Dolphin House: what is it?

"Dolphin House" refers to the Sha'ab El Erg reef, shaped like a horseshoe, about 25 km north-east of Hurghada according to operators. Spinner dolphins often rest there during the day. You go by speedboat (about 45 minutes from the marina according to one operator) or on a full-day boat trip. Do not confuse it with Samadai, another "Dolphin House" near Marsa Alam, much further south and managed separately.

Boats near the islands

The rules to know

A code of conduct for encounters with wild dolphins was set up by the NGO HEPCA and, according to the travel sources consulted in October 2026, later taken up in a decree enforced in the Red Sea Governorate. These sources say a breach can cost a fine of 10,000 EGP; the current official text was not found, so this amount should be confirmed with HEPCA or the operator. The rules that come up again and again:

  • do not touch the dolphins or chase them;
  • enter the water gently and swim as a group, parallel to the animals;
  • wear fins, mask, snorkel and life jacket;
  • no underwater scooters or motorised equipment near the dolphins;
  • keep your distance if the dolphins move away: they are resting.

Which trip to choose

According to operators, the options sold from Hurghada fall into three types:

  • Half-day speedboat (about 4 hours): the most targeted, often with a second snorkelling stop on a nearby reef.
  • Full-day boat trip (7 to 8 hours): lunch, drinks and hotel transfer usually included; one seller charges about 5 USD per person per day for the national park fee.
  • Private trip: more expensive, but you decide how to approach, which limits pressure on the animals.

For a speedboat combining two islands and a search for dolphins, see the Safaga page and the comparison Giftun Islands and Orange Bay. Minimum ages vary from one listing to another (from 5 to 18): read them before booking with children.

Spotting a trip to avoid

One operator says it advises against trips where everyone jumps in at once to catch up with the dolphins. Avoid a trip where:

  • several boats surround the same group of dolphins;
  • the guide encourages touching or chasing the animals;
  • the programme promises "100% dolphins" or "guaranteed swim".

If you see this behaviour, stay on the boat: your reaction matters.

What you actually see

Dolphins may or may not be there, and may move away. One listing states that swimming only takes place if conditions allow. Either way, snorkelling on the reefs is worth the trip: see also Giftun Island and the dive sites of Hurghada.

Frequently asked questions

Is it certain that I will see dolphins? No. They are wild animals; no serious listing guarantees it.

Can I touch them? No, the conduct rules forbid it.

Which season? Trips run all year; the sea is calmer from October to May.

Do I need to bring anything? Reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, a hat, and cash for any fees.

Where is Samadai? Near Marsa Alam, very far south: it is not a day trip from Hurghada.