Best Sites For Scuba diving In Egypt
1. SS Thistlegorm Wreck
SS Thistlegorm is a famous diving site in Egypt located three hours from Sharm El Sheikh. The British transport ship was sunk on its journey from Glasgow to Alexandria and now lies on the bottom of the ocean as a 128-meter-long wreckage. This large vessel has become an artificial reef, attracting a wealth of marine life. Divers can explore the cargo, including armored cars, radios, rubber boots, and other things on board, when it sinks. The crocodile fish hiding in the sand around the wreckage is also worth looking out for.
- SS Thistlegorm Wreck site is suitable for advanced divers due to its depth and currents.
- It is recommended to have a dive guide to explore the shipwreck and avoid getting lost in the large cargo hold.
- It is essential to be aware of the possibility of entanglement in the wreck, especially when diving inside the ship.
- The visibility can vary, so check the weather conditions before diving
2. Daedalus Reef
Daedalus Reef, also known as Abu Kizan, is located 80km east of Marsa Alam and is considered one of the best dive sites in Egypt’s Red Sea. Its remote location ensures it remains protected from too many visitors and attracts much marine life of all sizes. Daedalus lies within a national marine park, and divers can expect to see hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and other aquatic species.
- This remote location makes it necessary to have proper planning and organization for the dive trip.
- There is a high chance of encountering pelagic marine life, including sharks, so be prepared for these encounters.
The dive site has strong currents, so being an experienced diver and having reasonable buoyancy control is essential. - The water temperature can vary, so please wear a wetsuit appropriate for the season.
3. Brothers Islands
The Brothers, also known as El Akhawein, are two uninhabited rocky islets in Egypt’s Red Sea and are regarded as the best diving location in the country. Big Brother is the larger island with a Victorian lighthouse, while Little Brother is just five minutes boat ride away. These steep-sided cones, probably made from volcanic action thousands of years ago, have become a haven for sharks, including hammerheads and oceanic whitetip sharks.
- The Brothers Islands are also known for their strong currents, so it is necessary to have experience and good diving skills.
- There is a high chance of encountering various shark species, including the elusive hammerhead shark, so be prepared for these encounters.
- The dive site has some challenging and technical dive spots, such as the Numidia wreck, so check your certification level before diving.
- Respect the marine park regulations and avoid damaging the delicate ecosystem.
4. Elphinstone Reef
Elphinstone Reef is famous for its challenging yet rewarding diving experiences. The site is known for its strong currents and unpredictable conditions, making it suitable for experienced divers only. Divers can expect to see various marine life, including schools of barracuda, reef sharks, and colorful coral gardens. The reef also features stunning underwater topography, including steep drop-offs, caves, and swim-throughs, making it an exciting dive site for adventurous divers.
- This dive site is known for its shark encounters, so be prepared and follow the guidance of your dive guide.
- The dive site has strong currents, so it is necessary to have good diving skills and be aware of the changes in the current direction.
- The reef has some deep dive spots, so you can check your certification level before diving.
- It is essential to respect marine life, and avoiding touching or damaging the corals is necessary.
5. Rocky Island
Rocky Island is a locally famous island known by scuba divers as one that offers among the best diving experiences in the Red Sea. It’s the southernmost offshore island in Egypt, lying 60-70 kilometers from the coast, and gets some shelter from Zabargad, located 6km to the northwest. Divers can expect to see many reef fish, sharks, and large pelagic species.
- The dive site has diverse marine life, including aquatic species, so watch for these encounters.
- There are some deep dive spots, so check your certification level before diving.
- It is necessary to respect marine life and avoid damaging the corals or disturbing the creatures.
- The visibility can vary, so check the weather conditions before diving.
6. Fury Shoals Reefs
Fury Shoals Reefs are a collection of diving sites located between Marsa Alam and Hamata. These include Satayah Reef, Sha’ab Malahi, Sha’ab Claudia, and Sha’ab Maksur. The Fury Shoals are famous for its spectacular coral gardens, swim-throughs, and marine life, including turtles and reef sharks.
- The dive sites in this area have diverse marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles, so keep an eye out for these encounters.
- The dive sites have some shallow and deep dive spots suitable for different levels of certification.
- The current can be strong, so it is necessary to be an experienced diver and have reasonable buoyancy control.
- Please look into the marine park regulations and avoid damaging the corals or disturbing the creatures.
In conclusion, Egypt’s Red Sea has many exceptional dive sites that offer unique and unforgettable experiences. From exploring shipwrecks to encountering sharks, there’s something for every diver. Make sure to add these dive sites to your bucket list and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving In Egypt
Yes, Egypt is an excellent place for diving, particularly the Red Sea. The Red Sea has crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning coral reefs, making it one of the best diving destinations in the world.
Yes, scuba diving in Egypt is safe for first-timers if you go with a reputable dive center or instructor. Egypt has many dive centers and instructors that can provide you with proper training and equipment to ensure your safety.
While a diving certificate is not legally required to scuba dive in Egypt, most dive centers need you to have at least an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent before allowing you to dive with them. Obtaining a diving certificate before diving in Egypt is recommended to ensure your safety and maximize your diving experience.
Egypt is famous for its ancient history, including the pyramids, temples, and tombs of the pharaohs. It is also known for the Nile River, the Red Sea, and its stunning coral reefs.
Yes, most dive centers in Egypt offer rental equipment. However, it is important to make sure the equipment is well-maintained and fits properly before diving.
Some dive sites in Egypt may have special requirements, such as being able to handle strong currents or diving at greater depths. Having the necessary training and experience is important before attempting these dives.
Yes, there are some restrictions on scuba diving in Egypt. For example, specific dive sites require a minimum level of certification or a certain number of logged dives. In addition, some dive sites may be closed during certain times of the year to protect marine life during breeding seasons.
Egypt Liveaboard is a reputable diving company that offers liveaboard diving trips in Egypt’s Red Sea. Our experienced dive instructors and guides can provide you with proper training and guidance to ensure your safety and help you make the most of your diving experience in Egypt.
