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Shaab Samadai (Dolphin House): A Red Sea Sanctuary

Swim with playful spinner dolphins and explore vibrant coral reefs in this protected Red Sea marine sanctuary near Marsa Alam, Egypt.

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Shaab Samadai, also known as Dolphin House, is a protected marine park off the coast of Marsa Alam, Egypt, famous for its resident pod of spinner dolphins and vibrant coral reefs. It offers unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences for all skill levels.

A brief summary to Shaab Samadai (Dolphin House)

Local tips

  • Book a day boat trip from Marsa Alam to Shaab Samadai, which typically includes two snorkeling stops, lunch, and transfers.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the dolphins are most active.
  • Respect the dolphins' space and avoid disturbing their natural behavior by observing them from a distance.
  • Wear a life jacket while snorkeling, as it is compulsory in designated snorkeling zones.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral and marine life.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    The only way to reach Shaab Samadai is by boat from Marsa Alam. Day trips typically depart from Marsa Alam Marina and take approximately 40-50 minutes to reach the reef. These tours usually include snorkeling stops, lunch, and snorkeling equipment. The cost for a full-day boat trip ranges from €45 to €75 per person, including park fees, lunch, and snorkeling gear. An additional National Park fee of around $5-$20 USD may be required.

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Discover more about Shaab Samadai (Dolphin House)

Shaab Samadai, affectionately called Dolphin House, is a renowned marine sanctuary in the Red Sea near Marsa Alam, Egypt. This crescent-shaped reef creates a natural, shallow lagoon, providing a haven for a large group of spinner dolphins. The area has been a National Park since 2004, ensuring the protection of its delicate ecosystem. Shaab Samadai is famous for the opportunity to observe and even swim alongside these playful dolphins in their natural habitat. The dolphins often approach snorkelers and divers, displaying their acrobatics and curiosity. To protect the dolphins, the park is divided into zones with specific regulations. Zone A is a no-entry area for dolphins to rest, Zone B is for guided snorkeling only, and Zone C is for diving and boat mooring. Beyond the dolphins, Shaab Samadai boasts a vibrant underwater world. The horseshoe-shaped reef is teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful reef fish, parrotfish, angelfish, and the occasional reef shark. Divers can explore deeper areas with stunning coral gardens, swim-throughs, and drop-offs, while snorkelers can enjoy the shallow lagoon's coral formations. Divers can explore depths of over 20 meters and visibility ranges from 20 to 30 meters.

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