Thomas Reef

Thomas Reef, renowned as the most colorful reef in the Straits of Tiran, offers an unforgettable diving experience. My recent dive here was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a vibrant underwater world that left me in awe.

Diving on the eastern side of the reef provides a calmer experience, making it ideal for divers of all levels. When conditions are right and air consumption allows, circumnavigating the reef is a thrilling option that reveals its stunning diversity. The reef drops from 0.5 to 28 meters, forming a breathtaking plateau that is home to an array of marine life.

One of the highlights was encountering the majestic Gorgonian Fans, which serve as a habitat for Long Nose Hawk Fish, various species of Nudibranchs, and Pipe Fish. Additionally, I discovered a lovely soft coral garden nearby, where I was fortunate enough to observe turtles munching on their favorite snacks.

The wall of Thomas Reef is adorned with small coral-encrusted pinnacles teeming with vibrant Anthias. If you take a moment to gaze away from the reef, you might spot Unicorn Fish, Redtooth Trigger Fish, and schools of Jacks and Trevallies swimming gracefully by.

In summary, Thomas Reef is a must-visit for scuba divers looking to experience a colorful and lively underwater ecosystem. With its diverse marine life and stunning coral formations, it’s a destination that promises both excitement and beauty. Don’t miss the chance to explore this gem in the Straits of Tiran!... Show More

Visited Sep. 2024

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This stunning reef stands as one of the most extraordinary dive sites in the northern Red Sea, attracting both recreational and technical divers alike. Due to the absence of mooring points, drift diving is essential here. The journey begins at the southern corner of the reef, which serves as the classic starting point for your underwater adventure. As you navigate along the eastern side, you'll encounter a vibrant wall adorned with a myriad of colorful corals, descending gracefully to a sandy plateau that starts around 25 meters deep and gently slopes. This area is teeming with impressive Alcyonarians (Dendronephthya sp.), majestic gorgonians, and colonies of unique black corals known as Antipatharians, boasting their characteristic spiral shape.

At around 35 meters deep, a breathtaking and remarkably deep canyon reveals itself, running parallel to the reef and featuring a series of awe-inspiring arches. As you reach the northeastern corner of the reef, you may encounter a powerful counter-current. If you manage to navigate past this point and if conditions are favorable, you'll have the opportunity to explore the entirety of the reef. This remarkable journey will allow you to uncover the wonders of the northern wall, offering refuge in its delightful shelters and splits, and the western wall, adorned with numerous crevices and caves, along with stunning gorgonians. The area is also home to a diverse array of marine life, including graceful sea turtles and a vibrant population of reef fish, creating a rich and captivating underwater ecosystem.... Show More

Visited Jul. 2023

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