Hurghada dive sites

Currents at Ras Za'atar are moderate to strong depending on tidal conditions and wind. The northern promontory acts as a point where current accelerates as it wraps around the reef. Drift diving is the standard technique, entering upcurrent and drifting along the wall to a sheltered pickup point. Most operators assess conditions before committing to the dive and may redirect to alternative sites if current exceeds safe levels. A surface marker buoy and experience with drift diving are required.

Most operators require Advanced Open Water certification and experience with current diving. The wall descends to 30 metres and strong currents can make depth control challenging for inexperienced divers. Comfort with negative entries from a moving boat, use of a surface marker buoy, and the ability to maintain neutral buoyancy in current are all essential. Some operators accept confident Open Water divers with drift diving experience on calmer days.

Early morning dives typically offer the best pelagic encounters at Ras Za'atar. Eagle rays are most commonly seen during the first dive of the day, often cruising along the wall edge between 15 and 25 metres. The current also tends to be more predictable in the morning before afternoon winds increase. Visibility is generally excellent regardless of time but peaks in the morning before boat traffic stirs up particulate matter in shallower areas.