Diving in Egypt in November

Conditions in November

November in Egypt marks a delightful transition from the intense summer heat to a more agreeable climate, making it an excellent time to explore the Red Sea's underwater treasures. The air temperatures typically hover around 25-30°C (77-86°F) in the southern regions and slightly cooler, 20-25°C (68-77°F), further north. While the strong summer winds begin to subside, you might still encounter some moderate breezes, particularly in the northern dive areas like the Straits of Tiran. The sea state is generally calm to moderate, offering comfortable diving conditions for most of the month. However, it's always wise to check local forecasts closer to your departure, especially if you're prone to seasickness.

Water temperatures remain wonderfully inviting, averaging between 26-28°C (79-82°F) across most of the Red Sea during November. This means you won't be shivering on your dives, even during extended bottom times. Visibility is consistently outstanding, often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), providing crystal-clear views of the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Currents around famous offshore sites like the Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and Elphinstone can be moderate to strong, which is precisely why these areas are so thrilling for advanced divers seeking pelagic action. These currents are also what keep the nutrients flowing, sustaining the incredibly rich ecosystem.

Overall, November strikes a near-perfect balance for diving in Egypt. You bypass the scorching summer temperatures and the peak winter crowds, yet you still benefit from warm waters and pristine visibility. It's a sweet spot that combines comfort with exceptional diving opportunities, paving the way for some truly memorable underwater encounters.

What you will see

November in the Red Sea is a fantastic time for both pelagic enthusiasts and those who appreciate the smaller, more intricate life forms. The cooling water temperatures from the summer highs, but still warm enough, often trigger increased activity among larger marine species. You stand an excellent chance of encountering oceanic whitetip sharks and hammerhead sharks, especially around the offshore pinnacles of the Brothers Islands and Daedalus Reef. These magnificent creatures are drawn to the rich currents and abundant food sources found in these specific locations. While sightings are never guaranteed, November statistically offers some of the best prospects for these exhilarating encounters.

Beyond the sharks, you can expect to see a healthy population of reef sharks, including grey reef sharks and whitetip reef sharks, cruising along the reef walls. Large schools of barracuda, snapper, and trevally are common, often swirling in mesmerizing formations. The vibrant hard and soft coral gardens, characteristic of the Red Sea, are in full bloom, teeming with a multitude of reef fish – angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and anemonefish are just a few examples. Keep an eye out for larger denizens like Napoleon wrasse and giant moral eels peering out from their rocky hideouts.

For macro lovers, the Red Sea still delivers in November. Look closely at the reef for nudibranchs, flatworms, and various crustaceans tucked away among the corals. Stonefish, scorpionfish, and crocodilefish are also masters of camouflage, providing a rewarding challenge for keen eyes. While manta rays are less predictable in November compared to other times of the year, they are still occasional visitors, particularly in areas like Elphinstone. The sheer biodiversity and health of the Red Sea reefs mean that every dive promises a dazzling display of marine life, regardless of specific megafauna sightings.

Top dive sites this month

When planning your November dive adventure in Egypt, several iconic sites truly shine. The Brothers Islands (Big Brother and Little Brother) are almost non-negotiable for experienced divers seeking pelagic action. These remote oceanic islands are famous for their healthy coral reefs, a resident population of oceanic whitetip sharks, and frequent sightings of hammerheads, especially around Big Brother. The wrecks of the Aida II and Numidia on Big Brother add an extra layer of exploration to these already spectacular dives. The currents here can be robust, so they are best suited for advanced divers with good buoyancy control.

Another absolute must-visit is Daedalus Reef, an isolated pinnacle rising from the depths, far from the coastline. Its sheer walls are adorned with stunning corals, and like the Brothers, Daedalus is a prime location for encountering large schools of hammerhead sharks, particularly in November. The currents here can be exhilarating, providing a drift dive experience that brings you face-to-face with an incredible array of marine life. Finally, Elphinstone Reef, a narrow, cigar-shaped reef south of Marsa Alam, completes the trifecta of world-class offshore sites. Elphinstone is renowned for its steep drop-offs, beautiful coral formations, and excellent chances of seeing oceanic whitetips and occasionally manta rays. The northern and southern plateaus are often focal points for pelagic activity.

Practical tips for your trip

Given the comfortable water temperatures of 26-28°C (79-82°F) in November, a 3mm full wetsuit will likely be sufficient for most divers. If you tend to get cold easily, or plan on doing multiple dives a day over several days, stepping up to a 5mm suit could provide a bit more warmth and comfort, especially for longer bottom times. For those doing rebreather diving or having extended dives, a 5mm is a safer bet. This month is ideal for a wide range of divers, though the premier offshore sites like the Brothers, Daedalus, and Elphinstone are more suited for advanced divers due to potential strong currents and deep profiles. Intermediate divers can certainly enjoy the Red Sea's vast array of excellent reef dives closer to shore.

November is a popular shoulder season month, so liveaboard availability, while generally good, can start to tighten up as the month progresses towards holiday periods. It's always advisable to book your liveaboard well in advance to secure your preferred boat and itinerary, especially for the sought-after "Deep South" or "Brothers, Daedalus, Elphinstone" routes. Don't forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen, a good hat, and sunglasses for sun protection on deck. A lightweight jacket or hoodie for evenings can also be a good idea, as air temperatures can drop slightly after sunset. Finally, be aware of the "visa on arrival" requirements for Egypt and ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay. Embracing the Red Sea in November promises clear waters, comfortable conditions, and thrilling encounters.