When you think about Egypt, maybe you imagine yourself standing awe-struck at the foot of a pyramid or trekking on a camel across a windswept desert. Those things are entirely possible, but if you fancy getting adventurous, there’s something else you might want to consider – diving in Dahab.
While Sharm el-Sheikh is the glittering jewel in the Sinai Peninsula’s tourism and diving scenes, there’s an alternative nearby that’s a more appealing proposition for school groups. Dahab, situated just 50 miles north of Sharm, is a hidden gem that’s the perfect base for a diving expedition. This coastal village, set against the unforgiving, rocky landscape of South Sinai, looks out onto the turquoise waters of the Red Sea in the Gulf of Aqaba. Dahab started life as a Bedouin fishing village. Although it’s now a popular spot that attracts divers and windsurfers, it retains a laid-back and authentic feel that’s a world apart from the luxe resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh.
Taking the plunge
For school groups with their sights set on PADI certification, Dahab ticks a lot of boxes. Location is a big plus. The town is set on a small rocky headland, so it’s surrounded by water on three sides. Access to the sea is easy, with most dives starting from the beach, which lets beginners gain confidence in the shallows before venturing into deeper water. As shore diving cuts out the need for boat transfers to dive sites, more time can be spent learning and practising underwater skills.
Well-preserved coral reefs lie just meters from Dahab’s shore and there’s plenty of marine life to spot. You’ll certainly see shoals of colourful fish and, if you’re lucky, possibly dolphins and hawksbill turtles. The good water quality that supports healthy reefs also means visibility is crystal clear for divers. Apart from during the winter months, Dahab’s waters are comfortably warm and inviting.
Along the coast
One of Dahab's most famous dive spots is the Blue Hole, which lies close to shore, a short drive north. It’s thanks to this site that Dahab gained a reputation as a rewarding area for diving. Although some elements of the Blue Hole are suitable for recreational divers, it has challenging aspects that only the very experienced should tackle.
For school parties that are just finding their fins, Moray Garden is a good bet. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Dahab and offers divers of all abilities easy access to an abundance of coral. Geometric moray eels and barracudas are regularly observed among the reefs and seagrass. The Three Pools site is right next door. After navigating (you guessed it) three shallow pools, divers can venture further down into a colourful coral garden and attempt to spot elusive octopuses.
Further south from Moray Garden and Three Pools, you’ll find Gabr El Bint. As it’s accessible only by boat, by 4x4 or (perhaps most romantically) by camel, it’s less frequented than other local sites, meaning it’s unspoiled and generally quieter. Experts consider it one of the most rewarding dives in the Dahab area, thanks to the beauty of its coral and the diversity of marine life attracted by the environment. Keep your eyes peeled for rays, parrotfish and snappers.
The Dahab experience with STC Expeditions
PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is the world's largest scuba-training organisation. Students aged 10 and over can gain Open-Water Diver certification in 2 to 4 days under the tuition of a highly trained instructor. This certificate is the first rung on the scuba ladder and, after completing it, students will be able to manage their buoyancy, assemble and handle scuba gear, and dive confidently to a depth of up to 18m.
When travelling with STC Expeditions, students learn to dive in groups of no more than 5, meaning everyone gets individual guidance and attention from the instructor. Learning in this safe and supportive environment ensures the experience is positive and relaxed. Our expert local instructors will also be able to point out marine species and guide pupils in how to treat wildlife and the underwater environment with respect.
Of course, an STC Expeditions adventure isn’t all about putting in the hard work – there’s always time to relax and unwind. After a long day’s diving in Dahab, our groups have the opportunity to kick back at a coastal Bedouin camp and enjoy some traditional hospitality. As the sun sets over the ocean and the moon rises above the wild rocky landscape, students can get comfy on floor cushions and tuck into a barbecue dinner while listening to stories of Bedouin life. Then, after a good night’s sleep, it’s time to pull on the wetsuit and take the plunge once more.
Want to find out more? Get in touch to discuss your next school expedition.