Imagine yourself floating on the clear, turquoise waters of the Red Sea, surrounded by a panorama of stunning coral reefs and marine life. And then suddenly, a pod of 100+ dolphins appears, gracefully gliding through the water, their playful clicks and whistles filling the air. You slip beneath the surface, snorkel in hand, and you're face-to-face with these intelligent, amazing animals in their natural habitat. This is not a dream – this happens at Sataya Reef, also known as the "Dolphin House," in the heart of Egypt's Red Sea.

Getting to Sataya Dolphin Reef in Egypt

So, you're longing to meet some dolphins, right? Well, there are a couple of ways to make your dolphin dreams come true. You can either hop on a 2 hour boat from Marsa Alam or embark on a thrilling liveaboard adventure. I highly recommend the liveaboard option for the ultimate dolphin experience. Getting to Sataya Reef was a part of our route on the Sea Serpent Excellence. Read more here about the full liveaboad experience.

What to Expect

Sataya Reef is like nature's trident, with a wide-open area facing the West. The shallow lagoon is about 7 to 10 meters deep, boasting a sandy bottom and scattered coral blocks. But what makes Sataya Reef truly special is the pods of spinner dolphins that often grace this place with their presence.

Beyond the lagoon, the outside reef plunges deep, reaching depths of up to 80 meters. It's a paradise for scuba divers, offering stunning walls and coral gardens. But if you're here for the dolphins, snorkeling is the way to go.

What to Pack for Dolphin Snorkeling

Before you jump into the dolphin-filled waters, make sure you're prepared. The water temperature is quite consistent, ranging from 27°C in the winter to 31°C in the summer. Besides your swimsuit, bring along a rash guard to protect yourself from the sun, and if you're sensitive to the cold, a 2-3 mm shorty wetsuit will keep you warm enough.

You'll need your diving mask, fins, and snorkel, but the most crucial item is a waterproof camera. You'll want to capture every magical moment with these beautiful dolphins. Don't forget to pack some coral reef-safe sunscreen to keep your skin protected.

The Best Time to Go to Sataya Reef

Sataya Reef's lagoon is a snorkeler's paradise, sheltered from waves and currents by the surrounding shallow reef. This means excellent snorkeling conditions year-round, with crystal-clear water offering incredible visibility. Just be cautious of snorkeling during midday in the scorching heat, especially in the summer months.

Diving with Dolphins in Egypt

If you're an experienced diver, you'll be thrilled to know that Sataya Reef offers some incredible dive opportunities on the outer reef. There are beautiful walls and coral gardens, and you might even spot big animals like whale sharks and manta rays.

For beginners or those looking for a more intimate dolphin encounter, snorkeling is the way to go. The lagoon's shallow, sandy bottom is perfect for novice divers to practice their buoyancy skills without harming the coral.

Sataya Reef vs. Shaab Samadai

Sataya Reef is a different kind of dolphin house compared to the popular Shaab Samadai. What sets Sataya apart is the extraordinary behavior of the dolphins. Here, you can even try freediving with them. Just be responsible and respect them without any touching. The dolphins will come to you if they feel relaxed and curious – and that happens more often than not!

So, there you have it, the ultimate guide to snorkeling and freediving with dolphins at Sataya Reef. It's a once in a lifetime adventure you won't forget.