Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, nestled on the Sinai Peninsula, is a world-renowned diving mecca offering unparalleled access to the vibrant northern Red Sea. Its fame stems from legendary sites like the SS Thistlegorm wreck and the pristine coral walls of Ras Mohammed National Park. With over 30 dive sites, divers can explore a stunning variety of underwater landscapes, from sheer drop-offs and colorful coral gardens to historic shipwrecks teeming with marine life. This combination of rich biodiversity and iconic underwater landmarks makes Sharm a truly unique and unforgettable diving destination.

Diving conditions are exceptional year-round, with crystal-clear waters often providing visibility exceeding 30 meters (100 feet). While currents can be strong at certain sites, making them perfect for thrilling drift dives, there are plenty of sheltered spots suitable for all experience levels. Divers should visit Sharm El Sheikh for its incredible value, easy accessibility via its international airport, and the sheer density of world-class dive sites. Whether you're a novice looking for calm reefs or an advanced diver seeking deep wrecks, Sharm offers a complete and rewarding diving experience.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
The SS Thistlegorm wreck is arguably the most famous dive site in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. This WWII British supply ship is a massive, underwater museum filled with motorcycles, trucks, rifles, and ammunition. Its historical significance, impressive scale, and the rich marine life that now calls it home make it an iconic and unforgettable dive. Due to its depth, it's best suited for advanced divers.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
Well-known sites like Ras Mohammed's Shark and Yolanda Reefs offer incredible biodiversity. For less crowded but equally stunning dives in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, explore the Strait of Tiran's Jackson Reef for potential hammerhead sightings. Another hidden gem is the Dunraven wreck, an overturned Victorian steamship that is less visited than the Thistlegorm but offers a beautiful, coral-encrusted dive experience rich in glassfish.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
The water temperature when diving in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, varies seasonally. In the summer (June-September), it's a warm 28-30°C (82-86°F). During the winter months (December-February), it drops to a cooler 21-23°C (70-73°F). Spring and autumn offer a comfortable middle ground, typically ranging from 24-27°C (75-81°F), making it a year-round diving destination.
When is the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, for diving is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these periods, both air and water temperatures are pleasant, and you avoid the peak summer heat. However, summer offers the warmest water and the best chance to see whale sharks, while winter provides excellent visibility despite cooler temperatures. Diving is fantastic here year-round.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
Underwater visibility in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, is generally excellent throughout the year. Divers can typically expect visibility ranging from 20 to 40 meters (65 to 130 feet). The Red Sea is known for its clarity. While occasional plankton blooms in late spring can slightly reduce it, these blooms also attract larger pelagic species, creating exciting dive opportunities.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
Yes, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, has exciting seasonal marine encounters. The best chance to spot a majestic whale shark is during the late spring and summer months, from May to August, when plankton blooms attract them. Manta rays are also more commonly seen during this period. For shark enthusiasts, the summer months offer a higher probability of seeing hammerhead sharks in the deeper waters of the Strait of Tiran.
What marine life can I expect to see in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
The marine life in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, is incredibly diverse. Expect to see vibrant coral reefs teeming with anthias, clownfish, and butterflyfish. Larger species are common, including Napoleon wrasse, giant moray eels, barracuda, and various rays like blue-spotted and eagle rays. Turtles are frequently sighted, and lucky divers might encounter dolphins, reef sharks, or even whale sharks in season.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
For diving in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, a 3mm shorty or full suit is sufficient for the warm summer months (June-September). In the cooler winter (December-February), a 5mm or even a 7mm full suit is recommended for comfort, especially for multiple dives. For the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, a 5mm suit is a versatile and comfortable choice for most divers.
How do I get to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
To get to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, most international visitors fly directly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH). The airport is well-connected with major cities in Europe and the Middle East. From the airport, it's a short taxi or pre-arranged transfer to the main tourist areas like Na'ama Bay or your hotel/dive resort. Many dive centers offer airport pickup services.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt?
Both are excellent options in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Shore-based diving (day boats) is perfect for flexibility, shorter trips, and combining diving with other activities. Liveaboards are ideal for dedicated divers wanting to reach more remote sites, like the northern wrecks and reefs, and maximize bottom time with multiple dives per day. Your choice depends on your budget, time, and how much you want to dive.
All Dive Sites in Sharm El Sheikh (30)
Amphoras Dive SiteAnar Dive Center House ReefAnemone City Ras MohammedAnthias Divers House ReefCircle Divers House ReefDiving Vision House ReefEmperor Divers House ReefFar GardenGordon Reef Straits Of TiranJackfish Alley Ras MohammedMiddle GardenNear GardenParadiseRas GhamilaRas Ghazlani Ras MohammedRas KatyRas Muhammed National ParkRas NasraniRas Um SidRas Zaatar Ras MohammedRed Sea College House ReefShark Observatory Ras MohammedShark Yolanda Reef Ras MohammedSharks Bay House ReefSs Dunraven WreckSs ThistlegormTempleThomas Reef Straits Of TiranTowerWood House Straits Of Tiran