Abu Dabbab: A Renowned Red Sea Dive Site teeming with Turtles and Coral
Abu Dabbab, located in the Red Sea near Marsa Alam, Egypt, is a world-famous dive site celebrated for its stunning coral reefs, easy accessibility, and abundance of marine life, particularly sea turtles. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect at Abu Dabbab:
Location: Situated on the Red Sea coast, roughly 25 kilometers south of Port Ghalib and 32 kilometers north of Marsa Alam.
Accessibility: A major advantage of Abu Dabbab is its shore entry. Divers can wade directly into the water, making it convenient for those who prefer land-based diving. No boats are allowed to enter the bay, ensuring a serene diving experience.
Suitability: Abu Dabbab caters to a wide range of divers due to its varied depths. The shallow areas (1-3 meters) are ideal for beginners and snorkelers, while deeper sections (up to 40+ meters) can be explored by experienced divers.
Dive Sites: Technically, Abu Dabbab comprises several reefs, each offering unique features:
Shaab Abu Dabbab: The main reef system boasts vibrant coral formations and a gentle slope, perfect for relaxed dives.
The Cleaning Station: A famous spot where larger fish like Napoleon wrasses and turtles visit to be cleaned by smaller fish.
The Dugong Area: A shallow seagrass meadow where sightings of elusive dugongs (sea cows) are possible.
Marine Life: The highlight of Abu Dabbab is undoubtedly the abundance of marine turtles, particularly green turtles. Divers can also encounter:
Nudibranchs (sea slugs)
Moray eels
Clownfish
Anemonefish
Napoleon wrasse
Stingrays
Barracuda
Various colorful reef fish
Additional Considerations:
Currents: Generally mild currents prevail, making diving at Abu Dabbab relatively easy.
Night Dives: While not as popular as daytime dives, Abu Dabbab offers a unique experience for night divers with a chance to see nocturnal creatures.
Crowds: Due to its popularity, Abu Dabbab can get crowded, especially during peak season. Consider planning your dives accordingly.
Overall, Abu Dabbab is a must-visit dive site for anyone exploring the Red Sea. Its easy accessibility, incredible coral formations, and abundance of marine life, particularly turtles, make it a truly unforgettable diving experience.