Diving at Abu Ramada, Hurghada: Coral Pinnacles and Clouds of Fish
Diving at Abu Ramada in Hurghada is one of the most colourful experiences in the Red Sea. This small island south of Giftun is famous for coral pinnacles packed with reef fish, so many that divers often call the area “the Aquarium”.
Whether you are on your first certified dives or have hundreds in your logbook, Abu Ramada has a site for you. Want to include it in your dive days? Send us a message in the form below and we will plan your trip.
Where Is Abu Ramada?
Abu Ramada is a small island located south of the Giftun islands, off the coast of Hurghada. It sits within the protected island area, which keeps its reefs healthy.
The boat ride from Hurghada typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on sea conditions and which side of the island you dive.
Abu Ramada Dive Sites at a Glance
Abu Ramada offers two very different styles of diving: calm pinnacles and drift dives along the island’s reef.
| Site | Style | Typical depth | Level |
| Gota Abu Ramada (“the Aquarium”) | Coral pinnacles on a sandy bottom | Around 5–18 m | Beginners and all levels |
| Abu Ramada island reef | Wall and drift dive along the reef | Around 5–30 m | Experienced divers; current can be strong |
Your guide always checks the current before choosing the site, so the dive matches your experience.
Gota Abu Ramada: Why Divers Call It “the Aquarium”
Gota Abu Ramada is a group of coral pinnacles rising from the sand. Each pinnacle is covered in hard and soft corals and surrounded by clouds of colourful fish.
The site is usually sheltered and shallow, which makes it perfect for underwater photography, relaxed fun dives and students during their PADI Open Water Diver course.
Drift Diving Along Abu Ramada Reef
On the island’s reef, conditions can produce exciting drift dives. You glide along the wall with the current while looking out for larger fish in the blue.
Because currents can be strong, these dives suit divers with good buoyancy and some experience. The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is a great way to build these skills.
What Marine Life Will You See?
Abu Ramada is known for its fish density. Expect large schools of snappers, fusiliers and goatfish, plus anthias swirling around the pinnacles.
Look for moray eels in cracks, lionfish and scorpionfish on the coral, and clownfish in their anemones. Lucky divers may also spot turtles, Napoleon wrasse or rays.
How Much Does Diving at Abu Ramada Cost?
At Chloe’s Diving Center, a day trip with two boat dives costs €55, including food, drinks, tanks and weights. A daily marine park tax of €5 per person applies.
Need gear? Full equipment rental costs €20 per day. See all trips and extras on our diving prices in Hurghada page.
Book Your Dive at Abu Ramada
Diving at Abu Ramada in Hurghada offers colour, life and variety in one site. Add it to your holiday with one of our daily diving trips in Hurghada. Book your dive or message us on WhatsApp.
Is Abu Ramada suitable for beginners?
Yes. Gota Abu Ramada is shallow and usually sheltered, ideal for new divers. The drift sections are better for experienced divers.
Why is Abu Ramada called the Aquarium?
Because the coral pinnacles attract so many reef fish that diving there feels like swimming in a giant aquarium.
How deep is diving at Abu Ramada?
The pinnacles are mostly between about 5 and 18 metres. The reef wall goes deeper, but your guide plans the dive within your certification limits.
Can I snorkel at Abu Ramada?
The tops of some pinnacles are shallow enough for snorkeling in calm conditions. Ask us about snorkeling stops on the day.
