Dive Big Brother: Red Sea's Shark Haven
Introduction to Big Brother Diving
Big Brother, part of Egypt's Brother Islands in the Red Sea, is a top dive spot for thrill-seekers. Known for its stunning underwater landscapes and diverse marine life, this advanced site offers encounters with thresher sharks, oceanic whitetips, and grey reef sharks.
| Depth range | 5–40 m / 16.4–131.2 ft |
|---|---|
| Visibility | 20–30 m / 65.6–98.4 ft |
| Water temperature | 22–28 °C / 71.6–82.4 °F |
| Best season | Year-round (best Jun-Sep) |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Type | Wall, Reef (Wrecks) |
| Marine life | Thresher sharks, oceanic whitetips, grey reef sharks, soft corals |
Location & Access
Situated 70 km off El Quseir, Big Brother is accessible via liveaboard dive boats. The nearest airport is Hurghada, where transfers to liveaboards can be arranged. The Brother Islands are among the Red Sea's most famous dive sites.
Dive Site Overview
Big Brother features a dramatic wall dive from 5 to 40 meters, with visibility between 20 to 30 meters. The site boasts vibrant soft corals and two wrecks: the Aida and the Numidia, both rich with marine life. Strong currents make for exciting drift dives, suitable for advanced divers.
Marine Life & Ecosystems
The waters around Big Brother teem with life, including thresher sharks, oceanic whitetips, and grey reef sharks. Healthy coral reefs support diverse fish and invertebrates. A PLOS ONE study highlights the resilience of the Red Sea's coral ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit
Diving is possible year-round, but June to September offers optimal conditions with water temperatures from 22 to 28°C. This period sees heightened shark activity, perfect for adventure seekers.
Safety Considerations
Due to strong currents and depth, Big Brother is recommended for advanced divers. Choose a reputable operator familiar with local conditions and ensure your diving insurance is up-to-date.
Equipment Recommendations
Bring or rent a full scuba set, including a dive computer and surface marker buoy. A 5mm wetsuit is advisable, especially in cooler months. A reef hook is useful for stabilizing in currents.
Local Tips & Culture
While the Brother Islands are uninhabited, nearby El Quseir offers cultural experiences, including historic sites, local cuisine, and crafts. Respect local customs and traditions during your visit.
Conservation Notes
Conservation is key to preserving Big Brother's ecosystems. Organizations like the Red Sea Reef Foundation work to protect these waters. Practice responsible diving by avoiding contact with marine life and not collecting souvenirs.
Conclusion
Diving at Big Brother in the Red Sea is a must for advanced divers seeking thrilling marine encounters. Its vibrant reefs, diverse marine life, and historical wrecks offer a unique underwater adventure. Support conservation efforts to help preserve this ecosystem for future generations.
