Snorkeling with Dolphins in the Red Sea: Pure Magic Aboard the BLUE FORCE 2

Swimming with wild dolphins is one of those once-in-a-lifetime dreams every ocean lover shares. On our weekly Northern Red Sea itineraries aboard the liveaboard BLUE FORCE 2, that dream can come true. Every week, departing from Sharm El Sheikh, we explore some of the Red Sea’s most iconic sites: Ras Mohammed National Park, the Straits of Tiran, legendary wrecks like the SS Thistlegorm… and, if we’re lucky, we enjoy one of the most emotional moments of the trip — snorkeling with spinner dolphins in the wild.

The spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris) is one of the Red Sea’s most charismatic marine creatures. Known for their spectacular aerial spins — up to 7 full rotations — they are true performers of the sea. Their sleek bodies, tricolored markings, and playful nature make every encounter an unforgettable experience.

They often swim in large, social groups and use the calm reef lagoons to rest during the day. These are precisely the moments when we, aboard the BLUE FORCE 2, offer respectful snorkeling sessions to try and meet them in their natural habitat.

🧭 A Word from the Captain

“I’ve been sailing the Red Sea for over 15 years, and I still get excited every time we see dolphins. Some days they come right up to the BLUE FORCE 2 and swim alongside us for minutes. The best part is seeing the joy on our guests’ faces when they jump in and find themselves just meters away from these amazing animals, in total freedom. There’s nothing quite like it.”
— Captain Tarek, BLUE FORCE 2

An Unforgettable Encounter on Our Northern Route

On our weekly Northern Red Sea itineraries, dolphin encounters are one of the highlights for our guests. Our expert guides know the region like the back of their hand and are familiar with the spots where dolphin pods usually rest, like Small Crack or protected lagoons near the Straits of Tiran. When conditions are right, we approach carefully by zodiac and enter the water for a respectful snorkeling session.

Often, the dolphins approach us out of curiosity, creating a moment of pure connection. There are no engines, no rush, no crowds — just our group, the blue of the Red Sea, and a group of wild dolphins swimming freely around you. It’s one of the most powerful highlights of our route.

🇺🇸 Guest Review from the USA

“I’ve done liveaboards in the Maldives, Indonesia, the Caribbean… but nothing compares to that morning on the Red Sea when we jumped in and swam with a pod of wild dolphins. It was completely surreal — they were spinning and playing around us like we were part of their world. I almost cried in my mask. The crew of the BLUE FORCE 2 knew exactly where to take us, and they handled everything with so much care and respect for the animals. This trip has ruined all other dive trips for me — in the best possible way!”
— Jason R., diver from California, USA

💬 Guest Testimonial from Spain

“I’ve dived all over the world, but nothing ever moved me as much as swimming with dolphins in the Red Sea. It was spontaneous, natural… one of those moments you never forget. The BLUE FORCE 2 crew made it all possible, with so much care and professionalism.”
— Laura M., diver from Spain

More Than Dolphins: A Legendary Dive Itinerary

While the dolphin encounter is a true gem of this route, it’s far from the only highlight. Ras Mohammed National Park offers dramatic drop-offs and thriving reefs like Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef. The Straits of Tiran boast vibrant coral gardens at Jackson and Gordon reefs. And for wreck diving lovers, exploring the iconic SS Thistlegorm is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How to Interact Respectfully with Wild Dolphins

Respect is key when it comes to swimming with dolphins. Here are the guidelines we follow on board — and ask our guests to follow as well:

• Move gently: Swim slowly, avoid sudden or fast finning movements.
• Give them space: Don’t chase or try to touch them. Let them come to you.
• Stay at the surface: During snorkeling, avoid diving down toward them.
• Avoid loud noises: No shouting or splashing — calm presence is best.
• Practice passive observation: Stay relaxed and enjoy the magic from a respectful distance.
• Extra care if calves are present: Keep greater distance if there are baby dolphins in the group.

Experience the Magic of the Red Sea with BLUE FORCE FLEET

Whether you’re snorkeling with dolphins, diving vibrant reefs, or exploring world-famous wrecks, the Northern Red Sea itinerary aboard BLUE FORCE 2 delivers an experience that stays with you for life.

Ready to join us on the next adventure?