Family Snorkeling With Dolphins Near El Gouna Egypt

By Marina Mekhail

I wanted to share my family snorkeling adventure at Dolphin House near El Gouna, Egypt. We spent an unforgettable day in the Red Sea.

One sunny spring morning in Hurghada, my wife, our two kids (ages 7 and 9), and I decided to try something different—a real ocean adventure. We had heard about a spot known as Dolphin House or Sha’ab El Erg (also called Piece of the Monastery by some locals), located just off the coast near El Gouna. It’s said to be one of the best places for snorkeling and dolphin encounters in the Red Sea.

We booked the trip through a platform called Jukadi, which made the process super simple. They offered family-friendly snorkeling tours, and we were excited—but we had no idea how magical the experience would be.

Setting Off

We started our day early, heading to the marina where the boat (pictured above) was docked and waiting. The crew welcomed us warmly and handed out all the snorkeling gear: masks, fins, and life jackets. Our kids had never snorkeled before, so one of the guides patiently showed them how to use the equipment and even stayed by their side during their first time in the water.

Arriving at Dolphin House

After about an hour of cruising, the color of the sea started to shift to a bright turquoise. The captain turned to us and said, “We’re above the dolphin area now—if we’re lucky, you’ll see them.”

Minutes later, three dolphins appeared, swimming gracefully right beside the boat. The kids were bursting with excitement, pointing and laughing as the dolphins jumped playfully in and out of the water. It already felt like a dream.

Snorkeling With Dolphins in Clear Waters

Once we dropped anchor, it was time to jump in. The underwater world was breathtaking—colorful coral gardens stretched out below us in every direction. There were fish everywhere, from tiny blue ones darting around to bright clownfish hiding among the corals. The water was warm, clear, and calm—perfect conditions for beginners.

And then, the dolphins came closer again, gliding peacefully nearby. Swimming next to these beautiful creatures in their natural environment was one of the most peaceful, awe-inspiring moments I’ve ever had.

A Special Moment

At one point, my daughter swam up beside me, signaling for me to follow her. She pointed down toward a huge sea turtle slowly making its way past the coral. Her eyes were wide with wonder. That moment alone made the entire trip worthwhile.

Heading Back

After two snorkeling sessions and a relaxing break on the boat with fresh fruit and cold drinks, we began heading back as the sun started to lower in the sky. The kids were tired but couldn’t stop talking about everything they had seen—the fish, the dolphins, the turtle.

It was clear that this wasn’t just another day at the beach. It was a memory that would stay with them forever.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a snorkeling experience that combines vibrant coral reefs, the chance to see wild dolphins, and a safe, beginner-friendly environment, then Dolphin House near El Gouna is absolutely worth the trip. The water is crystal clear, the marine life is spectacular, and even kids can enjoy the magic of the Red Sea.

I’m sharing this story because I know how special it can be to find the right snorkeling spot—one that feels wild, safe, and unforgettable. For us, this trip was more than a tour—it was a glimpse into another world.