Elphinstone Reef

Elphinstone Reef is a long, narrow coral reef in the open Red Sea, a few kilometres off the Egyptian coast north of Marsa Alam. It runs from north to south for a few hundred metres, and its top lies just below the surface, so that from a boat it shows only as a change in the colour of the water. It is also known locally as Sha'ab Abu Hamra. Its more common name dates from British naval surveys of the Red Sea in the nineteenth century.

The eastern and western sides of the reef drop away as near-vertical walls to considerable depth and are covered with soft corals and sea fans. At the northern and southern ends there are two plateaus that slope down more gradually. Currents are strongest at these points, and large fish gather there.

The site is known among divers for shark sightings, particularly the oceanic whitetip shark, which is seen most often in autumn, along with tuna and barracuda. Divers reach the reef by boat from nearby bays or on liveaboard trips. Because of the currents and the depth, it is generally recommended for experienced divers.