The Straits of Tiranمضائق تيران

The straits are famous for four reefs set in a line across the channel, each named by 19th-century British cartographers: Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, and Gordon. Rising sharply from very deep water, they sit in the flow of currents passing through the narrow strait, which brings nutrients and draws in abundant marine life. Each reef has its own character — sheer walls, coral gardens, and dramatic drop-offs — making the cluster a varied and exhilarating diving destination.

Diving here is often by drift, letting the current carry you along walls ablaze with soft and hard coral and swirling with fish. The reefs attract reef sharks, turtles, barracuda, and other pelagics, and a shipwreck rests on Gordon Reef. The currents that make the straits so rich also make them best suited to experienced divers, but on calmer days the shallows offer superb snorkelling too. Either way, the colour and life here are unforgettable.

The Straits of Tiran are reached by boat from Sharm El-Sheikh, usually on a day trip with one or more dives or snorkelling stops. They pair naturally with Sinai's other great dive site, the marine park of Ras Mohammed, for an outstanding diving holiday. As with all current-swept sites, going with a reputable dive operator and respecting the fragile reefs ensures a safe trip and helps protect these spectacular waters.

• What it is: four famous reefs in the strait between Sinai and Tiran Island.
• Arabic name: مضائق تيران (the Straits of Tiran).
• The reefs: Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, and Gordon.
• Famous for: drift diving, strong currents, vivid coral, and sharks.
• Reached from: Sharm El-Sheikh, by boat.
• Best for: experienced divers; snorkelling on calmer days.

Sources include Red Sea diving guides. Dive within your training and use a reputable operator.