Sharm El Sheikh, located on the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, is one of the most sought-after diving destinations in the world. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, it attracts divers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm waters or an experienced diver seeking dramatic shipwrecks and walls, Sharm El Sheikh offers something for everyone. As a top Place to Dive in Sharm El Sheikh, it boasts an array of dive sites, from shallow reefs teeming with colorful fish to deep, challenging wrecks. Its excellent diving infrastructure and warm climate make it a year-round paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
History of Diving in Sharm El Sheikh
Diving in Sharm El Sheikh began gaining traction in the 1960s when its underwater treasures were first explored. By the 1970s, the region became popular among international divers, thanks to its pristine reefs and marine biodiversity. Over the decades, Sharm El Sheikh has developed into a world-class diving hub, offering facilities, liveaboards, and certified dive centers to accommodate the growing demand.
Today, it is celebrated as a historical diving site in the Red Sea, with locations like the SS Thistlegorm Wreck and Ras Mohammed National Park standing out as must-visit spots.
Top Tours To Book on Sharm El Sheikh
What to Expect When Diving in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh offers an unforgettable diving experience with:
- Abundant Marine Life: Expect encounters with reef fish, turtles, rays, and even sharks.
- Calm Waters: Ideal conditions for beginners and underwater photographers.
- Varied Dive Sites: Explore coral gardens, dramatic walls, and historical wrecks.
- Excellent Visibility: With visibility reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet), divers can enjoy panoramic views of underwater wonders.
Diving Essentials: Conditions and Safety
Water Temperature and Visibility
| Month | Water Temperature | Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| March – May | 22-25°C (72-77°F) | 25-30 meters (82-100ft) |
| June – August | 24-28°C (75-82°F) | 20-30 meters (66-100ft) |
| September-November | 23-26°C (73-79°F) | 25-30 meters (82-100ft) |
| December – February | 20-22°C (68-72°F) | 20-25 meters (66-82ft) |
Sharm El Sheikh offers year-round diving, with the summer months (June to August) being the warmest and most vibrant.
Safety Precautions
- Always dive with a certified operator and adhere to safety guidelines.
- Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures, including the location of hyperbaric chambers.
- Maintain proper buoyancy to protect yourself and the coral reefs.
Best Time to Dive in Sharm El Sheikh
The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh for diving is between March and November, when the weather is warm, and the water conditions are at their peak. While diving is possible year-round, winter months may require thicker wetsuits due to cooler temperatures.
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| March – May | Warm waters, calm seas, high visibility |
| June – August | Peak season for marine life and corals |
| September-November | Great conditions, fewer crowds |
| December – February | Cooler waters but still excellent diving |
Top Dive Sites in Sharm El Sheikh
1. Ras Mohammed National Park
Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Ras Mohammed National Park is renowned for its breathtaking coral gardens and diverse marine life. This protected area offers vibrant reefs, steep walls, and thriving marine ecosystems.
Key Highlights:
- Coral Formations: Brain coral, fan coral, and soft corals.
- Marine Life: Reef sharks, groupers, snappers, and barracudas.
- Drift Diving: Experience exhilarating currents along vertical walls.
2. SS Thistlegorm Wreck
The SS Thistlegorm is one of the most famous wreck dives in the world. This British cargo ship sank during WWII in 1941 and now rests at a depth of 30 meters.
Why Dive the SS Thistlegorm?
- Explore preserved artifacts, including motorcycles, trucks, and railway cars.
- Encounter marine species such as batfish, trevallies, and groupers.
- Ideal for advanced divers due to its depth and strong currents.
3. The Straits of Tiran
Situated at the entrance of the Gulf of Aqaba, the Straits of Tiran offer dramatic underwater landscapes and exciting drift dives.
| Reef | Features |
| Jackson Reef | Strong currents, hammerhead sharks |
| Thomas Reef | Stunning walls, colorful corals |
| Woodhouse Reef | Large pelagic species |
4. Ras Um Sid
Perfect for divers of all levels, Ras Um Sid features a stunning wall adorned with soft corals and an abundance of reef fish. Its accessibility and calm waters make it ideal for beginners and snorkelers.
Dive Operators and Liveaboards in Sharm El Sheikh
Top Dive Centers and Liveaboards
| Dive Operator | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Sheikh Coast Dive Center | PADI-certified, beginner-friendly |
| Emperor Divers | Experienced guides, top safety record |
| Circle Divers | Small group dives, personalized trips |
| Eagle Divers | Affordable packages, well-maintained gear |
What to Look for in a Dive Center
- Certification: Ensure the center is affiliated with PADI, SSI, or NAUI.
- Safety Standards: Check reviews for safety records.
- Equipment Quality: Modern, well-maintained gear is essential.
- Instructors: Look for experienced, multilingual guides.
Planning Your Dive Trip
How to Get to Sharm El Sheikh
- By Air: Fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport.
- By Road: Take buses or taxis from major cities like Cairo.
Accommodation Options
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Luxury Resorts | Four Seasons, Rixos Premium |
| Mid-Range | Hilton Sharks Bay, Maritim Jolie Ville |
| Budget | Naama Inn, Sharm Cliff Hotel |
Tips for a Successful Dive Trip
- Plan Ahead: Book dive centers and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack Smart: Bring appropriate dive gear, certifications, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration in the warm climate.
Snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh
For non-divers, snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh offers an equally breathtaking experience. Popular snorkeling spots include Ras Mohammed, Tiran Island, and Ras Um Sid.
Tips for Snorkeling:
- Always wear a life jacket and fins for safety.
- Avoid stepping on or touching coral reefs.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Best Snorkeling Sites
| Site | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ras Mohammed | Coral gardens, shallow reefs |
| Tiran Island | Clear waters, abundant marine species |
| Naama Bay | Beginner-friendly, easy access |
Reviews and Testimonials
Divers rave about Sharm El Sheikh’s dive sites on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews. Common praises include excellent visibility, vibrant marine life, and professional dive operators.
What Divers Say
- “The SS Thistlegorm wreck is a must-see for history buffs and marine enthusiasts.”
- “Ras Mohammed National Park offers some of the best coral formations I’ve ever seen.”
- “The dive guides were professional, and the liveaboard experience was unforgettable.”
Conclusion
Sharm El Sheikh is a true diver’s paradise, offering some of the best diving experiences in the Red Sea. From iconic wrecks like the SS Thistlegorm to stunning reefs in Ras Mohammed National Park, this destination is a must-visit for any diving enthusiast.
Start planning your diving adventure today and explore the underwater wonders of Sharm El Sheikh!
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