Marsa Alam Satayh Dolphin Snorkeling Tour
Fulfill a lifelong dream and swim alongside the ocean’s most playful creatures on our Marsa Alam Satayh Dolphin Snorkeling Tour. Located off the southern coast near Hamata, the Satayh Dolphin Reef (also known as the “Dolphin House”) is a protected lagoon where large pods of Spinner Dolphins come to rest and play. Unlike aquariums, this is a wild, natural encounter. The crystal-clear waters here offer some of the best visibility in the Red Sea, making it a must-do for nature lovers. It is a serene and magical alternative to the busier northern reefs found on a Giftun Island Snorkeling Trip.
Tour Snapshot
| Duration | Full Day (Approx. 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM) |
|---|---|
| Type | Boat Trip / Wildlife Encounter |
| Key Highlights | Swimming with Dolphins, Satayh Reef, Hamata Marina |
| Availability | Daily |
Itinerary:
Your journey to the Dolphin House begins early. A Nile Empire tour leader will pick you up from your hotel in Marsa Alam around 5:00 AM. We drive south for approximately 165 km to the pristine Hamata Marina. The drive offers a glimpse of the raw, untouched beauty of the southern Red Sea coast.
Upon arrival at the marina, the crew will welcome you onboard with a refreshing drink. As we set sail, you can relax on the sundeck for the 2-hour cruise to the Satayh Dolphin Reef. The anticipation builds as the water turns a brilliant turquoise.
Once we arrive at the lagoon, the real magic of the Marsa Alam Satayh Dolphin Snorkeling Tour begins. This horseshoe-shaped reef protects the area from strong waves, creating a calm swimming pool in the middle of the sea. Here, you will jump in to snorkel with a resident pod of 60 to 80 Spinner Dolphins. Watch them spin, jump, and socialize in their natural home. It is an emotional and mesmerizing experience.
After the dolphin encounter, you will climb back onboard for a delicious, freshly prepared lunch served by our chef.
In the afternoon, we move to a second snorkeling spot. This stop focuses on the coral reefs, where you can explore the vibrant underwater gardens and colorful fish that the Red Sea is famous for. If you enjoy exploring marine biodiversity, you might also like the Ras Mohammed Snorkeling Tour if you ever visit Sharm El Sheikh.
We cruise back to Hamata Marina, arriving around 4:30 PM, where your vehicle awaits to transfer you back to your hotel in Marsa Alam.
If you prefer land-based adventures, the Hurghada Quad Bike Desert Safari is a thrilling option.
Many travelers combine their beach holiday with history. Ask us about arranging a day trip to see the temples on a Luxor Day Tour or even a longer 12 Days Luxury Egypt Package.
Experience Highlights: Satayh vs. Samadai
| Feature | Satayh Reef (This Tour) | Samadai Reef (Dolphin House) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Hamata (Further South) | Marsa Alam (Closer) |
| Crowds | Fewer Boats, More Private | More Popular & Crowded |
| Dolphin Sighting | Very High Probability (Spinners) | High Probability |
Inclusions & Exclusions
| ✅ Included | ❌ Excluded |
|---|---|
| Pick up and return to your hotel in Marsa Alam. | Personal expenses. |
| All transfers by a modern air-conditioned vehicle. | Optional activities. |
| Snorkeling equipment (Mask, Fins, Snorkel). | Tipping. |
| 2 Snorkeling stops (Dolphins & Coral Reef). | |
| Lunch meal prepared fresh onboard. | |
| Bottled water and soft drinks all day. | |
| Professional Snorkeling guide. |
The Dance of the Spinners
Satayh is often called the “Dolphin House” because large families of Spinner Dolphins use this calm lagoon to rest during the day. They are named for their acrobatic habit of leaping from the water and spinning in the air. Snorkeling here is different from anywhere else; the water is shallow and protected, allowing you to float effortlessly while the dolphins swim beneath and around you. It is a respectful interaction—we do not chase them; we simply enter their world and let them decide to come say hello. It is a bucket-list experience that brings you face-to-face with the intelligence of the ocean.
Connect with nature’s most intelligent swimmers! Book your Marsa Alam Satayh Dolphin Snorkeling Tour today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marsa Alam Satayh Dolphin Snorkeling Tour
Is seeing dolphins guaranteed?
While we cannot 100% guarantee wild animal behavior, Satayh Reef has an extremely high success rate (over 90%). It is their natural resting ground, so the chances of encountering a large pod are excellent.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, everyone wears a life jacket, and our guides are always in the water to assist. However, to get the best view of the dolphins, you need to be comfortable floating in the water. Passengers who prefer to stay on the boat can still see the dolphins from the deck as they jump and spin.
How long is the drive to the marina?
The drive from Marsa Alam hotels to Hamata Marina is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (165 km). We use comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles to ensure the journey is pleasant.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. We also recommend bringing a camera (like a GoPro) to capture the underwater magic.
Are kids allowed on this trip?
Yes, children love this tour! Seeing dolphins in the wild is a magical experience for them. We have child-sized life jackets available.
-
IncludedPick up and return to your hotel in Marsa AlamAll transfer by a modern air-conditioned vehicleSnorkeling equipmentLunch meal aboard the cruise yachtBottled water and soft drinks aboard cruiseSnorkeling guide aboard cruise and on the beach2 Stops for snorkeling (1 with Dolphins & 1 in the Coral reef)Service charges and taxes included in the price
-
Not IncludedPersonal expensesTippingOptional activities
-
Maps
Similar Tours
Ras Mohammed Scuba Diving Trip
Plunge into the depths of Egypt’s first and most famous protected area with our Ras Mohammed Scuba Diving Trip. Located at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba, this National Park […]
Sharm El Sheikh Quad Biking Safari Tour
Trade the beachcomber life for high-octane adventure with our Sharm El Sheikh Quad Biking Safari Tour. The Sinai desert is unlike any other; its rugged granite mountains and famous “Echo Valley” create a dramatic backdrop for exploration. This experience combines […]
Cairo Dinner Cruise in Nile River
One of the best tours to do in Cairo at night is Dinner Cruise. Imagine to be on a Nile sailing boat for two hours sailing on the Nile and enjoying a delicious dinner with a belly dancing show and […]
