Sandy Island 1

Sandy Island 1 is a reef dive site near the Fury Shoals in Egypt’s far southern Red Sea, at approximately 24.0°N, 35.78°E, in the Hamata / Wadi el-Gemal National Park area.

Overview

The coordinates of Sandy Island 1 (24.99°N, 35.78°E) place it in the Fury Shoals / Hamata area, the deep southern Red Sea reef chain roughly halfway between Marsa Alam and Hamata. The Fury Shoals comprise approximately 20 individual reefs running 30 km in a northwest-southeast direction, accessed only by liveaboard or day boat from Hamata. These reefs are among the least-visited in Egypt, protected within Wadi el-Gemal National Park, and noted for pristine coral coverage.

Sandy Island itself is described as a small (~500 m across) oval-shaped barren sand island with steep walls exposed to strong currents and a short reef plateau — the plateau serves as a convenient decompression/safety-stop area. The eastern point of the island (Rocky Island, nearby) is known for intense schooling action and drift diving.

Dive Profile

• Depth: Wall dives from surface to 30+ m; plateau at 5–15 m
• Current: Can be strong; experienced divers recommended
• Entry: Boat/liveaboard only
• Visibility: Typically 20–30 m

Marine Life

Schools of snappers and surgeonfish are common. Grey reef sharks, barracuda, and eagle rays are regularly seen on the outer walls. The undisturbed reef structure supports dense hard and soft coral growth, including large gorgonians.

Sources: Dive the World — Southern Red Sea Diving, ZuBlu — St. John’s, Rocky Island & Zabargad, No Troubles Just Bubbles — Zabargad. Last updated 2026-05-17.