Soma Bay, located on a scenic peninsula surrounded by the Red Sea in Egypt, offers a distinctive diving experience. Just 45 kilometers south of Hurghada, this luxurious destination is known for its stunning sandy beaches and azure waters set against the dramatic backdrop of desert mountains. Underwater, divers are greeted by mesmerizing spectacles, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. The house reefs here stretch for several kilometers, providing ample opportunities for both beginners and seasoned divers to explore a variety of dive environments.
Dive sites in Soma Bay, such as Panorama, Abu Kafan, and Shaab Sheer East, are renowned for their large coral pinnacles and abundant marine life. Visitors are often captivated by the graceful movements of eagle rays, the imposing presence of napoleon fish, and the fascinating potato cods. For those seeking adventure, the Salem Express Wreck offers a unique glimpse into history beneath the waves. Whether diving from shore, by boat, or on a liveaboard, Soma Bay promises an unforgettable underwater journey through Egypt's rich marine ecosystem, making it a must-visit for diving enthusiasts.
Due to the easy access, sandy, shore dive sites and the bay-like protected dive sites this is a perfect area for beginners and dive courses. The lagoon at Ras Abu Soma is the perfect sheltered dive area for dive courses to take place. It may not be the top destination for tec divers wanting to dive deep, but it is a dive destination where divers will be constantly entranced by the colours and life which this part of the Red Sea offers. Aside from the beginner courses, and if divers want to specifically visit the shore sites, the rest of the diving is done mostly from boats as the main dive sites are located approximately 10 minutes from the harbour.
Soma Bay, located along the Red Sea coast, is renowned for its vibrant marine life and pristine coral reefs. Among the common reef fish that divers can expect to encounter are the colorful Napoleon Wrasse and the elusive Lion Fish. Moray Eels, with their snake-like appearance, are often spotted hiding in crevices, while the Blue Spotted Rays gracefully glide over the sandy seabed.
Seasonally, Soma Bay offers the chance to see larger marine animals. Barracuda and Stonefish are present year-round, but divers may occasionally spot Sea Turtles swimming leisurely through the waters. Eagle Rays are a special treat, often seen in groups during certain times of the year. The rich biodiversity makes Soma Bay a must-visit for marine enthusiasts seeking both common and rare underwater encounters.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 200
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 300
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 25
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 27
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 28
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 12
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 100
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 130
Soma Bay offers excellent diving conditions throughout the year, thanks to the stable environment of the Red Sea. Water temperatures vary from 21°C/70°F in February to 27°C/81°F in August, ensuring comfortable dives year-round. Visibility is typically above average, ranging from 12 to 22 meters/39 to 72 feet, and can exceed 30 meters/98 feet on particularly clear days.
Diving is possible all year, although divers should be aware of seasonal weather factors. Wind and currents can occasionally affect diving conditions, particularly during the winter months when winds are stronger, leading to choppier surface conditions. However, these factors are generally manageable, allowing divers to enjoy the rich marine life and coral reefs of Soma Bay throughout the year.
