Ras Mohammed - Shark Reef & Yolanda Reef - Sharm el-Sheikh

Ras Mohammed's Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef combination is a classic Red Sea dive, and for good reason. We’ve always found the currents here can be lively, which means big schools of barracuda and jacks often cruise past the coral walls. Dropping down to the Yolanda wreck is a real highlight, with its cargo of toilets and bathtubs scattered across the seabed – a strange, photogenic sight. Keep an eye out for pharaoh cuttlefish near the reef, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a dolphin passing through. It’s a site that suits divers comfortable with some drift, keen for both reef life and a quirky wreck.

Location
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
27.727000, 34.254000
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
15-40m

Marine Protected Area: محمية رأس محمد

Best Time to Dive in Sharm el-Sheikh

The warmest water temperatures in Sharm el-Sheikh occur in August, averaging 29.9°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 22.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.6°C
  • February: 22.8°C
  • March: 22.5°C
  • April: 23.3°C
  • May: 25.6°C
  • June: 26.9°C
  • July: 28.4°C
  • August: 29.9°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 27.8°C
  • November: 27.1°C
  • December: 25.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Sharm el-Sheikh

Nearest Dive Centres to Ras Mohammed - Shark Reef & Yolanda Reef

Marine Life in Sharm el-Sheikh

Home to 13 recorded species including 6 whales & dolphins, 5 reef fish, 1 sharks & rays, 1 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Ras Mohammed - Shark Reef & Yolanda Reef

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 10 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at Ras Mohammed's Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef?
The dramatic coral walls at Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef drop to an impressive 700 metres. While the maximum depth of the reef structure is significant, the typical recreational diving depths for this site are not specified in the available data. Divers can explore various depths along these stunning walls.
What kind of marine life and unique features can divers expect to see at Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef?
Divers at Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef can expect to encounter huge schools of barracuda, jacks, and snapper, often drawn by the strong currents. A unique feature is the wreck of the cargo ship Yolanda, which adds an otherworldly element with its scattered bathtubs and toilets on the seabed. For more on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the diving at Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef is rated as intermediate difficulty. The presence of strong currents, which attract impressive schools of marine life, means this site is generally not recommended for beginner divers. Divers should have experience managing currents to fully enjoy this premier location.
What is the best time of year to dive Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general information on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are required to dive Ras Mohammed's Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef?
The provided data does not specify the exact diving certifications required for Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef. However, as the site is rated intermediate difficulty with strong currents, divers should ensure they have appropriate training and experience for such conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef dive site?
Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef is known for its strong currents, which are a key factor in attracting large schools of barracuda, jacks, and snapper. The provided data does not, however, specify typical visibility conditions for this dive site.