Samadai (Dolphin House) at Marsa Alam: dolphin snorkelling trip, price, duration and rules
Sha'ab Samadai, nicknamed "Dolphin House", is a horseshoe-shaped reef off Marsa Alam where spinner dolphins often come to rest. You go on a 7 to 9 hour boat trip with two snorkelling stops of about 45 minutes. The listings seen run from about 65 to 94 USD per adult (lunch, equipment and hotel transfer often included); the national park fee, quoted at 10 USD per person in one listing, is sometimes extra. Dolphins are never guaranteed. This is not a day trip from Hurghada: stay in Marsa Alam.
Highlights
The spinner dolphins
The species that frequents the reef; they often spend the day resting there before heading out to hunt.
The Marsa Alam coast
Departure is from the ports and hotels of the coast; the trip crosses turquoise water.
The two snorkelling stops
Each lasts about 45 minutes according to one listing; the first is often on a coral reef, the second near the dolphin area.
Respecting the site
Do not chase the dolphins, do not touch them and follow the guide's instructions: the reef is protected.
Practical info
Tips
- To choose: compare the price (65 to 94 USD seen), the duration (7 to 9 hours), the group size and the departure time; a 7am start leaves more time on the water. Check whether the park fee is included. Take a thin wetsuit if you fear the morning cold, reef-safe sun cream and a life jacket if you swim little. Do not expect to "swim with" the dolphins: they are wild. For the Hurghada version (another site), read swimming with dolphins in Hurghada. For other Marsa Alam trips: Abu Dabbab, Marsa Mubarak and El Quseir, Marsa Alam. Staying in Hurghada? See Marsa Alam from Hurghada and where to stay in Marsa Alam.
How to get there
Boat departure from the ports of the Marsa Alam coast, with hotel transfer included in most listings. A 2-day format exists from Hurghada.
Opening hours
Nearby
See on the map →
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