Overview: Dolphin House, also known as Shaab El Erg, is a horseshoe-shaped reef system in the Red Sea near Hurghada. The area combines shallow coral reefs, open-water sections, and calm lagoons that attract a wide variety of marine life.
Known for: Dolphin House is best known for frequent wild dolphin sightings, especially spinner dolphins that often travel through the reef system in pods. It’s also popular for snorkeling thanks to its clear waters, colorful coral gardens, and beginner-friendly reef conditions.
Where is Dolphin House located?
Dolphin House is located in the Red Sea northeast of Hurghada, reachable by boat from Hurghada Marina and nearby coastal docks. Depending on weather conditions and the type of vessel, the journey usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours from the mainland.
Which Dolphin House ticket is best for you?
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Dolphin House: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Lunch & Optional Transfers
Dolphin House (Shaab El Erg) is a reef system known for frequent dolphin sightings, making it one of Hurghada’s most sought-after marine experiences.
You head straight into open water
After leaving the marina, the coastline fades quickly, replaced by wide-open sea where dolphins are often spotted in their natural habitat.
The experience builds naturally
A calm cruise out, scanning the horizon and then sudden movement, fins breaking the surface, and the boat slowing as everyone leans in.
The iconic moments are unforgettable
Dolphins swimming alongside the boat, snorkeling over coral reefs, and floating in clear blue water far from shore.
It’s wildlife-first, not staged
Encounters happen on the dolphins’ terms, which makes each sighting feel more real and rewarding than controlled experiences.
You can shape the experience
Choose a relaxed cruise with meals, a premium VIP setup, or a speedboat for more agility and time in the water.
Things to know before booking your Dolphin House experience
Ticket availability & planning: Dolphin House tours are extremely popular due to dolphin sightings. VIP cruises and calm-weather slots sell out first—book 3–5 days in advance.
Ways to experience Dolphin House: All tours include dolphin-watching zones and snorkeling stops. Differences come down to boat type, group size, and onboard comfort. The Dolphin House Boat Tour is your straightforward, good-value option as it covers everything without overcomplicating the day. Upgrade to the Dolphin House VIP Cruise if you want more space, better comfort, and a noticeably smoother overall experience.
Semi-submarine tours are the dry alternative:Royal Seascope Submarine Cruises from Hurghada or Makadi are ideal if you want to see coral reefs through panoramic underwater windows without committing to a full-day boat cruise.
Wildlife expectations: Dolphin sightings are common but not guaranteed. Tours follow responsible viewing practices, so interactions remain natural and non-intrusive.
Boat type matters: Larger boats offer stability and comfort, while speedboats provide faster access but can feel bumpier depending on sea conditions.
Transfers & logistics: Most tours include hotel pickup from Hurghada, typically 20–40 minutes to the marina.
Snorkeling conditions: Coral reefs are vibrant, but visibility varies with weather and currents. Guides assist with safe entry and navigation.
What you’ll see on your Dolphin House experience
Open-water dolphin encounters
Pods of dolphins moving through the reef, sometimes swimming alongside the boat or surfacing close enough to watch in detail.
Plan your Dolphin House experience
Operating hours: Tours typically run daily with departures between 8am and 10:30am.
Duration: Most experiences last 5–8 hours depending on boat type.
Best time to go: Morning tours offer calmer waters and better chances of spotting dolphins.
Best season: March to November offers the most stable sea conditions.
Location: Departures usually take place from Hurghada Marina or nearby docks.
Transfers: All tours include hotel pickup and drop-off.
Travel time: Around 20–40 minutes from most hotels in Hurghada.
Restrooms: Available on yachts and larger boats; limited on speedboats.
Seating: Shaded seating and sun decks on larger boats; compact seating on speedboats.
Food & beverage: Lunch included on most cruises; VIP options include upgraded meals.
Safety equipment: Life jackets and snorkeling gear provided.
First aid: Trained crew and onboard first-aid kits available.
Clothing: Light, breathable beachwear with sun protection.
Footwear: Flip-flops or water shoes recommended.
Swimwear: Essential for snorkeling stops.
Carry-ons: Waterproof bag with sunscreen, towel, phone, and water.
Avoid: Large bags or valuables due to limited storage.
Tips & guidelines for your Dolphin House experience
Don’t rush dolphin sightings: Stay patient and quiet. Dolphins are more likely to approach when boats remain calm and noise levels are low.
Enter the water smoothly: Avoid splashing when snorkeling near dolphins; calm movements increase your chances of a closer encounter.
Position matters: Stand toward the front of the boat when scanning. Guides usually spot dolphins early, and front views are clearer.
Use fins efficiently: Slow, controlled fin kicks help conserve energy and keep you stable in open water.
Protect your gear: Saltwater spray is common. Keep electronics in waterproof cases, especially on speedboats.
Respect marine life: Never attempt to touch or chase dolphins; ethical interaction ensures better experiences long-term.
Frequently asked questions about Dolphin House tours
Tours include boat access, dolphin-watching stops, snorkeling gear, and guide support. Many also include lunch and optional transfers.
Choose standard cruises for value, VIP cruises for comfort, or speedboats for faster access and more time in the water.
No, but sightings are frequent. Tours visit known dolphin areas while following responsible wildlife practices.
No. Beginners are welcome, and guides assist with equipment and safety.
Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off; some offer it as an optional upgrade.
Most tours last between 5 and 8 hours depending on the boat and itinerary.
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Snorkeling
Dolphin House: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Lunch & Optional Transfers
Relaxed Dolphin House boat tour with guided snorkeling, lunch, and onboard comforts.
Everything you get: Sail to Dolphin House on a well-equipped boat with a professional snorkeling instructor. Enjoy two guided snorkeling stops at coral reefs with gear provided, buffet lunch with fresh salads and local fruit, unlimited hot and cold drinks, and access to shaded seating areas.
Why choose this: A great-value way to experience Dolphin House, offering guided snorkeling, comfortable facilities, and flexible transfer options without the premium price tag.
Options: Meet directly at the marina, or include hotel transfers from Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh, or Makadi Bay.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
7 hrs
Guided tour
Transfers available
Pickup available
Cruise, VIP, or speedboat: how do you want to meet the dolphins?
Choose a standard cruise for a balanced day with snorkeling and lunch, or upgrade to a VIP cruise for added comfort, smaller groups, and extras like onboard massage. Prefer something faster? A speedboat tour covers more spots with less cruising time. All options visit dolphin zones—but the pace, comfort, and inclusions vary.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
8 hrs
Guided tour
Transfers available
Pickup available
Sightseeing Cruises
Giftun 6 Islands Speedboat Tour with Dolphin Watching, Snorkeling, Lunch & Transfers
High-speed Giftun island hopping with dolphin watching and snorkeling.
Everything you get: Explore the Giftun National Park on a speedboat, visiting Orange Bay, White Island, Magawish, Abu Monqar, and a sandbank. Enjoy dolphin watching, three guided snorkeling stops, including a wreck, with full gear, shaded seating, a local lunch, soft drinks, and seasonal fruits.
Why choose this: Cover more islands in less time with a speedboat—ideal for travelers who want variety, flexibility, and multiple snorkeling environments in one dynamic day.
Options: Choose a shared speedboat or upgrade to a private speedboat for a more flexible, personalized island-hopping experience.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
8 hrs
Guided tour
Transfers available
Pickup available
Sightseeing Cruises
From Makadi: Royal Seascope Submarine Cruise with Snorkel Stop & Optional Hotel Transfers
See the Red Sea’s vibrant marine world from a semi-submarine and snorkel the coral reefs.
Everything you get: Cruise Makadi Bay aboard a semi-submarine with a glass-walled underwater observation deck, offering panoramic views of colorful coral reefs and exotic marine life. Includes a 20-minute snorkeling stop, entry and national park fees.
Why choose this: Enjoy the best of both worlds, explore the underwater world without getting wet, then dive in for a snorkel session. Perfect for families and anyone curious about the Red Sea’s marine life.
Upgrades: Opt for round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off from Makadi hotels for a seamless, stress-free experience.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
2 hrs
Pickup available
Relaxed Dolphin House boat tour with guided snorkeling, lunch, and onboard comforts.
Everything you get: Sail to Dolphin House on a well-equipped boat with a professional snorkeling instructor. Enjoy two guided snorkeling stops at coral reefs with gear provided, buffet lunch with fresh salads and local fruit, unlimited hot and cold drinks, and access to shaded seating areas.
Why choose this: A great-value way to experience Dolphin House, offering guided snorkeling, comfortable facilities, and flexible transfer options without the premium price tag.
Options: Meet directly at the marina, or include hotel transfers from Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh, or Makadi Bay.
Inclusions
#
Sailing experience on a well-equipped standard boat
2 snorkeling stops at vibrant coral reefs
Snorkeling equipment, including fins, mask, and life jacket
Guided experience with a professional snorkeling instructor
Buffet lunch including fresh salad and local fruits
Unlimited hot and cold drinks on board
Onboard amenities including shower, toilet, and shaded seating area
Round-trip hotel transfers from Hurghada (based on selected option)
Round-trip hotel transfers from Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay (based on selected option)
What to bring
Please bring your sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and camera.
What’s not allowed
Touching coral reefs or marine animals is not allowed.
Additional information
Duration: Approximately 5 hours, including transfers.
Pickup and drop-off available from Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay.
Shared van transfer time is approximately 25 minutes each way.
Transfer options: standard shared transfer or private transfer (option to select)
Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed due to natural conditions.
Follow crew instructions at all times.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to bring
Please bring your swimwear, towel, camera, and carry cash for personal expenses.
Accessibility
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The duration of the experience is approximately 2 hours.
If you have not opted for round-trip transfers: meet at Hurghada New Marina, Platform 1 (Royal Seascope desk); please arrive 15 minutes early.
You will receive a WhatsApp message about 24 hours before with pickup timing/details
Underwater viewing is approximately 45 minutes; snorkeling stop is approximately 20 minutes.
Languages available on board: German, Russian, English, and Polish.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Inclusions
#
Semi-submarine cruise
Entry fees
National Park fees
1 snorkeling stop
Round-trip hotel transfer (based on selected option)
Yacht snorkeling trip (based on selected option)
Island visit (based on selected option)
Lunch (based on selected option)
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Inclusions
#
Yacht cruise with an onboard shaded area and stereo system
Round-trip transfers from Hurghada
Snorkeling equipment and life vests
Snorkel guide
2 snorkeling spots
Breakfast (eggs, cheese, butter, honey, bread)
Seafood lunch on board
Unlimited soft drinks, hot drinks, and water
Seasonal fruits
Live tour guide (English, Arabic)
Entry fees to Orange Island, Giftun Island Nature Reserve, and Magawish Island (based on selected option)
Private boat (based on selected option)
Exclusions
#
Round-trip transfers from Makadi, Safaga, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Soma Bay
Photos and videos
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
High-speed Giftun island hopping with dolphin watching and snorkeling.
Everything you get: Explore the Giftun National Park on a speedboat, visiting Orange Bay, White Island, Magawish, Abu Monqar, and a sandbank. Enjoy dolphin watching, three guided snorkeling stops, including a wreck, with full gear, shaded seating, a local lunch, soft drinks, and seasonal fruits.
Why choose this: Cover more islands in less time with a speedboat—ideal for travelers who want variety, flexibility, and multiple snorkeling environments in one dynamic day.
Options: Choose a shared speedboat or upgrade to a private speedboat for a more flexible, personalized island-hopping experience.
Inclusions
#
Shared/private speedboat tour (based on selected option)
Round-trip hotel transfers
Visits to Giftun National Park area, Orange Bay Island, White Island, Magawish Island, Juzur Abu Monqar Island, and a Sandbank island
Dolphin watching
3 snorkeling stops, including a wreck
Snorkeling gear
Life jackets
Professional guide and captain
Local lunch
Seasonal fruits, soft drinks and water
Shaded area on board
What to bring
Please bring your towel, sunscreen, and some cash.
What's not allowed
Pets are not allowed.
Accessibility
This experience is not suitable for people with back problems.
Additional information
Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed.
Pickup time may vary; details are shared before the trip.
A passport copy may be required for permissions; share in advance.
Duration may be approximately 8 hours; start times can vary.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
See the Red Sea’s vibrant marine world from a semi-submarine and snorkel the coral reefs.
Everything you get: Cruise Makadi Bay aboard a semi-submarine with a glass-walled underwater observation deck, offering panoramic views of colorful coral reefs and exotic marine life. Includes a 20-minute snorkeling stop, entry and national park fees.
Why choose this: Enjoy the best of both worlds, explore the underwater world without getting wet, then dive in for a snorkel session. Perfect for families and anyone curious about the Red Sea’s marine life.
Upgrades: Opt for round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off from Makadi hotels for a seamless, stress-free experience.
Inclusions
#
Semi-submarine cruise
Entry fees
National Park fees
1 snorkeling stop
Hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels in Makadi in an A/C vehicle (based on selected option)
What to bring
Bring swimwear and sunscreen.
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
What’s not allowed
Touching marine life is not allowed.
Accessibility
The observation deck is located 3 meters below sea level and may not be suitable for guests with claustrophobia.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The snorkeling stop lasts for 20 minutes.
If you have opted for hotel transfers, upon booking, you will receive a WhatsApp message with pick-up details and further instructions.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are available from hotels in Makadi only.
Itineraries and timings are subject to change due to weather or operational requirements.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
