Diving atAlsharm Yanbu (Saudi Arabia)
An accessible shore entry defines the start of a dive at Sharm Yanbu, a site well-regarded for its suitability for new divers and training. Located in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, this calm, shallow area offers a straightforward introduction to the underwater world. It's an excellent spot for those undertaking their PADI Open Water Diver certification or a PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience, allowing comfortable exploration from the very first splash.
Tonight's objective overview for Alsharm Yanbu shows an air temperature of 25.5°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.22m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
24.1479, 37.9351
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Sharm Yanbu presents itself as a versatile dive locale, frequently serving as a training ground for beginner divers due to its generally calm and shallow nature. Reaching a maximum depth of approximately 12 meters (39 feet), the site remains well within recreational limits, making it approachable for various certification levels, including discovery scuba experiences.
Divers here can explore a unique combination of small wrecks nestled amidst vibrant coral reef habitats, which adds significant interest to the underwater topography. The presence of these structures, along with the natural reef, provides diverse niches for marine life. Beyond its suitability for daytime exploration, Sharm Yanbu is also described as a good option for night dives, offering a different perspective on its marine inhabitants and submerged features under the cover of darkness.
Expansive sandy bottom areas transition smoothly into these lively reef systems, creating a varied environment suitable for both navigation practice and macro photography. This blend of accessible depths and interesting features positions Sharm Yanbu as a foundational Red Sea diving destination, perfect for building confidence and advancing skills in a controlled setting.
Best Time to Dive
Assessing the local climate helps pinpoint optimal times for diving at Sharm Yanbu. The site generally offers good diving conditions year-round, with dive scores frequently rated as 'Good' across most months. Air temperatures show a notable range, averaging from approximately 22°C (72°F) in January to peaks around 34°C (93°F) in August and September. These warmer air temperatures during summer months can contribute to a comfortable surface experience. Wind speeds tend to be moderate throughout the year, typically ranging between 23-34 km/h (14-21 mph), which can influence surface conditions but often doesn't significantly impact the calm, sheltered nature of the dive site itself. Rainfall is minimal, with many months reporting zero precipitation; even the wettest month, December, averages less than 1 mm (0.04 inches) of rain. Given the available data, diving during the cooler air temperature months from November through April might offer a more temperate overall experience, though summer months remain viable for those who prefer warmer conditions. Water temperature data is not consistently reported for this specific location, but the region generally experiences warm sea conditions.
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
The underwater environment at Sharm Yanbu is characterized by calm, shallow conditions, ideal for divers of all experience levels. Entry to the site is straightforward, typically conducted from the shore, which provides easy access. Maximum depth often sits around 12 meters (39 feet), keeping dives within no-decompression limits and allowing for extended bottom times. The water is consistently salt water, as expected in the Red Sea. While specific visibility reports are not consistently available, the site's calm nature usually bodes well for clear viewing. Divers navigating the site will find themselves exploring a mix of sandy bottom areas and vibrant coral reefs, creating interesting transitions in scenery. Wind and swell conditions are not consistently reported for this precise spot, but the overall sheltered feel contributes to its reputation as an easy dive.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Prioritizing safety at Sharm Yanbu involves being aware of the site's natural inhabitants. Stonefish are reported in the area; therefore, divers must exercise caution by maintaining excellent buoyancy control throughout the dive. Avoiding contact with the bottom and the reef is crucial, not only for personal safety but also for protecting the delicate coral ecosystems. This practice helps prevent accidental encounters with potentially hazardous marine life. Always ensure proper weighting to easily hover above the seabed. Given its beginner-friendly nature, new divers should review fundamental buoyancy skills before entering the water. Adhering to these simple guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable exploration of the site's wrecks and reefs.
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 who spend more time observing marine life often prefer slightly warmer gear.
The water around Alsharm Yanbu is currently holding at approximately 26°C (79°F), setting the tone for today's dives. Surface air temperatures are resting at 26°C (78°F). Water temperatures in this range are often well suited to diving with 3mm wetsuit.
A warming trend is expected over the next few 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
SAR
Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at Alsharm Yanbu
Exploring Sharm Yanbu reveals a variety of marine life commonly associated with Red Sea reefs and sandy areas. Divers frequently encounter Lionfish, identifiable by their distinctive fins, alongside several species of Sea turtles. Starfish dot the sandy patches and reef edges, adding colorful details to the seabed. Baracuda are also often sighted, gracefully patrolling the deeper sections of the site. While less frequently observed but still reported, larger pelagics like sharks, whales, and dolphins might make an appearance further offshore. The interplay between the coral reef structures and open sandy areas creates diverse microhabitats, supporting a rich cross-section of fish and invertebrate species.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sharm Yanbu suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, the site is shallow and calm, making it ideal for training and discovery scuba. Its maximum depth of 12 meters (39 feet) is well within beginner limits.
What is the maximum depth at Sharm Yanbu?
A maximum reported depth of around 12 meters (39 feet) characterizes this site. Its shallow profile makes it accessible and safe for various levels of diving.
What kind of marine life can be seen?
Divers commonly spot Lionfish, Sea turtles, and Starfish. Baracuda are also frequently seen, and there are occasional reports of larger species such as sharks or dolphins.
Are there any wrecks to explore?
Yes, the site includes a small wreck. It sits alongside the coral reef habitat, providing an interesting feature for exploration.
Is night diving possible at this site?
Sharm Yanbu is described as a good option for night dives. The calm and shallow conditions make it suitable for nighttime exploration, revealing different marine behaviors.
What are the entry conditions for this dive site?
Entry to Sharm Yanbu is typically from the shore, making it easily accessible. Divers should be prepared for a beach entry.
Liveaboards Sailing to Alsharm Yanbu
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