Scuba Diving in Egypt -

Scuba Diving in Egypt

An Unforgettable Red Sea Dive Adventure

By Wael Bakr

The ‘Land of the Pharaohs’ isn’t just about pyramids and ancient artifacts. Egypt, with its sparkling Red Sea and azure Mediterranean waters, is a paradise for underwater explorers. Boasting over 1,800 miles of coastline, this country is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and fascinating shipwrecks. With affordable prices and top-notch diving facilities, Scuba Diving in Egypt is a must-try experience for every diving enthusiast.

A Dive into History: Egypt’s Underwater Legacy

Scuba diving in Egypt has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Pioneers like Hans and Lotte Hass, and Jacques-Yves Cousteau, brought the underwater wonders of Egypt to global attention. Since then, Egypt has become a premier destination for scuba divers worldwide.

The Red Sea, with its high salinity and minimal rainfall, hosts a remarkable biodiversity. Over 1,200 species of fish and more than 200 species of corals call these waters home. Some marine species found here are endemic, making scuba diving in Egypt a truly unique experience.

Clownfish in the Red Sea. Amazing picture by Rafa Cosme.

Dive Destinations in Egypt: An Overview

Egypt offers a multitude of diving sites, each with a distinct underwater environment. From the shipwreck-strewn waters of Alexandria to the shark-infested reefs of the Brothers Islands, here are some of the top diving destinations in Egypt.

Alexandria: An Underwater Museum

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria offers history enthusiasts an exciting challenge. The city’s waters are home to ancient ruins, including Cleopatra’s palace and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. However, this isn’t the place for colorful corals and fish. For that, take a day trip to Omu Sukan, where you’ll find vibrant corals teeming with marine life.

Dahab: A Diver’s Paradise

Dahab, a laid-back village on the Red Sea coast, offers a range of diving experiences. The Blue Hole, a 100-meter deep sinkhole, provides exhilarating technical dives. The nearby Canyon, a deep rocky crevice, houses spectacular reefs and a plethora of marine life.

Sharm el-Sheikh: The Heart of Red Sea Diving

Sharm el-Sheikh, with its variety of dive resorts, is a favorite among divers. The national park of Ras Mohammed offers some of the best diving in the region. The Straits of Tiran provide fast drift dives along vast coral walls, and the SS Thistlegorm wreck is a challenging but rewarding dive.

Hurghada: A Diver’s Mecca

The largest resort on the Red Sea, Hurghada, offers dive sites catering to all skill levels. From shallow, sheltered reefs perfect for beginners to the impressive wrecks at El Gouna and Sha’ab Abu Nuhas for advanced divers, Hurghada has it all.

Marsa Alam: A Tranquil Retreat

Away from the crowds of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, Marsa Alam offers fantastic shore diving. You can explore colorful reefs and large schools of fish without spending hours on a boat. Don’t miss a chance to dive with the resident population of dugongs at Marsa Abu Dabab.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.

Scuba Diving in the Red Sea: A Closer Look

The Red Sea, an underwater paradise, is home to a multitude of dive sites. The crystal-clear waters, teeming with marine life and vibrant corals, make it a favorite among divers.

Elphinstone Reef, Marsa Alam

Elphinstone Reef is a world-renowned dive site. Home to various marine life including reef sharks, turtles, and barracudas, the reef offers divers a chance to explore stunning coral gardens and experience thrilling drift dives.

The Brothers Islands, Hurghada

Big Brother and Little Brother, two island reefs located off the coast of Hurghada, are among the best dive sites in the Red Sea. For those prepared to brave the ever-changing conditions, the results are spectacular, especially for lovers of big fish.

Dahab’s Blue Hole

The Blue Hole in Dahab is a favorite with technical divers and freedivers. This underwater sinkhole offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter a wide range of marine life.

Hurghada’s Giftun Islands

The Giftun Islands, located off the coast of Hurghada, offer stunning coral formations, dramatic drop-offs, and interesting caves for experienced divers. Here, you’ll encounter a variety of marine life, including barracuda, tuna, and napoleon wrasse.

Sharm el-Sheikh’s Ras Mohammed National Park

Ras Mohammed National Park, located near Sharm el-Sheikh, is home to some of the most spectacular dive sites in the region. From striking corals teeming with marine life to interesting underwater topography, this national park is a must-visit for every diver.

Dahab’s Blue Hole. Amazing picture by Cezary Abramowski.

Wreck Diving in Egypt: An Underwater Journey Through Time

Egypt’s underwater world is not just about colorful reefs and marine life. The country’s waters are also home to numerous shipwrecks, offering divers a unique glimpse into the past. Here are some notable wrecks that you can explore while scuba diving in Egypt.

SS Thistlegorm, Sharm el-Sheikh

The SS Thistlegorm is a British transport ship that sank in 1941. Today, it is one of the most famous wreck dives in the world. Inside the wreck, divers can discover rows of Norton motorbikes, cars, and even a locomotive.

The Salem Express, Safaga

The Salem Express is one of the most tragic shipwrecks in the Red Sea. This passenger ferry sank in 1991, resulting in the loss of an estimated 470 lives. Today, the wreck is a somber dive site, with the hull now encrusted in coral.

The Giannis D, Abu Nuhas

The Giannis D, a Greek freighter that sank in 1983, is one of the most popular wreck dives in the Red Sea. Divers can explore the intact ship and its cargo, which is now home to a variety of marine life.

Motorbike on Thistlegorm wreck.

Marine Life in Egypt: A Diver’s Dream

Egypt’s waters are home to a rich diversity of marine life. From colorful reef fish to majestic manta rays, there’s something for everyone. Divers can spot dolphins, turtles, hammerhead sharks, and even the rare dugong.

The Red Sea is home to over 1,200 species of fish and more than 200 species of corals. Several species, such as the Red Sea Anemonefish and the Egyptian Butterfly Fish, are endemic to these waters, making scuba diving in Egypt a truly unique experience.

The Best Time to Dive in Egypt

While scuba diving in Egypt can be enjoyed all year round, the best time to visit is from late July to early December. During these months, the water temperature rises to over 30°C, offering comfortable diving conditions.

Dolphins in the Red Sea.

Safety Considerations for Scuba Diving in Egypt

Safety is paramount when it comes to scuba diving. All dive centers in Egypt are overseen by the Egyptian Chamber of Diving and Watersports. They must conform to international standards and have access to recompression chambers and hyperbaric doctors.

Before embarking on your diving adventure, make sure you have the necessary training and equipment. Remember, diving should always be conducted safely and responsibly.

Conclusion

Egypt, with its spectacular underwater environments and affordable diving facilities, is a dream destination for every diver. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant coral reefs, diving into history with the shipwrecks, or swimming alongside the diverse marine life, scuba diving in Egypt promises an unforgettable adventure.

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