"Abu Dabbab is one of the most famous dive sites in the Red Sea and of all of Egypt. It is one of the few places in the world where you can dive with the very rare and endangered Dugong aka the Sea Cow. In fact, there are two resident Dugongs in the Abu Dabbab bay named Dennis and Dougal. This dive site also features friendly giant Green Sea Turtles that you can swim with up close and personal. In the shallow water, it is not rare to spot the bizarre looking but completely harmless Guitar Shark.

In addition to the big stuff, there are also superb macro subjects such as the ornate Ghost Pipefish, the rare thorny seahorse and the delicate Hairy Pygmy Pipehorse!

All this Exceptional and Rare marine life makes Abu Dabbab a very special spot and a must dive for anyone visiting Marsa Alam.

The dive site is very easy. It is located in a sandy bay with no current and shallow depth (maximum around 18 m deep) making it suitable even for beginner divers. Underwater photographers will be delighted to take pictures easily of such rare animals. It makes a great snorkelling spot too.

However the visibility is often quite low due to the sand and be aware that the Abu Dabbab can get quite crowded as it is a very popular dive site!"

Abu Dabbab

**Abu Galawa** is a diving area located north of Hurghada and offers six dive sites: **Abu Galawa, Shaab Abu Galawa, Sachwat Abu Galawa, Habibi Abu Galawa, Gota Abu Galawa, and Marsa Abu Galawa. Marsa Abu Galawa**, one of the dive sites, is suitable for divers of all levels due to its reef complex topography.


The dive begins at the mooring point situated at the entrance of a lagoon, which is about 5 meters deep and contains seagrass beds with sea horses. However, not much else is visible on the sandy bottom of the lagoon.


During the dive, divers can explore a coral block with stonefish sightings before reaching the drop-off. As they approach the drop-off, they will encounter beautiful table corals, and the underwater life becomes more abundant. The edge of the drop-off is at 16 meters deep, featuring small pinnacles of hard corals hanging down the slope. Moving further north, divers can spot an eel garden at approximately 14 meters deep.


Divers are advised not to miss the shallow part of the reef while returning to the boat. The reef wall can be followed at a shallower depth of 9 meters, providing opportunities to see bass, moray eels, scorpionfish, and small caves with glassfish.


The area is rich in diverse hard corals with stunning colors. The terrain slopes down to the drop-off, making careful exploration necessary to uncover its hidden treasures.


Marsa Abu Galawa hosts schools of colorful fish, including turtles, moray eels, and groupers, creating an enjoyable and visually appealing dive experience.


Divers can explore Marsa Abu Galawa in two ways. The first option involves diving south alongside a smaller reef, passing by an old lobster cage and a garden eel, crossing the plateau to reach the ridge, and returning to the boat. The second approach is to head straight ahead to the ridge of the plateau and then return toward the reef over the plateau, encountering a garden eel.


Overall, Marsa Abu Galawa offers a diverse and rewarding dive experience with its varied marine life, impressive coral formations, and unique topography.

Abu Ghalawa

"Abu Hashish is the island at the center of a wide bay 90 minutes south of Hurghada. It is enclosed by a vast reef network, situated on a large flat and sandy plateau which leads to a steep drop-off. Due to its ideal location it was once used as drop-off point for smugglers bringing contraband into the country

.A tongue of reef extends about 1km south of the island. The dive site is at its southernmost tip. There is a shelf between 15 meters and 22 meters outside, and beyond that a steep, but fairly bare, drop-off, usually with superb visibility. Inside the tongue of reef there are many table corals and ergs to be explored.The trip here can be choppy. Rough seas often make this site inaccessible from Hurghada although the site itself is well protected. Actually, it’s a desired spot for all levels of divers and custom made for all levels of training. Current is mainly north to south and strongest along the drop-off.
Your best bet is to leave the lagoon through an obvious channel filled with table corals, cross the shelf to the drop-off and follow it north. There are some beautiful caves in the 30 meter region. Return along the inside of the shelf and finish the dive back in the lagoon amongst the numerous ergs."

Abu Hashish

"Abu Kifan is a long, thin reef strip located 90 minutes to 2 hours outside Safaga. Its name translates to 'The Deep One,' which becomes apparent when you dive here as its walls drop vertically beyond 100 meters. To the north, a seaward plateau features two central coral blocks. The south end holds a colorful erg that connects to the main reef at around 18 meters, extending infinitely southwards at 30 meters.

Sea conditions can be a bit rough during the journey out, but the site is well-protected. The current originates from the northwest and ranges from mild to strong. For the dive plan, consider drifting along the north plateau and east wall. In case of unfavorable weather, exploring the south end of the reef is still rewarding. The walls are adorned with soft corals, black corals, and gorgonians. Turtles, grey reef sharks, and silvertips occasionally appear. The north plateau is home to sizeable tuna and barracuda schools, while hammerheads visit in late summer. A school of glasseyes, unique for hovering over the plateau, adds to the intrigue.

Described as a smaller version of Elphinstone, Abu Kifan features long, narrow reefs extending north and south with plateaus. Drifting from the north plateau along the reef's side is ideal in good conditions, with the option to choose east or west based on currents and sun angle. The plateau offers exceptional dives, often featuring large predators. Diving from the mooring over the south plateau reveals a sheer drop-off at 25-30 meters and exquisite pinnacles. Schools of bannerfish, sweetlips, and giant barracuda battle currents. Bright red common bigeyes aggregate over the plateau's flats, enhancing the experience. The presence of black corals, soft corals, and gorgonians, combined with favorable angles for photography, contributes to the dive site's popularity among underwater photographers."

Abu Kifan

Abu Nuhas is a large triangular shaped reef. The average depth is 24m/79ft and water visibility is around 20-30m/65-100ft. The reef is located just a little bit north of Shadwan Island, a 2.5 hour boat ride from Hurghada.
 With numerous ships in dive-friendly depths, Shaab Abu Nuhas provides world-class wreck exploration .With 7 wrecks in shallow waters, Shaab Abu Nuhas offers premier wreck diving for advanced divers seeking shallow thrift diving and penetrating interior access.
The wrecks are on the northern and rougher side of the reef with the main ones from west to east being the Giannis D, the Carnatic, the Chrisoula K and the Kimon M. The most famous wrecks are the Carnatic and Giannis D, both excellent choices to explore. 
Wreck interiors contain glassfish, triggerfish, lionfish, and pipefish with occasional dolphin sightings outside.
Though accessible to beginners, Shaab Abu Nuhas has rough conditions with currents and surges, so some wreck experience is recommended. Visibility remains excellent year-round.

Abu Nuhas

"Abu Ramada Reef in Hurghada encompasses several distinct dive sites. One of these sites, Abu Ramada North, often experiences robust currents, making it ideal for a drift dive. At Abu Ramada North, a plateau stretching between 20 and 30 meters gradually gives way to a drop-off.

Commencing the dive at the drop-off is recommended. A chimney structure can be found at depths of 25 to 30 meters. The reef wall is adorned with numerous stunning gorgonias.

The plateau of Abu Ramada North features a captivating coral garden at 20 meters, bustling with abundant marine life. The possibility of encountering a shark adds an element of excitement to the dive. Among the typical reef inhabitants like bannerfish, bluespotted stingrays, and moray eels, there is a chance to spot these remarkable creatures."

Abu Ramada North

"South Abu Ramada (also known as Abu Ramada South) is a dive site with huge reefs of hard and soft corals and sea fans sitting on a sandy bottom, and a very old wreck that is very much decayed. Aside from diving, the South Abu Ramada site is famous for being a good snorkeling spot. Photography lovers can also enjoy good conditions for taking photos.


The South End of Abu Ramada Island offers a versatile dive site with multiple features. Close to the reef, a 12-meter shelf slopes down to a step-like deeper area, reaching 20-22 meters before continuing to a distant drop-off. Divers can explore hanging pinnacles at the shelf's edge, some hosting giant moray eels. Swimming over the shelf, funny-shaped pinnacles may reveal a Napoleon wrasse. Heading north, a coral hill acts as a cleaning station, where fish seek cleaning. Further north, an eel garden awaits.


For the return journey, divers move east to the reef wall, keeping it on the left shoulder while swimming south. Along the way, a small pinnacle is passed, leading to a corner with a small cavern at 6 meters. Heading east reveals massive brain corals and an old safari boat wreck at 5 meters, frequented by trumpet fish. This area is suitable for a safety stop with the boat in view, concluding the dive."

Abu Ramada South

"The ""Amphoras"" dive site gets its name from a 17th-century Turkish shipwreck carrying mercury-filled amphoras. This site, southwest of Tower, is commonly dived in the afternoon as a drift. The topography consists of a sandy slope starting at 12 meters, dotted with coral pinnacles harboring small pipefish, nudibranchs, and scorpionfish. The remnants of the Turkish vessel's cargo, including amphoras, add intrigue, particularly between 18 and 25 meters. The dive commences with a wall descending to around 12 meters, followed by a gradual slope to the drop-off at 20 to 22 meters.

As you explore, you'll encounter pinnacles hosting schools of glass fish, feather stars, and starfish. At 22 meters, a chain leads to a modern anchor positioned behind a coral block at 25 meters. Further along, a large table coral rises in front of two coral towers. Behind these towers lies an original anchor from the ship, along with inscriptions and amphora remains. The ship itself is no longer visible. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into history and underwater life."

Amphoras

"True to its name, Banana Reef in Hurghada is banana-shaped and sits at an average depth of 10 meters with visibility ranging from 10-30 meters. The oval reef is surrounded by shallow waters reaching 15 meters at its deepest point.

Banana Reef is ideal for drifting dives along the coral wall, so divers should bring a compass. Drifting allows you to fully explore the reef, rather than boats dropping you at one spot. Gliding along, you'll discover an anemone city teeming with clownfish, then reach the northwest pinnacle blanketed in vibrant soft corals. The northeast side contains caves burrowed into the reef, filled with marine life.

Across the reef, you can spot glassfish, eagle rays, turtles, angelfish, bannerfish, nudibranchs, and pufferfish. The bannerfish colonies are especially impressive. Emperor angelfish and other small reef fish thrive around the pinnacle and gorgonian coral formations.

The mild current makes Banana Reef suitable for divers of all levels. After about a 90-minute boat ride from Hurghada, you can experience spectacular drift dives along this unique reef. Just beyond the main section, an erg awaits, densely covered in soft corals and patrolled by predatory fish. Descending further to 20 meters reveals huge table corals and giant eagle rays gliding by.

While the southern reef is rather barren, the outer reef is ideal for drifting past coral gardens, anemone cities, caves, and pinnacles bursting with exotic marine life. With proper compass navigation, drifting is the best way to fully explore the wonder of Banana Reef."

Banana Reef

The Belina was a safari boat and she is about 40 metres long.
She lies on sandy bottom in the Sheraton Marina and serves as anchorage for many boats.
Visibility here is not the best, it can be between 3 and 10 metres, but it is well worth diving this wreck..

It is a shallow wreck from 9 metres up to the surface and fully grown with different kinds of soft corals. The hull itself is almost invisible because of all the sponges and coral growth. The abundance of life is absolutely amazing. The following is just a summary: Different kinds of nudibranches, batfish, yellow tailed barracudas, shrimpfish, tiny box fish, massive lionfish, crested velvet fish and so on. Belina is also a wreck which is often used during the penetration dive of the Wreck Diver Specialty.

Belina Wreck

The Brother Islands in Egypt's Red Sea are renowned liveaboard dive destinations, declared natural protectorates in 1983. The tiny volcanic islands are located 200km south of Ras Mohammed and in 2012, CNN ranked it the second best Red Sea and ninth best global dive site.

Big Brother Island which measures just 0.4 kilometers long is identifiable by its 32-meter Victorian lighthouse. Its healthy fringing reefs plunge steeply, blanketed in colorful soft corals and gorgonians.

The island attracts numerous shark species, including grey reef, white tip, hammerhead, and oceanic white tips, best seen on dawn dives. Rare thresher shark sightings also occur in autumn and winter.

Two historic wrecks, the Numidia and Aida, lie off Big Brother's coast as vibrant artificial reefs. The shallower Numidia sections allow for wreck penetration.

Divers can explore the reef walls, observing reef species like anthias, or search the blue for pelagics. The southern tip is ideal for spotting sharks on deep dives. Currents and depths require care.

With spectacular reefs, wrecks, and marine life like sharks and napoleon wrasse, Big Brother offers world-class yet challenging Red Sea diving.

Big Brother Island

The Giftun beaches are in mint condition. Therefore they are a very popular excursion from Hurghada, offering snorkeling, diving and lazy sunbathing.

Close to the shore, the coral reef snorkeling is simply superb.
Offshore, the reefs boasts  dramatic drop-offs for experienced divers.

Giftun is sometimes exposed to weather and strong current. Needless to say some experience is highly recommmended for the deep wall dive here.

Moorings are in place at the south side of Giftun Police station which is on top of a 15 meter to 25 meter deep plateau. This plateau transforms into a stretching shelf, allowing for the existence of the mentioned deep wall.

Although the plateau can be reached from the mooring system a drift is the preferable and natural choice. You drop next to a verticall wall and follow the current due south.

The eastern wall drops sheer to great depths. It is very contoured, and its craggy profile features some interesting caves. Some of these lie deep.

Where the main reef slightly curves to the west over the plateau, the drop-off takes on a zigzag appearance. At around 15 meters deeper there a spectacular tunnel.  Please be alerted it is out of reach for recreational divers.

All over the drop-off huge gorgonians are waving in the current as if welcoming you to an underwater jungle. The plateau itself at Giftun is a half-covered coral garden. Eventually it leads up to the wall’s shallower parts.

Big Giftun

"The ""Blue Hole - El Bells"" dive site presents an entry point known as ""Bells,"" a narrow reef-table crack extending underwater like a chimney to 28 meters, with flexible exit depth. Upon reaching maximum depth, you'll follow an impressive wall adorned with coral overhangs, accompanied by a diverse array of Red Sea fish. Occasionally, larger fish might be seen in the blue expanse. Gazing upwards, you'll appreciate the interplay of light on the wall's contours. Gradually ascending, you'll encounter the exquisite coral saddle within the Blue Hole at approximately 7 meters. This spot allows for a safety stop. While you can choose to traverse the blue or stay alongside the wall, it's essential to note that this dive site is suitable for Advanced Open Water Divers.

For Technical Divers, the Blue Hole itself is a sizable reef opening, about 56 meters wide, with a maximum depth ranging from 90 to 120 meters. The most notable feature is the archway positioned at 56 meters, leading to the endless open sea. Locating the arch accurately is crucial, situated on the site's eastern side, not the southern portion. Descending correctly is vital as the reef's curvature may obscure the arch's view. A sandy gully at the Blue Hole's western side at 30 meters can help you find the arch, ultimately spanning 26 meters in length and 25 meters in width, necessitating a torch. Proper depth, around 55 meters, is essential to cross the arch smoothly, avoiding the downward currents that can sometimes arise. Careful planning and execution are key elements of this dive, offering an exceptional experience for divers seeking underwater exploration." 

Blue Hole - El Bells

Careless Reef, situated about an hour's sailing north of Hurghada, stands as a premier dive site in the region, celebrated for its rich marine life and stunning corals.

Frequently exposed to high waves and strong currents, diving at Careless Reef depends on favorable weather conditions. During fair weather, this site accommodates divers ranging from beginners to advanced levels, though challenging weather calls for advanced expertise. The average depth is 18 meters, and visibility usually extends around 30 meters.

Comprising a mid-sea reef plateau, Careless Reef features two coral pinnacles separated by a 16-meter valley. The reef boasts a diverse array of both hard and soft coral species, including captivating table and fire corals.

Notably, Careless Reef is a haven for reef sharks and large fish due to its robust currents. Octopuses, rays, turtles, and dolphins frequent its waters.

A recommended route involves traversing the coral garden to a 60-meter-deep wall on the opposite side, offering a chance encounter with hammerhead sharks. The picturesque coral clusters radiate like stained glass in the sun.

Around the pinnacles, you'll spot numerous moray eels up to 2 meters long nestled within coral heads, evoking an aquarium-like experience. Experienced divers can explore caves at depths of 40 meters or more, with sightings of sharks, tunas, jacks, and barracudas at greater depths.

Careless Reef beckons divers to discover its enchanting underwater world, from charming brown groupers among sea fans to the captivating warty clownfish guarding their homes, the sea anemones.

Carless Reef

"The remarkable shipwreck ""Carnatic"" presents a unique spectacle: while the ship sank in two parts, they eventually converged on the seabed as if it had gone down in one piece. Situated at the base of the Reef, Carnatic rests parallel to it, port side down and bows facing east. This dive site offers three distinct segments: the largely intact fore and aft sections connected by the broken area containing the engine room. The seabed depth ranges from 25-27m, while the upper (starboard) side hovers at 18-20m.

The vessel's wooden structure has disintegrated, leaving a steel hull supported by iron braces and cross-members. Divers can explore two deck levels within the wreck due to the absence of decking. Notably, the bows feature a large copper ring that once held the bowsprit, and lifeboat davits swing out on both sides of the main body. Divers can enter the ship, navigating between iron supports for an intriguing experience of a vessel crafted in 1862.

The stern of the wreck holds particular allure for most divers. Similar to the bows, lifeboat davits and two levels for exploration are present. Inside, old barrels evoke curiosity about their original contents, possibly a wood preservative like brandy. Venturing to the stern offers a sight reminiscent of historical shipbuilding, with a finely molded stern adorned with seven square windows and a captivating downward curve revealing a splendid rudder and a modern three-bladed propeller.

The Carnatic, embellished by coral, soft corals, and a diversity of Reef Fish, including Grouper and Lionfish, stands as a testament to the past. Despite being underwater for a considerable time, the Carnatic's well-preserved condition showcases the evolution of ship construction. This shipwreck remains a truly exceptional underwater relic, an exploration opportunity that holds great value for enthusiasts worldwide."

Carnatic

Daedalus Reef is a 400-metre-long and 100-metre-wide offshore coral formation located approximately 90 kilometres east of Marsa Alam. Its remote location protected it from mass tourism, and today Daedalus is considered to be Egypt’s less-visited reef. The distance from the shore exposes Daedalus to strong currents, which promote an explosive growth of several hundred species of soft and hard corals, perfectly preserved thanks to the reef’s limited access. The dive site also has steep walls that drop down to vertiginous depths and an abundance of pelagic species, including various oceanic sharks such as hammerheads, longimanus, and threshers. Daedalus is suitable for experienced divers who are confident with currents and drift diving.

Deadalus Reef

"The wreck ""Dunraven"" presents a fascinating sight as it lies almost entirely upside down. Positioned along an adjacent reef with a slight lean towards it, the vessel's port side rests at a depth of 17m, while the stern touches the seabed at 30m. The bows, situated upside down, exhibit a broken leading edge and a slight separation, leaning backward against the reef. The anchor chain runs from the port hawse pipe to the seabed, disappearing under the ship, while the starboard hawse pipe showcases a coral-covered segment of anchor chain. The hull's damage allows access to the foc’sle.

Continuing the dive along the upturned keel from the bows leads to a break in the hull amidships. Here, the remains of the funnel lie on the seabed, and a pair of resident Red Scorpionfish can be found. However, attempting to enter the front section from this point is not advisable due to the keel's lower position, signifying a slow collapse. The break aligns with the Engine Room, and moving inside the aft section reveals two large boilers that support the hull and preserve its original shape. The boilers are encircled by Glassfish (Vanikoro Sweepers), which make way for divers and create a unique ambiance. Moving through the space between the boilers and the starboard side leads to the engine, complete with connecting rods, pistons, and large gear wheels, providing an extraordinary experience for divers."

Dunraven (Beacon Rock)

"Eel Garden, located in front of a small beach south of Jackfish Alley and before Sharks Observatory, provides a well-sheltered diving spot, offering protection from currents. However, its exposure to prevailing winds and waves necessitates vigilant consideration of sea conditions. The dive is straightforward, leading through a slightly inclined sandy plateau to the east, paralleling the beach. Notably, a small cave on the central part of this sandy ledge releases an impressive V-shaped stream of sand. Additionally, the plateau's midsection features a charming colony of Garden eels (Gorgasia sillneri), belonging to the Congridae family. Despite its biological significance, Eel Garden remains relatively unexplored by divers due to its unique location and easy diving conditions."

Eel Garden

"Eel Gardens is a dive site located north of Lighthouse in Dahab. It can be accessed by the promenade or a small internal road. This site should only be dived in non-windy conditions due to strong surface and underwater currents.

To enter Eel Garden, you will need to walk or swim above the reef plate for about 3 minutes, leading to a beautiful 15-meter-long underwater channel. This channel sometimes hosts schools of colorful glassfish. After exiting the channel, dive down the slope and keep the coral to your left as you continue north. Here, you will encounter a garden of eels and pufferfish. Proceed northward, then turn around and follow the reef wall to your right until you reach the entrance channel.

Eel Gardens gets its name from the abundance of garden eels that cover the sea floor near the entry point. To reach the entry spot, you will walk over the reef plate and enter a nine-meter canyon, which then opens up into a sandy area with a gradual slope. As you dive along a jutting reef perpendicular to the main reef, you will see the eels waving in the current like synchronized swimmers, disappearing into the sand as you approach. Descend to around 20 meters, where you will find a flat section of reef with coral boulders and table corals. Barracudas can often be seen patrolling this area. On your way back, at around 5 and 10 meters, you will encounter a diverse range of healthy soft and hard corals, and keep an eye out for the rare sea grass ghost pipe-fish."

Eel Gardens

At a depth of around 12 to 14 meters, this dive site is situated approximately 60 minutes away from central Hurghada. The conditions here are generally calm, particularly to the south of the Giftun Islands, making it an excellent choice for divers of all skill levels and those seeking training opportunities.

##Underwater Landscape

As you descend, you'll encounter a captivating underwater landscape. Countless ergs and pinnacles are spread across a vast expanse to the north of Gota Abu Ramada. These formations emerge from a primarily sandy seabed, adding an element of intrigue to your exploration.

##Dive Plan and Sections

While often considered a single dive site, it's important to note that this location is actually divided into three distinct sections. Your underwater journey unfolds as you move from the southwest, starting with Erug Diana, then continuing through Erug Giftun in the middle, and finally reaching Erug Gigi in the northeast.

##Pinnacle Configurations

The pinnacles here boast intriguing configurations. Both Erug Giftun and Erug Diana comprise clusters of seven pinnacles each, but the middle pinnacle of Erug Diana is uniquely cracked in two. On the other hand, Erug Gigi features an arrangement of around eleven pinnacles that align more or less in a straight line.

##Navigation and Direction

Given the abundance of ergs and pinnacles, navigating this dive site can be a bit challenging. However, there are strategies to keep you on course. If you lack a compass, you can use the current's flow or even the angle of the sun as navigational aids. Another technique is to stick close to two or three ergs, ensuring you remain within your chosen exploration area.

##Dive Site Experience

Every corner of this underwater realm offers something special, making it unnecessary to venture far from your starting point. It's worth noting that the safety stop, conducted toward the end of your dive, often becomes a highlight. The tops of the ergs present a breathtaking view, making this pause a delightful part of your underwater experience.

##Marine Life Encounters

As you explore, keep an eye out for the incredible marine life that calls this site home. A variety of moray eel species, including yellowmouth, giant, snowflake, and peppered, are commonly spotted. Additionally, you might have the chance to encounter napoleon wrasse, the captivating blue spotted rays, as well as the intriguing crocodilefish and scorpionfish.

El Erug

El Fanadir is one of the longest and straightest reefs in Hurghada, located in the north. It offers a calm drift dive with an average depth of 25m/82ft and water visibility of 25-30m/80-100ft. The main reef is on the west side, while a sandy plateau slopes down from 12-22m/39-72ft on the east, leading to a drop-off wall that goes down to 50m/164ft. This dive site is known for its beautifully colored reef wall, abundant small fish species, and stunning corals. It is also suitable for night dives. Fanadir North, one of the two dive sites at El Fanadir, features a reef wall of 10 meters, a sandy plateau of 15 meters width, and a drop-off reaching 40 meters deep. The reef wall is filled with glassfish and cardinal bass, and there is a chance to spot big tunas and small reef sharks near the drop-off. Other marine life that can be encountered includes stonefish, scorpionfish, blue-spotted stingray, lionfish, octopus, and even a frogfish if lucky. Turtles are regularly seen at this part of the reef. El Fanadir is suitable for divers of all levels.

El Fanadir

"El Fanous West dive site is located approximately 30 minutes away from Hurghada by boat. The reef itself is about 300 meters long and extends on the west side. When starting the dive from the boat, the reef will be on the right side. The depth under the boat is around 7 meters. A canal must be passed through before reaching a sandy lagoon. While crossing the lagoon in a north-west direction, small coral pinnacles can be seen. Upon reaching the northern edge of the lagoon, divers will continue north to an erg covered with hard corals. The return to the boat is on the other side of the lagoon, with another main reef on the left side.

Fanous West is an ideal dive site for all levels of divers and is suitable for training sessions. The site gets its name from the beacon perched on top of the main reef. On the east side of the site, there is a shallow wall emerging from a sloping sandy bottom, decorated with coral blocks and pinnacles. Two attractive ergs rise from the sea floor, densely carpeted with soft corals. Dolphins can often be encountered near Fanous East, and the pinnacles are a battleground for jackfish and lionfish. Turtles can be spotted feeding in coral gardens at Fanous West. The site offers ideal diving conditions and a variety of marine life, including giant moray eels, silversides, and jackfish. Triggerfish nesting can be observed in August and September."

El Fanous West

The El Mina wreck, also known as the Minya, is a Russian-made T-43 minesweeper that was built between 1947 and 1957 for harbor protection and mine clearing. It was later sold to the Egyptian navy. In 1969, an Israeli fighter plane struck two large holes into her starboard side, causing her to sink while anchored. The wreck, measuring 60m/197ft in length, lies on its port side in 33m/108ft of water at the stern. Divers can explore the blast hole on the starboard side, the propellers, and the rest of the wreck, which is in good condition. However, it is not recommended to penetrate the wreck due to small and tight passages. The sea bed surrounding the wreck is littered with live ammunition, which divers are prohibited from touching. The forward deck gun is missing, but the rest of the wreck is intact. A marker buoy is attached to one of the propeller shafts, and one of the two propellers is missing. Aft accommodation and a large machine gun can be found when swimming forward from the stern. Cable winches are located next to the funnel. There are a pair of smaller machine guns loaded with live ammunition in front of the bridge. The starboard bridge door is open, but too cramped for diver entry. The foredeck is bare, with only the barbette, loose anchor chain, and a capstan. The starboard anchor is tight against the hawse pipe. The Mohamed Hasabella can be reached within 2 minutes and is also worth visiting.

El Mina Wreck

Elphinstone Reef, also known as Sha'ab Abu Hamra, is a renowned dive site in the Red Sea. This 300m/984ft long reef offers an average depth of 20-40m/60-120ft and water visibility of 20-30m/60-100ft. The reef's walls are a highlight, dropping far below 100m/328ft on both sides. Strong currents make it ideal for drift diving, allowing divers to observe a variety of fish, corals, sponges, gorgonias, and sea whips. This narrow reef runs north-south and can be seen from the surface breakers, with a depth of 1-2m. The southern section reaches a depth of around 40m, while the northern section descends in steps to approximately 42m. The east side features a near-vertical drop-off, while the west side is less steep and has overhangs and small caves. The surrounding waters' depth remains unknown, but it descends to several hundred meters, creating a striking contrast with the colorful coral types, including purple and pink soft corals and graceful red gorgonians.

Elphinstone

Erg Abu Ramada, also known as the Aquarium, is a medium-sized, oval-shaped reef located about 1 hour south of Hurghada by boat. It is a popular dive site due to its diverse and abundant fish species. The maximum depth is approximately 15 meters. This site is suitable for all levels of divers, with shallow depths ideal for beginners and opportunities for experienced divers to explore deep walls. Currents are typically not a concern, flowing from north to south. One highlight is the chance to observe an adult eagle ray at a depth of 8 meters. On the northeast side of the reef, there is a separate erg covered in orange fire corals and frequented by large shoals of yellow snappers. The surrounding sandy plateau ranges in depth from 12 to 15 meters and offers fantastic dives along the east side with coral pinnacles and beautiful hard corals. The western side features three large ergs surrounded by schools of young barracudas and yellow goatfish.

Erg Abu Ramada

This is a small reef, although the luxury of rich marine life means that this dive site can offer an extraordinary dive. The erg itself is by nature best on the north face so concentrate on this side. Next to the reef there are a few big brain corals, around which schooling fish hover, facing the current. About 50m north there is a breathtaking little erg full of soft coral, glassfish and excellent camera angles. Take your time on the way out there and back, glancing underneath table corals and coral blocks and you will be in for a treat.

Erg Sabina

"Erg Somaya is a stunning dive site near Hurghada, located on the east side of Small Giftun. It is only suitable for advanced and experienced divers and can only be dived under good weather conditions. The depth ranges from 14 meters to 24 meters, with a drop off that reaches 50 meters.

The dive site features an amazing coral garden with hard and soft corals, as well as high beautifully overgrown coral towers. There are also two caves worth exploring, one in the form of a pyramid and full of fan corals. The caves between the north and south are overgrown with soft corals and gorgonians.

Heading south, divers will find gorgeous pinnacles completely covered with colorful species of corals. These pinnacles are teeming with anthias fish, glassfish, and their predators. In the north, there are hump head parrotfish, barracudas, mackerels, and tuna. Other regular inhabitants of Erg Somaya include Napoleons, turtles, batfish, moray eels, snails, triggerfish, and with luck, white tip sharks.

Erg Somaya can be dived as a drift dive. The drift dive starts from the north of the anchorage and follows the eastern wall southwards to a superb coral tower where the boat will be waiting. The wall is a living wall full of cracks where small reef fish species may hide. After exploring the different aspects of Erg Somaya, divers can ascend along the main reef to reach the boat."

Erg Somaya

"Far Garden is at the southern most end of the bay and is usually planned as a full drift dive.
Divers are greeted by a narrow plateau with several thick upright coral formations that extend almost to the surface are covered with Anthias fish. From there the plateau gives way to a steep wall covered with soft and hard corals that divers can explore while keeping one eye out to the drop off for eagle rays, batfish, snapper, turtles and barracuda. Towards the end of the dive, the wall begins to plateau into a coral garden where divers can enjoy their safety stop looking for leopard blennies hiding in the shallow fire corals and watch porcupine puffer fish chase each other around. There is a great variety of marine life in this area and it is a channel for big creatures such as Manta Rays and Whale Sharks."

Far Garden

Located almost exactly halfway between Middle Garden and Far Garden, Fiddle Garden is the third dive site in the location known as The Gardens. The main features of this site are two large coral pinnacles. One of them is covered in soft white corals and has a very healthy growth of fire coral. The other has varied corals, and healthy shoals of pigmy sweepers, juvenile fusiliers, and hatchet fish. Directly behind the second pinnacle, at the depth of 8m/26ft, overgrown with corals, divers can find broken remains of amphoras that are believed to date to Roman times.

Fiddle Garden

Fury Shoals is a group of about 20 reefs located 30km/19mi south of Marsa Alam and 13km north of Ras Banas in the southwestern part of the Red Sea. This popular diving area can only be accessed by liveaboard. The Fury Shoals extend 9km from north to south and 30km from east to west, comprising a variety of beautiful dive sites. Divers will be delighted by the pristine coral reefs teeming with fish. The area offers various types of dives, including fringing reefs, walls, lagoons, drop-offs, and wrecks. Some notable dive sites include Sha'ab Claudia, known for its stunning swim-throughs and huge coral formations, Sha'ab Maksur, featuring steep walls and pinnacles, and Sha'ab Sataya (aka Dolphin Reef), which has deep walls and an inner lagoon where a pod of spinner dolphins resides.

Fury Shoals

The Giannis D, originally named the Shoyo Maru, is a general cargo ship that was built in Japan in 1969. It was later sold twice, with the final owner being a Greek company that gave it its current name. In 1983, the ship collided with a reef and sank with its cargo of timber. The wreck now lies next to the reef, with its stern on the seabed at a depth of about 24m/79ft and its mast at a depth of 6m/20ft. Divers have the opportunity to penetrate the wreck and explore its interior. The wreck is divided into three sections - Bows, Amidships, and Stern - with the Stern being the most popular among divers. It is a dramatic and exciting structure that appears to have been cleanly cut from the rest of the ship. The Stern sits at an angle of about 45 degrees and is surrounded by davits and other fittings hanging out from the wreck. Divers should be cautious of Crown of Thorns Starfish in this area. The deepest part of the wreck is the port companionway, which is almost resting on the seabed at 23-24m. Parts of the superstructure reach to within 4 meters of the surface.

Giannis D

"Gordon Reef is the first of the reefs you will come across as you sail to Tiran. It is famous for the wreck of Louilla, a Panamanian Cargo ship that hit the reef in 1981. Unfortunately, weather has taken its toll on the wreck and there is nothing much left of her. 

Diving on the south side of the reef, there is a large plateau ranging from 10-25 meters extending out westerly. The dive can be done in both directions. Heading northwards, you will come across groups of metal barrels where octopus and stone fish can be found. White peppered morays are also often found hiding here. Keep your eyes open for the rare Red Sea Flasher Wrasse. As you shallow up, there is a sandy patch with garden eels.

Alternatively, on calmer days, the dive can be started in a southerly direction. Here, you will come across a depression in the reef with a small sandy patch known as the ""Amphitheatre"" or ""Shark Pool"". Sharks are often sighted in the area along with groups of barracuda, tuna, and Jackfish. A large school of banner fish hangs on the right bank and large fan corals sit in the middle at approximately 22-25 meters. Ascending the right bank, the current can start to be strong, so tuck in towards the reef and make your way shallower. Here, you may see a large pile of metal cables with a lot of life around them.

Another option for diving Gordon Reef is to explore the coral pinnacles on the shallow eastern side up to the scenic drop-off of about 30 meters. Here, there is an abundance of marine life and even sleeping reef sharks. Alternatively, you can start from the north and drift along the wall, where the current can be strong at times."

Gordon Reef

Gota Abu Ramada, also known as the "Aquarium," is a dive site with a depth of around 100m/300ft and an average water visibility of 20-25m/65-80ft. It is characterized by an abundance of hard and soft corals, as well as a diverse range of marine life. The site is particularly notable for the sheer numbers of fish, including bannerfish, masked butterflyfish, sweetlips, goatfish, glassfish, cornetfish, morays, barracuda, and jacks. Eagle rays and turtles have also been spotted here. Additionally, divers should keep an eye out for crocodile fish and nesting triggerfish.

Gota Abu Ramada

Habili Ali is the largest Habili in the reef system known as St. Johns, located in the most northeastern part of the central area. It is a steep wall reef with an average depth of over 30m/98ft, dropping down to 70m/230ft in some areas. The reef edge is filled with grooves, notches, and overhangs, adorned with colorful soft and hard corals, large gorgonians, and black corals. The site measures 20 to 25m in width from north to south and 150 to 200m in length from east to west. It slopes 10 to 15m in the south and transitions into a narrow plateau. However, the reef top is often too close to the water, making it inaccessible due to breakers. Divers should be prepared for currents ranging from weak to very strong, which can come from any direction. A current test is necessary before diving.

Habili Ali

"Hamda is a dive site located on the northeast side of Big Giftun Island, about 1 hour by boat from Hurghada. Situated below several rock formations and a white pebble beach, Hamda features a small plateau dropping from 15 to 35 meters depth. The plateau is bordered by a drop-off on both sides, which transitions into a steep wall reaching depths of 50 meters. The currents at Hamda are generally gentle, making it suitable for divers of all levels, but drift diving is recommended for experienced divers. Hamda is known as a cleaning station where small fish wait for larger species to come for cleaning.

The dive begins at a large green and winding crater coral, heading northwards towards two sandy areas at 15 and 18 meters depth. Beyond the sandy areas, the steep wall begins, offering a chance to explore the dark blue. On the return journey, divers ascend to the shallow area at 3 to 4 meters depth. The dive site is completely covered in colorful corals, providing a visually stunning experience.

The marine life at Hamda is abundant. Above 15 meters, divers can spot various reef fish sheltering in the different soft and hard coral species on the wall. On the plateau, encounters with moray eels, stonefish, scorpionfish, barracuda, and occasionally sharks and turtles are possible. In the open water above the plateau, schools of Fusiliers, snappers, and triggerfish can be observed. Additionally, there have been sightings of triggerfish, jacks, barracudas, tuna, turtles, and even whale sharks in the area.

For drift dives at Hamda, it is recommended to start from the north, where the wall becomes more interesting with a few coral formations. The drop-off at Hamda offers a contrasting view of stark, bare rock, resembling a lunar landscape. The shallow area during the return journey is considered the highlight of the dive.

Overall, Hamda is a must-visit dive site due to its stunning coral coverage, diverse marine life, and the possibility of encountering whale sharks."

Hamda

The dive site, Jackfish Alley, is a drift dive that starts with a wall and features overhanging caves. The clear waters and spectacular light rays are highlights, as well as the presence of a "cleaning station." The name of the site comes from the wide sandy strip between the coral ledge, the coast, and a parallel satellite reef. The dive begins with a white mark on the cliff and descends to 6 meters, where a large entrance to the first cave is visible. After exiting the cave at a depth of 9 meters, divers proceed southwest with the reef on their right. At 14 meters, there is another cave with a wide exit hole at 6 meters, which is home to a variety of glassfish. Further south, there is a sandy plateau filled with table corals.

Jackfish Alley

Jackson Reef is the northernmost reef in the Strait of Tiran, located in the narrow channel between the Sinai Peninsula and Saudi Arabia. The dive begins at the southern tip of the reef where a mooring is available and continues along the eastern side towards the north. This dive can be challenging due to strong currents from the north, making it suitable for experienced divers. The reef is home to a wide variety of hard and soft corals, as well as a diverse range of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter barracudas, jacks, and larger predators such as hammerheads and tiger sharks that feed on smaller reef species. Additionally, the reef features the famous shipwreck "Lara," which sank in 1981 and is a popular attraction. The area around the shipwreck is known for sightings of hammerhead sharks in the blue water at depths between 10 and 30 meters. Jackson Reef also offers two shallow plateaus, making it suitable for snorkelers and families. Other highlights include the remains of an old lighthouse and the chance to see magnificent coral gardens, red anemones, clownfish, horseeye jacks, eagle rays, napoleon wrasse, groupers, and schools of tuna.

Jackson Reef

Diving the Kimon M wreck, located in the Abu Nuhas area, offers an excellent series of dives. The front section, up to No 2 Hold, is now a debris field scattered across the reef. However, the remainder of the wreck provides exceptional views, especially through the remnants of No 2 hold to the reef. The engine room is dangerous due to ongoing deterioration. Divers typically swim along the port side to the stern, where they can explore the propeller and rudder. Rounding the stern, they will find the rear decks and a largely intact part of the ship. On the way back to the reef, divers can explore various features and even discover the captain's bath-tub within the central bridge deck. The Kimon M wreck is smaller than other wrecks in the area and is located close to the Chrisoula K wreck, allowing divers to experience both wrecks together as a drift dive, if they have enough air. The depth of the Kimon M wreck ranges from 5m to 27m. Marine life in the area includes stone fish, scorpion fish, morays, nudibranchs, stingrays, lion fish, snappers, box fish, and soft coral.

Kimon M

The Kormoran wreck is the fourth wreck in the Abu Nuhas area and is smaller than the others. It is located close to the Chrisoula K wreck, allowing divers to do a drift dive and explore both wrecks if they have enough air. The wreck is between 5m to 27m deep. The Kormoran, built in 1963 in the Rostock shipyards (Germany), hit the reef bordering the island of Tiran (Laguna Reef) in August 1984 due to a navigation error. The impact caused significant damage to the vessel, including the loss of its bow, two large cracks on its left side, and irreparable damage to the superstructure. Divers can enjoy the relatively unknown wreck and admire the stunning views of attractive coral formations on the surrounding seabed. Marine life at the site includes stone fish, scorpion fish, morays, nudibranchs, stingrays, lion fish, snappers, box fish, and soft coral.

Kormoran

Laguna Reef is a drift dive site located on the western side of Tiran Island. It is a dive suitable for all levels and offers a rich marine life experience. The dive can be done from either the Laguna entrance to the green beacon or vice versa, depending on the current. The dive starts at the outer wall of South Laguna and follows a transverse hard coral wall that divides the lagoon into North and South Laguna. The South Laguna, also known as Marsa Shabir, is the larger of the two and is a popular mooring point for local fishermen. The reef is adorned with stunning glassfish pinnacles and Gorgonian fan corals, and schools of butterfly fish can be seen along the hard coral wall. There is also a chance to spot larger pelagic species cruising along in the current. The average depth of the coral lagoon is 10 to 12 meters, providing a splendid underwater view.

Laguna Reef

"Lighthouse is a popular dive site in Dahab, located in the Assalah bay. It offers easy entry and exit points, making it suitable for divers of all levels. The site is always sheltered from the wind, allowing for diving in all sea conditions. 

The dive begins with a shallow sandy area that gradually descends into a large grassy slope. Seahorses and pegasus seamoths can often be spotted here. Moving towards the left side, the reef wall starts, similar to other reefs in Dahab. Unicornfish and bar seabream can be seen along the wall. Sandy patches with towering pinnacles are scattered throughout the area. These pinnacles disappear into the deep and provide a unique diving experience. 

Continuing along the reef wall, divers will encounter scorpion and crocodilefish, with a chance of spotting a stonefish. Crossing the saddle, a coral garden awaits, culminating in a large gorgonian fan coral. Swimming around the last pinnacle, divers can slowly ascend to a small sandy lagoon at around 5m. 

Night dives at Lighthouse offer the opportunity to see Spanish dancers, anemone crabs, nudibranchs, octopus, and moray eels. The site is highly recommended for both beginners and experienced divers due to its diverse marine life and proximity to dive centers."

Lighthouse

"Little Brother Island, part of the Brothers Islands in the Red Sea, lies just 1km/0.6mi south of its larger counterpart. This teardrop-shaped island boasts deep vertical walls, with a notable plateau at its northern point, reaching 40m/131ft deep. Remarkable shark encounters are possible, including oceanic whitetip, thresher, reef, hammerhead, tiger, and whale sharks. The island's sheer vertical walls are adorned with black hard corals, vibrant soft corals, diverse nudibranchs, and bustling anthias shoals.

Declared natural protectorates in 1983, Egypt's offshore islands hold marine park status, notably the renowned Brother Islands, or El Akhawein in Egyptian. A sought-after Red Sea liveaboard dive destination, these sibling islands sit just 5 minutes apart, approximately 200km south of Ras Mohammed. These steep-sided volcanic cones, remnants of eruptions, remain visually subtle except for the 32m Victorian stone lighthouse on Big Brother Island.

Shaped like a descending raindrop from northwest to southeast, Little Brother Island is enclosed by deep walls except its northern point, where the reef gently slopes before descending to a 40m plateau. This plateau stands out as a prime Red Sea shark diving site, with silvertips, grey reef sharks, and occasional great hammerheads patrolling the area.

The island's eastern and western walls boast quality over size, with black coral-covered sheer walls and prolific gorgonian fans adorned with a spectrum of hard and soft coral colors. Schools of fish often obscure the abundant beauty, illuminated only by their presence.

Currents along these walls usually flow from north to south, often concluding dives at the southern plateau, a broad ledge around 20m deep. Barracuda schools circle here, accompanied by dogtooth tuna and reef sharks frequently prowling nearby. The Brothers Islands, a treasure for privileged divers, offer an unforgettable underwater experience in the Red Sea.

Little Brother Island lies only 2 km southeast of Big Brother Island and is in no regard an inferior dive site to its big brother. With its length of 170 m, the uninhabited island is much smaller, though equally exposed to the Red Sea. The often strong breezes over the surrounding open sea give rise to big waves that make entering and leaving the water difficult, and the strong currents flowing along the reef walls can drastically change their intensity during a dive and sweep incaut"

Little Brother Island

"The Marcus dive site, also known as the ""Wreck of the Tiles,"" is located to the east of Carnatic, separated by a small reef ridge. The true identity of this ship is believed to be the Chrisoula K, a cargo ship of German nationality. It was built in 1954 with a tonnage of 3,720 and had a length of 98 meters and a width of 14.8 meters. The ship was initially named ""Dora Oldendorf"" and was later renamed ""Anna Bin 1970"" before being purchased by the Greek Clarion Marine Company and given the name ""Chrisoula K"" in 1979.

On August 31, 1981, while en route to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia with a cargo of 3,700 tonnes of Italian tiles, the Chrisoula K ran aground on the north-eastern side of Abu Nuhas. The shipwreck occurred when the captain had handed command to one of his officers and withdrawn to his cabin. A picture taken shortly after the shipwreck shows the bow of the Chrisoula K smashed by the violent impact and stranded on the reef.

The dive at Marcus begins with a boat approach, typically from liveaboards that launch Zodiacs from the inside of the reef. Divers are deployed via the surface buoy attached to the wreck. The maximum depth of the wreck is around 100 feet (30m), but most of the dive will be spent at shallower depths as the wreck is in fairly good condition. The engine room allows for excellent penetration diving, but it should only be attempted by experienced wreck divers.

The large, semi-open cargo space of the Chrisoula K wreck allows for great swim-throughs, where divers can see the ship's cargo of Italian floor tiles, some of them still neatly stacked. The superstructure of the wreck is covered in both hard and soft corals and has a considerable amount of marine life.

Divers can enjoy a nice, long multilevel dive at Marcus, with depths ranging from about 60 feet to a bit beyond 100. After exploring the wreck, divers can return to the line for their ascent and safety stop."

Marcus

"Middle Garden is a large sheltered bay with a shallow hard coral wall that plateaus at around 10m. The corals transition into a 20m wide sandy road parallel to the coastline, fringed with larger hard boulder coral. This sandy road leads to a garden of hard coral that slopes down to about 70m at the drop off. The site is usually planned as a fixed mooring dive and is perfect for all levels of divers. 

Middle Garden is known for a variety of marine life, including stingrays, milkfish, trigger fish, moray eels, goatfish, banner fish, and butterfly fish. It is also a channel for big creatures such as Manta Rays and Whale Sharks. The site is very protected from the weather, making it ideal for first holiday dives or Discover SCUBA diving dives. The fringing reef drops down between 2-3 meters to a large sandy area dotted with small coral heads, providing a great space to spot bottom-dwellers like the blue spotted sting ray. The main reef runs the length of the bay and gently slopes into the blue, with several sandy 'roads' for easy navigation. Middle Garden offers a relaxing dive over the reef with the possibility of encountering turtles, whale sharks, or mantas."

Middle Garden

"Moray Garden - Golden Blocks dive site is an easy dive with a simple entrance and exit. It is located in WADI QNAI, about 10 km south of Dahab. The site is sheltered and protected from waves, making it generally in good condition. 

Upon entering Moray Garden, divers will encounter a large sandy area dropping to 9-10 meters. From here, they can choose to go left or right, or drift towards the Golden Blocks or Three Pools. 

The left side of the dive site is enriched with huge reef blocks with a golden hue, ranging from 15 to 30 meters in depth. These blocks are separated by sandy roads and reef tables. The area shallower than 15 meters is filled with reef tables and soft corals. 

On the right side of Moray Garden, there is a huge reef bottom connecting all the way to the Three Pools, except for a colorful sandy lagoon at depths of 2 to 7 meters. 

Marine species are abundant in Moray Garden, with the possibility of encountering large fish coming out of the blue. 

The site is named after two hard coral towers of golden color. Divers can descend over a sandy slope, passing an extensive area of sea grass on the right. Proceeding northwards, they will reach a depth of 16-20 meters with a reef on the left. The golden block towers, marked by a big gorgonian at 18 meters, can be found here. If divers have enough air, they can return to the starting point; otherwise, they should end the dive at the golden block towers and exit. 

Moray Garden is a suitable dive site for diving courses, as it has a plateau area of 5 meters, followed by a sandy slope to a maximum depth of 12 meters. Continuing onwards, divers will encounter a coral garden slope that ends at a depth of 60 meters. A beautiful drop-off can be found to the north of the site. The exit is from the original entry point."

Moray Garden - Golden Blocks

Napoleon Reef is situated in the Laguna, in the area known as the ‘Spit’. It is best reached by boat or zodiac, approximately 450 meters away from the beach. The reef consists of a huge Madrepore tower separated by a channel from a half-submerged reef. It rises from a sandy seabed at around 20 meters depth and is home to abundant fauna, including Napoleonfish. The site is also known for its second site called ‘The Seven Pinnacles’, which is accessible by the shore and characterized by a large number of Diadem sea urchins and occasional sightings of octopus.

Napoleon Reef

Near Garden is the closest dive site to the jetty in Sharm el Sheikh, making it convenient for divers to join the afternoon dive boat. It is located on the southern headland of Middle Garden or the northern headland of Naama Bay. This site can be done as a mooring dive but is more popular as a semi-drift dive. Divers enter near several pinnacles that form a ridge down the sharp coral slope. From there, they can head north along the steep reef until it flattens out in Middle Garden. If the dive is planned as a semi-drift, divers can explore the fringing reef with its small inlets during the last minutes of the dive. The reef wall at Near Garden descends to 8-10 meters and then slopes to the drop off at 18-20 meters. The dive is filled with pinnacles, including a magnificent red anemone and a glassfish pinnacle. Other marine life found at this site includes nudibranch, shrimps, blennies, Christmas tree worms, and banded pipefish. Towards the corner of the dive site, the drop off ridge stretches into a flat bottom with large fan corals at about 22 meters. The corner of Near Garden and the beginning of the bay is marked by a row of pinnacles, where the current is usually strongest and the soft corals are healthy and colorful. In the summer months, mantas can sometimes be spotted in the shallows of this site.

Near Garden

"Gabr el Bint is a highly attractive dive site in North Sinai, less frequently dived than other sites in Dahab, which has kept it in pristine condition. The site offers two dives.

On the right side, known as the dark side, there is a steep wall with a depth of about 60m. This wall is adorned with healthy table corals and features numerous chasms, sandy ravines, and overhangs. 

The left side is more colorful and features a virtual forest of gorgonians. Divers usually drop down to about 20-25m and swim along massive boulders protruding from the drop-off, attracting dense shoals of anthias and glassfish. Trevallies can be seen hunting on the shoals of fusiliers in the blue.

After about ten minutes, divers will encounter some of the healthiest gorgonian fan corals in the Red Sea. They then start to ascend to about 10m and cross the saddle before heading back along a sandy ledge parallel to the shore.

The sandy ledge is filled with exquisite coral heads that attract various reef species, including anthias, scorpionfish, parrotfish, crocodilefish, surgeonfish, triggerfish, trumpetfish, stingrays, and often a turtle. At the end of the ledge, there is usually a shoal of black and white snappers, as well as twinspot snappers, hanging between 5m and 10m. This dive is truly breathtaking.

Gabr el-Bint is located 7.5 kilometers south of The Caves and is dominated by impressive mountains higher than 1,000 meters. The site is only accessible by foot, camel, or boat, with a one-hour navigation from Dahab. The track along the coast is interrupted after 1.5 kilometers from The Caves. Gabr el-Bint's coral reef is intact and unspoiled by tourism. Bedouins offer equipment rental and camel rides for exploring the reef and its diverse fauna."

North Gabr El Bint

"Ras Abu Galum National Park is a dive site located about 15km north of Dahab. It can be reached by camel or boat. The usual trip starts with a drive to the Blue Hole, followed by a 90-minute camel ride to the Bedouin huts. The camels also carry tanks and scuba gear. Upon arrival, guests are served Bedouin tea and assigned a hut for personal belongings.

The dive site offers around 6 different dive sites suitable for all types of divers. Staying overnight is recommended for those who want to make the most of the trip, with the opportunity for 4 or 5 dives, including a night dive. The site is undisturbed by mass tourism and offers pristine coral. Sightings of turtles, mantas, octopus, strange-shaped sponges, and a variety of reef fish are possible.

The most beautiful and interesting dive at Ras Abu Galum is situated north of the cape in front of the Bedouin huts. It features a fantastic underwater landscape with huge hard coral blocks, table corals, and soft corals. The entry is at the level of a split in the reef. Descending onto a sandy bottom, divers will encounter a big madrepore tower surrounded by red Scalefin anthias. The crevices of the tower accommodate a colony of Pigmy sweepers and Cave sweepers. The reef slope is populated by Masked butterflyfish, calm silvery snappers, Doublebar breams, and Circular batfish. Near the surface, Cornetfish can be seen cruising in search of food."

North Ras Abu Galum

"Panorama Reef, also known as 'Abu Alama', is an elliptical shaped reef located 60-90 minutes outside Safaga. The reef has a northwest-southeast axis and is divided into a north and south plateau. 

The north plateau, at a depth of 25 meters, is adorned with beautiful fan corals and table corals from Acropora. It is home to a variety of marine life including kingfish, tuna, and barracuda. The curious Napoleon wrasse, known as the ""caretaker"" of Panorama, can often be encountered here. At 27 meters, a crack in the rock houses giant fan corals and a school of glass fish. Stingrays, blue-spotted stingrays, lionfish, and moray eels can also be found on the plateau. Anemone City is a great spot to explore during the safety stop.

On the south plateau, several Napoleon wrasse are practically guaranteed to be seen. The presence of many young fish adds to the pleasant experience. Pelagic species like tuna occasionally visit, while bigeye trevally and barracudas hunt in large schools of fusilier. This area has also been known to attract eagle rays, manta rays, white tip reef sharks, gray sharks, silky sharks, and even oceanic white tips.

Panorama Reef, or 'Abu Alama', is named after the concrete pillar that once marked its northern shores. The pillar has been replaced by a hi-tech automated beacon. The reef's north end features a dramatic plateau and drop-off, while the east and west sides have a narrow sloping ledge at the same depth. The north plateau is a haven for marine life, with surgeonfish schools, unicornfish schools, barracuda schools, giant trevallies, whitetips (especially on the west side), grey reefs (especially in the afternoon), eagle rays, dolphins, silvertips, and even the oceanic whitetip shark. Turtles can be spotted throughout the reef. 

The south plateau is home to a family of three Napoleon wrasse, along with moray eels, crocodilefish, scorpionfish, and a turtle with a deformed shell. Additionally, a large colony of 50-60 anemones can be found here."

Panorama Reef

"The Paradise dive site is located at the southern side of the reef below the moorings 1. It features recesses, overhangs, and small arouks, as well as a lagoon with a splendid coral garden. The southernmost tip of the reef has caverns and small caves, visible even from the boats. A coral garden grows next to the recesses nearby. To the east, the corals gradually become sparse before forming another final cluster and then thinning out completely. The surrounding seabed lies at a depth of 16 to 18 m and features coral rocks, some beautifully encrusted, where damselfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes even turtles can be seen. 

Situated between Ras Um Sid and Amphoras, the Paradise dive site can be easily spotted by the Cleopatra’s needle statue at the Waterfalls Hotel. The dive begins by jumping at the floating jetty in front of the hotel. The reef descends to approximately 12 meters and then slopes off fairly quickly to the drop off at 22 meters. Along the reef, there is a large pinnacle with a top depth of 16 meters, where frog fish have been spotted in the past. There is also a large fan coral with glass fish swarming around it and a yellow mouthed moray that lives close by. Continuing the dive between 18-22 meters, there are a few pinnacles to explore. Mantas often pass by in the summer afternoons. The current may change, bringing the dive shallow, allowing for exploration of the reef wall where scorpion fish and nudibranchs can be found."

Paradise

‘Pinky’s Wall’ is a beautiful dive site located between Tower and Ras Umm Sid. It is named after the pink Alcyonarian corals that can be found there. Despite its beauty, few guides are familiar with Pinky Wall. The site can be accessed from land or by boat, but if arriving by boat, a drift dive is necessary as there is no mooring. The reef configuration is unique, with a narrow coral platform and a steep wall covered in soft corals. The wall descends to a depth of over 180 meters. Divers should keep the reef to their left and dive at an average depth of 15 meters to see the largest concentration of soft corals. Moving northeast from Pinky Wall, divers will encounter majestic gullies in the steep vertical wall that resemble organ pipes. Along the route, there are various types of parrotfish, splendour wrasses, and groupers. If conditions permit, divers can double back with a drift dive in the opposite direction towards the Amphoras site.

Pinky Wall

Ras Abu Helal is a less visited dive site located 7 km north of Dahab and 3 km south of the Canyon. It is known for its breathtaking corals and abundance of rare and large marine life. However, strong currents and high waves at the entry point can be dangerous. The dive starts by descending to a sandy lagoon with a semicircular shape at a depth of 7-12 meters. Keeping the reef on the left, divers can explore the amazing coral garden, which is the highlight of the dive. The reef wall descends into the blue, and at a depth of 30 meters, there is a small canyon that should be avoided due to its depth and narrow swim throughs. Heading north, divers will come across a sandy seabed, which can be used as an exit, or they can complete the circle back to the shallow lagoon for an exit. Marine life in the area includes lionfish, groupers, unicorn fish, and occasionally turtles. This dive site is not recommended for beginners, as bad buoyancy can affect visibility. It can be combined with the nearby Abu Talha dive site.

Ras Abu Helal

Ras Bob, named after Bob Johnson, a former diving instructor and cameraman in the area, is an easy and shallow dive site with sheltered sandy plateaus and small, overhanging caves. The site is best explored between 5 and 15 meters and has minimal current. From May to August, there is a chance to spot manta rays and whale sharks. At a depth of approximately 22 meters, there is a large eel garden. Octopus sightings are common in the shallow waters, and groups of Sergeant majors can be found there as well. The site was previously known as Labyrinth due to swim-through caves, but it was renamed after Bob Johnson. The columns seen in an underwater advertisement filmed by Bob Johnson for a UK bank are no longer present at the site.

Ras Bob

"Descend along the wall where some Bluespine unicornfish and schools of fusiliers cruise up to a depth of 20 meters, keeping the wall to your right. After some dozens of meters, you reach a wide chimney with an open summit, recalling the one of Ras Za’atar. in the inside, you can admire
a vast number of gorgonians of sparkling yellow colour, Red sponges, siphon sponges, butterflyfish and anthias in its upper part which forms an arch
with its roof ascending to 3.5 meters. After having visited the chimney, proceed along the wall from which numerous pinnacles with diverse forms jut out. You reach a second chimney, definitely less impressive than the previous one, whilst ascending gradually to the end of the dive. Hawksbill turtles, jackfish and fusiliers are common visitors to this site". The site which is about 500 meters south of Ras Za’atar is certainly less spectacular, but its wall has a similar configuration and it offers the double advantage of not yet being crowded and is practically intact. The dive starts at a fossil coral pinnacle jutting out of the water for a couple of meters like a tower which gave this site its name.

Ras Burg

"Ras Disha, also known as Torfa Ras Disha or Disha Malagk, is a dive site located 90 minutes from central Hurghada. It is situated in a natural bay, providing shelter from the wind, and is suitable for divers of all levels. The site is ideal for drift dives and is characterized by a fringing reef.

The dive site features a shallow plateau with a sandy bottom, which is profiled by pinnacles and an elliptical erg in the southern region. Moving northwest, the plateau transforms into a narrow ledge, granting access to a steep wall. A beacon on the main reef serves as a starting point for drifting along the wall to the north, offering a picturesque display of pinnacles on the plateau.

Divers can also explore the site by diving from the mooring network. This involves touring to the drop-off and then completing a half circle lap over the plateau, passing by the pinnacles. One particular pinnacle, located closest to the main reef, is especially photogenic.

The wall at Ras Disha is home to butterflyfish, bannerfish, surgeonfish, and parrotfish. The sandy bed is teeming with marine life, including hiding crustaceans and other invertebrates that are hunted by moses sole, blue spotted rays, and torpedo rays. Gobies and shrimps can be spotted on the lookout from their burrows. The pinnacles at Ras Disha are marked by cracks and caverns filled with glassfish, providing excellent photographic opportunities.

The dive site is located in a wide bay with an island at its center called Abu Haschish. It is defined to the north by a headland known as Ras Disha. The site is well sheltered from waves and currents, which predominantly come from the north.

The recommended dive plan is to explore the ergs, which rise up from a sandy seabed at a depth of 10-12m. The most northerly erg features a large cavern filled with glassfish. Marine life at the ergs includes jacks, lionfish, redmouth groupers, crocodilefish, flatfish, stonenfish, spiny devilfish, bluespotted rays, and sea moths. A grey reef shark is rumored to frequent the wall to the north, while schools of juvenile barracuda can be found on the sandy plateau and between the ergs."

Ras Disha

Ras Ghamila, also known as Delicious Cape, is an ideal drift dive site located in Sharm El Sheikh. The dive begins at the jetty in front of the Conrad Hotel and drifts eastward towards the green beacon at the western end of the Strait of Tiran. The shallow end of the site features a sandy plateau with pillars and small table corals, while deeper areas between 20 and 25 meters showcase giant gorgonians. This dive is suitable for all levels of experience. With some luck, divers may spot turtles and eagle rays. The long plateau of Ras Ghamila is covered with table corals and soft corals, making it one of the most beautiful dives in Sharm El Sheikh. It is typically done as an optional third dive after two morning dives in the Straits of Tiran. Under the table corals, divers may encounter Crocodile Fish, Blue Spotted Sting Rays, and Groupers. Strong currents are common, adding excitement to the drift dives in this area. Schools of black Snappers are frequently seen at the corner of the dive site, and Cornet Fish can be observed stalking their prey by hiding behind larger fish.

Ras Ghamila

"Ras Ghozlani is a beautiful dive site located in the most northern tip of the deep bay, Marsa Bareika. It offers a fantastic and almost surreal landscape. The dive site is situated on the outside of the bay and features a wall that extends to a depth of 15 meters, followed by a small sandy plateau up to 20 meters. The area is filled with large rocks and coral blocks, adorned with soft corals and gorgonians. On the sandy bottom, you can find blocks with large schools of glass fish, as well as various marine life such as slugs, shrimp, and clown fish.

Access to Ras Ghozlani is restricted to the outer sides of the bay, indicated by a small stake with two banners. The dive is done as a drift, following a route along an extensive sandy slope starting at a depth of 6 meters and descending to the drop-off at around 25 to 30 meters. The drop-off is adorned with coral pinnacles covered in red and pink soft corals, and populated by dense schools of anthias. The area close to the entrance of the bay resembles a coral forest, with huge Acropora table and branching corals creating a fascinating landscape."

Ras Ghozlani

"Ras Katy is the first dive site from the main marina in Sharm el Mina. Boats typically moor between the fringing reef and the top of the main pinnacle, which reaches up to the surface. This makes it a popular spot for both snorkelers and divers. There is a sheltered sandy area between the fringing reef and pinnacles, where many pairs of Goby and Shrimp can be found. The pinnacles, covered in pretty soft and hard corals, form a line parallel to the reef plate. Occasionally, currents can pick up, especially towards the corner in the direction of Temple.

Named after a lady who used to sunbathe on the beach, Ras Katy is the most southerly of the local dive sites. The dive starts at the mooring and becomes a semi-drift. To see the resident white tip reef shark in the area, divers need to stay shallow for about 10-15 minutes. The shark lives in about 28 meters of water and circles off the reef. Due to their excellent hearing, the shark will likely know divers are approaching before they see it. If divers stay in the area, the shark often doubles back to take a look. Another great dive at this site is swimming out to the southern corner where the reef juts out. In about 26 meters of water, a huge group of red sea banner fish and red tooth triggers can be found grouping together over the reef. On the way back, there is a big fan coral with glass fish swarming around it. Alternatively, divers can explore the shallow water and circle the huge pinnacles that raise up to the surface, where many fish can be found."

Ras Katy

Ras Nasrani is a spectacular dive site known for its beautiful gorgonia fans, anemones, table corals, and diverse fish population. The dive begins at the jetty and to the left is a steep wall with abundant hard and soft coral. The site is characterized by large sandy bottoms, coral blocks, and a sloping plateau. The coral garden serves as the turning point of the dive, offering a variety of fish and corals depending on the depth. Between May and August, there is a chance to spot whale sharks and manta rays. The reef starts with a descending hard coral wall and fusiliers can be seen in the blue water. As the dive progresses, soft corals become more abundant, offering a stunning display of colors. Towards the end of the dive, the corals change to mountainous porities corals with schools of goat fish. The current may change, allowing divers to swim among the porites and search for scorpion fish and stone fish at the 5-meter mark.

Ras Nasrani

Ras Um Sid is a peninsula with a high lighthouse, located at the entrance of the Straits of Tiran. This exciting dive site offers mixed topography, the potential for pelagic sightings, and fast currents. The dive begins at a large coral block inhabited by a colony of Anthians, descending slowly to a depth of 25 meters. Along the way, divers will encounter a variety of large and small reef fish, including the famous gorgonians. Continuing the dive to a depth of approximately 14 meters, divers will reach a plateau with beautiful pinnacles teeming with hundreds of reef fish. On the way back, divers can explore various canyons, including small caves with colonies of glass fish. It is recommended to dive this site as a semi-drift or drift dive, as the current can be strong. The steep wall at the start of the dive is adorned with stunning Gorgonian fan corals, and the plateau offers the opportunity to spot large pelagic species cruising by.

Ras Um Sid

"Ras Za'atar, also known as the ""head of thyme,"" is a rocky headland located to the south of Marsa Bareika Bay. It offers a spectacular landscape, particularly at its northern tip. The dive site is best explored at a depth of 10 to 15 meters, where you can find impressive chimneys that should not be missed. As you descend a bit deeper, around 21 meters, you will come across a wonderful overgrown pillar that winds along a vertical wall.

Beyond the point of Marsa Bareika bay, there is a sandy slope with numerous coral pinnacles, creating a beautiful coral garden.

However, it is important to be cautious of the strong currents that can be experienced around the cape. 

During the dive, you will start on a sloping wall, ideally at a depth of 15-18 meters. This wall is characterized by many cracks that form small overhanging ledges. Approximately 30 minutes into the dive, you will encounter a chimney, providing an excellent opportunity for capturing moody shots with rays of light bouncing off the cliff wall. This spot is highly recommended for photography enthusiasts. 

As you reach the corner of the dive site, you will find a plateau where a stronger current is often present. This current brings in more nutrients to the water, resulting in a lively reef. Here, you have a higher chance of spotting larger marine animals."

Ras Zaatar

The Rosalie Moller is a 108m/354ft long cargo ship that was built in Glasgow in 1910. It was bombed by a German air raid in 1941 while transporting coal. The wreck is located at a depth of 50m/164ft and is in an upright position. Most parts of the wreck are intact, except for damage in the starboard quarter. Divers can explore the forepeak, deckhouses, front and rear masts, and ladders leading to the bridge and passageways. It is also possible to penetrate the holds, although not necessary as the most interesting parts of the wreck are visible from the outside. The propeller and huge rudder can be found in the deepest part of the wreck. The shipwreck is virtually intact, with both masts still in place up to the crosstrees. The decks are at a depth of 39m. The starboard anchor is deployed at the bows, while the port anchor is tight against the hawse pipe. The railings, accommodations blocks, winches, hawsers, and portholes are largely intact. However, the bridge has been stripped and the Captain's safe lies forced open on the floor. The tall funnel with its copper steam whistle remained upright for almost 60 years until it was pulled over, causing considerable damage, in early 2001.

Rosalie Moller

"The SS Turkia, originally named Livorno, was built in England in 1910. In 1935, it was sold to Greece and renamed. On its final voyage from New York to Piraeus, the ship was carrying various cargo, including car tires, vehicles, and explosive materials. A fire in one of the cargo holds caused an explosion, leading to the immediate sinking of the ship. The wreck now rests on a sandy bottom at a depth of 24m/79ft. Despite being almost intact, there are significant holes in the hull from the explosion. Divers can easily penetrate the wreck and explore its different areas.

The wreck of the SS Turkia offers easy exploration of almost all cabins. The salon is located under the navigation room, and a corridor leads to the starboard exit. Pantries and the galley can be found on the portside, with these rooms covered in dishes and bottles. The stern and propeller are partially covered by a fishing net adorned with shells. The wreck is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including schools of glassfish, hatchetfish, barracuda, scorpionfish, lionfish, and thousands of sky-blue fusiliers."

SS Turkia

The Salem Express is a 100m/328ft long passenger and vehicle ferry that sank in 1991 after colliding with the Hyndman reef. The wreck lies on her starboard side near the Hyndman reef at a depth between 12 and 30 meters. The top of the wreck is located at only 10m/32ft of depth, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The bow and the screws of the ship are completely intact and the wreck is surrounded by marine life. Divers can explore the propellers, corridors, upper decks, the restaurant, and the bridge, as well as find passenger luggage such as rolls of carpet, stereos, bicycles, and chairs in and near the wreck. The coral coverage and marine life at the site are good. The Salem Express was a roll on/roll off passenger ferry with a weight of 4471 tons. It was built in 1966 and had an 8 cylinder diesel engine with 11,100 KW. The boatyard was Forges & Ateliers et Chantiers de Mediterranee in Marseille, France, and the shipping company was Lord Maritime in Egypt. Divers should be cautious of boat traffic and use a surface buoy if necessary.

Salem Express

"Shaab Abu Nugar near Hurghada is a rich dive site with diverse marine life and several cleaning stations. The colorful corals are in pristine condition in many areas. It is one of the most northern dive sites of Hurghada, about a 90-minute sail from El Gouna. This site is suitable for all levels of diving and training. While the sailing can be rough in windy conditions, there are protected moorings available.

The reef network at Shaab Abu Nugar offers a mix of attractive and less appealing areas. The three ergs north of the tongue are particularly magical and worth exploring. The diving environments include Torfa Abu Nugar in the north with a delicate coral garden, the oval-shaped Gota Abu Nugar reef to the east, and the exciting tour from one pinnacle to the other at Erug Abu Nugar in the south.

Abu Nugar is a mid-sized reef with various dive sites all around. The main reef emerges from a sandy bottom with dispersed coral gardens and pinnacles. Torfa Abu Nugar in the north features an exquisite coral garden, while the elliptical reef at Gota Abu Nugar to the east allows for a full exploration in one dive. The south of the reef, Erg Abu Nugar, offers an impressive string of pinnacles on a sandy bottom adorned with coral rocks.

Abu Nugar has five dive sites, with Shaab Iris and Abu Nugar being the finest. The reef is mainly composed of hard corals, including table corals and gorgonians. It is important to avoid making contact with the marine life at Abu Nugar."

Shaab Abu Nugar

Sha’ab Claudia is a small reef within the Fury Shoals system, mostly visited by live aboard boats on their southern routes. It is known for its abundance of beautiful hard coral formations on the west side. The southern side of the reef has less coral but offers a wealth of small marine life, making it a great spot for macro photography. The middle of the reef features a spacious cavern with an opening in the ceiling, creating a fascinating atmosphere inside. Advanced divers are required to enter the caverns, and it is recommended to be accompanied by a guide. The dive site is easy with little current and does not require diving to great depths. Divers and photographers are captivated by the shallow dive-through system, which allows for relaxed exploration. Marine life such as rays, nudibranchs, large napoleons, and moray eels are regularly spotted here.

Shaab Claudia

Shaab Eissa is a beautiful dive location nearby Shaab Eshta, offering a great variety of fish and a colorful coral garden. The dive starts at 5 meters and goes up to 40 meters, leading to a drop-off that goes beyond 100+ meters. Dolphins, turtles, and Eagle rays can be spotted here, and if lucky, a white tip reef shark may also be seen.

Shaab Eissa

Sha'ab El Erg is a horseshoe-shaped reef located between Hurghada and El Gouna. It is about 7km/4mi in length and has several different dive spots on all sides. In the center of the horseshoe is a shallow lagoon scattered with ergs, where a resident pod of dolphins can be seen all year round. The most popular dive site is Dolphin House in the north, home to a large pod of bottlenose dolphins. Another popular site is Gota Sha’ab el Erg on the southwest point, which is teeming with marine life. Manta rays visit Sha'ab el Erg, especially in February and March. The reef also offers beautiful coral gardens at less than 5 meters deep, making it a favorite spot for snorkelers and underwater photographers. It is important to note that physical contact with the marine life at Sha'ab El Erg should be avoided. Additionally, the site is frequently used by safari boats as a night dive spot.

Shaab El Erg

Shaab Eshta is a dive site consisting of a narrow channel that separates two ergs. The smaller erg is located to the west, while the larger one is to the east. The pinnacle at Shaab Eshta is heart-shaped and can be reached through a canyon-like passage. The sandy flats surrounding the site are adorned with small clusters of coral blocks and table corals, which dominate the closer perimeter. The bottom of the site is covered in gentle swaying turtle grass, providing a natural habitat for gobies and their shrimps. Venturing into the turtle grass beds allows divers to encounter a wide variety of unfamiliar fish. Additionally, schools of barracuda can often be seen hovering just below the surface, waiting for food to swim by. Shaab Eshta is also a popular location for snorkelers, with colorful corals and fish visible at shallow depths. Snorkelers may even have the chance to spot seahorses in the sea grass. Diving among the coral pinnacles is an enjoyable experience, but divers should be cautious not to get lost, as the coral towers can be very similar to one another. It is worth noting that Shaab Eshta is an ideal site for underwater photography, and divers should be aware that there may be some current present.

Shaab Eshta

"Sha’ab Maksur, located approximately 28km/17mi off Hamata, is the easternmost reef in a group of reefs known as Fury Shoals. In Arabic Maksur means ‘broken’, which probably refers to the shape of the southern side of the reef. On its northern side, the reef starts at 22m/72ft and gently slopes to a plateau at 40m/131ft before dropping off to over 90m/295ft. The north side of the reef is the most exposed to the open sea and divers can only dive there when the sea is calm. The east and west sides of the reef are steep walls. The south side features a plateau at a depth of 18m/59ft and two large pinnacles that do not rise to the sea surface at only 6m/20ft. Due to the large size of the reef, divers may need to do up to three dives here in order to fully enjoy and explore this beautiful coral reef.

Shaab Maksur is a large and varied reef often compared to the Red Sea classic Elphinstone. Although this reef offers better protection from the waves than Elphinstone, it still has its challenges. The steep drop offs and strong currents make it a dive that requires some experience. You can dive on the north and south sides. The plateaus start at about twenty meters and drop off to forty meters. On the south plateau there are several pinnacles that you can admire during your safety stop. On the plateaus and floating along the wall you will see several logbook-worthy species, including hammerhead sharks, reef sharks, manta rays and whale sharks! However, be cautious as you may encounter strong currents and high waves here."

Shaab Maksur

Shaab Petra is a dive site with two pinnacles (ergs) that reach the surface. The south side of each erg has mooring lines, allowing divers to start their dive on either one. The hard corals in the shallows are in fantastic condition. The eastern erg has a large brain coral at its end, resembling a turtle resting on the bottom. On the other side, there is a small cavern inhabited by glassfish and a red tooth grouper that defends its food from lionfish. The western erg is smooth-shaped and sits on a flat sandy bottom. A 'figure of eight' route here takes about 45 minutes. The dive site is 8-28 meters deep and is known for its coral formations and diverse marine life, particularly on the east side of the pinnacles. It is also a great spot for night dives, where turtles can be observed. It is important to avoid physical contact with marine life.

Shaab Petra

Shaab Sabina is a dive site consisting of a main reef, a protected sandy lagoon, and an erg standing alone on the north. The underwater landscape north of the main reef is exciting, with a maze of ridges and ergs, and a delightful coral garden in the northwest. The hills in this area are densely covered with hard corals, providing shelter for small fish species. The corner of the top reef divides the northern coral garden from the sheltered southern side, which is mostly dead. About 150 meters from the main reef, there is a picturesque shallow lagoon. The nutrient-rich water on the north side of the reef wall supports a vibrant marine life, while the bottom around the erg is mainly sandy with some fire coral formations. Shaab Sabina is known for its impressive coral landscapes, including beautiful table and brain corals. The dive site offers a wonderful view of a labyrinth of coral, with downlight reflections dancing on the bright sandy bottom. The wall of the main reef in the south stretches from a depth of 8 to 10 meters to the surface, with hard corals growing over each other, resembling a Japanese garden. The shallow waters of Shaab Sabina are best explored by a drift dive, allowing divers to experience one of the most beautiful coral gardens in Hurghada. The coral gardens consist of successive coral ridges alternated with sandy surfaces. At a depth of 3 meters, there is a beautiful lagoon. Turtles thrive in this area due to the presence of many soft corals. Divers should enter the water from the boat and avoid making physical contact with marine life.

Shaab Sabina

Sha’ab Sataya, also known as Dolphin Reef, is a large oval-shaped reef located southeast of Fury Shoals. This huge natural lagoon is formed by the reef and features a resident pod of more than 120 dolphins. The dive usually begins at the western edge of the reef, descending along the steep wall covered in beautiful coral growth. The depth ranges from 18-22m/59-72ft along the wall, decreasing to 12m/39ft at the lagoon’s entrance. Divers may encounter whitetip sharks as they go deeper along the wall. Sataya is popular for its steep drop-offs and pinnacles adorned with soft and hard corals, as well as pelagic species like sharks and rays. However, the outer reef is only suitable for advanced divers. The real attraction of Sataya is the opportunity to snorkel with the dolphins, best done early in the morning.

Shaab Sataya

Shabrur Umm Gamar is a submerged mountain located approximately 1km/0.6mi north of the island of Umm Gamar. The site is known for its rich corals and features crevices and caves that shelter a variety of marine fauna species. It also has several wrecks of Egyptian boats, with one accessible at 20m/66ft deep and the other two at over 70m/230ft deep, requiring technical diving. The site offers superb conditions for photography and is known for big fish. Surrounding the island of Umm Gamar are beautiful dive sites, including a plateau on the south side with three small coral pinnacles. The east and west sides offer great drift dives often accompanied by white tip reef sharks. The area also has caves in the wall and a beautiful coral garden on the north side. At the plateau, divers can expect to see moray eels, butterfly fish, banner fish, turtles, and glass fish teeming around the pinnacles. It is important to note that access to Umm Gamar is only possible with extremely good weather.

Shabrur Um Gamar

"Shag Rock, located about 5 miles south of Sha’ab Ali and 6 miles from the Thistlegorm wreck, is a shallow reef with a small metal lighthouse on its southeast side. The reef has a sandy plateau extending to a depth of 8-10 meters, with a fixed shamandura called the Lady Jenny Mooring. On the northern side of the reef, at a depth of 15 meters, lies a small wreck known as the Kingston. The Kingston, a British cargo vessel built in 1871, ran aground on the reef on February 22, 1881, while en route to Aden with a cargo of coal. The wreck starts at the stern, where the intact propeller can be observed. 

Named after the nesting cormorants, Shag Rock and the Kingston wreck offer a beautiful dive experience. The wreck has been overtaken by coral, creating a stunning sight. Knotted ropes hang off the wreck's rib cage, surrounded by soft and hard corals growing from the sandy bottom. This wreck provides a great atmosphere for photographers, with various points framing the reef. After exploring the wreck, divers can enjoy the current along the coral reef, where they may encounter hawksbill turtles. The dive concludes with a zodiac pickup and a short trip back to the liveaboard. Shag Rock and the Kingston wreck offer picturesque views and are ideal for capturing atmospheric shots."

Shag Rock (Kingston)

Shark & Yolanda Reef is a must-visit dive site in the Red Sea, popular among divers of all levels. It offers a diverse array of marine life, including barracudas, moray eels, Napoleon fish, reef sharks, angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. The depth ranges from 18 to 30 meters, with varying visibility depending on weather conditions. The current strength is moderate to strong, providing a challenge for experienced divers. The site also features the Yolanda wreck, a cargo ship that sank in 1980 and is now home to marine life. The wreck is situated at a depth of 18 to 27 meters and contains toilets and sinks as cargo. Divers can also spot schools of snapper, batfish, moray eels, and the occasional turtle. Shark & Yolanda Reef is a top dive site that offers an unforgettable underwater experience for divers of all levels. It is a drift diving location, with the boat sailing away and picking up divers after the drift dive. The current usually comes from the direction of Anemone City, taking divers to Shark Reef and then Yolanda Reef. The Yolanda wreck is inaccessible for recreational divers due to its depth, but part of the cargo can be found on a shallow plateau on the reef. Divers looking to spot sharks should find a quiet place with few divers and observe the large schools of fish. It is important to note that Shark & Yolanda Reef can have downward currents in the summer and has a deep bottom next to the reef at a depth of 800 meters.

Shark & Yolanda Reef

Shark Observatory is a beautiful dive site located on the Ras Mohammed Wall, about fifty minutes by boat from Sharm El Sheik. The dive begins just past the second observation terrace and descends to a depth of 15 to 20 meters. The wall on the left is rich in Alcyonarians, gullies, shelters, and caves teeming with life. Keep an eye out for jackfish, barracuda, and sharks that may appear from the blue. The wall takes a sharp turn westwards towards a small beach under the observatory, where you can see large gorgonians and a majestic overhang. Along the wall, there is an extremely beautiful cave with a large fissure in its top, creating evocative light effects. You can exit the cave directly onto the reef. During the dive, be cautious of boats and use a surface buoy if necessary. Check the direction of the current and note that the best diving is at low tide. Whale sharks have also been spotted at this location.

Shark Observatory

Shark's Bay is a popular shore dive site in Sharm el-Sheikh, known for its easy access and flexibility. Unlike boat dives, shore dives allow for more freedom and time to prepare and enjoy the dives. The site is ideal for macro photography, with an abundance of small reef life such as gobies, blennies, and juvenile fish. It is also a great spot for night dives, with regular appearances of crustaceans, echinoderms, and cephalopods. Shark's Bay is home to stonefish and scorpionfish, as well as a variety of pretty reef fish. It is suitable for divers of all levels and is often used as a training site. The dive starts at a coral plateau at 5m, dropping off to around 20m, where divers can spot Napoleon wrasse, eagle rays, giant grouper, and octopus. On the right side of the site, there is a deep canyon popular for tec diving, reaching depths of over 100m.Shark's Bay is a popular shore dive site in Sharm el-Sheikh, known for its easy access and flexibility. Unlike boat dives, shore dives allow for more freedom and time to prepare and enjoy the dives. The site is ideal for macro photography, with an abundance of small reef life such as gobies, blennies, and juvenile fish. It is also a great spot for night dives, with regular appearances of crustaceans, echinoderms, and cephalopods. Shark's Bay is home to stonefish and scorpionfish, as well as a variety of pretty reef fish. It is suitable for divers of all levels and is often used as a training site. The dive starts at a coral plateau at 5m, dropping off to around 20m, where divers can spot Napoleon wrasse, eagle rays, giant grouper, and octopus. On the right side of the site, there is a deep canyon popular for tec diving, reaching depths of over 100m.

Shark's Bay

"Siyul Kebira, also known as Ras Siyoul, is a dive site located on Siyoul Island, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes north of Elgouna. This site is suitable for divers of all levels and offers beautiful coral reefs. There are two large blocks of corals under the mooring line, which are home to anthias fish. Occasionally, there is a current that can be used for drift dives, although it can be strong on the north side.

With a depth of 36m/118ft and water visibility averaging 30m/100ft, this reef dive site is suitable for divers of all experience levels. The highlight of the dive is a small pinnacle located at the turning point, which features lovely soft corals and is inhabited by thousands of glass fish, small moray eels, and a variety of colorful reef fish. When there is a strong north current, this dive can be done as a drift.

The site extends east and west around Siyul Kebir Island, offering a diverse profile with undulating reef faces, furrows, sandy 'wadis', valleys, hollows, and depressions. The reef is densely covered with various types of coral, both hard and soft. The north side of the reef is particularly thickly grown, but is exposed to wind and weather, while the south side is more sheltered and provides good snorkeling opportunities on reef patches.

The site is teeming with a wide variety of fish, including frequent pelagic visitors and the usual reef species. Leopard and nurse sharks have occasionally been spotted on the sandy areas of the reef."

Siyul Kebira

Small Crack is a crack or passage in the Sha’ab Mahmud reef, running from northwest to southeast and separating a sandy lagoon from the open sea. It is one of two navigable passages into the calm waters of the lagoon, making it a popular spot for live-aboards. The crack forms a shallow channel to the inner lagoon, with a maximum depth of 6m and average depth of 2 to 3m. The reef walls on both sides of the channel are about 2m high. The coral growth is excellent throughout, with a wide range of stony and soft coral species. The site offers a diverse range of Red Sea reef fish species, and pelagics are common when there is a current. The best plan for diving Small Crack is to take a zodiac through the passage and drift with the current along the outer reef and through the passage towards the lagoon, assuming a rising tide. However, diving during a falling tide can be challenging for zodiac pickup in the rougher waters outside the reef.

Small Crack

"Small Giftun Island, located near Hurghada, is a remarkable diving spot offering diverse marine experiences. The island features hard and soft corals, with potential sightings of napoleon wrasse and buffalohead parrotfish. It is a popular excursion spot with pristine beaches, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. The snorkeling near the coral reef is exceptional, while experienced divers can explore dramatic drop-offs offshore.

Giftun Island comprises two sizes: Big (Kebier) and Small (Sughayer or Saghir). Small Giftun Island, a marine reserve, offers an exceptional dive experience with varying currents. It is a one-hour sail from Hurghada and is ideal for drift dives. The wall drops to 100 meters, allowing divers to choose their depth and gradually ascend while drifting.

The northern current at Small Giftun is unpredictable, varying from mild to strong. Decorated coral formations protrude from the main wall, and ambush predators and pelagic species can be spotted. Drift diving from the southern end offers a wall exploration. Divers can spot gorgonian corals, longnose hawkfish, and pelagic species like tuna and trevallies. A sandy plateau between 15 and 25 meters hosts a rich coral garden with life and fewer currents. Scorpionfish, stonefish, and schooling fish can be found, while a small cave at 40 meters harbors lionfish and anthias.

While often drifted, Small Giftun can be explored traditionally, suitable for all divers but requiring experience due to strong currents along the wall. The allure of Small Giftun Island is attracting divers of varying levels."

Small Giftun

Sodfa dive site, named after a coincidence, is located immediately northeast of the popular Tower dive site in Sharm. The reef descends to approximately 12 meters and then gradually slopes down to a drop off ridge at 18-25 meters. The ridge edge is adorned with table corals and fan corals. Sodfa offers a diverse range of coral species, both hard and soft, as well as a variety of reef fauna. From March to the end of June, it is a favored spot for Manta rays and occasional sightings of White Tip Reef Sharks.

Sodfa

Soma Bay Garden is a beautiful long reef located on the south side of the diving reef Ras Abu Soma. With an average depth of 12m/39ft and water visibility ranging from 10-30m/32-98ft, this dive site is suitable for divers of all experience levels. Due to the currents, it is typically a drift diving site. Divers can explore a variety of colorful corals and encounter different fish species, including swimming murene and many small fish. Occasionally, eagle rays and barracudas can be spotted. At greater depths, there is sandy terrain where the elusive crocodile fish can be found.

Soma Bay Garden

South Ras Abu Galum is a dive site with an average depth of 20-30m, making it suitable for divers of all levels. The dive begins at a sandy slope that descends from the shore, with the reef wall starting on both sides. This site offers a diverse range of marine life, including pinnacles, dramatic rock formations, trevallies, jacks, and a resident turtle. As you ascend to shallower depths, you will encounter beautiful fire corals and schools of reef fish. In addition to its underwater wonders, Ras Abu Galum also provides a unique camping adventure. Accessible only by boat or camel, this site offers original Bedouin huts, stargazing dinners, and breakfast, making it a perfect destination for adventure lovers.

South Ras Abu Galum

"The Temple dive site, located in the bay of Temple, is a mooring dive with a flat bottom ranging from 10-18 meters. The dive begins at the front of the looming pinnacles, resembling an underwater Temple. Start by descending down the left side where a feisty clown fish resides, then follow the sandy path to a deeper pinnacle with a top depth of 12 meters and a bottom depth of 18 meters. Mild currents typically hit the left side of the pinnacle, which is abundant with soft corals, pipe fish, and glassfish. Continuing along the pinnacle to the right, another large pinnacle awaits, featuring a fun swim through at 18 meters that emerges vertically at 14 meters. From there, head towards the main pinnacle and search for an Amphora that originated from the wreck at Amphora's Dive sites. The main pinnacle also offers an exciting swim through due to a crack caused by the 1995 earthquake in Sharm El Sheikh. 

In addition to the pinnacles, the Temple dive site is characterized by a huge coral pillar at the center of the Ras Umm Sid bay, with the reef wall dropping to 15 meters. Exploring the various pinnacles is highly recommended, as they provide opportunities to spot octopus. However, it is important to be cautious and use a compass to avoid getting lost in the otherwise featureless rest of the site. Night dives at this location offer the chance to witness Spanish Dancers, free swimming Moray Eels, and other incredible marine life."

Temple

The Alternatives dive site, also known as Saba Erg or Stingray Station, is located on the southern edge of Sha’ab el-Utah. It consists of outcropping coral pinnacles that extend east-west for about 1.5 miles, flanking a large sandy lagoon with an average depth of ten meters. This site is well sheltered, allowing for alternative dives when conditions in the open sea are unfavorable. The classic dive at Alternatives goes around the two middle pinnacles, which are in line with a fixed mooring. Tidal currents greatly influence visibility at this site, with poor visibility occurring when the current comes from the south, especially if accompanied by wind and waves. However, when the sea is calm and the current is either lacking or coming from the north, Alternatives is teeming with fauna. Divers can expect to see numerous coral genera, large groupers (Epinephelus malabaricus, E. tauvina), Bluespotted stingrays (Taeniura lymma), squids, nudibranchs, and even Leopard sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum). About 1.7 miles to the west of Stingray Station, there is a single, large circular tower known as Lonely Mushroom. This site is ideal for short yet interesting dives, particularly for macro-photography enthusiasts, as it is home to nudibranchs and shrimps hiding among the numerous soft and small hard corals. The Alternatives dive site offers a safe stay and an abundance of marine life, especially groupers and various coral genera. However, it is recommended to avoid diving in rough sea conditions with poor visibility. Night diving is only possible in optimal conditions, and it is advisable to bring two torches.

The Alternatives

"The Bluff Point dive site, located near the small island of Gubal, north of Hurghada, is famous for its wreck known as Gubal Barge or the Bluff Point wreck. The history of the wreck is unknown, but it sank in 1973 during the Arab-Israeli War. The wreck itself consists of fragments of the hull partially covered with dark, grainy sand. While daytime diving is not too interesting, night diving offers wonderful opportunities to see a variety of marine creatures that have made the wreck their home. Cuttlefish, octopi, and an abundance of shrimp can be easily spotted at night. The dive site is densely covered with shoals of reef fish, and larger fish can be observed hunting their prey around the remains of the barge. Marine life at this dive site includes nudibranchs, shrimp, lionfish, scorpionfish, crocodilefish, moray eels, lobsters, octopi, dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks.

Bluff Point can get very busy as it is an ideal place to wait to cross the Straights. However, if divers are interested in more adventurous dives, they can ask their guide about diving Big Gubal Island, located about 10 minutes boat ride to the southwest of Bluff Point. Another alternative is the wreck of the Ulysses, located around the southeast tip of Bluff Point, which requires a boat tender. It is important to note that diving the Ulysses requires calm weather due to the strong north to south current in the area. The Ulysses is a nice dive with visible boilers and starts just below the surface, sloping down to around 15m. Bluff Point can also be used as an overnight stay point before heading around to the other side of Big Gubal and the S.S Rosalie Muller."

The Barge at Bluff point

The Dahab Canyon is a must-visit dive site for cave and cavern diving enthusiasts. This classic canyon is a remarkable phenomenon, reaching heights of up to 10 meters and appearing closed at the top. It winds its way up from the depths and opens up into a large coral dome teeming with glassfish. Access to the Canyon is convenient, with an easy entry and exit point through a shallow, sandy lagoon. Beyond the lagoon, you'll encounter stunning coral gardens inhabited by a variety of marine life including Butterflyfishes, Unicornfishes, Octopus, Pufferfish, and Red Sea Anthias. Multiple visits are necessary to fully explore this area. The Canyon itself is located about five minutes northeast of the lagoon exit. Entry into the Canyon is through its largest point at approximately 20 meters. Progressing through the Canyon is effortless, and the interplay of sunlight creates a fantastic light effect. Additionally, the Canyon dive site is situated on the route to the Blue Hole, making it a popular choice for divers heading there. The journey to the Canyon involves a short swim through the sandy lagoon. Exiting the lagoon and encountering the subsequent pinnacles is a breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe. Between depths of 5-20 meters, you'll discover a stunning coral garden before reaching the actual Canyon, which is a split in the reef descending to 54 meters. This dive offers the opportunity to witness an abundance of Octopus and showcases both soft and hard corals, making it truly remarkable.

The Canyon

Caves is the most southern dive site of Dahab accessible by car. It is a beautiful but dramatic dive site that can only be dived in calm conditions. The name Caves is not immediately appropriate as it refers to large coral formations that in some places form huge canopies of soft corals, sponges, and black corals. The entry to the Caves is a giant stride off the ledge and into the deep blue. The overhangs are located directly below the entry point. The sandy bottoms and reefs around the overhangs are equally beautiful. Diving at Caves is only possible in calm conditions, as jumping off the ledge can be quite tricky when there are waves crashing on the shore. Bring a dive lamp for the best experience. The reef that circles the cave is just as attractive as the cave itself, with both soft and hard corals being abundant. Large groupers, scorpionfish, and morays are often spotted, and a tiger shark has been seen on a number of occasions. Enter the cave and swim to the back, then turn and watch the light shine through the swarms of anthias and bannerfish swimming upside down on the ceiling of the cave, a perfect spot for your safety stop!

The Caves

The Islands dive site is a favorite among guides and guests alike, showcasing the stunning coral formations of the Red Sea. Three giant pinnacles have grown together over time, creating a playground of valleys and lagoons filled with a diverse range of reef fish. One of the lagoons is home to thousands of juvenile barracuda, with trevally and large snapper always present. An earthquake 10 years ago caused sections of the reef to collapse, exposing holes and cracks that are now rapidly filling up with renewed coral growth. This dive site is accessible to all certification levels and offers a maximum depth of 20m. Stingrays, Napoleons, Picasso Triggerfish, schooling Barracudas, Crocodile fish, Eagle Rays, and Turtles can be spotted here. The interesting rock pinnacles are teeming with Glassfish, Anemonefish, Angelfish, and Lionfish. For those with good air consumption, there is a third island that can be visited at a deeper depth. Photographers and videographers will find this dive site perfect for capturing the vibrant colors and diverse marine life.

The Islands

"The SS Thistlegorm is one of the most famous wrecks in Egypt. It sank on October 6, 1941 after being bombed by two German Heinkel HE 111 bombers. The ship was a steamship with a freight of war material, weighing 9009 tons. It had a length of 126.50m and a width of 17.70m. The shallowest point of the wreck is 16m, while the deepest point is 31m, with an average depth of 7.45m. The engine of the ship was a 3 cylinder steam engine with two cylinders. It was built by J. L. Thompson and belonged to the Albyn Line shipping company.

The Thistlegorm was carrying locomotives for an Egyptian train company, as well as military vehicles and munitions for the Allied forces stationed in Egypt. It never made it to the Suez Canal, as it was mistaken for a troop carrier and bombed by the Luftwaffe. The ship sank due to a combination of the German bombs and the ignition of its own ammunition. Most of the cargo, including trucks, guns, motorcycles, and other military goods, remains inside the ship's holds. Two locomotives lie on either side of the shipwreck.

Jacques Cousteau rediscovered the Thistlegorm as a dive site in the 1950s, and it became world-famous during the diving boom in the 1990s. The wreck is split in two, making it easy to view the cargo without wreck penetration. The site is a dream for wreck divers, and it also offers opportunities to see eels, barracuda, batfish, and the occasional turtle. Many Egypt liveaboards include dives on the Thistlegorm as part of their Northern Red Sea itineraries.

Warnings: There is a chance of collapsing in some areas of the wreck."

Thistlegorm

Thomas Reef is a popular dive site located in Sharm El Sheikh, suitable for advanced divers. This site offers a unique underwater experience with its diverse marine life and stunning coral formations. The reef is known for its strong currents, making it an exciting and challenging dive. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species, including colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks. The visibility at Thomas Reef is generally good, allowing divers to fully appreciate the vibrant coral gardens and underwater landscapes. Overall, Thomas Reef is a must-visit dive site for experienced divers looking for an exhilarating and visually captivating underwater adventure.

Thomas Reef

Three Pools dive site in Sharm El Sheikh is a popular spot for divers of all levels. It offers a unique underwater landscape with three interconnected pools, each with its own distinct features. The first pool is shallow and sandy, perfect for beginners to practice their skills and observe marine life such as clownfish and butterflyfish. The second pool is deeper and has a beautiful coral garden, teeming with colorful reef fish and vibrant corals. The third pool is the deepest and has a dramatic drop-off, providing an exciting opportunity for advanced divers to explore the depths and encounter larger marine species like barracudas and reef sharks. Overall, Three Pools is a versatile dive site that caters to divers of different experience levels, offering a variety of underwater attractions to discover.

Three Pools

The Tower dive site in Sharm El Sheikh is an advanced diving location. It offers a unique and thrilling experience for experienced divers. The site is known for its impressive tower-like coral formations that descend into the depths of the Red Sea. Divers can explore the intricate coral structures and encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, moray eels, and even the occasional shark. The Tower dive site is a must-visit for advanced divers seeking an exciting and unforgettable underwater adventure.

Tower

"A shallow channel leads in a westerly direction from the mooring to the pinnacles that are the main attractions here. Northwest of the channel there is a mainly flat sandy bottom that is scattered with random coral blocks. If you continue to head north, you will reach a beautiful erg perforated by cavities and overhangs. Closer to the mooring, on the south side of the main reef the corals are not in such a good condition. A stonefish encounter makes the safety stop here worthwhile. Another option is to drift all the way to the neighbouring Banana Reef but this requires good air consumption and navigation skills.

The pinnacles are full of soft corals and the sandy bottom is inhabited by numerous gobies living in symbiosis with shrimps. Crocodilefish lure under table corals together with moses sole. Eagle rays are quite common here, as are feather tailed rays. Turtles are known to feed in the soft corals spread over the sea floor so keep an eye out for them in the blue."

Turft El Shahed

Turtle Bay is a popular dive site located in Sharm El Sheikh. It is also accessible for Open Water divers. This site is known for its abundant marine life, including turtles, which gives it its name. Divers can explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of fish species. The site offers a mix of shallow and deeper areas, making it suitable for divers of different experience levels. With its clear waters and excellent visibility, Turtle Bay provides a memorable diving experience for all.

Turtle Bay

Turtle Reef is a popular dive site located in Hurghada, Egypt. It is also known as Open Water. This site is known for its abundant marine life and beautiful coral formations. Divers can expect to see a variety of fish species, including turtles, as well as colorful coral gardens. The water visibility at Turtle Reef is generally good, allowing for excellent underwater exploration. This dive site is suitable for divers of all levels, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced divers.

Turtle Reef

The island of Umm Gamar is located in front of Hurghada and is also another popular diving destination.
Beginner divers can try the shallow plateau located at the southern tip of the island, while the other areas like the east and west side are suitable for divers on advanced levels due to currents and drifts. At the south side of Umm Gamar, the moorings are attached to a shallow plateau. This is perfect for those who would like to descend with assistance.
Many magnificent coral gardens are present on both sides of the island, the walls also offer great cave opportunities to divers. 

At Umm Gamar, you can also find three pinnacles which are full of marine life.
The depth of this dive site varies between 10 – 40 meters and depends on your dive plan and certifications.
It offers a unique diving experience with its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life. Divers can explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter a variety of marine species, including reef sharks, turtles, and schools of colorful fish.
Umm Gamar North is a must-visit dive site for those seeking an exhilarating and unforgettable diving adventure in Hurghada.

Umm Gamar North

Umm Gamar South is a popular dive site located in Hurghada. It is also accessible for Open Water divers. This site offers a variety of marine life and beautiful coral formations. Divers can expect to see schools of colorful fish, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish. The coral reefs are in excellent condition, providing a stunning backdrop for underwater exploration. Umm Gamar South is known for its clear visibility and calm waters, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels.