The Straits of Tiran: Reefs, Currents and What to Expect

The Straits of Tiran are the narrow channel at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba, between the Sinai Peninsula and Tiran Island. Day boats from Sharm El Sheikh visit the reefs on the Egyptian side of the channel. They do not land on Tiran Island, which is uninhabited and administered by Saudi Arabia. The boat ride from Sharm takes roughly an hour to an hour and a half.

THE FOUR REEFS Four reefs lie in the channel, named after the British cartographers who mapped them. From south to north they are Gordon, Woodhouse, Thomas and Jackson. Jackson Reef is narrow and among the most colourful, and current can pull around it. Woodhouse Reef is the longest of the four, and currents can be strong. Gordon Reef is known for its abundant life and for a pile of old drums, the cargo of a shipwreck, where fish shelter. Turtle Bay is a gentler site, suitable for snorkelers and for divers of all levels.

CURRENTS AND CONDITIONS The reefs have steep drop-offs and changeable currents: some days are almost still, others carry you along the wall. For that reason the captain chooses the stops on the day, and dives are matched to your certification level.

WHAT DIVERS AND SNORKELERS REPORT Groupers, snappers, surgeonfish, unicornfish and turtles are commonly reported; the current attracts barracuda, trevally and tuna, and divers sometimes report sharks. We never promise a particular animal.

PLANNING A full-day trip includes hotel pickup, the transfer to the marina, two or three stops and lunch on board. Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a light jacket for the boat, and your passport or an ID copy. Please do not touch or stand on coral.

QUESTIONS Do we land on Tiran Island? No. We visit the reefs in the Straits of Tiran. Can I dive without a certificate? Some packages include introductory options; see each trip page. What if the sea is rough? The captain adjusts the stops or we reschedule; ask us.

See our Straits of Tiran trips from Sharm El Sheikh: snorkeling and certified diving.