
Steigenberger Alcazar
★★★★★
★ 9.6/10 (4,156 reviews)
24 km away as the crow flies
Dive centre · Sharm El Sheikh · Egypt
4.910 Google reviewsExplore the Red Sea's most iconic wrecks and reefs with a professional team offering technical Trimix training and small guide-to-diver ratios.

Dive For Life has been operating in the Red Sea since 2017, establishing itself as a reliable choice for divers seeking both recreational and technical exploration. Currently based at the Viva Sharm Hotel in Sharm El Sheikh, the centre provides a structured environment for those looking to progress through their certifications or explore the region's famous maritime history.
The centre is well-positioned for divers wanting to access the diverse ecosystems of the Sinai Peninsula, from the colourful reefs of the Tiran Strait to the deep, historic wrecks of the Gulf of Suez. With a focus on small group sizes and professional standards, it serves as a hub for both local exploration and specialised excursions.
The team is led by highly qualified staff, including a Course Director, Instructor Trainer, and Master Instructor. This level of expertise ensures that training is handled with a high degree of precision, whether you are working through basic PADI or SSI certifications or moving into advanced technical territory.
Instruction is delivered in English, Polish, Slovak, Russian, and German, making it accessible for a wide range of international divers. To maintain safety and personal attention, the centre maintains a strict ratio of no more than six divers per guide, ensuring that your buddy pair or small group receives the necessary support during every dive.
A comprehensive range of training is available through both PADI and SSI affiliations. Beginners can start with an Introductory Dive, Bubble Maker, or the PADI Scuba Diver and SSI Open Water Diver courses. As you progress, the centre offers Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Emergency First Response training.
For those looking to move into technical diving, Dive For Life provides advanced pathways including Extended Range Foundations and Extended Range Trimix Diver courses. This allows divers to transition from recreational reef diving to more complex wreck and deep-water exploration.
The centre is equipped to support a variety of diving needs, offering Nitrox for divers looking to extend their bottom times. For those undertaking technical training, Trimix is also available on-site.
Safety is a priority, with oxygen and first aid kits maintained for all excursions. The centre's logistics include airport transfers when booked as part of a package, and the base at Viva Sharm Hotel provides a convenient starting point for your daily diving schedule.
The SS Thistlegorm is a world-famous wreck located in the Gulf of Suez, resting at depths between 17 and 30 metres. It is a premier site for wreck enthusiasts, featuring anti-aircraft guns and a cargo of military vehicles, motorcycles, and equipment.
Jackson Reef, located in the Tiran Strait, is a vibrant site known for its steep walls and colourful coral gardens. It is a prime location for observing large pelagics and diverse reef life among the soft corals.
The Million Hope is the largest wreck in the Red Sea, sitting upright at 24 metres near Nabq. The site offers multi-level exploration of its massive holds, though it is best dived in calm weather conditions.
Dunraven is a Victorian-era steam and sail ship resting upside down at 30 metres on Shaab Mahmoud. The wreck is heavily encrusted with coral and offers a cave-like interior for divers to explore.

down to 31 m

down to 30 m

down to 31 m

down to 30 m


down to 90 m

down to 20 m
And some of the dive sites the centre runs.
The reefs are teeming with life, from large pelagics to colourful reef fish. You will regularly encounter Tuna (Thunnus), Jack (Carangidae), and various species of Snapper (Lutjanus). Large schools of fusiliers and various species of barracuda are common, alongside sightings of Eagle ray and various stingrays.
The hard and soft corals provide a complex habitat for countless species. Look for Butterflyfish (Chaetodon), Parrotfish (Calotomus), and various species of Anthias (Anthias) darting amongst the Porites coral heads and gorgonian fans. You may also spot Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), Lionfish (Pterois volitans), and various species of Moray eel (Muraenidae).
Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, including Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), Ghost pipefish (Solenostomidae), and various species of shrimp. Keep a close eye on the seabed and crevices for Scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), Trumpetfish (Aulostomidae), and various species of Pipefish.
During the summer months, there are increased opportunities to see seasonal pelagics, including Hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini) and Reef shark (Carcharhinus). Turtles and various species of rays are also frequent visitors to these waters throughout the year.
Diving conditions in the area are generally calm and clear year-round. However, certain sites require specific attention to local conditions; for example, Woodhouse Reef is known for having strong currents, making it more suitable for experienced divers.
Excursions to the Million Hope wreck are weather-dependent and require calm seas for safe access. In Dahab, sites like the Blue Hole and the Canyon require the use of open-heel fins and boots for the land access required to reach the coast.
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