Marine Wonderland, a Paradise for Divers
Sinai and Red Sea Coast, Egypt
The Red Sea stretches south from Egypt’s Sinai peninsula past Sudan and Eritrea to the border of Djibouti. Its warm waters, heated by the tropical sun and pushed north by strong currents teem with exotic sea life not found at similar latitudes elsewhere. This underwater wonderland is a paradise for divers and snorkellers alike, providing some of the world’s best underwater exploratory experiences.
Background
The Red Sea is some 1,900 kilometres long and 300 km wide covering some 450,000 sq km. At its northern end the Red Sea splits in two, separated by the Sinai peninsula into the Gulf of Suez to the west and the Gulf of Aqaba to the east.
Its relatively small surface area is deceptive as its great depth, some 2,500 metres in the centre, coupled with the fact that over 40% of the surface area is shallow and has exceptionally strong currents create the ideal habitat for an eco-system that supports an abundant sea life.
Water temperature is relatively constant. During summer maximum 28ºc and in winter not less than 21ºc. Seldom storms and rainfall (occasionally in winter), as well as mild currents prevent sediments to slow coral growth and allow excellent visibility. Almost every section of shoreline is encrusted with coral reefs, providing divers with superb exploration sites.