Dolphin House Snorkeling Trip from Hurghada

Dolphin House is the local name for Sha'ab El Erg, a horseshoe-shaped reef north of Hurghada. A pod of wild spinner dolphins uses the sheltered lagoon inside it to rest during the day after hunting through the night, and boats anchor on the outside of the reef in the hope of seeing them.

We want to be straight with you about this, because plenty of operators are not: these are wild animals and nobody can promise you a sighting. On a good day the pod comes through and it is the best hour of your holiday. On other days they do not appear at all. What we can promise is a full day on beautiful reef, whatever the dolphins decide.

How the day runs

The boat leaves around 7:30 - early, deliberately, because the dolphins are most often in the lagoon in the morning - and returns at about 4:00. Hotel pickup and return are included. There are snorkeling stops over reef through the day, with equipment, life jackets and a guide in the water. Lunch and drinks are served on board, and there is plenty of deck space if you would rather sunbathe than swim.

How we behave around the dolphins

The lagoon is a resting area, and chasing dolphins there disturbs the animals and eventually drives the pod away for good. Our crew keeps the boat outside the reef, lets swimmers enter quietly, and does not pursue. If the dolphins come to you, that is the encounter. If they do not, we leave them alone.

Good to know before you book

• The day runs about 7 hours from an early start, so plan a light evening.
• Transfers are included from hotels inside Hurghada; a $5 per person supplement applies from Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El Ahyaa, El Gouna and Soma Bay.
• Photography and video are not included.
• Bring seasickness tablets if you are unsure - the ride out is longer than the closer island trips.

$28 per person (regular price $30), including snorkeling equipment, life jacket, guide, lunch and hotel transfers.