Echta
is located near the shore of Hurghada by the Magawish Island. It is very popular reef among beginner divers and amateurs of underwater photography. It is formed by two relatively small ergs connected by shallow canal. Ideal place for bight dive.
Dive route:
Boats more up to the southern side of the bigger erg. Maximum depth around the ergs reaches 10 m. It is possible then to have a long and relaxing dive. After entering the water we head in the direction of ergs and circulating in figure “eight” around them. At the north–west part of smaller erg – we will find two holes, where you can often spot sleeping Turtle. In the northern part of the same erg a small coral block can be found with a hole through it at the level of sand. Lion Fish often seat there. Further north, away from the erg, we can find a field of sea grass of a significant size. It is a home to many small but very interesting creatures such as Sea Horses and small Clown Fish.
Flora & fauna:
The underwater life of this reef is very rich and interesting. A lot of light and currents sweeping the entire ergs gave the possibility for growth of soft and hard corals. In the northern part of the smaller erg a school of yellow Goat Fish usually can be found. Moreover, Lion Fish, Scorpion Fish, Octopus, Turtle, Blue Spotted Rays and Calamari often can be spotted levitating just under the surface. Because of the fact that there are so many fishes around here, the place is often called a “fish soup”.
Depth: 10 m
(click to enlarge)