Elphinstone Reef: The Shark Gateway & Legendary Deep Walls
Rising like a submerged mountain from the deep blue of the open sea, Elphinstone Reef is the ultimate adrenaline rush for experienced divers. Known for its iconic "cigar" shape and sheer vertical drops that plunge over 100 meters, this is where the wild Red Sea truly begins. Are you ready to drift along vibrant gorgonian forests and come face-to-face with the ocean’s most majestic pelagic predators?
Located 12km offshore, Elphinstone is not for the faint of heart. Its isolated position makes it a magnet for large marine life. The reef features two massive plateaus—the North and the South—connected by walls covered in a kaleidoscope of purple and pink soft corals. Due to strong currents and its open-sea location, this site is strictly reserved for Advanced Open Water divers with significant experience.
Oceanic Whitetip Encounters: The world-famous "Longimanus" is a frequent resident here (especially Oct–Dec).
Deep Wall Drifts: Experience the thrill of gliding along sheer drop-offs that disappear into the abyss.
Northern Hammerhead Plateau: Early morning dives offer high chances of spotting schools of Scalloped Hammerheads.
The Arch: A legendary underwater formation at the southern tip for deep-specialty divers.
High-Speed Speedboat Access: Reach the reef in just 20-30 minutes for a fast-paced, high-energy adventure.
Step 1
07:00 AM | Early Departure: Pickup from your hotel to the Marsa Alam jetty/Abu Dabbab beach.
Step 2
07:30 AM | Speedboat Briefing: A detailed tactical briefing on current patterns, safety protocols, and shark interaction behavior.
Step 3
08:15 AM | Dive 1 (The North Plateau):A "negative entry" jump into the blue to reach the northern point, searching for hammerheads and trevally (Max 30-40m).
Step 4
09:30 AM | Surface Interval: Snacks and hydration on the boat while we discuss the incredible sights of the first dive.
Step 5
11:00 AM | Dive 2 (The South Plateau): We drift along the East or West wall to the southern tip, where the inquisitive Oceanic Whitetips usually patrol.
Step 6
12:30 PM | Return Journey: A fast ride back to shore, arriving just in time for lunch at your hotel or on-site.
Included
✔ Speedboat or specialized dive boat transfers.
✔ Highly experienced Dive Guide (Shark specialist).
✔ Tanks (12L) and weight belts.
✔ Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - mandatory.
✔ Bottled water and light snacks.
Excluded
✖ Full equipment rental (approx. €25–€30).
✖ Nitrox (Highly recommended for this site, available for a surcharge).
✖ Marine Park Fees (approx. €10–€15).
✖ Dive computer rental (mandatory for every diver).
FAQs
Q: What are the minimum requirements?
Q: Is it dangerous?
Q: What is the best time for sharks?
Q: Do I need a buoy?