Shallowest wreck, perfect for intermediate divers

Pristine corals, eagle rays common

Advanced site with strong currents

Hammerhead shark encounters possible

Recreational Diving (7-30m)

Safe exploration of the hole's rim and surrounding coral formations. Perfect for Open Water and Advanced Open Water divers.

Technical Diving (30m+)

Deep exploration requiring technical certifications. Only for highly experienced divers with proper training and equipment.

Before You Travel

• Update dive insurance coverage
• Complete medical questionnaire
• Review emergency procedures
• Practice hand signals

At the Dive Center

• Verify equipment functionality
• Understand local dive conditions
• Confirm emergency contacts
• Know decompression chamber locations

Water: 22-25°C | Air: 25-30°C

Water: 26-28°C | Air: 35-40°C

Water: 24-27°C | Air: 28-35°C

Water: 21-24°C | Air: 20-25°C

Package Deals

Book 5+ days for 15-20% discounts. Many centers offer accommodation partnerships.

Own Equipment

Bring mask/fins/wetsuit to save £10-15 per day on rental fees.

Off-Season Travel

April-May and September-October offer best value with excellent conditions.

Local Centers

Independent dive centers often cost 20-30% less than resort-based operations.

Day 1: Local Favorites

• Middle Garden - Skills assessment
• Near Garden - Relaxed afternoon dive

Day 2: Ras Mohammed

• Shark Point - Marine park highlight
• Anemone City - Coral gardens

Day 3: Wreck Adventure

• Thistlegorm Wreck - WWII history
• Alternative local site if weather dependent

Day 1-2: Foundation Building

• Local reef sites for comfort
• Ras Mohammed introduction
• Night dive experience

Day 3-4: Adventure Expansion

• Tiran Island expedition
• Thistlegorm wreck diving
• Advanced techniques practice

Day 5: Specialization

• Choose: Blue Hole, Dahab shore diving, or advanced Ras Mohammed sites
• Underwater photography focus

Day 1-3: Foundation & Skills

• Complete local site exploration
• Advanced Open Water upgrade
• Ras Mohammed deep exploration

Day 4-5: Remote Adventures

• Brothers Islands liveaboard option
• Tiran Island comprehensive tour
• Multiple wreck dives

Day 6-7: Specialization

• Blue Hole & Dahab expedition
• Specialty certification (Nitrox, Deep, Wreck)
• Photography/videography workshop

✈️ 4-6 Weeks Before

• Book flights and accommodation
• Reserve dive packages
• Arrange travel insurance
• Check passport validity

🏊‍♂️ 2-3 Weeks Before

• Complete medical forms if required
• Practice skills in local pool
• Organize equipment transport
• Download offline maps

🎒 1 Week Before

• Pack certification cards
• Confirm all bookings
• Check weather forecasts
• Notify bank of travel

✅ Departure Day

• Print boarding passes
• Pack medications
• Charge all devices
• Double-check documents

🐪 Camel Dive Club

💰 Pricing: £45-75/day | Best booking: Direct website or resort partnerships

🌊 Red Sea Diving Safari

💰 Pricing: £40-65/day | Best booking: Direct contact for package deals

🏊‍♂️ For Beginners

• Look for PADI 5-Star certification
• Small instructor-to-student ratios
• Modern, well-maintained equipment
• Shallow, protected training sites
• Multilingual instruction available

🏆 For Experienced Divers

• Access to advanced sites
• Technical diving capabilities
• Nitrox and trimix availability
• Flexible scheduling options
• Underwater photography services

💰 For Budget-Conscious

• Compare package deals vs. daily rates
• Check what's included in pricing
• Consider independent operators
• Look for off-season discounts
• Avoid hidden fees and extras

🌟 For Luxury Seekers

• Premium boat amenities
• Private guide options
• Professional photography included
• Resort pickup/dropoff
• Gourmet lunch and refreshments

❓ Is Sharm El Sheikh good for diving?

Absolutely! Sharm El Sheikh consistently ranks among the world's top diving destinations. The Red Sea offers exceptional visibility (often 30+ meters), year-round diving conditions, diverse marine life including over 1,200 fish species, and pristine coral reefs. The infrastructure is world-class with PADI 5-Star dive centers, modern equipment, and internationally certified instructors.

🤿 Do I need diving certification for Sharm?

Not necessarily! Complete beginners can try "Discover Scuba Diving" experiences with professional instructors in shallow, controlled environments. However, to fully explore Sharm's incredible dive sites like Ras Mohammed and Tiran Island, you'll need at least Open Water Diver certification. Many dive centers offer comprehensive training courses, and you can even complete theory online before arrival.

🌊 What's the best time to dive in Sharm?

The Red Sea offers excellent diving year-round, but the best conditions are typically March-May and September-November. Water temperatures range from 22-28°C, with the warmest period being June-September. For the perfect combination of comfortable air temperatures, excellent visibility, active marine life, and smaller crowds, plan your visit during April-May or September-October.

💰 How much does diving cost in Sharm?

Diving costs vary significantly based on experience level and package choice. Budget travelers can expect £30-45 per day for basic packages, while premium experiences range £60-90 daily. This typically includes boat transport, guide, and basic equipment. Additional costs include marine park fees (£8-15), equipment rental if needed (£15-25), and tips (£8-15). Five-day packages often offer 15-20% discounts.

🦈 Will I see sharks while diving in Sharm?

Yes, shark sightings are common in Sharm! You'll frequently encounter harmless reef sharks, white-tip sharks, and grey reef sharks at sites like Shark Point in Ras Mohammed. For larger species like hammerheads, visit Tiran Island or venture to more remote sites. All sharks in the Red Sea are generally non-aggressive and pose no threat to divers when proper diving etiquette is followed.

🎒 Should I bring my own diving equipment?

For mask, snorkel, and fins - yes, definitely bring your own for comfort and hygiene. These items are personal and proper fit is crucial. For major equipment (BCD, regulator, wetsuit), rental is perfectly adequate in Sharm - dive centers maintain modern, well-serviced equipment. Bringing your own complete set only makes sense if you're a frequent diver or have specific equipment preferences.

🏥 How safe is diving in Sharm El Sheikh?

Diving in Sharm is very safe when proper procedures are followed. The region has excellent infrastructure with hyperbaric chambers, experienced dive professionals, and strict safety standards. Most dive centers are PADI 5-Star certified with modern equipment and comprehensive safety protocols. Always choose reputable operators, follow guide instructions, and ensure your diving insurance is current.

📷 Can I take underwater photos in Sharm?

Absolutely! Sharm offers world-class underwater photography opportunities. Many dive centers provide underwater cameras for rent (£15-25/day) or offer professional photography services (£25-50 for digital packages). The exceptional visibility and diverse marine life make for stunning photos. Popular photography sites include Anemone City for macro shots and Shark Point for dramatic reef scenes.

⛈️ What if weather conditions are bad?

Sharm enjoys excellent weather year-round with minimal rainfall. Occasional strong winds may affect boat trips, but dive centers have contingency plans including alternative sites and shore diving options. The protected location of Sharm Bay means diving often continues even when other areas are affected. Most reputable operators offer full refunds or rescheduling for weather-cancelled trips.

🔄 How far in advance should I book diving?

For the best dive centers and optimal pricing, book 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (December-March). Popular sites like Ras Mohammed have daily visitor limits, and the best boats fill up quickly. However, last-minute bookings are often possible outside peak season. Multi-day packages typically offer better rates and should be booked early for guaranteed availability.

🍽️ Are meals included in diving packages?

Most full-day diving packages include lunch on the boat, typically featuring local Egyptian dishes, fresh fruits, and refreshments. Half-day trips may include light snacks and drinks. Premium packages often feature more elaborate meals. Always confirm what's included when booking, and inform operators of any dietary requirements or allergies in advance. Some centers offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

🏨 Can I dive if staying at an all-inclusive resort?

Yes! Many all-inclusive resorts have on-site dive centers or partnerships with local operators. While resort-based diving is convenient, independent dive centers often offer better prices and more diverse site options. You're free to book with any operator regardless of where you're staying. Some resorts include basic diving in their packages, but this is usually limited to house reef or beginner sites.

🚁 Do I need special insurance for diving?

Yes, diving-specific insurance is essential and often required by dive centers. Standard travel insurance typically excludes diving beyond 18 meters. DAN (Divers Alert Network) offers comprehensive coverage including hyperbaric chamber treatment and emergency evacuation. Many dive centers require proof of diving insurance before allowing participation in activities. Annual policies are cost-effective for regular divers.

⏰ What's a typical diving day schedule?

A typical two-dive day starts with 7:30 AM pickup from your hotel. After a safety briefing and equipment check, the first dive begins around 9:00 AM. Following a surface interval with refreshments, the second dive occurs around 11:30 AM. Most trips return by 2:00 PM, allowing afternoon relaxation. Full-day trips to remote sites like Ras Mohammed or Tiran Island typically run 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with three dives.

🌡️ Do I need a wetsuit in the Red Sea?

Yes, a 3mm wetsuit is recommended year-round for comfort and protection, even though water temperatures range from 22-28°C. Wetsuits protect against sun exposure, jellyfish, and coral scrapes while providing thermal insulation during longer dives. Most dive centers include wetsuit rental in their packages. In summer months (June-September), some divers prefer rash guards or thin wetsuits due to warmer conditions.

The Solution: Research operators' PADI ratings, read recent reviews, and verify insurance coverage. Investing an extra £15-20 per day often means the difference between a mediocre and exceptional experience.

The Solution: Plan rest days between intensive diving. Limit yourself to 2-3 dives per day maximum, with proper surface intervals. Your body and enjoyment levels will thank you.

The Solution: Create a diving document checklist 2 weeks before travel. Consider digital backups of certifications and carry physical cards separately from your main luggage.

The Solution: Research seasonal conditions before booking. April-May and September-October offer the best overall conditions. Summer visitors should plan early morning dives to avoid peak heat.

The Solution: Add 30-40% to base diving costs for extras. Create a detailed budget including park fees (£8-15), tips (£10-15), and optional services before booking.

The Solution: Purchase diving-specific insurance from DAN or similar organizations. Verify coverage includes evacuation, chamber treatment, and diving-related medical expenses up to adequate limits.

The Solution: Progress gradually through local sites, then Ras Mohammed, before attempting advanced locations. Honest communication with dive centers about experience levels ensures appropriate site selection.

The Solution: Invest in a properly fitted mask, snorkel, and fins before travel. Test equipment in local pools. For rental gear, arrive early for proper fitting and familiarization.

The Solution: Complete medical forms honestly and discuss any concerns with dive professionals. When in doubt, consult a diving medicine specialist before travel.

The Solution: Research Sharm's cultural sites, snorkeling spots, desert excursions, and local restaurants. Plan backup activities for weather days or between diving sessions.

Pre-Trip

• Research and book reputable operators
• Verify insurance coverage
• Practice skills in local water
• Plan rest days and alternatives

During Trip

• Communicate honestly about experience
• Respect marine environment
• Follow guide instructions
• Stay within certification limits

📅 Planning Phase (4-6 weeks ahead)

• Research operators and read recent reviews
• Book during shoulder seasons (April-May, Sept-Oct)
• Purchase diving-specific travel insurance
• Plan 2-3 dive days for beginners, 5+ for certified divers
• Budget extra 30-40% for fees, tips, and optional services

🎒 Preparation Phase (2-3 weeks ahead)

• Practice buoyancy skills in local pools
• Organize personal equipment (mask, fins, snorkel)
• Complete medical forms honestly
• Download offline marine life identification apps
• Verify certification card locations and validity

🌊 Diving Phase (during your trip)

• Start with local sites before advanced locations
• Communicate experience level honestly with guides
• Respect marine environment and follow leave-no-trace principles
• Plan rest days between intensive diving sessions
• Log dives immediately with detailed notes

📈 Growth Phase (post-trip planning)

• Review photos and videos for improvement insights
• Plan specialty course completions for next visit
• Share experiences to help other divers
• Consider return trips for advanced site exploration
• Maintain skills with regular local diving

🏝️ Complete Sharm El Sheikh Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about visiting Egypt's premier Red Sea resort destination.

🏨 Best Hotels in Sharm El Sheikh

Top-rated accommodations from budget-friendly to luxury resorts for every diver's needs.

✈️ Egypt Travel Requirements & Visas

Current visa requirements, entry procedures, and essential travel documents for UK visitors.

💰 Egypt Travel Costs & Budgeting

Complete cost breakdown for planning your Egyptian adventure without budget surprises.

🏛️ Sinai Peninsula Travel Guide

Explore beyond diving with cultural sites, desert adventures, and mountain experiences.

🏥 Travel Insurance for Egypt

Essential coverage options including diving-specific insurance and medical evacuation.