Elphinstone reef by speed boat

DIVE SITE

One of the most popular and sought-after dive sites in Marsa Alam, featuring wall and drift diving. The offshore reef stretches 375 metres, with the reef top starting at 5 metres and gradually descending to the northern and southern plateaus.

HIGHLIGHTS

* Oceanic Whitetip Shark (Longimanus): Best seen from October to December.
* Hammerhead Shark: Best seen from June to July.

MARINE LIFE

* Unique soft coral gardens covering the reef top and walls, home to a wide variety of reef fish.
* Common sightings: Napoleon wrasse, moray eels, nudibranchs, yellowfin snapper.
* Occasional sightings: Whale sharks, manta rays, hawksbill turtles and curious Oceanic Whitetip Sharks (Longimanus).

DIVE DETAILS

* Difficulty level: Moderate to advanced. Suitable for experienced divers.
* Requirements: Minimum of 60 logged dives and Advanced certification or Open Water Diver (OWD) certification with Deep Diver specialty.
* Dive profile: Wall and drift dive with depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres. Moderate currents may occur.

TRAVEL & TRANSFER

* Boat ride: 25–30 minutes by speedboat heading east-northeast.
* Excursion duration: Half-day trip.

ENTRY & EXIT

* Entry: Back roll entry from the speedboat.
* Exit: Remove your equipment in the water, hand it to the captain and board the boat (no ladder).

FEES

* Elphinstone fee: Includes guide and speedboat fees. An SMB (Surface Marker Buoy) and one guide per diver are mandatory.

Elphinstone Reef offers an unforgettable and exhilarating diving experience thanks to its abundant marine life and challenging conditions, making it the ideal destination for experienced divers seeking adventure.