With very few exceptions, diving in Hurghada is performed on daily or half-day boats, since the coastal area is mostly devoid of fringing reefs. The Hurghada diving area comprises also the Protected Marine Park of Giftun Island where access is permitted only with an entrance fee (payable directly at all diving centers). The area, in general, is blessed with refreshing breezes from the north both in winter and summer. These breezes often turn though into strong winds which may limit access to certain dive sites. Here are only some of the most famous dive sites in Hurghada are:
Gota Abu Ramada, a network of coral gardens from which the most famous is adequately named “the Aquarium”. A perfect place to learn to dive, with a profusion of Red Sea coral reef population.
Sha’ab Ruhr Umm Gamar, a sort of encyclopedia of the Red Sea. A dense population of reef species and pelagics crowds this relatively small reef. The site was badly damaged a few years ago by an outburst of the Crown of Thorns sea star, but now is again a favorite of advanced divers.
Small Giftun, a spectacular site especially for technical divers, in the Giftun National Park. Sheer walls, caves, canyons, a great playground for the experienced with a profusion of giant fans and black corals and big game, including whale sharks, barracudas, oceanic white tip sharks.
Carless Reef or “moray eel house”. The site, very popular in Hurghada is accessible both to beginners and experienced divers. Two coral towers close to a plateau at 16 meters, is where a big population of friendly giant moray eels make the dive an unforgettable one.