Sataya Reef

An Aquatic Ballet at Sha’ab Sataya

Sataya Reef: Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, accompanied by the ocean’s most graceful dancers—dolphins. At Sha’ab Sataya, affectionately known as the Dolphin Reef, this dream becomes a breathtaking reality. This extraordinary reef, nestled in the relatively uncharted Hamata region of Marsa Alam, offers a rare chance to swim alongside these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural environment.

The Enchantment of Fury Shoal's Crown Jewel

Part of the Fury Shoal system, Sha’ab Sataya is a crescent-shaped marvel, boasting a vast coral lagoon that teems with marine life. Its location, exposed to the open sea, invites an array of pelagic species such as sea turtles, trevallies, barracudas, and even sharks, adding a thrill to every dive.

A Sanctuary for Spinner Dolphins

The reef’s crowning glory is the resident pod of spinner dolphins, numbering around sixty. This site is revered as one of the globe’s most pristine habitats for observing dolphins in the wild. The chance of swimming with these enchanting creatures is high, but even without a dolphin encounter, the reef’s abundant marine life ensures an unforgettable experience.

Diving into Sataya's Depths

Divers typically begin their underwater journey at the reef’s western edge, descending along a steep wall that plunges from 18 to 22 meters (59 to 72 feet), eventually shallowing to about 12 meters (39 feet) near the lagoon’s entrance. This wall is a tapestry of vibrant corals, home to a myriad of smaller marine species. Adventurous divers may even spot whitetip sharks, adding a touch of excitement to the serene underwater landscape.

Best Time for an Underwater Adventure

Sataya Reef welcomes divers year-round, with water temperatures varying from a cool 20°C (68°F) in winter to a warm 27°C (81°F) in summer. These conditions create an ideal environment for both novice and experienced divers.

Expect a Diverse Marine Spectacle

Due to its open-sea exposure, Sataya Reef is a haven for large pelagic species. Divers can expect encounters with barracudas, sharks, trevallies, dolphins, and majestic sea turtles. The reef’s crevices and nooks are also a sanctuary for smaller creatures like sea anemones, nudibranchs, shrimp, scorpionfish, and colorful anthias, ensuring a dive filled with discovery and wonder at every turn.

Created On 1 Jan 2019

Updated On Feb 28, 2024

MARSA ALAM Travel Guide
A manatee grazing on sea grass under the clear blue water.
A peaceful manatee sustains itself in the calm waters, a reminder of aquatic grace.
Red Sea Manatee - Egypt’s Submerged Treasure
Create an Account

Lost your password?

Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and each time, they truly mean it.

Address

34 Central St. From Road 9, Moqattam – Cairo, Egypt 11571

Phone

+20 2 25050550, 25050551, 25050552

Company Official Name:

Online Era

Website

Email

info@travel2egypt.org

Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Address

184 Mayfield St. Hopewell
Junction, NY 12533

Phone

Email