The Straits of Tiran, as a whole, make up an entire series of incredible dive sites, and are inclusive of four reefs, each of which is spectacular in its own right. Woodhouse, Gordon, Thomas, and Jackson reefs are so named after the divers who mapped them for the rest of us to enjoy. Here is an introduction to these reefs, which are teeming with lush underwater life.
Woodhouse Reef
Woodhouse Reef, which is a popular site for viewing rays, sharks, and big pelagics, is bounded by a deep shipping lane, and is both the longest as well as the narrowest of the four major reef structures within the Straits of Tiran. This reef offers an incredible drift dive over sandy channels where reef sharks nap, and through coral gardens with smaller fish in abundance. Use caution at the northern tip of Woodhouse reef, as this is where the current is strongest. Divers have been swept into the shipping lane at this point, so use good judgment as you enjoy the beauty of Woodhouse reef.
Jackson Reef
Jackson Reef is the northernmost reef in the Straits of Tiran, and the strong, sweeping currents that make it so popular with the sharks and big pelagics that are normally seen here have also driven divers out away from the reef and into the shipping lanes. Visibility can exceed twenty-five meters here, and the coral is healthy and spectacular. Due to the current, the Jackson Reef site is recommended for advanced divers only.
Gordon Reef
Gordon Reef was once very popular with snorkelers, until they were disallowed in 2005. The coral suffered a bit from the frequent contact with those snorkelers, and this site can get crowded during peak times. Still, it is a good dive, with an incredible bowl like feature where sharks sleep peacefully in twenty-four meters of water.
Gordon reef, with its’ abundance of life, shark, bowl, and steep walls covered in coral and gorgonians, is by far the most popular as well as the most diverse site of the four reefs within the straits. One more prominent feature is a shipwreck which can be seen protruding from the water. This is the wreck of the Lovilla, a freighter that hit Gordon Reef back in 1981. Although the outside can be viewed, the inner reaches cannot be penetrated at all – it is not safe to go in.
Thomas Reef
Thomas Reef, which is located in the center of the Straits of Tiran, is the smallest of the four reefs and has some very intriguing features which are popular with technical divers. Although advanced divers without deep water or technical dive skills can drift along the walls on the east or west side of Thomas reef and enjoy the spectacular coral and gorgonians, as well as the reef fish and larger pelagics that frequent the area, skilled technical divers enjoy the arches inside the deep canyon that divides the plateau that begins at twenty-five meters. These three arches are at 44, 51, and 61 meters, respectively, and are subject to strong currents. They are thrilling and memorable – however, they are in no way suitable for anyone who does not already have skills in place.
With some of the best black coral, antler coral, and stone coral, as well as an astonishing explosion of colorful fish and soft coral, the reefs that make up the Straits of Tiran are amazing. Hone up your skills, and head for Egypt!