Gassous Bay

Gassous Bay is a dive site in Red Sea, Middle East.

Overview

Gassous Bay (also listed as “Coral Garden / Gassous Bay” in dive databases) is a seldom-dived shore site in the El Quseir area, reachable by minibus from El Quseir. The site is characterised by a large natural hole in the reef top that serves as the entry point, leading through a short canyon to the dive area proper. On both sides of the canyon the reef slopes carry beautiful coral gardens with rugged reef structures. Depths range from 14 to 30 m. A channel through the site is subject to occasional stronger current; in such conditions the inside (sheltered) area is dived instead of attempting the full passage. Because the site lacks a protective outer reef to stop on, it can only be approached safely in calm weather — a limitation that keeps it lightly visited and keeps the coral in pristine condition. The site is located at approximately 26.57°N, 34.03°E, consistent with a position north of El Quseir on the coast road.

Marine Life

The undisturbed conditions support a typical healthy Red Sea coral-garden community: anthias, butterflyfish, parrotfish, surgeonfish, and groupers on the reef structures. The canyon walls and overhangs shelter moray eels, lionfish, and cleaner shrimp. Blue-spotted stingrays are found on sandy patches at the base of the reef.

Dive Profile

Entry through the reef-top hole, then through the short canyon to the coral garden. Depths 14–30 m. The canyon passage can carry stronger current — assess before committing. In calm weather: full-site exploration is possible. In stronger current: dive the sheltered inside area only. No boat required; minibus access from El Quseir dive centres.

Entry and Exit

Minibus transfer from El Quseir, then shore entry through the natural reef hole. A rope assists entry and exit. Only practical in calm sea conditions (no protective reef to moor alongside if conditions deteriorate).

Tips and Recommendations

Check weather and sea state carefully before choosing this site — it can only be dived safely in calm conditions. The relative rarity of visitors means the coral garden is particularly well-preserved. Visit on a flat-calm day for the full passage experience.

Safety Considerations

Cannot be dived in anything other than calm weather — this is an absolute constraint, not a recommendation. The channel current can be strong enough to make passage impossible; have a plan to dive only the inside area if current is present. A rope is provided for the entry/exit but divers should be comfortable with the entry method before committing.

Site Information

• Location: El Quseir area, southern Red Sea coast
• Entry Type: Shore entry
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 30 m

Sources: Scubago — Coral Garden / Gassous Bay. Last updated 2026-05-17.