Must see
Pelagics
Corals
Schools of fish
Sha’ab Maksur, located approximately 28km/17mi off Hamata, is the easternmost reef in a group of reefs known as Fury Shoals. In Arabic Maksur means ‘broken’, which probably refers to the shape of the southern side of the reef. On its northern side, the reef starts at 22m/72ft and gently slopes to a plateau at 40m/131ft before dropping off to over 90m/295ft. The north side of the reef is the most exposed to the open sea and divers can only dive there when the sea is calm. The east and west sides of the reef are steep walls. The south side features a plateau at a depth of 18m/59ft and two large pinnacles that do not rise to the sea surface at only 6m/20ft. Due to the large size of the reef, divers may need to do up to three dives here in order to fully enjoy and explore this beautiful coral reef.
The Most Popular Liveaboard Fleets in Egypt:
King Snefro Fleet - catering to both, groups and individuals with 7 liveaboards in the fleet, operate in Egypt, the Red Sea
Sea Serpent Fleet - 6 liveaboards fleet, offers diving cruises in Egypt, the Red Sea
Blue Planet Liveaboards - owns and operates 4 Liveaboards in the Sudan and Egypt
When To Go Diving
It is possible to dive at Sha’ab Maksur throughout the year, but diving conditions are best during the summer months. The water temperature ranges from 20-22C/68-72F in winter to 27-29C/81-84F from July to October. Whale sharks visit the area during late spring and early summer.
What to see
Due to the exposed location, often strong currents, and the depth, this reef creates perfect conditions for schooling pelagics. Large schools of barracudas and schooling hammerheads are regularly sighted in the area, along with sea turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, and manta rays. It is also possible to see whale sharks here at certain times of the year.