Shark & Yolanda Reef

Diving at Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef was truly an unforgettable adventure! Rated among the top ten dive sites in the world, this location in Ras Mohammed National Park lives up to its reputation with breathtaking underwater topography. The dramatic rise of the two reefs from unimaginable depths creates a stunning backdrop for any diver.

The dive is typically completed as a drift dive, starting at Shark Reef and flowing toward Yolanda. It’s essential to make a quick entry; otherwise, you risk drifting on the surface and missing the spectacular wall that awaits below. The sheer drop-off plunges beyond 800 meters, offering a thrilling sense of depth.

As we descended, the wall came alive with a vibrant array of marine life. Snappers, batfish, and barracuda were abundant, especially during the peak season in July and August when they gather in massive schools—it's like diving in a “fish soup”!

The current gracefully guided us to the ‘saddle,’ the connecting area between the two reefs. Our dive guide expertly navigated us along the front of Yolanda Reef, where I was thrilled to spot large pelagic fish gliding by in the blue depths. The dive concluded at the remains of the ‘Yolanda’ wreck, a fascinating sight that added to the overall adventure.

This dive can be a roller coaster ride of currents, making it an adrenaline-pumping experience! For anyone diving in the Red Sea, Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef are an absolute must-visit—it's an exhilarating journey you won’t want to miss! ... Show More

Visited Sep. 2024

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Located in the Ras Mohamed National Park, the Shark and Yolanda Reefs are renowned dive sites that offer a thrilling underwater adventure. Comprised of two submerged islands, these reefs are a paradise for divers from all over the world.

Shark Reef is a breathtaking vertical wall that extends to an impressive depth of 700 meters. Its vibrant and diverse coral coverage is a sight to behold. The Yolanda Reef, on the other hand, features a wide plateau adorned with a stunning coral garden and an abundance of pinnacle corals.

Nestled between the Yolanda Reef and the Ras Mohamed reef, lies the wreckage of the Yolanda itself. This ship, measuring 74 meters in length, was transporting bathroom supplies to the Gulf of Aqaba when it tragically crashed in 1980. The remnants of the wreck add an intriguing element to the dive, allowing divers to explore and marvel at this underwater relic.

It's important to note that the presence of strong currents is common in this area. However, it is precisely these currents that contribute to the thriving and diverse marine life that can be witnessed during the dive. Scorpionfish, crocodilefish, groupers, turtles, tuna, big morays, napoleon fish, Red Snapper, batfish, unicornfish, barracudas, and a host of other species can be spotted. It's not uncommon for these prey fish to attract predators such as the Grey reef or black tip Sharks, heightening the excitement and adding a dash of adrenaline to the dive.

The Shark and Yolanda Reefs offer an unforgettable dive experience in the Ras Mohamed National Park. With their stunning topography, flourishing coral gardens, and impressive marine life, these dive sites are a true jewel of the Red Sea. A visit to these reefs is a must for any diving enthusiast seeking an extraordinary underwater adventure.... Show More

Visited Oct. 2023

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