Dive Site: Ras Mohammed

About Ras Mohammed

Ras Mohammed National Park, situated approximately 20 kilometers south of Sharm El Sheikh, marks the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. Established in 1983 as Egypt's first national park, this protected area spans 480 square kilometers, encompassing both land and a significant marine reserve. Its unique location at the convergence of the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba, with their differing salinities, has fostered an exceptionally diverse marine ecosystem, characterized by flourishing coral reefs and abundant pelagic life. This site is renowned for its spectacular sea walls and vertical overhangs, some plunging over 100 meters deep, making it a pivotal area for Red Sea conservation and diving. The diving topography primarily features wall and drift dives along fringing coral reefs that arose roughly 70,000 years ago. Key sites like Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef showcase vibrant coral gardens, dramatic drop-offs, and clear waters often exceeding 30 meters of visibility. While various depths are explored, many reefs are relatively shallow, offering accessibility for different skill levels. The famed Yolanda wreck's cargo, scattered across the seabed at deeper levels, adds a unique historical element to some dives. Night diving is not permitted within the marine park. Marine life at Ras Mohammed is incredibly rich and varied, with thousands of reef fish species, over 200 types of hard and soft corals, and frequent sightings of sharks and turtles. Divers commonly encounter clownfish, large schools of reef fish, and various pelagics such as tuna and barracuda. Shark Reef, in particular, offers opportunities to spot grey and blacktip reef sharks, with occasional hammerhead sightings. Anemone City is a highlight for its vibrant clownfish populations. Diving here accommodates both beginner and advanced divers, with liveaboards often departing early to allow divers to experience the reefs before day boats arrive. Typically, a daily schedule includes two morning dives before moving to another nearby site, though night dives are restricted. Conditions generally involve drift diving, allowing divers to flow along the luxuriant sea walls and explore the varied marine topography. The park's success in preservation ensures a pristine diving experience.

Dive site facts: Ras Mohammed

Depth

0–100 m

Current

No current

Entry

Shore / dayboat

Level

Advanced

Dive type

Wall, Reef

Region / port

Bahamas

Coordinates

24.2300° N, 76.5500° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Ras Mohammed can vary; the site is primarily known for drift diving, especially along its expansive walls. While not explicitly detailed as consistently strong or mild across all areas, the nature of wall and drift diving suggests that currents can be a factor, dictating how dives are conducted. Entry is typically from a boat, as the site is accessible via both resorts and liveaboards. Visibility is consistently excellent, often reaching up to 40 meters, ensuring clear views of the extensive coral ecosystems and marine life. Thermoclines are generally not a prominent concern in the Red Sea. Given the potential for drift diving and varied depths, divers should be comfortable with boat entries and exits and possess appropriate certification for the planned depths, although some areas remain shallow and accessible to less experienced divers.

Liveaboards diving Ras Mohammed

These liveaboards may visit Ras Mohammed on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

All Star Blackbeards Morning Star

Bahamas

24 guests19.81 m

$156/day

Bahamas Aggressor II

Bahamas

20 guests33.5 m

$328/day

Blue Marlin

Bahamas

26 guests42 m

$318/day

All Star Aqua Cat

Bahamas

30 guests31.09 m

$312/day

All Star Cat Ppalu

Bahamas

12 guests20 m

$237/day