The
Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba offers some of the greatest
places for diving, Egypt reef places to dive and snorkeling in the world. There are several
resorts for diving here, Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada are
the most famous. Dahab is a third strong candidate, together
with several smaller resorts.
Its mineral-rich
red mountain ranges inspired the mariners of antiquity to
name the sea Mare Rostrum, or the Red Sea. Egypt's Red Sea
coast runs from the Gulf of Suez to the Sudanese border. Crack
in the Earth's surface makes for an extremely deep sea, reaching
nearly 3000 m. The RedSea rich in sea life with around 1000
species of fish, crabs, sponges and 150 species of coral,
which makes it an ultimate destination for divers. The Brothers,
or El Akhawein, are two small islands in the middle of the
Red Sea.
Many travellers come to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba in order
to learn open-water diving and gain an international diving
certificate, like PADI, BSAC or CMAS. The common belief that
you will save a lot of money is questionable. Courses will
cost between US$350 and 500 (€280 and 400), while the
going rate in Norway is between US$320 and 360. Both resulting
in the same certificate. So check ahead and save money in
Egypt.
Tourists are GUARANTEED fantastic experiences. Water temperatures range from around 15 oC in January, to around 29 oC in September. The winds are often weakest during full moon and if you can stand the heat, the months of June, July and August are the calmest. Sharks increase in number from May. This is also an ideal place for SCUBA diving for beginners and experienced divers alike. The clear waters mean you can catch glimpses of this sea world and its fish or coral reefs from a few metres, or from a boat.
Tourists are GUARANTEED fantastic experiences. Water temperatures range from around 15 oC in January, to around 29 oC in September. The winds are often weakest during full moon and if you can stand the heat, the months of June, July and August are the calmest. Sharks increase in number from May. This is also an ideal place for SCUBA diving for beginners and experienced divers alike. The clear waters mean you can catch glimpses of this sea world and its fish or coral reefs from a few metres, or from a boat.
The Egyptian authorities have acted to protect the Brothers:
the islands are periodically closed to divers, and even
when open a $5 (US) fee per diver per day is charged
(the money going towards protecting the marine environment).
At the moment diving is allowed so go whilst you've
got the opportunity, it wont last.
Book a place on a liveaboard, generally out of Hurghada. You can make your way independently to Hurghada and join the boat there, or book a complete package from your own country. The trip from Hurghada to the Brothers takes around 8 hours. Well worth the time for a never to be forgotten experience.
Book a place on a liveaboard, generally out of Hurghada. You can make your way independently to Hurghada and join the boat there, or book a complete package from your own country. The trip from Hurghada to the Brothers takes around 8 hours. Well worth the time for a never to be forgotten experience.
Want to know more about Red Sea Diving, click here...