Egypt: Red Sea - Dive Sites - Far Garden

Far Garden

Diving

Snorkelling

By Boat

By swimming

By Live-aboard

All Divers

3

3

Yes

Yes

Yes

Location:

On the coast between Shark Bay and Naama Bay

Access:

Local or live-aboard boat from Sharm El Sheikh, Naama Bay or other ports

Average Depth:

18m (60ft)

Maximum Depth:

30m+ (100ft+)

Average Visibility:

20m (65ft)

The Far Garden is located north of Na'ama Bay. It is a coral wall that drops off the shore and slopes down to a depth of 160 feet. There are caves that can be found in the shallow areas of 20 to 40 feet. In the caves there are schools of glass sweeper fish and flashlight fish can sometimes be found on night dives. In the deeper waters, large overhangs that are covered with soft corals, large fan corals and a few black coral trees can be found.

Coral growth throughout the site is concentrated in small patches, with strong growth of dozens of species, from staghorn and antler coral to delicate Dendronephthya.

Similar to the Near Garden in that it is popular for night dives with day boat operators. You normally leave at dusk and by the time you get there, it is dark. The reef comes alive at night and it is hard to believe it is the same place during the daylight hours. If you turn off your diving light and have the patience, you might be lucky enough to see the flashlight fish.

Fish life is good, with lots of wrasse. Napoleons in particular, but also big parrots and groupers inhabit the reef. Hawkfish, scorpionfish, fairy basslets, damsels, and many types of triggerfish share the reef, while goatfish, lizardfish and crocodilefish can be found on the many sandy areas.

The typical depth range is from 10 to 165 feet and is accessed as a shore dive, a boat dive or a local guide can take you there. The expertise required for this area is for a novice to advanced snorkeler.

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Last Updated: May 29th, 2011