The Islands, Sharm El Sheikh: Coral Gardens of Dahab's Lagoon

The Islands, situated at the outer edge of Dahab's lagoon, unfolds as an intricate underwater maze rather than a sheer drop-off. As you begin your descent, you are immediately enveloped by extensive coral gardens, giving the site its namesake appearance of submerged islands. The interplay of sunlight reflecting off the reef throughout the day creates a dynamic visual experience, illuminating the vibrant hues of the soft and hard corals that dominate the landscape here, making for a truly immersive and visually rich dive.

This dive site distinguishes itself through its unique structure, featuring a series of natural passages that link three distinct coral basins. You navigate through these corridors, each revealing a new perspective on the intricate reef system. The sense of discovery as you move from one basin to another, following the contours of the coral, is central to the experience at The Islands. It’s a dive where topography dictates your path, guiding you through a serene underwater journey.

The gentle slope leads down to a sandy bottom situated at a maximum depth of 18 metres, making for a controlled and accessible dive. Along the way, the focus remains on the dense coral formations, which provide shelter and feeding grounds for a variety of marine inhabitants. Without the pressure of extreme depth, you can fully appreciate the delicate structures and colours of the coral, allowing for a relaxed pace where observation becomes the primary objective.

Below the surface, The Islands boasts a diverse resident population. Keep an eye out for large schools of juvenile barracudas (Sphyraena barracuda) moving in synchronised patterns, alongside groups of snappers (Lutjanidae) that patrol the reef edges. The sandy patches also provide refuge for impressive giant pufferfish (Tetraodontidae), often seen slowly traversing the seabed or seeking cover among the coral formations, adding to the visual variety of this vibrant ecosystem.

Further exploration within the coral labyrinth can reveal larger, more iconic reef dwellers. Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), often shy but occasionally curious, make an appearance, their distinctive humps visible as they glide past the coral heads. Groupers (Serranidae) are also a common sight, camouflaged within the reef structure, waiting patiently for their next meal. And for those with a keen eye, resting rays (Myliobatiformes) might be spotted settled on the sandy bottom, particularly within the quieter basins.

The exceptional range of corals found here is a key feature, varying in shape, size, and particularly, colouration. Unlike more exposed sites, the sheltered nature of The Islands allows for a remarkable proliferation of delicate and vivid coral species. This rich biodiversity provides a stunning backdrop to every moment of the dive, ensuring that even frequent visitors discover new textures and patterns within this living tapestry. The consistent warmth and light penetration further enhance the coral's health and visual impact.