Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam, a serene town on Egypt's Red Sea coast, offers a more tranquil diving experience compared to its northern counterparts. It is renowned for its remarkably pristine reefs and exceptional marine megafauna encounters. The area's main draw is its high chance of spotting resident dugongs grazing in sheltered bays and playful spinner dolphins at offshore reefs. This combination of healthy coral gardens, dramatic drop-offs, and iconic wildlife makes it a premier destination for underwater enthusiasts seeking unspoiled beauty and unique encounters.

Diving conditions in Marsa Alam are favorable year-round, with water temperatures ranging from cool in winter to very warm in summer, and visibility consistently exceeding 25 meters. The region caters to all divers, from beginners exploring calm, shallow bays to advanced divers tackling the thrilling currents of world-famous sites like Elphinstone Reef. Divers should visit Marsa Alam to experience the Red Sea at its most wild and vibrant, exploring a diverse underwater landscape that promises unforgettable adventures away from the crowds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
Elphinstone Reef is the most famous dive site in Marsa Alam, Egypt. It is a legendary offshore reef known for its sheer walls covered in vibrant soft corals and strong currents. This site attracts advanced divers seeking thrilling drift dives and encounters with pelagic species, most notably oceanic whitetip sharks in the autumn and occasional hammerheads during the summer months.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
Well-known sites include Abu Dabbab for its resident dugongs and giant green turtles, and Dolphin House (Sha'ab Samadai) for snorkeling with spinner dolphins. For less crowded experiences, the Fury Shoals in the south offer pristine, labyrinthine reef systems and stunning hard coral gardens suitable for all levels. Marsa Mubarak is another excellent, quieter alternative for seeking out dugongs and turtles.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
Water temperatures in Marsa Alam, Egypt vary seasonally. In winter (December-February), expect cooler temperatures around 22-25°C (72-77°F). Spring and autumn are warmer, from 26-29°C (79-84°F). The summer months (June-August) are the warmest, with water temperatures reaching 29-31°C (84-88°F), making it comfortable for diving in a thinner wetsuit.
When is the best time to visit Marsa Alam, Egypt?
Diving in Marsa Alam, Egypt is excellent year-round. The best overall periods are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), offering a great balance of warm water and pleasant surface temperatures. Summer is hottest but offers the best chance for hammerhead sightings. Autumn (October-December) is peak season for encountering oceanic whitetip sharks at offshore reefs.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
Visibility in Marsa Alam, Egypt is generally fantastic, typically ranging from 20 to 40 meters (65-130 feet) throughout the year. It provides crystal-clear views of the stunning reefs and marine life. Plankton blooms can occur in late spring or summer, slightly reducing visibility but attracting larger filter feeders like manta rays and whale sharks.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
Yes, Marsa Alam, Egypt has distinct marine life seasons. Oceanic whitetip sharks congregate at offshore reefs like Elphinstone from October to December. Hammerheads are more frequently seen in the summer (June-September). Whale sharks and manta rays, while not guaranteed, are most likely to appear during the plankton-rich months of May through July.
What marine life can I expect to see in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
The marine life in Marsa Alam, Egypt is rich and diverse. You can expect regular sightings of dugongs, spinner dolphins, and several species of sea turtles. Reefs are home to Napoleon wrasse, moray eels, crocodilefish, and schools of bannerfish. Pelagic encounters include oceanic whitetip sharks, hammerheads, barracuda, and tuna, especially at offshore sites.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
In the summer (June-August), a 3mm shorty or full suit is sufficient. For the transitional seasons of spring and autumn, a 5mm full suit is recommended for comfort on multiple dives. During the cooler winter months (December-February), a 5mm or 7mm full wetsuit, possibly with a hood, is advisable to stay warm in the cooler water.
How do I get to Marsa Alam, Egypt?
The easiest way to reach Marsa Alam, Egypt is by flying into Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF), which serves many charter and scheduled flights from Europe and the Middle East. Alternatively, you can fly to Hurghada (HRG) and take a 3-4 hour transfer south. Most dive resorts and liveaboards provide pre-booked airport transfers.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Marsa Alam, Egypt?
This depends on your goals. Shore-based resorts in Marsa Alam, Egypt offer excellent access to famous local sites like Abu Dabbab and house reefs. For divers wanting to explore remote, top-tier sites like The Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and St. Johns, a liveaboard is the best and often only option, maximizing time with pelagic species.
All Dive Sites in Marsa Alam (8)
DaedalusElphinstone ReefMarsa MubarakMarsa Shagra House ReefRas El Torfa Abu SiyalShaab Marsa AlamShoab SharmSoug Bohar Nord