Dive Shark & Jolanda: Ras Mohammed's Gem
Introduction
At the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Ras Mohammed's Shark & Jolanda is a diver's dream. This Red Sea spot offers stunning underwater landscapes and rich marine life. With depths from 0 to 40 meters and visibility of 20 to 30 meters, it's ideal for intermediate divers seeking adventure.
Location & Access
Ras Mohammed National Park is about 20 kilometers southwest of Sharm El Sheikh. Accessible by boat, local dive operators offer daily trips, making it convenient for divers in the area.
Dive Site Overview
Shark & Jolanda is famous for its wall dives and vibrant reefs. Start at Anemone City, descending along a steep wall covered in anemones. The Jolanda wreck, a Cypriot cargo ship that sank in 1980, creates an underwater museum of toilets, bathtubs, and cargo.
| Depth range | 0–40 m / 0–131.2 ft |
|---|---|
| Visibility | 20–30 m / 65.6–98.4 ft |
| Water temperature | 23–28 °C / 73.4–82.4 °F |
| Best season | Year-round (May-Sep best) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type | Wall, Reef |
| Marine life | Schooling barracuda and snappers, reef sharks, soft corals |
Marine Life & Ecosystems
Ras Mohammed's waters are teeming with life. Expect encounters with barracuda, snappers, and reef sharks. The soft coral gardens provide a colorful backdrop. According to PADI, the biodiversity here is among the richest in the Red Sea.
Best Time to Visit
Ras Mohammed is a year-round destination, but May to September offers the best conditions. Water temperatures range from 23 to 28°C, perfect for extended dives. Visibility peaks, showcasing the site's beauty.
Safety Considerations
Diving at Shark & Jolanda requires intermediate skills due to depth and currents. Always dive with a buddy and follow safety protocols. Local operators familiar with conditions are recommended.
Equipment Recommendations
A full wetsuit is advised for cooler currents and marine life encounters. Ensure buoyancy control devices are in good order for safe navigation of vertical walls.
Local Tips & Culture
Sharm El Sheikh offers a vibrant culture. After diving, explore markets, enjoy Egyptian cuisine, or relax at beachside cafes. The community is welcoming, emphasizing natural heritage preservation.
Conservation Notes
Ras Mohammed is protected, with conservation crucial for ecological health. Practice responsible diving by avoiding reef contact and following "leave no trace" principles. Organizations like WWF work to protect this ecosystem.
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Local Dive Centers
For the most current conditions and guided tours to, we recommend contacting these local dive operators:
Sinai Dive Club
Contact: Phone: +20 122 281 5210 | Email: info@dive-club.com
Website: http://www.dive-club.com
Phone: +20 122 281 5210
Email: info@dive-club.com
Important: Always check with local operators for current conditions, safety requirements, and to ensure you have the appropriate certification level for the dive site.
Conclusion
Diving at Ras Mohammed's Shark & Jolanda is a journey into a vibrant marine environment. With rich biodiversity, stunning coral gardens, and historical wrecks, it offers an unforgettable experience. Respect environmental guidelines to help preserve this paradise.
