Best Time to Dive the Red Sea in Egypt
The Red Sea is a year-round diving destination, offering excellent visibility, warm water and diverse marine life throughout the year. However, certain months are better suited for specific dive routes, water temperatures and marine encounters.
This guide explains the best time to dive the Red Sea in Egypt, helping you choose the ideal season and liveaboard route for your diving goals.
There is no single “bad” time to dive the Red Sea. Diving conditions vary by season, with changes in water temperature, wind, and marine life activity. The best time depends on whether you prefer warmer water, fewer crowds or specific marine encounters.
Red Sea Diving Conditions by Season
Spring (March to May)
Spring offers stable weather, increasing water temperatures and excellent visibility. It is a popular season for liveaboard diving, especially for offshore routes.
Highlights:
• Water temperature: 22–25°C
• Good visibility
• Ideal for BDE and northern routes
Summer (June to August)
Summer brings the warmest water temperatures and strong marine life activity. While air temperatures are high, conditions underwater are excellent.
Highlights:
• Water temperature: 26–30°C
• Excellent visibility
• Increased chances of pelagic encounters
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is considered one of the best times to dive the Red Sea. Water remains warm, conditions are calm, and marine life is abundant.
Highlights:
• Warm water and stable weather
• Ideal for all liveaboard routes
• Excellent for underwater photography
Winter (December to February)
Winter diving in the Red Sea offers cooler water temperatures but still excellent visibility. Northern routes remain accessible, while southern itineraries depend on weather conditions.
Highlights:
• Water temperature: 20–23°C
• Fewer crowds
• Suitable for Wrecks & Reefs routes
Best Time to Dive Each Red Sea Liveaboard Route
The Wrecks & Reefs route can be dived year-round, with particularly good conditions from March to November.
Best months:
• March to November
The BDE route is seasonal due to offshore conditions and is best dived when seas are calm and visibility is high.
Best months:
• May to October
The Deep South route offers excellent conditions for most of the year, with calmer seas and warmer water in summer and autumn.
Best months:
• April to November
Water Temperature and Exposure Protection
Water temperatures in the Red Sea vary by season. A 5mm wetsuit is generally sufficient for summer months, while a 7mm wetsuit or additional thermal protection is recommended during winter.
Best Time to Dive the Red Sea – FAQs
Can I dive the Red Sea in winter?
Yes. Winter diving offers good visibility and fewer crowds, although water temperatures are cooler.
When is the best time for shark encounters?
Shark encounters are most common during warmer months, particularly from late spring through early autumn.
