The Top 10 Dive Sites In Sharm El Sheikh

Exploring The Depths The Top 10 Dives Sites In Sharm El Sheikh

Diving in Sharm El Sheikh with Circle Divers there is no shortage of underwater marine life for you to see at many varied dive sites.

Sharm el Sheikh, situated on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, Sharm el Sheikh offers a surreal underwater experience

There are currently 26 dive sites listed around Sharm El-Sheikh, of which 24 are Reef dives, 16 are Drift dives and 14 are Wall dives.

1. Ras Mohammed National Park: The Jewel of Sharm el Sheikh

At the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula lies Ras Mohammed National Park, a marine reserve teeming with life. The park boasts some of the most famous dive sites in the world, such as Shark and Yolanda Reef. Divers can encounter a breathtaking array of marine life, including schools of barracuda, Napoleon wrasse, and even the occasional shark.
2. Straits of Tiran
The 16-km-wide Straits of Tiran separate the Gulf of Aqaba from the Red Sea and boast four spectacular reefs; Jackson Reef, Woodhouse Reef, Thomas Reef and Gordon Reef. With an impressive amount of hard and soft corals as well as marine life, there’s plenty to feast your eyes on in this well-known divers’ paradise. Just keep in mind that due to the deep canyons, vertical walls, and strong currents, this site is only suitable for experienced or technical divers.
3. Jackson Reef: An Oasis for Marine Life
Positioned in the Strait of Tiran, Jackson Reef is celebrated for its stunning coral gardens and diverse marine inhabitants. This site is known for encounters with large pelagic species, including barracuda, tuna, and the occasional hammerhead shark. The captivating landscape, with its towering coral formations and colourful fish, makes Jackson Reef a must-visit for both novice and experienced divers.
4. Thistlegorm: A Sunken Time Capsule
The SS Thistlegorm, a British cargo ship sunk during World War II, rests on the seabed near Sharm el Sheikh. Diving this historic wreck provides a glimpse into the past, with well-preserved artifacts such as motorcycles, trucks, and war supplies. Schools of fish now inhabit the ship's corridors, creating a surreal underwater museum. Exploring the Thistlegorm is like traveling back in time, making it one of the most captivating dive sites in the region.
5. Shark and Yolanda Reefs: A Dynamic Duo
Shark and Yolanda Reefs, often combined into a single dive, offer an abundance of marine life and underwater scenery. From schools of anthias to the iconic shark sightings, this dive site is a kaleidoscope of colours and marine diversity. The Yolanda wreck, with its cargo of toilets and sinks, adds a quirky element to the experience. Divers can explore the vibrant coral gardens, encounter pelagic species, and witness the intriguing artifacts scattered around the Yolanda wreck.
6. Ras Umm Sid: A Coral Paradise
Ras Umm Sid is a prime location for divers seeking stunning coral formations and vibrant marine life. This shallow reef is perfect for all levels of divers, offering a chance to witness the beauty of hard and soft corals, along with an array of reef fish. The gentle currents and clear waters make Ras Umm Sid an ideal spot for underwater photography, allowing divers to capture the essence of Sharm el Sheikh's underwater wonders.
7. Ras Nasrani: A Hidden Gem
Often overshadowed by more famous dive sites, Ras Nasrani is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its sloping coral walls and vibrant marine life, this site offers a peaceful and less crowded diving experience. Divers can encounter schools of fusilier fish, moray eels, and the occasional turtle. The varied topography, including coral gardens and sandy patches, adds to the allure of Ras Nasrani.
8. White Knight: A Macro Photographer's Dream
For those fascinated by the world of macro photography, White Knight is a paradise of tiny wonders. This dive site is known for its diverse macro marine life, including nudibranchs, seahorses, and pipefish. The coral formations at White Knight provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the intricate details of these fascinating creatures. This site is a favorite among underwater photographers seeking to capture the smaller, often overlooked, inhabitants of the Red Sea.
9. Temple: A Deep Dive into History
Aptly named for its pyramid-shaped coral formations, Temple is a unique dive site that combines natural beauty with historical intrigue. The site features towering coral pinnacles resembling ancient ruins, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Divers can navigate through the underwater "temple," encountering a variety of marine life along the way. The Temple offers a blend of geological wonders and captivating marine ecosystems, making it a standout dive site in Sharm el Sheikh.
10. Far Garden: A Haven for Soft Coral Lovers
Far Garden, part of the Ras Mohammed National Park, is celebrated for its lush soft coral gardens. The vibrant colors and delicate textures of the soft corals create a mesmerizing underwater landscape. Divers can drift along the reef walls, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of marine life. The gentle currents and excellent visibility make Far Garden a haven for those who appreciate the beauty and tranquility of soft coral-rich environments.