Diving in the Egyptian Red Sea is possible year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 70 to 86 F (21 to 30 C). Water visibility averages 50 feet (15 m) on the low end and soars to over 200 feet (60 m) on the high end. Due to factors including lack of rain and tributaries, and being a narrow sea with little turbulence, visibility is usually on the higher end of the spectrum. Sites with sandy bottoms and currents are apt to have less visibility.
The Red Sea has notably high salinity, especially in warmer months. These dry and salty conditions make staying hydrated extra-important, so don’t be surprised if you need more weight than usual to descend.
Onboard the Anemone, dives are conducted from tenders after preparing on the shaded dive deck. Complimentary nitrox is provided to certified divers, and a nitrox certification class is offered onboard. Rental gear is also available for an additional fee. Up to 18 dives are offered each trip, including one night dive.
Once underwater, you can see endemic Red Sea flasher wrasse and Red Sea pipefish. Hundreds of colorful hard and soft corals and thousands of invertebrates will keep macro divers occupied. Sharks are common, and whale sharks may appear from late May through late July. For the extremely fortunate, rare dugong sightings are possible at Quseir and Marsa Alam.
Famous wrecks on most northern itineraries include the SS Thistlegorm and the Yolanda. The Thistlegorm is a WWII supply ship struck down by bombs in a twist of poor luck. Much of the cargo, including locomotives and motorcycles, make for iconic underwater images. The Yolanda is a more recent wreck that scattered toilets and bathtubs across the Ras Mohammed Reef, making for quirky photo poses.
Brothers Islands are iconic dive sites for a reason, offering the best of everything from wrecks to corals and pelagics. Shark cleaning stations and the offshore location make thresher and oceanic whitetip encounters possible. Multiple Anemone itineraries are offered, including private charters and non-scuba trips, so select carefully when booking.
Highlights:
- Nitrox included
- Variety of itineraries
- Copious corals and endemic fish
- Rare creature encounters (dugongs & oceanic whitetips)