Marsa Assalaya, also known as Sharm Assalaya, is a shallow, protected bay located just south of Marsa Alam city. It’s one of the best shore diving and training sites in the area, perfect for beginner divers, snorkelers, and underwater photographers seeking calm waters and rich marine biodiversity.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | 11 km north of Marsa Alam |
| 🤿 Access Type | Shore entry |
| 🌊 Depth Range | 2 to 18 meters |
| 🐢 Famous For | Turtles, seagrass meadows, reef walls |
| 🪸 Coral Type | Hard corals, patches of soft corals |
| 🧭 Dive Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
| 📸 Ideal For | Training, snorkeling, macro photography |
| 🕒 Best Time to Dive | Year-round |
Features & Topography of Marsa Assalaya
Marsa Assalaya is a crescent-shaped bay with gentle sandy slopes and seagrass beds in the central lagoon. On either side of the bay, fringing reefs offer vibrant coral gardens and small caverns for exploration.
The eastern reef is ideal for spotting turtles and small rays
The western reef features pinnacles, coral bommies, and macro life
Easy shore entry and calm conditions make it a top pick for night dives and PADI courses
Its protected structure makes it a safe and relaxed dive, even when wind or waves affect offshore sites.
Marine Life at Marsa Assalaya
Marsa Assalaya is famous for its gentle, close-up marine encounters. Expect to find:
🐢 Green turtles grazing in the seagrass
🦀 Ghost pipefish, seahorses, and nudibranchs
🐟 Goatfish, lionfish, clownfish, and parrotfish
🐙 Octopus, cuttlefish, and moray eels hiding in reef crevices
Occasionally, eagle rays and blacktip reef sharks pass by
It’s a paradise for macro enthusiasts and those who enjoy slow-paced, observational diving.
Diving Conditions & Best Practices
📅 Best Time to Dive
Marsa Assalaya is a year-round site, with excellent conditions in spring and autumn.
🌊 Water Conditions
Temperature: 22°C (Jan) to 30°C (Aug)
Visibility: 10 to 20 meters
Currents: Mild to none – very safe for beginners
✅ Best Practices
Ideal for try dives, refresher courses, and night dives
Use neutral buoyancy to protect seagrass beds and coral patches
Bring a macro lens for photography – the critter life is incredible
Great for combining snorkeling and scuba in one trip
Why Dive Marsa Assalaya with Deep South Divers?
At Deep South Divers, we specialize in providing comfortable and personalized dive experiences for every skill level. Here’s why divers love exploring Marsa Assalaya with us:
🧑🏫 Professional instructors for beginner courses and try dives
🐢 Local knowledge of the best spots to find turtles and macro life
🌙 Night dive packages available
🚐 Easy transport to site from Marsa Alam center
📷 Photography-friendly dive plans
Whether you’re taking your first breaths underwater, looking for hidden critters, or just want a relaxing reef experience, Marsa Assalaya is an ideal dive—and Deep South Divers is your expert guide.
