Dolphin Reef / Shaab Sataya

Shaab Sataya, commonly called Dolphin Reef, is a large oval coral reef with a sheltered lagoon, abundant hard and soft coral gardens, pinnacles and boulder formations. It is famous for a resident pod of over one hundred spinner dolphins and is widely dived; the site lies within Wadi el Gamal National Park so marine-park conservation rules apply. Most dives are boat dives from liveaboards or day boats, typically starting on the western side where divers descend a steep outer wall and traverse pinnacles into a shallow lagoon. The reef slopes from about 18-22 m at the drop-off into a lagoon around 10-12 m, with the outer wall reaching 30 m or more in places. Water temperatures range from the low 20s °C in winter to about 28 °C in summer, and visibility is typically very good, often exceeding 20 m. Currents are usually mild but can flow along the reef edge and strong currents may occur at the outer reef, so drift diving is possible and the deeper drop-offs make the site better suited to experienced divers. Entry is by boat, though some operators allow a calm lagoon entry from nearby islands at slack water; dolphins are wild and encounters are not guaranteed, with early-morning visits offering the best chance for snorkeling or gentle dives with dolphins.