Dive Site: Shark Observatory

About Shark Observatory

Shark Observatory is a prominent wall dive located within the protected waters of Ras Mohammed National Park, marking the southernmost point of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. This site is named after the headland observation point that rises above sea level, offering a dramatic backdrop to the underwater landscape. It's particularly significant as the currents from the Gulf of Suez and the deeper Gulf of Aqaba converge here, enriching the waters with nutrients that sustain a vibrant marine ecosystem. The dive features a sheer coral wall that plunges into deep blue water, characterized by numerous inlets, overhangs, and small cave systems. Sunlight filters through the coral fringing plate above, illuminating the underwater formations. Divers typically begin their exploration by descending to depths between 15 to 20 meters, then follow the wall, scanning the open blue for pelagic species before ascending to shallower depths to conclude the dive. The wall extends far below recreational limits, creating a sense of vastness over the open ocean. The nutrient-rich environment supports a diverse array of marine life. Common sightings include various species of sharks, including pelagic sharks and reef sharks, as well as turtles and barracuda. Whales and whale sharks have also been observed at this location, highlighting its potential for large pelagic encounters, though sightings are never guaranteed. Gorgonian corals also thrive along the reef. Access to Shark Observatory is primarily by boat from Sharm El-Sheikh, usually as part of a two-dive day trip, with the journey taking approximately 50 minutes. The site is generally considered suitable for all levels of divers, but due to potential currents and its open-blue exposure, it is best navigated with a local guide. It's often dived as a drift, requiring confident, current-aware divers, and a surface buoy is recommended for safety.

Dive site facts: Shark Observatory

Depth

15–65 m

Current

Strong

Entry

Liveaboard or dayboat

Level

Intermediate

Dive type

Reef, Drift, Reef, Wall

Region / port

Egypt

Coordinates

27.7358° N, 34.2023° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Shark Observatory range from moderate to strong, making it a prevalent drift dive. Divers must always check the current direction before entry and use a surface buoy when needed. The site is best dived at low tide, as currents tend to be more manageable, though local guide expertise is crucial for timing dives correctly. Visibility is usually excellent, ranging from 10 to 30 meters, with an average of 15 meters, providing clear views of the wall and pelagic life. There are no specific mentions of surge or thermoclines. Given the potential for strong currents and its open-blue exposure, this site is best suited for current-aware divers who are comfortable with boat entries and drift diving techniques, ideally with a local operator providing guidance.

Liveaboards diving Shark Observatory

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

DUNE Longara

Egypt

30 guests

$150/day

JP Marine

Egypt

28 guests

$109/day

Snefro Pearl

Egypt

12 guests

$150/day

Snefro Love

Egypt

20 guests

$154/day

Sindalahs

Egypt

26 guests38 m

$155/day

Hammerhead II

Egypt

20 guests

$172/day

Blue Liveaboard

Egypt

24 guests43 m

$172/day

Odyssey

Egypt

26 guests40 m

$185/day

Discovery I

Egypt

20 guests

$104/day

Star Jet

Egypt

28 guests35 m

$145/day

SS Serena Dreams

Egypt

18 guests33 m

$159/day

Amelie

Egypt

12 guests23 m

$115/day