About this spot
Small Crack sits within Sha'ab Mahmud, a coral reef system in the Strait of Gubal at the south end of the Gulf of Suez. The site shows no signs of coral stress, making it a solid choice for divers looking at living reef ecosystems. Twelve recorded species observations and three community videos give you a real sense of what to expect underwater. The reef structure supports a mix of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the Gulf of Suez. Divers have documented the site enough to build a practical picture of conditions. Water conditions remain stable year-round in this region, so planning is straightforward. Small Crack works for divers with basic experience and comfort on reef dives. The site sits outside protected marine areas, so standard Egyptian diving regulations apply. Local dive operators in the Suez region can arrange access and provide current conditions on the day.
📖 Guide: Diving in Egypt: 258 Sites From Wrecks to Hammerheads
Best months
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 220V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 48%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 8h · direct
- Jet-lag: 7h east · 5 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Small Crack?
Small Crack is diveable year-round. The Gulf of Suez maintains consistent conditions throughout the year, so your choice depends more on travel schedules and personal comfort with seasonal water temperatures.
›What marine life will I see?
Twelve recorded species observations confirm a healthy reef community. Expect reef fish and invertebrates typical of Gulf of Suez coral reefs. The lack of coral stress indicates intact habitat and active marine populations.
›What experience level do I need?
Small Crack is a reef dive suitable for divers with basic open water training and comfort on coral structures. Specific depth and current conditions should be confirmed with your dive operator before the dive.
›Do I need permits or special access?
Small Crack lies outside designated marine protected areas. Standard Egyptian diving permits and regulations apply. Book through a local dive operator in the Suez region who can handle all paperwork and logistics.
