Why the Red Sea?
The Red Sea between Egypt and Saudi Arabia is one of the top five dive sites in the world. Average visibility 20–30 metres (reaching 40 in winter), water temperature 22 °C in winter and 30 °C in summer, over 200 species of coral and 1 200 species of fish. Exceptionally rich marine life: sharks, dolphins, turtles, huge coral formations.
Hurghada — Egypt's dive capital
Hurghada on the Red Sea coast, 500 km south-east of Cairo, 250 000 residents. Over 100 dive schools, 30 dive boats daily. The best dive sites nearby: Small Giftun Island, Careless Reef, Abu Nuhas (a group of sunken shipwrecks), El Fanadir coral reefs. A single dive costs 40–50 USD, full package 500–800 USD.
Sharm el-Sheikh and Ras Muhammad Reserve
Sharm el-Sheikh on the southern edge of Sinai, 500 km east of Cairo, is Egypt's most famous diving destination. Ras Muhammad National Park (8 000-year-old coral formations, clear water to 40 m) is one of the world's top 10 dive sites. Local sites: The Straits of Tiran, Shark Reef, Yolanda Reef, Jackfish Alley.
Marsa Alam and the southern section
Marsa Alam, 260 km south of Hurghada, less crowded, higher quality. Dolphin House Reef (Sha'ab Samadai) has 200 resident dolphins. Elphinstone Reef is famous for hammerhead sharks. Fury Shoals near Sanganeb Island are reserved for advanced divers only.
Schools and certifications
Most schools give PADI or SSI certifications. Open Water Diver — 4 days, 350–450 USD (including pool, dive and exam). Advanced Open Water — 3 more days, 300–400 USD. Leading schools: Emperor Divers (Sharm), Blue Waves Divers (Hurghada), Wonderful Dive (Marsa Alam).
Best season
Winter (December–March): water 22–24 °C, best visibility 35–40 m, lower prices. Summer (May–September): water 28–30 °C, very comfortable. Spring/autumn: best balance. Avoid May–July for the strong northerly wind.