Red Sea Diving and Snorkeling - A Wonderful Experience
If you are a lover of the ocean and spend any time in Egypt, then you owe it to yourself to try the diving and snorkeling that are available in the Red Sea. Heading to the beach of the Red Sea is an absolute essential, as the pristine waters provide the ideal conditions for diving past times. A chance to explore the Red Sea and discover just why it has such a great reputation for the beautiful views and unforgettable snorkeling and diving experiences. It is surely not to be missed.
One of the main reasons why the Red Sea is a place that must be visited, is because of the life under the ocean. It is one of the most wildly diverse areas in the world. There are more than 1100 species of catalogued fish, where you will find approximately ten percent that are unique to the location. This rich diversity is due to the 5000 to 7000 year old reefs that extend along the coastline. These reefs offer shelter, not only the 1100 or so species of fish, but also to approximately 44 different species of shark. If you are considering going on a dive in the Red Sea, you should certainly be prepared to experience beautiful specimens of sea life with exquisite clarity.
There are widely available services for diving and snorkeling that are very keen and eager to help you get on your way on the Egyptian coasts of the Red Sea. There are certain services available which offer full instruction by fully licensed and experienced staff for snorkeling or scuba equipment. Or if you are a fully qualified diver you will simply have pointed out to you the best locations. All diving equipment can be rented, however, you are more than welcome to use your own personal equipment, if you have it with you.
Very often not thought of, but snorkeling is an ideal sport for children. They can be introduced to some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Of course, it is absolutely necessary that your child be comfortable under the water and wearing a mask, in order for them to experience such a breathtaking opportunity. It is a good idea to get your child used to wearing a mask before arriving at the Red Sea. Perhaps your child could wear a mask whilst in the bath in order to get used to the feeling of it. But remember that this is only if your child wants to.
One of the best reasons for visiting the Red Sea and taking up the opportunity of snorkeling, is the opportunity to experience a living ecosystem which is in full action. Schools of fish interacting can be seen along with solitary fish darting around each other in the coral reefs, right before your very own eyes. Keep an eye out for the symbiotic relationship of the clown fish and the sea anemone. As the clown fish amazingly glide between the poisonous tentacles of the sea anemones, watch as the colorful stingers float in the water.
Dahab is a small town on the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula, which is a spectacular place to dive. This former Bedouin town is internationally renowned for scuba diving and snorkeling, and there are many reefs available that are adjacent to the shore.
One site that is recommended for skilled divers, as this idyllic spot has a reputation for danger, is the Blue Hole. The Blue Hole is a 100 meter deep and 50 meter wide cave, which is only a few miles to the north, that holds a variety of marine life, which is absolutely awe-inspiring.
One of Egypt's favorite attractions is Ras Muhammad National Park. This is yet another dive site, which is certainly worth considering. This park was established by the government as a marine reserve in 1983. It holds more than 200 species of corals, 40 species of starfish and more than 150 species of crustaceans. Ras Mohammed National Park certainly earns its international reputation as one of the world's best diving locations. At times, and with a little luck, you can also catch sight of the rare green sea turtle and the hawksbill sea turtle.
If you and your family are considering a visit to Egypt, then snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea is certainly something that you should try. There is, of course, the added problem, that, once you have taken you first dive and seen the wonders that are on offer below the water, you may not want to return to land!!
About the Author
Learning to dive can be both fun and educational. Find the best of both worlds, come visit Travel to Egypt - Virtual Egypt Travel Guide and discover the best, most fun way to learn about Red Sea Diving and the Red Sea Riviera. Fully illustrated articles and loads of free Red Sea diving videos.
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