price?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off from Hurghada hotels are included.

What snorkeling is included?

The tour includes one snorkeling stop for 30 minutes and snorkeling equipment.

Do I need to bring snorkel gear?

No. Snorkeling equipment is included. A new snorkel mouthpiece costs extra (€5) if you request one.

Are dolphins guaranteed?

No. Dolphins watching is listed as 80%, so it’s a strong chance but not a promise.

How far is Magawish from the departure point?

Magawish Islands are about 30 minutes from the departure point.

Are there extra charges depending on where I’m staying?

Yes. Transfers cost extra from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh (EUR 5 per person) and from El Gouna or Safaga (EUR 10 per person).

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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