Shilineat

A sheltered reef in the Wadi el Gemal National Park zone — a dive site within protected waters north of Marsa Alam where marine conservation measures support healthy turtle populations and the calm conditions allow extended seagrass zone exploration.

Overview

Shilineat sits at approximately 24.67°N, 35.13°E in the coastal zone adjacent to the Wadi el Gemal (Wadi Gamal) National Park, north of Marsa Alam. It occupies a similar geographic zone to Torfi — both sites are in the protected area where dugong and turtle conservation creates a different diving context from mainstream commercial sites. The reef structure is a fringing type, with the characteristic combination of coral reef margins, sandy transitions, and seagrass meadows that define this park zone. The site may be dived in conjunction with Torfi as part of a park-access day trip.

Site Information

• Location: Wadi el Gemal National Park zone, north of Marsa Alam (~24.67°N, 35.13°E)
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 20 meters
• Typical Visibility: 10–20 meters
• Current: Mild; protected park zone
• Best Time: October to May; year-round for turtle encounters

Marine Life

Hawksbill turtles are the most reliable large-animal encounter — the park’s conservation status means turtles are more approachable here than at unprotected sites. Dugongs are possible in the seagrass sections, particularly in winter months. The reef supports moray eels, groupers, and the typical reef fish assemblage. Blue-spotted stingrays on the sandy transitions. The seagrass meadows adjacent to the reef produce their own macro diversity — seahorses and pipefish are associated with seagrass habitat in the Red Sea.

Dive Profile

Descend to the fringing reef face and work along the reef at 10–15 metres before transitioning to the sandy and seagrass zones. The seagrass area rewards slow, quiet movement. Safety stop at 5 metres over the shallow reef.

Entry and Exit

Day boat from Marsa Alam or Port Ghalib (30–50 minutes). National park entry fees apply. Often combined with Torfi for a two-site park day. SMB deployment before ascending.

Tips and Recommendations

• Seagrass zone exploration requires very slow movement and minimal fin use — turbulence disturbs resident fauna
• Approach turtles from a low angle, moving sideways rather than directly toward them
• The park’s conservation rules limit diver numbers — book early for peak season visits

Safety Considerations

Mild conditions. Follow all park regulations. Approach dugongs from the side, never from above or directly ahead. SMB before ascending.

Photography

Turtle portraits in the park context — well-lit, approachable subjects in calm water — are among the most accessible in the Red Sea. Seagrass zone macro photography rewards a macro lens and patient, low-impact approach.

Sources: Divezone - Red Sea, Dive the World - Egypt Red Sea, Red Sea Scuba Diving, PADI - Diving in Egypt. Last updated 2026-04-04.