Blue hole in Dahab
Located just north of Dahab in the Sinai Peninsula, the Blue Hole is one of the most legendary and visually stunning diving locations in the world. Formed as a submarine sinkhole from eroding limestone during past ice ages, this natural wonder reaches depths of approximately 130 meters.
Geological Marvel & Marine Haven
The Blue Hole is a nearly perfect circular shaft with a diameter of about 100 meters. It is characterized by its deep sapphire waters that contrast sharply with the surrounding shallow turquoise reefs. The site is home to vibrant coral walls and a variety of Red Sea life, including
- Fish species: Clouds of orange anthias, parrotfish, lionfish, and groupers.
- Larger visitors: Occasional sightings of tuna, barracuda, and even whale sharks or dolphins in the open blue.
Blue hole in Dahab
- Iconic Dive Routes
The Bells: The most popular entry point for recreational divers. It is a narrow vertical chimney (or "chute") where divers descend to about 28 meters to exit onto a sheer wall that drops hundreds of meters. - The Saddle: A shallow reef opening at about 6-7 meters deep that connects the Blue Hole to the open sea, serving as a primary entry or exit point for snorkelers and beginner divers.
- The Arch: An infamous 26-meter-long tunnel connecting the hole to the open ocean at a depth of roughly 52–56 meters.
Blue hole in Dahab
The "Diver's Cemetery" Reputation
The site is sometimes called the "World’s Most Dangerous Dive Site" due to a high number of fatalities, estimated between 130 and 200. These accidents are largely attributed to:
- Depth Deception: The water's clarity and light through the Arch can make the tunnel appear shorter and shallower than it is.
- Nitrogen Narcosis: Reaching the Arch requires technical training; recreational divers on a single tank of air often succumb to narcosis or run out of gas while attempting to find it.
- Memorial Wall: Plaques on the nearby cliff serve as a somber reminder to respect diving limits and proper safety protocols.
Visiting Details
- Accessibility: It is a shore-access dive, meaning you can walk directly from the beach into the water.
- Facilities: The area is lined with Bedouin-style cafes where visitors can relax, eat, and enjoy traditional tea.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but May to November offers the best visibility (20–30+ meters) and warmest water temperatures (up to 28°C).
Would you like information on certified dive centers in Dahab or details on how to get there from Sharm El-Sheikh
Comments