Explore Big Brother Island

Big Brother Island, located in the northern Red Sea, offers an unparalleled diving experience characterized by its dramatic underwater landscapes and diverse marine life. Accessible exclusively by liveaboard, this destination promises exhilarating adventures for divers of all skill levels. The island's deep wall drop-offs present a thrilling opportunity to explore the vibrant coral gardens teeming with life, including encounters with large pelagic species like hammerhead sharks, barracudas, and tunas. These powerful creatures often glide through the clear waters, offering a spectacular show of nature's grandeur.

Adding to the allure of Big Brother Island are its famous wreck dives. The Numidia, affectionately known as the Railway Wreck, and the Aida lie beneath the waves, each with its own storied past. The Numidia, a 130-meter British cargo ship, met its watery fate in 1901, while the Aida, a 75-meter supply ship, sank in 1957. These wrecks, now vibrant artificial reefs, provide a captivating glimpse into history as marine life flourishes around them. With its unique combination of rich history and natural beauty, Big Brother Island truly stands out as a must-visit diving destination in the Red Sea.

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★☆ Big Brother

Offshore Island with stunning reef walls all around it. Potentially very strong currents which can change throughout the dive so be aware of this. Drift diving and deep diving experience is essential. Make sure you also have an SMB on every dive.

5,937
Logs
3,377
Divers
32.0 m
⌀ Depth
25.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Big Brother East

Brothers Island, or El Akhawen, is a “must dive“ for every diver that visits Egypt. This dive site can be reached only via liveaboard boats. The location contains two islands, the small and the big island. This is a more advanced dive as it can have strong currents and deep drop-offs with lots of shark sightings.

1,183
Logs
961
Divers
32.0 m
⌀ Depth
26.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Little Brother

Brothers Island, or El Akhawen, is a “must dive“ for every diver that visits Egypt. This dive site can be reached only via liveaboard boats. The location contains two islands, the small and the big island. This is a more advanced dive as it can have strong currents and deep drop-offs with lots of shark sightings.

8,247
Logs
4,144
Divers
31.0 m
⌀ Depth
25.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Big Brother South

South Plateau, extends from the southern tip of the Big Island. Beginning around 30m and extending some 500m south, this site sinks to 60m on the point. This plateau is around 20m wide and drops to over 80m off the sides. Current often flows from the north, making returning against current difficult.

2,251
Logs
1,609
Divers
33.0 m
⌀ Depth
26.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Big Brother - Numidia

Wreck of the S.S. Numidia, built in 1900. She ran aground on the reef at the northern tip of Big Brother on 20 July 1901 and sank a few weeks later.

474
Logs
407
Divers
34.0 m
⌀ Depth
26.0 m
⌀ Visibility

Diving in Big Brother Island

Big Brother Island, part of Egypt's Red Sea, is renowned for its thrilling dive sites, with a perfect blend of shore and liveaboard diving options. One of the standout features is the wreck dive at the Aida II, a supply ship sunk in 1957, offering divers an intriguing underwater adventure as they explore its remains now teeming with vibrant marine life.

Another highlight is the Numidia wreck, which has become a captivating artificial reef, attracting diverse species and providing an exhilarating dive experience. Night dives at Big Brother Island reveal fascinating marine behaviors, with nocturnal creatures emerging, creating a unique spectacle for divers. The island promises a balanced and unforgettable diving experience for both shore and liveaboard enthusiasts.

The best Months to dive in Big Brother Island

Big Brother Island offers excellent diving conditions throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for divers. Water temperatures range from 22°C–29°C/72°F–84°F, with the warmer months typically occurring between May and September. Visibility is generally good, often exceeding 20 meters/66 feet, allowing divers to fully appreciate the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs.

Diving is possible year-round, though conditions can vary slightly with the seasons. Between October and April, divers may encounter stronger winds and currents, which could impact dive plans. However, these factors are generally manageable, ensuring that the island remains a popular diving spot regardless of the season.

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