Scuba Diving with Sharks in Red Sea: The Ultimate Guide
The Red Sea is one of the world’s top destinations for shark diving, offering thrilling encounters with Oceanic Whitetips, Hammerheads, Grey Reef Sharks, and even the occasional Whale Shark. With crystal-clear visibility, vibrant coral reefs, and a variety of shark species, the Red Sea provides unforgettable underwater adventures.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Best Shark Diving Sites in the Red Sea
✅ Shark Species You Can Encounter
✅ Best Time to Dive
✅ Safety Tips for Diving with Sharks
✅ Recommended Dive Operators
Why Dive with Sharks in the Red Sea?
The Red Sea’s unique geography—warm waters, strong currents, and deep drop-offs—creates the perfect habitat for pelagic (open-water) sharks. Unlike other destinations where sharks are baited, most encounters here are natural, making the experience even more special.
Best Shark Diving Sites in the Red Sea
1. Brothers Islands (El Akhawein)
Sharks: Oceanic Whitetips, Hammerheads, Grey Reef Sharks
Level: Advanced (strong currents, deep walls)
Season: June – November
Why Go? One of the best places in the world for Oceanic Whitetips, which are bold and curious. Hammerheads sometimes appear in schools.
2. Daedalus Reef
Sharks: Hammerheads, Oceanic Whitetips, Silky Sharks
Level: Advanced (remote, strong currents)
Season: Summer (June – September)
Why Go? The best spot for schooling Hammerheads, especially in early morning.
3. Elphinstone Reef (Marsa Alam)
Sharks: Oceanic Whitetips, Grey Reef Sharks, Hammerheads
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Season: June – November
Why Go? A famous drift dive where Oceanic Whitetips frequently approach divers.
4. Ras Mohammed (Shark & Yolanda Reef)
Sharks: Reef Sharks, occasional Hammerheads
Level: Beginner-friendly
Season: Year-round
Why Go? Easy access from Sharm El Sheikh with healthy coral and reef sharks.
5. St. John’s Reef & Fury Shoals
Sharks: Whale Sharks (rare), Reef Sharks
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Season: April – May (Whale Shark season)
Why Go? A relaxed diving area with occasional Whale Shark sightings.
Shark Species in the Red Sea
| Shark Species | Best Sites | Best Season | Behavior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oceanic Whitetip | Brothers, Daedalus, Elphinstone | June – Nov | Curious, may approach divers |
| Hammerhead | Daedalus, Brothers | Summer (Jun-Sep) | Shy, often seen in schools |
| Grey Reef Shark | Elphinstone, Ras Mohammed | Year-round | Patrols reef edges |
| Whale Shark | St. John’s, Fury Shoals | April – May | Gentle filter-feeder |
| Silky Shark | Daedalus, Brothers | Summer | Fast-moving, open water |
Best Time to Dive with Sharks
June – November: Peak season for Oceanic Whitetips & Hammerheads.
April – May: Best chance for Whale Sharks.
Year-round: Grey Reef Sharks, Whitetip Reef Sharks.
Safety Tips for Diving with Sharks
✔ Stay calm – Avoid rapid movements.
✔ Keep eye contact – Sharks respect confident divers.
✔ Don’t touch or chase – Let them come to you.
✔ Avoid shiny objects – Can attract curious sharks.
✔ Dive with a guide – Especially at remote sites like Brothers/Daedalus.
Recommended Dive Operators
Scuba Diving Center in Hurghada:
Red Sea Diving Academy (Brothers/Daedalus)
Diving Forever Hurghada (Shark-focused trips)
Final Thoughts
Diving with sharks in the Red Sea is a bucket-list experience for many scuba enthusiasts. Whether you’re drifting with Oceanic Whitetips at Brothers Islands or searching for Hammerheads at Daedalus Reef, the Red Sea offers some of the most thrilling shark encounters on the planet.
Ready to dive? Book your safe and unforgettable diving experience with us today!
🔗 Visit our website: https://dive-in-hurghada.com/
