El Fanadir

Overview

El Fanadir is one of the longest reefs in the Hurghada area — a straight, three-kilometre wall to the north of the city that makes for one of the region's most relaxed and reliable drift dives. A colourful reef face on one side, a sandy plateau and a drop-off on the other, it is gentle enough for beginners yet long and varied enough to keep experienced divers happy, and it doubles as a fine night-dive site.

The Dive

The main reef runs along the west side; off the east, a sandy plateau slopes from about 12m down to 22m before giving way to a drop-off wall. The plateau is narrow at the northern end and widens southward, ending in a more dramatic fall-off, so the natural dive is to let the gentle current carry you north to south along the reef. Most of the dive sits in a comfortable 12–25m range, with the wall edge available for those who want to drop deeper and watch the blue — the drop-off continues well past recreational depth, so it is admired rather than chased.

The current here is usually light and the topography forgiving, which is exactly what makes it such an easy drift. Near the drop-off the reef opens to the open sea, bringing the chance of larger visitors. Suitable for all levels, with the deeper wall reserved for appropriately certified divers.

Marine Life

The reef wall is alive with glassfish and cardinalfish, and the colourful coral hosts a busy community of small reef species. Out along the drop-off there is a good chance of larger fish — tuna and small reef sharks patrol the edge — while turtles are regularly seen along this stretch of reef. Closer in, look for stonefish, scorpionfish, blue-spotted stingrays, lionfish, octopus and, for the lucky, a well-camouflaged frogfish.

Good to Know

El Fanadir lies around an hour north of central Hurghada (and is an easy run from El Gouna), with two main sites along its length, North and South. Visibility is typically a clear 25–30m and often more. The mild current, shallow plateau and sheltered spots make it a strong choice for newer divers and a relaxed drift for everyone; the rich wall also makes it a rewarding night dive. Best in calm weather year-round.