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As in the Red Sea, the desert goes all the way down to the edge of the water. What seems lifeless above the surface changes drastically below the surface. The first thing that struck me was the numbers of sea turtles. Making life a little bit difficult for an underwater photographer by assembling 3-4 in front of the camera, fighting to be in the strobe lights. A few gentle pushes got them organized, and then the posing on the wet catwalk could begin. Yes, nice…turn around, look to the left…ok, no don’t give that look, yes you look fabulous, click, click……
Coral gardens
The Daymaniyat Islands is of course far more than just diving with sea turtles. The coral reefs explode in vibrant colours and teem with life. These islands offer numerous dive sites with beautiful coral gardens, reefs and walls. Most of the dive sites can be dived novices. Although watching the life at the reef will occupy most of your dive time, don’t forget to look out into the deep blue. They are out there for sure. The large pelagic fish, turtles, rays, sharks and if you are really lucky, whale sharks.
Unbelievable
The group of 9 uninhabited Islands which make up the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, form a chain stretching from East to West for 20 km. You have a nice variety of dive sites. From deep to shallow, and from nice and easy to strong currents. One of the not so pleasant surprises was the upwelling of cold water during a couple of dives. The water temperature fell quickly from 28°C to brrrr…cool 18°C. On other hand this brought in an unbelievable amount of fish from the open ocean to the reefs. It was like diving in an aquarium without the glass walls. I’ll be back!
