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Forget the Pyramids, the Mummies and the ancient history – Egypt’s world-class diving scene is the number one reason to head there on holiday. Visit the northern section of the Red Sea and you’ll discover a kaleidoscopic world of colourful fish, coral and stunning shipwrecks to explore. The famous site has also been named one of the ‘seven wonders of the underwater world’ thanks to its beauty and diverse marine life. Best of all, there are diving and snorkelling sites to suit every experience level, from beginner to expert, so no-one will miss out.
In case you need further convincing, here are the reasons why you can’t miss a diving trip to the Red Sea…
You won’t get bored of meeting marine life on your dives in Egypt. There are over 1,200 species of fish to see in the Red Sea, from eels and stingrays to puffer fish, angel fish and clown fish – basically, the entire cast of Finding Nemo. And that’s not all, octopus, hermit crabs, green turtles, spinner dolphins and sea cows also call this underwater paradise home. 10% of the fish species that dwell here can’t be found anywhere else in the world, so harness your inner David Attenborough and seek out some truly rare species.
Nope, it’s not just home to hundreds of fish and coral species – the Red Sea is an amazing underwater museum, too. You’ll explore some 19th- and 20th-century shipwrecks on your dive. These coral-covered wrecks are not only a spectacular sight, they each have their own historic stories attached to them. The SS Thistlegorm is a 1940s steamship which was sunk by German bomber planes during World War II, and can be found in the reefs near Sharm El Sheikh. There’s also the huge Salem Express ferry, which can be reached from Hurghada and the spectacular Giannis D wreck which is home to dolphins, reef sharks and parrotfish.
The Red Sea coral reefs are over 5,000 years old and span across 2,000km of coastline in intriguing patterns and shapes. Over 200 types of soft and hard coral populate the diving spots in the Red Sea. When you dive or snorkel down, you’ll see fish darting in and out of all types of sponges. Take an underwater camera on your trip to get some amazingly colourful Instagram snaps, too.
40% of the Red Sea is quite shallow, which means you don’t have to dive down seriously deep to experience the coral and marine life. And the water is so clear, you’ll see loads on a snorkeling trip, or even from a glass-bottom boat. Head to the Shaab El Erg reef and you might spot wild dolphins, or pick Umm Gammar which is where moray eels dwell. If you’re serious about your diving and already have your PADI qualification, there are plenty of professional scuba centres that will take you to all the best spots.
Hurghada and Marsa Alam line up plenty of white-sand beaches for you to relax on once you’ve discovered the reefs. The sands shelve gently into the paddle-friendly waters, and most are right next to our resorts. Stay at the Jaz Aquamarine and you’ll enjoy an exclusive section of beach, plus a mammoth 17 pools. Or, pick the Premier Le Reve for an adults-only private beach escape.
Ready to book your next diving holiday?
Browse our Egypt Holidays. Or, find out more about the best adventure holiday destinations and the best national parks for everyone.
Author: Selina Akhtar
The Jaz Aquamarine comes with a private beach and no fewer than 17 pools. And it’s got a first-class dining scene, too.
The adults-only Premier Le Reve hotel offers up a luxury spa, five restaurants, and a sea-view pool.
The TUI MAGIC LIFE Kalawy is just the ticket for action-packed holidays – with four pools, lots of activities and a coral reef on the doorstep.
The TUI MAGIC LIFE Kalawy is just the ticket for action-packed holidays – with four pools, lots of activities and a coral reef on the doorstep.
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Holiday Types
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