In short
- Diving is restricted to Zone C only.
- Maximum depths reach 40 meters (131 feet).
- Features include drop-offs, caves, and coral pinnacles.
In this article
Shaab Samadai is famous for snorkeling with dolphins, but it also offers excellent scuba diving. The marine park uses strict zoning to protect the habitat. All scuba diving takes place in the designated outer area known as Zone C. This protects the resting dolphins in the shallow inner lagoon.
Where can you dive at Shaab Samadai?
You can only scuba dive in Zone C, which is the mooring and diving area.
The marine park has three strict sections. Zone A is completely off-limits to everyone. Zone B is reserved for supervised snorkeling with mandatory life jackets. Zone C covers the deeper outer reef sections. It is the only area open for scuba diving and boat anchoring.
How deep is the diving at Dolphin House?
The outer reef walls drop to a maximum depth of roughly 40 meters (131 feet).
The Outer Drop-offs feature steep walls on the exterior of the crescent-shaped reef. Divers exploring this section often look out into the blue water. You can spot passing pelagic species and sea turtles here.
Are there caves or swim-throughs?
Yes, the reef blocks feature natural coral archways and small cave systems.
These coral swim-throughs are cut directly into the reef structure. They are ideal for advanced certified divers. You need good buoyancy control to navigate these spaces without touching the fragile corals.
What are the South Pinnacles?
The South Pinnacles are large coral towers rising from the deeper sections of Zone C.
These dramatic structures are rich in soft corals and various reef fish. Since they sit deeper in the water, lighting can be poor. Bring an underwater strobe or dive light to reveal the bright red and orange colors of the soft corals.
When is the best time to dive Shaab Samadai?
You can dive year-round, with peak conditions between April and November.
Water temperatures at the reef range from 23 degrees Celsius in the winter to a warm 29 degrees Celsius in the summer. A standard wetsuit is usually enough for the winter months.
How much does a diving trip cost?
Boat tours start from 45 to 85 Euros, plus a 10 to 15 Euro marine park fee.
The strict National Park environmental fee is usually paid in cash on board. Full-day yacht tours depart from Marsa Alam Marina or Tondoba Bay. They run between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, lasting 7 to 8 hours.
Questions travellers ask
Can beginners scuba dive at Dolphin House?
Introductory dives are available on some combo tours. However, specific features like the coral swim-throughs require advanced certification and good buoyancy control.
Can I dive with the dolphins?
Dolphins usually rest in Zone A and occasionally enter Zone B. While they may pass through Zone C, scuba divers rarely encounter them closely underwater.
How long is the boat ride to the dive site?
The site is about 15 kilometers (roughly 7 miles) from Marsa Alam Marina. It takes 40 to 50 minutes on a full-day yacht, or 30 minutes on a speedboat.
