A fast boat changes the whole vacation mood. This private speedboat trip from Hurghada takes you to the Magawish Islands (about 30 minutes out), with time for coral-reef views, snorkeling, and a shot at dolphins watching.

I like that the schedule is simple and short—about 4 hours total—and you get real time at Magawish (around 2 hours on the island). I also like the onboard setup: you can relax in the cabin, soak up sun on the sundeck, and you’re not stuck hunting for water or snacks.

One thing to consider: while the overall rating is solid, there is at least one serious complaint about a pushy guide and uncomfortable behavior. I’d go in with clear boundaries and keep your phone secured.

Key takeaways before you go

• A true private boat for your group (not a mixed crowd experience)
• Magawish island time is built into the plan (about 2 hours)
• One snorkeling stop for about 30 minutes with equipment included
• Dolphins aren’t guaranteed, but the operator rates the chance at 80%
• Snacks and drinks are included, so you don’t lose time at convenience stops

How the 4-hour Magawish speedboat day actually works

This is a speedboat excursion designed to feel energetic without eating your whole day. You’re looking at roughly 4 hours from pickup to drop-off, with about 3 hours on the private speedboat and 2 hours at Magawish Island.

The rest of the time stays useful. You’ll have time to settle in on the ride out, do your snorkeling stop (about 30 minutes), and then handle the dolphin-watching portion as conditions allow. It’s the kind of tour that fits well if you want Red Sea time but don’t want a long, drawn-out schedule.

Because it’s weather-dependent, you should treat the day like a plan, not a promise. If conditions aren’t right, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Private boat logistics: hotel pickup and your group only

If you’re picky about comfort and privacy, this is the part I pay attention to. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Hurghada hotels, and it’s private—only your group participates.

That matters more than it sounds. On busy days, shared tours often turn into hurry-up-and-wait. A private format usually means less time waiting for everyone to show up, fewer stops for other groups, and more control over how long you linger at the snorkeling point and around the island area.

You’ll also get a mobile ticket, which is convenient if you don’t want to handle paper confirmations at the port. For many visitors, that small tech detail makes the start of the day feel calmer.

Transfer fees if you’re staying outside central Hurghada

The base service includes Hurghada hotel pickup. If your hotel is in Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh, expect an extra EUR 5 per person. If you’re in El Gouna or Safaga, it’s EUR 10 per person.

That’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s smart to factor it into your true per-person cost before you book.

Magawish Island: coral gardens, fish, and a real break from the boat

Magawish is the main event here, and the time on the island is why this tour earns its keep. You’ll have about 2 hours at Magawish Island, and the islands sit in coral-rich water, so you can see fish and sea life even without turning it into a marathon snorkeling session.

The setting is built for easy sightseeing. It’s not described as a long walk-and-wait kind of place. Instead, the island time feels like a pause between water activities—enough time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the view without feeling rushed off the sand.

Practical tip: bring what you’d normally use for a beach-and-reef day—sun protection, water, and a way to keep your belongings dry. The tour does include snacks and water, but you’ll still want personal comfort items that match your own routine.

The snorkeling stop: 30 minutes, equipment included, mouthpiece costs extra

You get one snorkeling stop of about 30 minutes, plus snorkeling equipment. For many people, that’s the best setup: you get a concentrated taste of the reef without committing to a long underwater session.

The tour also mentions a new snorkel mouthpiece available for €5 upon request. That tells me they expect some guests may want extra hygiene comfort or a fresher fitting. If that matters to you, plan to ask for it rather than being surprised on the day.

What to expect in the water (and what not to)

The plan is focused on coral gardens and reef fish, and that’s exactly what snorkelers want. Just remember: snorkeling quality depends on visibility and sea conditions. If the water isn’t cooperative, don’t assume it’s the tour’s fault. You’re out in the Red Sea, not in a controlled pool.

Also, this isn’t a full-day reef expedition. It’s a short, efficient snorkeling hit inside a speedboat day.

Dolphin watching at 80%: how to set expectations without getting burned

This trip includes dolphins watching with a listed chance of 80%. That’s not a guarantee, but it’s a strong hint that dolphins are frequently spotted in the route or area they operate in.

Here’s how I’d treat it: go in excited, not entitled. You’ll be on the water with a serious effort to find dolphins, but you should still have a backup mindset. Even if dolphins are shy that day, you’ll still have Magawish Island time plus snorkeling—so the day usually isn’t a total loss.

If you’re the kind of person who can’t relax unless you see wildlife, consider going with a friend or family member who keeps the vibe calm when the ocean does ocean things. A good attitude turns this into a memorable outing even on a no-dolphin day.

Comfort on the Windy private speedboat: snacks, shade, and the sea breeze

The boat is named Windy, and the comfort details matter more on speedboats than you’d think. You can relax in the spacious cabin, sit in the sun on the sundeck, and enjoy that constant Red Sea breeze that makes the ride feel like part of the attraction.

Food and drink are included: snacks, fruit, soft drinks, and water. That’s a smart value add, because it reduces the little stress points—no one scrambling for bottled water halfway through the tour.

Still, don’t forget your own preferences. If you like a specific type of snack, or you get dehydrated easily in the sun, bring a small personal extra. The included items cover the basics, but you’re the one who knows your body.

Price and value: what $19 gets you, and where extra costs can appear

At $19 per person, this is priced like a budget-friendly adventure. The value is not just the price tag—it’s what the operator packs in.

You’re getting:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off within Hurghada
• Tax and entrance fees included
• A 3-hour private speedboat experience with 2 hours at Magawish
• Snorkeling equipment and a 30-minute snorkeling stop
• Snacks, fruit, soft drinks, and water
• Dolphins-watching time with an 80% chance rating
• A mobile ticket

That bundle is the selling point. Many low-cost tours charge extra for things that are already included here.

Where you might pay more:

• If you’re coming from Makadi/Sahl Hasheesh: EUR 5 per person
• If you’re coming from El Gouna/Safaga: EUR 10 per person
• If you request the new snorkel mouthpiece: €5
• Any optional extra items you choose to bring yourself

Bottom line: if you’re staying in Hurghada and you want snorkeling plus island time on a private boat, the math tends to work in your favor. If you’re traveling from far outside the pickup zone, add the transfer fee to get the true per-person cost.

Who this tour suits best in Hurghada

This is a good fit if you want:

• A short, focused outing instead of an all-day commitment
• A private-group feel (with family or friends)
• Reef time without complexity (snorkeling included, single stop)
• A mix of dolphins watching and island relaxation

The operator also notes that most travelers can participate, which suggests it’s not built for only one narrow type of traveler. Still, speedboat rides and water time aren’t ideal for everyone. If you’re sensitive to boat movement, plan accordingly.

One caution about guide behavior

The tour is run by Bella Tours, and like any real-world operation, it’s worth thinking about people and communication, not just the itinerary.

There’s at least one negative report describing an intimidating guide, heavy selling of other trips, and handling a phone. I can’t verify any details beyond what’s been reported, but I do think it’s fair to flag the lesson: you should maintain control. If a guide pushes extras, you can say no calmly and clearly. Keep your personal items secure and within your reach.

A private tour should feel like your time. If that ever doesn’t happen, trust your instincts.

Should you book this private speedboat to Dolphin House and Magawish?

If you want an efficient Red Sea day with private speedboat time, snorkeling equipment, and solid island time, this is the kind of tour that often feels worth booking—especially at $19 per person with snacks, drinks, taxes, and entrance fees included.

I’d book it if:

• you’re staying in Hurghada (pickup is included)
• you’re happy with a 30-minute snorkeling taste rather than an all-day dive plan
• you’d enjoy the day even if dolphins don’t show up

I’d think twice if:

• you’re very sensitive to pressure from sales talk and want a super laid-back vibe
• your budget can’t absorb possible extra transfer fees from farther areas

Overall, it’s a practical way to get coral-and-coast time without turning your vacation into a logistics project.

FAQ

How long is the private speedboat to Magawish Island?

It’s about 4 hours total.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

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

What’s included for food and drinks?

You get snacks, fruit, soft drinks, and water.

Do I get snorkeling equipment?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is an option to request a new snorkel mouthpiece for €5.

How long do I spend at Magawish Island?

You’ll get about 2 hours at Magawish Island (within the overall speedboat time).

Is dolphins watching guaranteed?

No. Dolphins watching is listed as 80%.

Are taxes and entrance fees included?

Yes. Tax & entrance fees are included in the price.

What if my hotel is outside central Hurghada?

There may be extra transfer fees: EUR 5 per person from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh, and EUR 10 per person from El Gouna or Safaga.

What happens if weather is bad?

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