Ras Abu Soma, meaning “Head of Abu Soma,” is a reef situated near the southeast tip of a large outcrop area known as Ras Abu Soma, off Soma Bay in Egypt . It’s located north of Safaga and can be accessed by boat from dive centers in the area. The depth varies depending on the specific section of the reef you explore: Shallow areas: A gentle reef slope starts at around 1 meter (3.3 feet) and gradually deepens to around 15 meters (50 feet) in some areas. This shallow zone is ideal for beginners and offers beautiful coral formations and vibrant fish life. Drop-off: Further north, the reef shelf narrows down to a ledge before giving way to a vertical wall. This area can reach depths exceeding 30 meters (100 feet) and is suitable for experienced divers due to depth and potential currents. Currents: Currents in the area are generally mild to moderate, but can be stronger around the deeper wall section. It’s important to be aware of conditions before diving and choose an area appropriate for your experience level. Type: The dive site offers a combination of experiences: Reef dive: Explore the sloping reef with its diverse coral formations and colorful fish life in the shallower areas. Drift dive: The deeper wall section with currents can be explored as a drift dive, allowing divers to experience the rich marine life along the wall. Marine life: Ras Abu Soma boasts a vibrant underwater ecosystem: Coral formations: The reef features a variety of hard and soft corals, providing habitat for many creatures. Fish: Schools of colorful fish like anthias, butterflyfish, and clownfish are commonly seen. Larger marine life: With some luck, divers might encounter eagle rays, turtles, barracudas, and even sharks (especially in deeper areas with currents). Additional Considerations: Ras Abu Soma caters to divers of various experience levels due to the varying depths and current conditions. Beginners can explore the shallow reef, while experienced divers can venture deeper along the wall. Guided dives are recommended, especially for first-time visitors to the reef. Many dive centers in Soma Bay and Safaga offer trips to Ras Abu Soma. Visibility is generally good due to the offshore location. Overall, Ras Abu Soma is a versatile dive site in the Red Sea offering a beautiful coral reef, diverse marine life, and options for divers of various experience levels. The shallow areas provide a great introduction to the underwater world, while the deeper wall section offers a thrilling drift dive for experienced divers.
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