Gubal Island Red Sea Egypt
Gubal Island is one of the most popular diving sites in Hurghada, located in the northern part of the Red Sea. The island offers a variety of dive spots, from shallow coral gardens to deep wrecks. The most famous wreck is the SS Thistlegorm, a British cargo ship that sank in 1941 after being bombed by German planes.
The ship was carrying a large amount of military equipment, such as motorcycles, trucks, rifles, and ammunition, which can still be seen inside the wreck. The ship is now home to a rich marine life, including barracudas, snappers, groupers, and moray eels. Divers can also explore the nearby barge, which is covered with soft corals and sponges.
The barge was used to transport supplies to the SS Thistlegorm before it sank, and it also has some interesting artifacts, such as a locomotive and a tank. Gubal Island is a great destination for divers of all levels, as it has something for everyone. The island also has a lighthouse, which offers a stunning view of the surrounding sea and mountains.
**Gubal Island: An Underwater Paradise in Hurghada, Red Sea**
Gubal Island, located in the Red Sea near Hurghada, is a hidden gem for divers and snorkelers. This uninhabited island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and underwater exploration opportunities. Here’s what you need to know about Gubal Island and why it’s a must-visit destination for underwater enthusiasts.
**Location:**
- Gubal Island is part of the Giftun Islands group, situated in the Red Sea. It’s located approximately 30 kilometers (about 18.5 miles) north of Hurghada, one of Egypt’s most popular resort towns along the Red Sea coast.
**Diving and Snorkeling:**
- The primary draw of Gubal Island is its exceptional underwater world. The island is surrounded by coral gardens, and the clear, warm waters provide excellent visibility, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers.
- Snorkeling at Gubal Island offers a chance to explore the shallow reefs, where you can encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful coral, schools of fish, and the occasional sea turtle.
- For certified divers, Gubal Island offers some fantastic dive sites, such as the “Barge” and the “Ulysses,” both shipwrecks that are now covered in coral and teeming with marine creatures.
- The island is also famous for encounters with pelagic species like barracuda and dolphins.
**Marine Life:**
- The Red Sea is known for its rich marine biodiversity, and Gubal Island is no exception. Divers and snorkelers can spot a wide range of marine creatures, including parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and moray eels.
- Gubal Island is an excellent place to observe hard and soft coral formations, which serve as a habitat for many of these species.
- The island’s dive sites are home to various types of sharks, with the possibility of seeing , hammerheads, and even the elusive oceanic whitetip shark.
**Accessibility:**
- To reach Gubal Island, you can typically join a dive excursion or boat trip from Hurghada. Many dive centers and tour operators in Hurghada offer day trips to the island, which often include multiple dives or snorkeling sessions and lunch on board.
**Conservation and Responsible Tourism:**
- It’s crucial to practice responsible tourism when visiting Gubal Island to protect its delicate marine ecosystems. Follow local guidelines, avoid touching or damaging coral, and refrain from feeding marine life.
**Best Time to Visit:**
- The Red Sea offers excellent diving and snorkeling conditions year-round, but the best time to visit is typically from April to June and September to November when the weather and water conditions are most favorable.
Gubal Island in the Red Sea near Hurghada is a paradise for underwater enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and dive among fascinating shipwrecks. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a snorkeling enthusiast, this hidden gem should be on your list of must-visit destinations for underwater adventures.
