Thomas Reef

Sharm el-Sheikh · South Sinai Governorate · Egypt

Thomas Reef is the smallest of the four reefs guarding the Strait of Tiran between the Sinai Peninsula and Tiran Island, and what it lacks in size it more than compensates for in sheer underwater drama. The reef's compact dimensions mean that tidal currents, already powerful in this narrow strait, accelerate around it with particular intensity, turning Thomas Reef into a nutrient-rich magnet for marine life and a challenging, exhilarating dive. The walls of Thomas Reef are legendary among Red Sea divers. Every surface is draped in soft corals of extraordinary density and colour -- deep purples, vibrant reds, luminous oranges, and electric pinks cascade down the vertical faces, creating one of the most photogenic underwater landscapes in the world. Sea fans and black coral trees extend from the walls into the current, and the overhangs shelter carpets of golden cup corals that glow when illuminated by a torch. The currents that make Thomas Reef demanding also make it rewarding. Grey reef sharks patrol the deeper sections of the wall, eagle rays glide past in the blue, and large schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally form shimmering columns in the water column. Napoleon wrasses cruise leisurely along the reef edge, and during the cooler months, hammerhead sharks are occasionally spotted in the deeper waters below. On days when currents are manageable, divers can drift around the entire reef in a single dive, experiencing different coral gardens and marine encounters on each face. When currents are strong, the dive is typically limited to the sheltered side, where the boat captain positions the vessel based on the day's conditions. The reef top at around 3 metres is a perfect spot for safety stops, with hard coral gardens and clouds of anthias providing entertainment during the final minutes. Thomas Reef is reached by boat from Sharm el-Sheikh, with the journey taking approximately 90 minutes. Visibility in the strait is typically excellent, ranging from 20 to 40 metres, and the deep blue water surrounding the reef provides a stunning backdrop for the colourful walls.