In short
- Zone A is strictly off-limits to everyone.
- Snorkeling is only allowed in Zone B with a guide.
- All snorkelers must wear a life jacket at all times.
In this article
The Egyptian government declared Shaab Samadai a protected National Park in 2004. To keep the spinner dolphin habitat safe, the marine park enforces a strict three-zone system. You must know these rules before you enter the water.
What is Zone A at Shaab Samadai?
Zone A is the inner lagoon sanctuary and is strictly off-limits to all visitors.
This is the core resting area for the spinner dolphins during the day. No boats, swimmers, or scuba divers are allowed inside this boundary. Your guide will ensure your group stays clear of this sanctuary.
Where can you snorkel at the Dolphin House?
Snorkeling is only permitted in Zone B.
Zone B forms the shallow edges around the resting sanctuary. You must be supervised by a certified guide while in this area. Keep your movements calm to encourage the curious dolphins to swim closer.
What happens in Zone C?
Zone C is the outer reef area reserved for scuba diving and boat mooring.
Tour yachts anchor in this deep section. The outer reef walls here drop to roughly 40 meters. This zone is open to certified scuba divers exploring the coral arches and deep pinnacles.
Are life jackets mandatory at Dolphin House Marsa Alam?
Yes, park rules require all snorkelers to wear a life jacket 100% of the time.
You must wear the vest in the water regardless of your swimming ability. This rule helps prevent accidents and stops swimmers from diving down to chase the dolphins. Tour boats provide these vests as part of your trip.
What are the rules for swimming with wild dolphins in Egypt?
You must observe the dolphins without touching, chasing, or feeding them.
- Do not attempt to touch the animals.
- Never chase a dolphin that swims away.
- Feeding the wildlife is strictly prohibited.
- Always stay with your certified snorkeling guide.
Can speedboats enter the snorkeling area?
No, speedboat transit is completely prohibited in Zone B.
This rule protects snorkelers from boat traffic and keeps the area quiet for the dolphins. Speedboats and large yachts must stay in designated mooring zones outside the protected inner lagoons.
Questions travellers ask
Can you swim with dolphins in Marsa Alam?
Yes, you can swim near wild spinner dolphins at Shaab Samadai. Encounters take place in the designated Zone B snorkeling area under guide supervision.
Do I need to be a good swimmer to snorkel at Shaab Samadai?
No. You must wear a mandatory life jacket at all times. This provides full buoyancy while you observe the marine life.
How deep is the water at Dolphin House Marsa Alam?
The snorkeling areas in Zone B are relatively shallow. The outer reef walls in Zone C drop to a maximum diving depth of roughly 40 meters.
