Fury Shoal dive sites
Egypt · Browse dive locations by depth, type and conditions.
Best Season
March to November
Skill Levels
beginner, intermediate
Nearby Cities
Marsa Alam
All dive sites
Abu Fandira
Marsa Alam · Fury Shoal · Egypt
A shallow coral paradise in Egypt's deep south known for its pristine coral gardens, resident pod of spinner dolphins, and relaxed diving conditions suited to all levels.
Fury Shoal Playground
Marsa Alam · Fury Shoal · Egypt
An aptly named shallow reef playground in the southern Red Sea with swim-throughs, archways, sandy lagoons, and an abundance of marine life in a brilliantly lit, current-free setting.
Hamda
Marsa Alam · Fury Shoal · Egypt
A stunning shallow reef in the Fury Shoal system offering labyrinthine coral channels, brilliant turquoise lagoon waters, and an underwater maze perfect for exploration.
Shaab Claudia
Marsa Alam · Fury Shoal · Egypt
A labyrinthine reef system in Egypt's Fury Shoal known for its intricate swim-throughs, coral-encrusted tunnels, and a famous underwater cavern where sunlight pierces through a natural skylight.
St. John's Caves
Marsa Alam · Fury Shoal · Egypt
A mesmerizing reef system in the deep south of the Egyptian Red Sea featuring a labyrinth of swim-throughs, caverns, and light-filled chambers carved into massive coral formations.
Diving in Fury Shoal
Fury Shoal offers reef, cave dive sites across 1 location. Browse dive locations by depth, type and conditions before planning your dive.
FAQ
Can I swim with dolphins at Abu Fandira?
Abu Fandira is known for a resident pod of spinner dolphins that rest in the sheltered waters around the reef. While encounters are not guaranteed, dolphins are present on many visits. The typical approach is snorkeling rather than scuba diving for dolphin interactions, as the animals are more comfortable with snorkelers at the surface. Egyptian environmental guidelines encourage passive observation rather than chasing or touching the dolphins. Entering the water quietly and letting the dolphins approach on their own terms leads to the most rewarding and ethical encounters.
Is Abu Fandira suitable for beginners?
Abu Fandira is one of the most beginner-friendly dive sites in the Egyptian deep south. The maximum depth is around 22 meters, but most of the best coral formations and marine life are found between 5 and 15 meters. Currents are typically mild, visibility is excellent, and the reef provides natural shelter from waves. The shallow profile allows long bottom times, making it ideal for new divers building confidence and for photographers who want extended time with their subjects.
How do I reach Abu Fandira?
Abu Fandira is located in the Fury Shoal area of the southern Egyptian Red Sea, accessible by liveaboard from Marsa Alam, Port Ghalib, or Hamata. It is included on many southern itineraries ranging from three to seven days. Some day boats from Hamata can also reach the site, though the journey is long. Liveaboard access is recommended as it allows early morning dives when dolphin encounters are most likely.
Why is the site called Fury Shoal Playground?
The name reflects the site's character perfectly. The reef formation features a series of natural arches, short swim-throughs, sandy-bottomed clearings, and coral tunnels that divers can explore freely like a natural underwater playground. The consistently shallow depths and absence of currents allow divers to move in any direction, duck through passages, loop back through arches, and spend time in sandy lagoons without any time pressure or navigational concerns.
Can complete beginners dive at Fury Shoal Playground?
Absolutely. Fury Shoal Playground is one of the most accessible dive sites in the Egyptian Red Sea. With maximum depths of 16 meters, no currents to speak of, and excellent visibility, it is suitable for newly certified Open Water divers and even Discover Scuba participants under instructor supervision. The reef formations provide natural reference points for orientation, and the shallow sandy clearings offer ideal spaces for practicing skills.