Sharm El-Sheikh Diving Prices: The Complete 2025 Guide
Sharm El-Sheikh diving prices in 2025 range from $35 for a single reef dive to $650 for a full PADI Open Water certification. Day trips to Ras Mohamed National Park cost $60–$85, while 5-dive packages are priced between $220 and $275. Liveaboard trips from Sharm El-Sheikh start at $1,300 for 7 nights and include up to 28 dives, meals, and Nitrox on most boats. These rates make Sharm one of the most affordable world-class diving destinations, especially when compared to the Maldives or Southeast Asia.
Red sea scuba diving team breaks down every cost associated with scuba diving in Sharm El-Sheikh. You’ll learn about dive center pricing, certification fees, equipment rental, liveaboard options, and how to save money without sacrificing safety. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, this detailed overview will help you plan your Red Sea adventure with confidence.
What Determines Sharm El-Sheikh Diving Prices?
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for diving in Sharm El-Sheikh. Understanding these will help you choose the best value for your budget and experience level.
Location of the Dive Center
Dive centers are mainly located in Naama Bay, Sharks Bay, and Nabq Bay. Prices can vary slightly between them.
- Naama Bay – The most popular area, with many international dive centers. Slightly higher prices due to demand.
- Sharks Bay – Home to luxury resorts and high-end dive operators. Some premium pricing, but also excellent service.
- Nabq Bay – More remote, with fewer tourists. Often offers quieter dives and competitive rates.
First-time visitors usually book through their hotel or a nearby dive shop in Naama Bay for convenience.
Type of Dive Activity
The kind of diving you choose has a direct impact on cost.
- Single fun dive: $50–$60
- 5-dive package: $220–$275
- 10-dive package: $400–$500
- Night dive: $60–$70
- Wreck dive (e.g., SS Thistlegorm): $75–$90
Bulk packages reduce the price per dive. For example, a 10-dive package brings the average cost down to $40–$50 per dive.
Dive Season and Demand
Sharm El-Sheikh has a peak and low season, which affects pricing.
- High season (October–April): Cooler air, calm seas, and high demand. Dive centers operate at full rates.
- Low season (May–September): Hotter temperatures, fewer tourists. Prices drop by 15–25%. Some centers offer free Nitrox or free gear rental.
Water visibility remains excellent year-round, often exceeding 30 meters. The Red Sea temperature ranges from 22°C (72°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer.
Certification Level of the Diver
Beginners pay more upfront for courses, while certified divers pay per dive. However, many centers offer discounts for non-certified divers who book a course and dives together.
For example, some shops offer a “Learn & Dive” package:
- Open Water Course + 5 dives = $550 (normally $650)
This bundling strategy saves money and time.
Sharm El-Sheikh Dive Center Pricing (2025)
Dive centers in Sharm El-Sheikh are highly competitive. Most are PADI 5-Star or SSI-certified, ensuring international safety standards.
Single Dives and Dive Packages
Here’s a breakdown of current prices from top-rated dive centers like Emperor Divers, Scuba World, and Sinai Divers.
| Package | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Reef Dive | $50–$60 | Includes tank, guide, boat |
| 5-Dive Package | $220–$275 | Save 10–15% |
| 10-Dive Package | $400–$500 | Best value for week-long stays |
| Night Dive | $60–$70 | Requires special briefing |
| Double Tank Dive | $90–$110 | Two dives in one day |
Most reef dives last 45–60 minutes and reach depths of 18–25 meters. Common sites include Shark Observatory, Lighthouse, and Ras Umm Sid.
Day Trips to Ras Mohamed National Park
Ras Mohamed is one of the most famous dive sites in the Red Sea. It’s located 25 km from Sharm and requires a full-day boat trip.
| Cost Component | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Dive Trip (2 dives) | $70–$85 |
| Park Entry Fee | $25 (included) |
| Lunch & Drinks | Included |
| Nitrox | $100 for the day (optional) |
The park fee is mandatory and supports marine conservation. It’s usually included in the dive price, but always confirm.
Top sites at Ras Mohamed:
- Shark Reef – Known for reef sharks and strong currents
- Yolanda Reef – Home to the wreck of the MV Yolanda
- Bight – Calm site ideal for beginners
Dives at Ras Mohamed are suitable for all levels, but advanced divers will enjoy the deeper walls and drift dives.
Wreck Diving in Sharm El-Sheikh
Sharm offers access to some of the world’s most iconic wrecks.
| Wreck | Depth | Price per Dive (USD) | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| SS Thistlegorm | 30–32m | $75–$90 | Advanced |
| Dunraven | 15–28m | $65–$80 | Intermediate |
| Carnatic | 25–35m | $70–$85 | Advanced |
| Salem Express | 25–30m | $70–$85 | Advanced |
The SS Thistlegorm is the most popular wreck dive. It sank in 1941 and is filled with WWII cargo like trucks, rifles, and locomotives. Due to its depth and penetration risks, only certified deep divers should attempt it.
Most wreck dives are done as part of a liveaboard or a long day trip. Day trips to Thistlegorm take 6–8 hours round-trip.
PADI Certification Courses in Sharm El-Sheikh
Learning to dive in Sharm El-Sheikh is fast, safe, and affordable. Courses are available in English, German, Russian, Italian, and Arabic.
PADI Open Water Diver Course
This is the most popular entry-level certification.
What’s Included:
- PADI eLearning or manual
- 5 confined water (pool) sessions
- 4 open water dives
- All rental gear
- Certification fee
Price Range: $450–$600
Most centers charge around $500. Some offer discounts during low season.
Duration: 3–4 days
Flexible scheduling allows beginners to complete the course at their own pace.
Best for: First-time divers, families, solo travelers
Centers like Scuba World and Emperor Divers offer small class sizes (max 2 students per instructor) for better safety and attention.
PADI Advanced Open Water Course
This course builds on basic skills and introduces new diving environments.
Key Components:
- Deep dive (up to 30m)
- Underwater navigation
- 3 elective dives (e.g., night, wreck, peak performance buoyancy)
Price: $400–$550
Usually completed in 2–3 days.
Popular elective dives in Sharm:
- Night dive at Lighthouse
- Wreck dive at Dunraven
- Drift dive at Ras Mohamed
Many divers take this course immediately after Open Water to extend their diving skills.
PADI Rescue Diver Course
This is a critical step for divers who want to improve their safety knowledge.
What You’ll Learn:
- Emergency response
- Diver stress recognition
- Rescue techniques
- First aid and CPR basics
Price: $450–$600
Takes 3–4 days to complete.
Highly recommended for divers planning to dive independently or travel with non-certified friends.
Specialty Courses (Per Course)
Specialty courses focus on specific diving interests.
| Course | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Enriched Air (Nitrox) | $120–$180 | 1 day |
| Deep Diver | $150–$200 | 2 dives |
| Wreck Diver | $180–$250 | 2–3 days |
| Night Diver | $150–$200 | 2 dives |
| Drift Diver | $160–$220 | 2 dives |
| Digital Underwater Photography | $200–$300 | 2–3 days |
Nitrox certification is highly recommended. It allows longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals. Most liveaboards and dive centers in Sharm offer free Nitrox to certified divers.
Equipment Rental in Sharm El-Sheikh
Renting gear is common, especially for travelers who don’t want to carry heavy equipment.
Daily Rental Rates (2025)
| Item | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Regulator & BCD | $15 |
| Wetsuit (3mm or 5mm) | $10–$12 |
| Fins | $8 |
| Mask & Snorkel | $5 |
| Dive Computer | $12 |
| Full Scuba Set | $25–$30 |
Weekly rental discounts are common:
- Full set for 7 days: $130–$160 (saves $40+)
Gear is generally well-maintained, especially at PADI 5-Star centers. However, fit and comfort can vary.
Why Bring Your Own Gear?
Even bringing a few personal items can improve your experience.
- Mask: Ensures perfect fit and prevents leaks
- Snorkel: More hygienic and comfortable
- Dive Computer: Tracks depth, time, and nitrogen levels
- Hood or Gloves: Useful in winter months
Many divers buy gear in Sharm after certification. Prices are 20–30% lower than in Europe or North America.
Sharm El-Sheikh Liveaboard Diving Prices
Liveaboard trips are the best way to explore remote reefs and deep-water sites.
7-Night Liveaboard Costs (2025)
| Boat Class | Price (USD) | Dives Included | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $1,300–$1,700 | 20–24 dives | Shared cabins, basic AC |
| Mid-Range | $1,700–$2,300 | 24–28 dives | Private cabins, Nitrox, good food |
| Luxury | $2,300–$2,900+ | 28+ dives | Ensuite bathrooms, gourmet meals |
Most liveaboards depart from Sharks Bay or Nabq Marina. Some require a transfer from Hurghada or Marsa Nakari.
Popular Liveaboard Routes from Sharm El-Sheikh
- Ras Mohamed & Straits of Tiran
- Duration: 4–7 nights
- Best for: Beginners, coral diversity
- Key sites: Shark Reef, Yolanda, Needles
- Average price: $1,300–$1,800
- The Southern Reefs (Brothers, Daedalus, Rocky)
- Duration: 7 nights
- Best for: Shark diving, pelagics
- Key sites: Brother Islands, Daedalus Reef
- Average price: $1,800–$2,800
- St. John’s & Rocky
- Duration: 7 nights
- Best for: Wall diving, moderate currents
- Average price: $1,600–$2,100
- Safaga & Zabargad
- Duration: 7 nights
- Best for: Technical diving, rare fish
- Average price: $1,500–$1,900
What’s Included in a Liveaboard?
Most liveaboards offer all-inclusive packages:
- All meals and drinking water
- Unlimited dives (2–4 per day)
- Tanks, weights, and belts
- Nitrox (on 80% of boats)
- Marine park fees
What’s Not Included?
Extra costs to consider:
- Alcoholic drinks: $3–$8 per drink
- Crew tips: $100–$150 per person (recommended)
- Private cabin upgrade: $200–$400
- Technical diving support: $300–$600
Some budget boats charge for Nitrox ($100–$150/week), so always confirm.
Hidden Fees and Additional Costs
While Sharm El-Sheikh diving prices appear straightforward, several extra charges can add up.
Marine Park Entry Fees
These are usually included but should be confirmed.
- Ras Mohamed National Park: $25 per diver
- Tiran Island: $20–$25
- The Brothers & Daedalus (liveaboard): $150–$200 total per trip
These fees support conservation and are non-negotiable.
Nitrox and Gas Fees
- Nitrox (32%): Free on most mid-range and luxury boats
- Trimix or Heliox: $50–$150 per tank (for technical dives)
- Oxygen sensor check: $10–$20 (if using your own tank)
Guide and Safety Fees
- Blue Hole Canyon Guide: $60–$100 (mandatory for safety)
- Dive Master for solo divers: $40–$60 per day
- Private instructor: $80–$120 extra per day
The Blue Hole is located about 30 minutes from central Sharm. While not in the open sea, it’s a world-famous site with the deep arch (55m). Only technical divers should attempt the arch dive.
Tips and Gratuities
Tipping is not required but widely expected.
- Dive guides: $5–$10 per dive
- Instructors: $20–$50 per course
- Liveaboard crew: $100–$150 for a week
Cash tips in USD or EUR are preferred.
How to Save Money on Sharm El-Sheikh Diving
Sharm is already affordable, but smart planning can reduce costs further.
Book During the Low Season
May to September offers the best deals.
- 20% off dive packages
- Free Nitrox certification
- Complimentary equipment rental
- Discounted liveaboard rates
Water is warm (29–31°C), visibility is excellent, and crowds are minimal.
Choose the Right Dive Center
Not all centers are the same. Look for:
- PADI 5-Star or SSI certification
- Small group sizes (max 4–6 divers per guide)
- Positive reviews on TripAdvisor and DiveAdvisor.com
Avoid shops that offer “too good to be true” prices. Safety should never be compromised.
Bundle Courses and Dives
Many centers offer combo deals:
- Open Water + Advanced: $750–$900 (save $100–$150)
- Open Water + 5 dives: $550 (normally $650)
- Nitrox + Deep Diver: $250 (normally $300)
These bundles save time and money.
Bring Your Own Gear
Even a personal mask and snorkel can save $35–$50 in rental fees. A dive computer adds safety and convenience.
Compare Liveaboard Prices
Use comparison websites:
- Divebooker.com
- LiveAboard.com
- DeeperBlue.com
Last-minute deals can save 20–30%. For example, a $2,500 luxury liveaboard might drop to $1,800 two weeks before departure.
Best Dive Sites in Sharm El-Sheikh
Sharm offers a mix of reef, wall, drift, and wreck diving.
Top Reef Dives
- Ras Umm Sid
- Depth: 5–25m
- Best for: Beginners, coral gardens
- Features: Soft corals, reef fish, turtles
- Lighthouse
- Depth: 6–30m
- Best for: All levels
- Features: Wall dive, caves, moray eels
- Shark Observatory
- Depth: 10–22m
- Best for: Shark sightings
- Features: Reef sharks, nurse sharks, coral formations
Top Wreck Dives
- SS Thistlegorm
- Depth: 30–32m
- Best for: Advanced divers
- Features: WWII cargo, trucks, locomotives
- Dunraven
- Depth: 15–28m
- Best for: Intermediate divers
- Features: Steamship wreck, glassfish, eagle rays
- Carnatic
- Depth: 25–35m
- Best for: Deep diving
- Features: Cargo holds, cannons, lionfish
Unique Experiences
- Blue Hole (Dahab, 90 min from Sharm): $50–$60 per dive
Famous for the Arch dive (55m), but only for technical divers. - Dolphin House (near Tiran): $70–$85
A protected area with resident dolphins. Snorkeling only; diving not allowed. - Jackson Reef (Tiran Island): $80–$90
Part of the Straits of Tiran. Known for strong currents and shark sightings.
Safety and Environmental Responsibility
While prices are low, safety and sustainability should remain top priorities.
Dive Center Safety Standards
Always verify:
- PADI, SSI, or NAUI certification
- First aid and oxygen equipment on board
- Maximum diver-to-guide ratio (4:1 is ideal)
A 2024 report by Dive Magazine found that 82% of divers rated Sharm El-Sheikh dive centers as “safe” or “very safe.”
Environmental Impact
Egypt’s reefs face pressure from tourism and climate change. Responsible diving includes:
- No touching corals or marine life
- Proper buoyancy control
- Using reef-safe sunscreen
- Avoiding single-use plastics
Several centers, like HEPS (Hurghada Environmental Protection Society), run coral restoration and clean-up programs. Some offer eco-diver certifications.
Sharm El-Sheikh Diving Prices Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A single reef dive costs $50–$60. Ras Mohamed day trips are $70–$85 and include two dives, lunch, and park fees.
Yes. Sharm has calm lagoons, shallow reefs, and experienced instructors. The Lighthouse and Ras Umm Sid are ideal for beginners.
The Blue Hole is in Dahab, about 90 minutes away. Day trips cost $100–$120 and include transport and a guide.
On most mid-range and luxury dive centers and liveaboards, Nitrox is free. Budget operators may charge $100–$150 for a week.
Yes. A dive medical is required for all PADI courses and some deep dives. Many centers accept a self-declared PADI medical form unless you have pre-existing conditions.
The best diving conditions are from October to May. Water is warm, visibility exceeds 30m, and winds are low. Summer (June–September) is hotter but still diveable, with lower prices.
Final Thoughts: Is Sharm El-Sheikh Worth It?
Sharm El-Sheikh diving prices offer exceptional value. For less than the cost of a single dive in the Maldives ($120+), you can complete a full certification in Sharm. World-class reefs, historic wrecks, and abundant marine life are accessible at a fraction of the price of other destinations.
In 2025, a full week of diving—including certification, 10 dives, and equipment—can be done for under $1,000. Liveaboards start at $1,300, making them some of the most affordable in the world.
While budget options exist, always prioritize safety and certification. Choose PADI or SSI-affiliated centers, check reviews, and avoid overly cheap deals.
In the end, Sharm El-Sheikh remains one of the top diving destinations on the planet—not just for its underwater beauty, but for its unbeatable Sharm El-Sheikh diving prices.
Sharm El-Sheikh Diving Prices Sources:
- PADI Official Website (padi.com) – Course Fees & Standards (2025)
- Egypt Scuba Diving Prices 2025
- Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea Prices
- What is the Price for Diving in Hurghada
- CMAS vs PADI Cost
- Dive Magazine – “Top Dive Destinations 2024”
- DiveAdvisor.com – Sharm El-Sheikh Dive Center Reviews
- LiveAboard.com – Red Sea Liveaboard Pricing (2025)
- Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency – Marine Park Regulations
- Interviews with dive operators in Sharm El-Sheikh (January–March 2025)
- TripAdvisor – Verified Diver Reviews (2024–2025)
