Diving atOberoi House Reed (Egypt)
For divers seeking approachable yet diverse underwater experiences, Oberoi House Reef provides a compelling setting. This site caters well to beginners with its generally mild conditions, while also offering enough complexity to engage advanced divers. Experienced open water certificate holders will appreciate the varied dive profiles available, making it a versatile destination in Sahl Hasheesh. Its maximum depth of 30 m (98 ft) keeps it within recreational limits, ensuring accessibility for a broad range of certified enthusiasts.
Tonight's objective overview for Oberoi House Reed shows an air temperature of 21.9°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.2m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
27.0800, 33.8834
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Oberoi House Reef, a distinct dive destination within Hurghada's Sahl Hasheesh area, has developed into a focal point for exploring the local Red Sea ecosystem. An extensive underwater landscape here features over a kilometer of coral walls.
Multiple dive options exist, including drift dives that follow natural currents, alongside distinct sections to the far south and north. Centrally, divers will discover vibrant coral garden ecosystems, contrasting with more dramatic drop-offs and shallow reef areas found throughout. Its development ranges from introductory experiences to more advanced explorations.
Understanding the layout allows for tailored dive plans, whether exploring sandy bottom patches or navigating intricate reef structures. The biodiversity here provides a comprehensive glimpse into the Red Sea, encouraging repeated visits.
PADI Open Water Diver certification is suitable, with options for Advanced Open Water and Enriched Air Diver courses also beneficial for deeper sections. The maximum depth reached at Oberoi House Reef is 30 m (98 ft), accommodating standard recreational diving limits effectively.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal diving conditions typically prevail at Oberoi House Reef during the months of April, May, June, September, and October. During these periods, water temperatures are comfortably warm, ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F) in summer, shifting to 20-25°C (68-77°F) during winter months. Air temperatures are also pleasant, averaging around 25°C (77°F) in April and October, and rising to over 30°C (86°F) through summer. Rainfall is negligible across most of the year, with minimal amounts reported even in December and January. Winds generally maintain a moderate pace, around 24-31 km/h (15-19 mph), and wave heights are typically below 0.75 m (2.5 ft), contributing to good surface conditions for shore entries. While conditions are generally favorable year-round, with high dive scores recorded monthly, these specified months often align with the calmest seas and best visibility, making planning during these times advantageous for an enhanced dive experience.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Entering the water at Oberoi House Reef is primarily a shore-based experience, making it highly accessible for divers. Once submerged, visibility typically spans a broad range, from 10 m (33 ft) up to 30 m (98 ft), depending on local factors. Water currents are generally mild, which assists in navigating the diverse underwater topography, including impressive wall dives that stretch for significant distances. Divers will encounter a mix of sandy bottom areas, vibrant coral formations, and rocky sections. While surge is not consistently reported as a significant factor, conditions can vary with weather patterns. The site's layout supports various dive profiles, from leisurely explorations of shallow reef sections to deeper excursions along the walls. These conditions collectively offer a comfortable and engaging environment for both training dives and recreational outings.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
When planning a dive at Oberoi House Reef, prioritizing conservative dive profiles and proper buoyancy control is paramount, especially when exploring the site's extensive coral formations and wall sections. Always dive within the limits of your certification and experience, respecting the recreational depth limits for the area. Given the mild currents often present, monitoring your position relative to your entry point or dive boat is advisable, particularly during drift dives. Ensure all equipment is well-maintained and functioning correctly for every dive. Maintaining a safe distance from marine life and delicate coral structures helps preserve the ecosystem for future divers. Familiarity with local emergency procedures and carrying appropriate safety gear, like an audible signal device, are always recommended for any Red Sea dive.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Divers visiting Oberoi House Reed today can expect water conditions around 23°C (73°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 22°C (71°F).
3-5mm wetsuit generally offers enough warmth for most dives under these conditions. Surface intervals may feel cooler.
Surface conditions are expected to warm up slightly in the coming days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
EGP
Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at Oberoi House Reed
The marine ecosystem at Oberoi House Reef showcases a compelling array of Red Sea inhabitants. Exploring the coral gardens and reef structures often reveals various Moray Eels and Garden Eels. Divers frequently spot colorful Triggerfish, Lionfish, and Butterflyfish darting among the corals. Keep an eye out for larger species such as Groupers, Turtles (including green sea turtles), and occasionally even Electric Rays or Manta Rays gliding through the deeper water. The site's diverse environment, from sandy patches to coral walls, supports a rich habitat, sometimes allowing glimpses of Seahorses or the formidable Stonefish. Encountering pods of Dolphins or larger Sharks and Whales is less common but certainly possible.
Moray Eel
Manta Ray
Shark
Butterflyfish
Electric Ray
Garden Eel
Stonefish
Triggerfish
Grouper
Green Sea Turtle
Seahorse
Lionfish
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at Oberoi House Reef?
Reaching a maximum recreational depth, multiple dive profiles are available. Dives stay well within standard recreational limits.
Is Oberoi House Reef suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, the site is considered beginner-friendly, featuring mild currents and generally calm conditions. PADI Open Water Diver certification provides suitable training for exploring its various sections.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Expect to encounter a range of reef fish like Triggerfish, Lionfish, and Butterflyfish. Moray Eels, Garden Eels, and various coral formations are common, along with occasional sightings of Turtles or Rays.
Are currents typically strong at this dive site?
Currents at Oberoi House Reef are generally mild, which is favorable for relaxed diving. However, current intensity can vary, especially when engaging in drift dives.
What are the water temperatures like throughout the year?
Water temperatures vary seasonally, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) in winter to a warmer 24-30°C (75-86°F) during the summer months. A wetsuit is recommended for thermal comfort.
Is shore entry possible at Oberoi House Reef?
Yes, entry to Oberoi House Reef is typically made from the shore. This provides convenient access to the various dive areas along the house reef.
Are there different dive sections at the reef?
The reef offers varied dive experiences, including dives with the current, specific sections to the far south and north, and central coral garden dives. You can also explore wall sections and shallow areas.
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