If you’re dreaming of seeing dolphins in the wild, the Red Sea should be high on your list.
Warm, clear, and teeming with marine life, it’s one of those places where dolphin encounters genuinely feel possible on any given day – and sometimes happen when you least expect them.
With Emperor Divers in Egypt, you can explore the Red Sea in two main ways – by liveaboard safari or through relaxed day diving – both offering exciting chances to meet these incredible animals.
The Red Sea is home to several species, including the charismatic spinner dolphins, famous for leaping, twirling and riding bow waves. They often rest in protected lagoons during the day before heading out to deeper waters to feed at night. Because of this behaviour, certain reefs have become well known for regular sightings.
One of the best ways to experience these areas is on an Emperor liveaboard. Our Southern Solitude itinerary from Port Ghalib takes divers to places such as Fury Shoals, St John’s, Rocky Island and Zabargad. A particular favourite is Sataya, often called Dolphin Reef, where pods of spinner dolphins are frequently seen gliding through. With multiple dives each day and long, unhurried stops at the best reefs, your chances of memorable encounters rise.
Head north and the story continues. Liveaboards from Hurghada combine reefs and wrecks with sites like Shaab El Erg – another place where dolphins are known to pass by. Here, it’s not unusual to finish a dive surrounded by reef fish and then suddenly notice those unmistakable shapes cruising gracefully in the blue.
But you don’t have to commit to a full week at sea to enjoy dolphin-friendly dive spots. Emperor’s day diving programmes from our bases in Port Ghalib and Wadi Sabarah offer excellent options for shorter trips. On selected days, boats visit Samadai (Shaab Samadai), another famous “Dolphin House” lagoon where dolphins are often seen resting. Other nearby reefs – Marsa Shouna, Halg Salmaan and more – add to the excitement, with turtles, rays and the occasional surprise appearance from a passing pod.
Of course, dolphins are wild animals. No one can promise sightings, and that unpredictability is part of the magic. What you can do is give yourself the best possible chance: choose itineraries that include known hotspots and approach every encounter calmly and respectfully. When dolphins choose to come closer on their own terms, the experience is unforgettable.
So – is the Red Sea a good destination for dolphin encounters?
Absolutely. Between the rich reef systems, the clear water and the well-thought-out itineraries we offer, it’s one of the most rewarding places on Earth to meet dolphins in the wild – and enjoy all the other wonders the Red Sea has to offer along the way.
Look at all our Red Sea diving options – both liveaboard and daily – on our website to find out more or contact us on [email protected] and our team will happily answer any questions you might have.