Dive Site: Ghoubbet al Kharab

About Ghoubbet al Kharab

Ghoubbet al Kharab, also known as the Devil’s Goblet, is a deep bay connected to the Gulf of Tadjourah and the open ocean in Djibouti. This impressive site sits at the junction of the African and Arabian continental plates, with high mountains surrounding its waters. Depths here plunge dramatically to nearly 200 meters, creating a unique and stunning dive environment. The bay features diverse topography including local reefs and underwater volcanic islands. A significant highlight is "La Faille" or "The Crack," a literal fissure where tectonic plates meet, offering a remarkable setting for exploration. While the deep waters are home to larger pelagic species, the bay also boasts shallower reefs teeming with life. From November to February, Ghoubbet al Kharab becomes a crucial gathering point for juvenile whale sharks and sometimes manta rays, attracted by annual plankton blooms. This period offers unparalleled opportunities to observe these gentle giants. Water temperatures remain comfortable year-round, making it a viable dive destination throughout the seasons. Diving here combines stunning scenery with the thrill of strong currents, which sweep through the area, attracting large fish, including various shark species. It is primarily accessed by liveaboard, as some of its best features are remote. The site presents a challenging yet rewarding experience, particularly for divers seeking significant pelagic encounters and unique geological formations.

Dive site facts: Ghoubbet al Kharab

Depth

Up to 200 m (656 ft) in the bay, dive sites vary

Current

Strong

Visibility

Variable

Water temperature

27–29°C (80–84°F)

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced, current experience helpful

Dive type

Wall, drift, big animals, reef

Region / port

Gulf of Tadjourah, Djibouti

Coordinates

11.8706° N, 43.1144° E

Conditions & Currents

Ghoubbet al Kharab is characterized by strong and variable currents, especially within the channel connecting it to the Gulf of Tadjourah. These currents are a key feature, attracting large pelagic species, including sharks, that utilize them for movement. Divers should expect drift-style conditions in certain areas, requiring careful planning and proficiency in current diving. Visibility can fluctuate depending on the season and current activity, with plankton blooms impacting clarity, particularly during whale shark season. The anchorage areas can be exposed to wind, influencing surface conditions. Entry and exit techniques will be dictated by the specific dive site within the bay and the prevailing current, often involving boat-based operations. Divers should be prepared for changing conditions and follow guide instructions closely, ensuring appropriate experience and gas management.

Marine life & sighting chances

Whale shark (juvenile)

November-February · common

Manta ray

November-February · occasional

Dolphin

common

Grey reef shark

occasional

Nurse shark

occasional

Tiger shark

occasional

Blue shark

occasional

Pilot whale

occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Eagle ray

occasional

Moray eel

common

Green sea turtle

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives in Ghoubbet al Kharab typically begin with a boat entry due to its remote nature and the potential for exposed anchorage. For sites like 'La Faille' (The Crack), divers will descend into the geological fissure between tectonic plates, navigating tunnels and caves. Drift dives are common in areas with strong currents, offering dynamic encounters with pelagic life. Depth progression can vary significantly, from exploring shallower reef areas to deeper sections where the bay plummets towards 200 meters. Divers often follow the reef slopes or wall faces, allowing the current to carry them. The turn point is usually determined by gas consumption and no-decompression limits, especially given the potential for deep areas. Safety stops are conducted in shallower, more sheltered zones of the reef or along the boat's line, ensuring a controlled ascent in potentially variable current conditions.

Underwater photography

Ghoubbet al Kharab offers excellent photography opportunities, particularly for wide-angle shots to capture the dramatic underwater topography and large pelagic encounters. A wide-angle lens is ideal for showcasing the tectonic fissure, underwater volcanic islands, and the expanse of the bay, especially when whale sharks are present. For capturing these magnificent creatures, consider ambient light photography or using strobes on a lower power setting to avoid startling them. Given the strong currents in certain areas, maintaining excellent buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing marine life or kicking up sediment. For macro enthusiasts, some local reefs around the bay, like Ras Eiro, are rich in coral life, but the primary draw here is often the larger subjects. Be mindful of potential plankton blooms, which can reduce visibility for clearer shots during whale shark season. Always practice ethical photography, maintaining a respectful distance from all marine animals, especially protected species like whale sharks, and avoid flash photography directly at them.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• La Faille

  A tectonic fissure dive within Ghoubbet al Kharab

• Ras Eiro

  A cape reef in the Gulf of Tadjourah with varying visibility

• La Passe

  A channel separating Ghoubbet al Kharab from the Gulf of Tadjourah, known for strong currents

• The Aquarium

  The Aquarium, situated in Djibouti's rich marine landscape, provides an exceptional diving experience characterized by its dense population…

• Musha wrecks

  The Musha wrecks, prominently featuring the **Orchard Reefer**, offer a significant dive experience in Djibouti’s Gulf of Tadjoura.

• Sawabi Islands

  Also known as Seven Brothers, a remote chain of volcanic islands

Getting there & logistics

Access to Ghoubbet al Kharab is primarily via liveaboard trips departing from Djibouti Marina. Djibouti's international airport, Djibouti Ambouli International Airport (JIB), serves flights from Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, and other regional hubs. The airport is conveniently located just 6 km from the city center. Liveaboard itineraries typically combine Ghoubbet al Kharab with other sites in the Gulf of Tadjourah and the Seven Brothers Islands. Standard trip lengths vary, but liveaboards are the most advised option for reaching remote and prime diving locations, including this bay. Mandatory dive insurance is required for all trips. An extra fee for guiding may apply for Open Water divers. Visitors need to apply for an e-Visa before arrival and pick up a hard copy at the airport.

Safety & environment

Dive safety in Ghoubbet al Kharab necessitates experienced divers due to strong and variable currents and significant depths. Divers should possess advanced certifications and good current diving experience. While specific recompression chamber locations are not detailed for Djibouti, the general advice is to ensure comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation, as evacuation to a more equipped facility could be required. Always consult a medical professional regarding vaccinations like Yellow Fever and Typhoid, and discuss anti-malarial medication options, considering potential side effects that could impact diving. Adhere strictly to dive briefings, maintain buddy contact, and plan your gas meticulously, especially in drift conditions and deep areas.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Ghoubbet al Kharab FAQ

Liveaboards diving Ghoubbet al Kharab

These liveaboards may visit Ghoubbet al Kharab on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Elegante

Djibouti

14 guests25 m

$206/day

Felicidad II

Djibouti

18 guests30 m

$186/day