One of the best dives near Sharm el-Sheikh is Yolanda Reef and Shark Reef in Ras Mohammed National Park, usually completed as one drift dive. This spots at the very southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula offers classic Red Sea wall diving, and can be accessed either via boat or shore.
Most dives start along the southern wall of Shark Reef, in the deepest part of the dive site; many divers descend to 100 feet (30 meters) or more, depending on certification. Likely sightings here include sharks, tuna, and other large pelagic marine animals. From there, the dive can continue on to shallower water between the two reefs. Here, you’ll be able to see parts of the freighter Yolanda, which struck the reef and gave it its name. Among the debris, you’ll find a large collection of toilets and the remains of the captain’s BMW. The main part of the wreck is too deep for recreational divers at 295 feet (90 m), and is suitable for tec diving only. The area around the wreck often features lionfish, blue-spotted stingrays and moray eels. The entire stretch between the two reefs is dotted with rocks overgrown with coral, as well as lots of coral on the sides of the reef, contrasted nicely with the white, sandy bottom. The shallow water, the light reflecting off from the bottom and colorful reefs make this is photographer’s paradise.
Strong currents can be present both along the walls on the outside of the reef and between the reefs. Along the walls, this often leads to good drift dives, in particular if you’re diving from a boat. Between the reefs the current can be strong enough that you must seek shelter behind the reef walls and focus your dive here.
Depending on the depth, this dive can be completed with any certification level, but due to the current it’s recommended for fairly experienced divers and strong swimmers. Alternately, dive the site when currents aren’t as strong.
- Name: Yolanda Reef and Shark Reef
- Nearest town/city: Sharm el-Sheikh
- Country: Egypt
- Body of water: Red Sea
- Depth: 15 to 30 feet (5 to 40 meters)
- Water temperature (high season): 82F/28C
- Visibility: 100 feet (30 meters)
- Certification level: Any
- Recommended experience level: Medium
