Golden Dolphin III Liveaboard Overview

With its clear, blue waters and abundant marine life, Egypt’s Red Sea is home to more than 1,000 marine species and invertebrates, fascinating reefs, and aquatic plants. Hundreds of dive sites line the coast from Dahab and Sharm El Sheikh to Hurghada and Marsa Alam.

A liveaboard is one of the best ways to explore dive sites further from shore, where the currents may be stronger but the reward includes pristine coral reefs and possibly sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and more—without the crowd from day boats.

Golden Dolphin is one of the more popular liveaboard operators, with four vessels in its fleet and various itineraries available. The third boat in the fleet, the Golden Dolphin III, was built in 2008, measures 131 feet (40 m), and accommodates 20 guests in 10 comfortable, ensuite cabins.

Let’s dive into our review of the Golden Dolphin III.

Where to book

Golden Dolphin III liveaboard yacht cutting through the water, bow-on view

Liveaboard.comNo booking fees Divebooker.comFree DAN insurance

Diving on the Golden Dolphin III liveaboard

sweetlips fish sheltering beneath table coral

sunlit underwater cavern with coral formations

diver exploring a large shipwreck encrusted with coral

scuba tanks stored in wooden racks on the Golden Dolphin III dive deck

Named as one of the seven wonders of the underwater world, the Red Sea is bursting with awe-inspiring wrecks, coral reefs, and marine life. The Red Sea is also home to several underwater Guinness World Records, with both the deepest and the longest dives taking place in Dahab.

Over the years, just as weather conditions have shifted around the globe, temperature changes have also affected Egypt’s coast. Summertime land temperatures can spike to 122 F (50 C), hitting their peak in July and August. Water temperatures top out around 86 F (30 C).

Offering a budget-friendly itinerary throughout the year, with the option of one- or two-week trips, the Golden Dolphin III allows guests to pick from a range of dive sites, including the SS Thistlegorm, Abu Nahas, Brothers Islands, Elphinstone, Ras Mohamed, and more.

Possible marine encounters include sharks, dolphins, dugongs, and mantas, and you can also expect endless coral-covered walls, interesting wrecks, and sites at varying depths.

Perks on the Golden Dolphin III include free nitrox for certified divers, dedicated dive guides, a multilingual crew, two zodiacs, and a spacious dive deck, designed for guests to easily prepare for three or four dives a day.

Highlights:

Varied itineraries
Two zodiacs for easier pick up and drop off
Free nitrox
Tech diving, sidemount, and rebreather support are available

Onboard the Golden Dolphin III

twin cabin aboard the Golden Dolphin III with dark marble accents

twin cabin aboard the Golden Dolphin III with a large ocean-view window

curved navy sofas on the shaded sun deck of the Golden Dolphin III

bow deck of the Golden Dolphin III with the Egyptian flag flying

cabin with an open bathroom door aboard the Golden Dolphin III

Built in 2008, the Golden Dolphin III offers 10 ensuite cabins equipped with individual air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and a minibar. Cabins in a variety of configurations can comfortably accommodate 20 guests, with six on the main deck and four on the upper deck.

A spacious air-conditioned salon spans the entire lower deck and is equipped with an entertainment system, a dining area, a bar, and drinks station.

Guests can also bask in the sun in between dives or relax at the end of the day under the stars on either sundeck, each featuring comfortable loungers and a shaded area. Free WiFi is available onboard for those wanting to stay connected online, work remotely, or share photos with family and friends.

The dive deck was designed with ample space in mind, giving divers plenty of room to store, prepare, and rinse their gear. Rinse tanks, camera setup tables, charging stations, and a large dive platform for easy entry and exit round out the offerings.

Highlights:

10 ensuite cabins
Indoor and outdoor lounges
Camera setup tables and charging stations
Free WiFi

Dining on the Golden Dolphin III

wood-paneled lounge with a bar and TV aboard the Golden Dolphin III

formal dining room with wooden tables set for guests aboard the Golden Dolphin III

mirrored dining room aboard the Golden Dolphin III with sailboat artwork

Guests aboard the Golden Dolphin III can expect delicious meals prepared by a professional chef and staff using freshly brought ingredients from the local markets. Meals vary and are served buffet-style, allowing guests to help themselves to a variety of local and international dishes including vegan and vegetarian options. Specific dietary requests such as any food allergies or religious beliefs can also be catered to.

The crew also serves complimentary snacks, soft drinks, tea, and coffee throughout the day. Alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine are available at the bar for an additional cost.