Shalâniat, also sometimes spelled Shalaneat or Shalanian, isn’t just one dive site, but rather a collection of several reefs located near Marsa Alam in Egypt’s southern Red Sea. This area offers a variety of dive experiences, making it a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at Shalâniat: Location: The Shalâniat reefs are situated offshore from Marsa Alam, with some dive sites accessible by shore entry and others requiring a short boat ride. Multiple Dive Sites: The Shalâniat area consists of several distinct reefs, each with its own unique features: Erg Somaya: This reef boasts a beautiful coral garden teeming with colorful fish life. Abu Nuhas (North & South): These reefs are famous for the wreck of the “Carnatic,” a British steamship that ran aground in 1869. The wreck, encrusted with coral and teeming with marine life, is a major attraction for experienced wreck divers. Ras Abu Soma: This shallow reef with a sandy bottom is perfect for beginners and snorkelers due to its calm conditions and abundance of interesting creatures. Shaab Quais: This offshore reef offers a stunning wall dive with vibrant coral formations and diverse fish life. Diverse Marine Life: The reefs of Shalâniat teem with various marine creatures, including: Colorful reef fish like angelfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, and damselfish Moray eels Stingrays Nudibranchs (sea slugs) Turtles (particularly at Shaab Quais) For wreck diving enthusiasts, the “Carnatic” wreck at Abu Nuhas shelters a rich ecosystem of fish and invertebrates. Suitability: The Shalâniat area caters to divers of all levels. The shallow reefs with calm conditions like Ras Abu Soma are ideal for beginners, while experienced divers can explore the deeper walls and wrecks like Shaab Quais and Abu Nuhas. Additional Considerations: Currents: Generally, the currents in Shalâniat are mild to moderate. However, conditions can vary depending on the specific dive site and time of year. Wreck Diving: If you’re planning to explore the “Carnatic” wreck at Abu Nuhas, ensure you have proper wreck diving training and certification. Shore Entry and Boat Dives: The accessibility of dive sites varies. Some, like Ras Abu Soma, offer shore entry, while others require a boat trip. Overall, the Shalâniat area offers a wealth of diving experiences for all. From vibrant coral gardens teeming with fish to historical wrecks teeming with life, Shalâniat caters to various interests and skill levels. Be sure to research the specific dive site you plan to explore to ensure it matches your experience level and interests