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2.9 km away as the crow flies
Dive centre · Port Ghalib · Egypt
4.950 Google reviewsExplore the legendary reefs of the Red Sea with a German-led team specialising in dolphin encounters and small-group excursions.
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Tauchen Marsa Alam is a German-speaking dive centre situated in the Tondoba Bay, just north of Marsa Alam. The centre is positioned to provide easy access to some of the most significant marine environments in the area, ranging from protected dolphin habitats to deep-water reefs.
Operating with affiliations from PADI, SSI, and CMAS, the school caters to a wide spectrum of divers. From those completing their first breaths underwater to professional-level Divemasters, the focus remains on high-quality, personalised service that avoids the feel of mass tourism.
The centre is run by a German-speaking team, ensuring clear communication for those who prefer instruction in German. English is also spoken throughout the facility, making it accessible for international divers.
The teaching philosophy is built around small groups, ensuring that you receive individual attention from your guide. This approach is particularly effective for their specialised excursions, such as those focused on observing dolphins in their natural habitat.
The training programme is comprehensive, covering all major certification levels through PADI, SSI, and CMAS. Beginners can start with the Junior Open Water Diver or standard Open Water Diver courses, while more experienced divers can progress through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and eventually Divemaster.
Specialised training is also offered to refine specific skills. These include Nitrox certification, Deep Diver, and Wreck Diver courses, as well as CMAS-specific programmes such as the 10-day CMAS course.
The centre utilises speedboats and Zodiacs to reach the offshore sites. These vessels allow for efficient transit to the reefs, including the more distant locations like Elphinstone Reef.
Nitrox is available for use on these trips, allowing for extended bottom times on many of the local excursions.
Full equipment hire is available on-site, including various sizes of wetsuits, regulators, and fins. For those who prefer to bring their own kit, the centre provides the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay.
Nitrox is available for divers looking to optimise their profiles. For night dives, torches are available for hire to ensure you can navigate the reef after sunset.
Elphinstone Reef is a world-renowned site located 27 km offshore. This is an advanced-level reef known for its depth and frequent visits from sharks.
Abu Dabbab is a highly biodiverse area suitable for all experience levels. It is a unique site where you can encounter sea turtles and dugongs in their natural environment.
Sha'ab Samadai, also known as Dolphin House, is a horseshoe-shaped reserve. This protected area features coral towers at the southwest point and is a premier location for spotting long-snouted spinner dolphins.
Shaab Sataya is another significant horseshoe reef located at the southeast tip of Fury Shoal. Accessible to all levels, the site offers depths ranging from 4 to 40 metres and is home to white tip reef sharks and various schooling fish.
And some of the dive sites the centre runs.
The reefs around Marsa Alam are defined by their vibrant coral structures and a high density of colourful fish. You will regularly encounter various species of parrotfish and fusiliers moving through the water column.
Large pelagics are a significant draw for the area. Depending on the site, you may encounter sharks, including white tip reef sharks, particularly at deeper reef locations like Elphinstone.
The area is also famous for its charismatic megafauna. You can observe sea turtles and dugongs in the seagrass meadows, while the protected lagoons of Sha'ab Samadai and Shaab Sataya provide regular opportunities to see dolphins.
Diving in this region offers a variety of environments, from shallow reef flats to deeper offshore walls. Visibility typically ranges between 7 and 25 metres, providing clear sightlines for both macro and large animal observation.
While many sites are accessible via shore dives, the offshore reefs require boat transit to reach the deeper sections and the most significant current-driven environments.
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