Diving atTower (Egypt)
Approaching Tower, the first striking feature you'll notice is its dramatic U-shaped vertical wall formation. This underwater landscape plunges to significant depths, creating a distinctive canyon that begins near the surface. A prominent pinnacle, standing tall like a natural obelisk, gives the site its name and marks a key navigational point near the canyon's entry. Divers encounter both relatively shallower sections and breathtaking drop-offs exceeding recreational limits.
Evening condition tracking at Tower features an air temperature of 24.6°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.34m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
27.8827, 34.3242
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Tower's distinctive topography immediately defines the dive experience in Sharm el Sheikh. This site earns its name from a prominent pinnacle that stands sentinel, resembling an actual tower, marking the approach to a massive U-shaped cutting.
Divers frequently approach Tower as a drift dive, commencing their descent and allowing the southerly current to carry them towards Naama Bay. While commonly a boat dive, shore entries are also feasible when conditions align. A central feature is the expansive canyon, a deep cleft extending from the surface downwards.
Inside, vertical walls characterize the dramatic descent, plunging well beyond recreational diving limits. Beyond the initial canyon, the dive transitions into a sloping reef environment.
Here, numerous tall pinnacles emerge, each one heavily encrusted with diverse coral species and supporting a thriving community of smaller reef dwellers. Exploring these structures, divers witness a continuous display of vibrant marine activity, making the transition from the sheer drop-off to the bustling reef a compelling journey.
The maximum recreational depth typically reached is 30 m (100 ft), offering ample exploration within safe limits. Combining deep wall, wide canyon, and coral-rich slopes, the dive offers a varied and engaging experience.
Best Time to Dive
For an optimal dive experience, planning your trip to Tower between March and November is generally recommended. During these months, air temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from approximately 22°C (72°F) in March to a peak of about 35°C (95°F) in July and August. Water temperatures also remain inviting, with summer averages between 24-30°C (75-86°F) and winter averages from 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rain is a minimal concern, with negligible precipitation reported across most of this period, ensuring generally clear skies. Consistent good dive scores throughout these months indicate favorable conditions for exploring this site's unique structure, supported by moderate wind speeds that typically range from 14 to 23 km/h (9 to 14 mph).
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 Tower usually involves a boat dive, though shore diving is also an option depending on logistics. Divers frequently encounter mild to strong currents, which makes it an ideal spot for a drift dive, guiding you along its impressive features. A moderate surge can sometimes be present, adding to the dynamic feel of the underwater environment. Visibility here typically ranges from 15 to 30 m (50 to 100 ft), allowing for excellent views of the expansive canyon and vertical walls. The maximum recreational dive depth often reached is 30 m (100 ft), although the site's canyon walls descend much deeper, beyond 100 m. Exploring the bottom, you'll find a varied composition of coral, sand, and rock formations.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching Tower with an intermediate certification level is advisable, given the potential for mild to strong currents. Proper buoyancy control becomes paramount, especially during drift dives along the vertical wall formations. Always monitor your dive computer closely, particularly when exploring the deeper sections of the canyon, to stay within no-decompression limits. Maintaining a vigilant awareness of your dive profile and air supply is crucial throughout the dive. If opting for a drift dive, ensure your surface marker buoy (SMB) and reel are easily accessible for deployment at the end of your dive, aiding boat pickup.
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
For many recreational divers, 3-5mm wetsuit provides a practical level of insulation in these conditions. Divers who tend to get cold easily may prefer slightly thicker exposure protection.
Conditions at Tower currently place the water temperature near 24°C (75°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 25°C (76°F).
Temperatures look set to gradually increase over the next several 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
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Marine Life at Tower
Descending into the canyon at Tower, divers often spot Potato Groupers seeking shelter, and sometimes even White Tip Reef Sharks resting at around 14 m (45 ft). Moving along the coral-encrusted pinnacles, expect to see the intricate patterns of Lion Fish and colorful Nudibranchs. Peppered Morays often peer from crevices in the reef. Less common, but thrilling sightings, include occasional Whale Sharks and Manta Rays, which have been reported in this area. Elsewhere on the reef, a rich diversity of reef fauna includes parrotfish, other moray eels, and swift-moving trevallies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at Tower?
The maximum recreational dive depth at Tower is generally around 30 m (100 ft). However, the canyon itself plunges significantly deeper, with vertical walls extending well beyond 100 meters.
Are currents typically strong at Tower?
Currents at Tower can range from mild to strong, making it a popular site for drift diving. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions and maintain good buoyancy control.
What kind of topography can I expect to see?
Tower is known for its dramatic U-shaped vertical wall formation and a wide canyon that extends from the surface. You'll also encounter a distinctive pinnacle and sloping reefs adorned with tall, coral-encrusted pinnacles.
Is Tower suitable for all diver levels?
This site is generally recommended for intermediate divers due to the potential for strong currents and deeper sections. Proper training in drift diving and buoyancy control is beneficial.
What marine life is commonly seen at Tower?
Divers frequently observe Potato Groupers and White Tip Reef Sharks in the canyon. The reef boasts Lion Fish, Nudibranchs, and Peppered Morays, with occasional sightings of larger pelagics like Whale Sharks and Manta Rays.
Can Tower be dived as a shore dive?
While often accessed by boat, Tower can also be dived as a shore dive under appropriate conditions. Check with local dive operators for the feasibility and logistics of shore entry.
What is the typical visibility at the dive site?
Visibility at Tower is generally very good, often ranging between 15 and 30 m (50 to 100 ft). This allows for clear views of the extensive canyon and the vibrant reef structures.
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