Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the great dive destinations of the Red Sea, and you do not need a certificate to see why. A Discover Scuba Diving session pairs you with an instructor, a short briefing and a shallow, supervised dive, so you can breathe underwater among coral and fish at your own pace. This product has one of the best review records of any activity in Sharm, with 4.8 stars across more than two hundred reviews. Equipment is provided, and instructors normally explain the hand signals, equalizing and what to do if you feel uncomfortable. The dive itself is usually short and shallow, because the aim is to give you the experience rather than a deep descent. You need to be comfortable in water, to answer a short medical questionnaire honestly, and to leave enough time before flying, as divers should not fly for a set period after diving.
What happens
You meet the dive team, complete paperwork and a medical declaration, practise basic skills in shallow water, then descend with the instructor holding your equipment or guiding you closely. Depths and time vary by operator, but intro dives stay shallow and are designed to be easy. The reef near Sharm is dense with colourful fish, and in many spots you see coral gardens within a few metres of the surface, so it is a very rewarding first dive.
Safety and eligibility
Operators can refuse a dive if the medical form shows a concern or the weather is poor, and honest answers protect you. Children can often try diving from a minimum age that the operator sets, and pregnant travellers, people with asthma or heart conditions and anyone unwell should speak to a doctor first. After diving, avoid flying for at least eighteen to twenty-four hours, so book your intro dive early in the trip rather than on your last day.
Choosing your operator
This is a single product, so confirm the details when you book, including where the dive takes place, the group size, whether photos are included and how pickup works. If you fall in love with diving, a full Open Water course takes a few days and the Sharm dive centres, including the centres at Camel Dive Club and the Four Seasons, offer them. For a no-fuss alternative with less commitment, the Ras Mohammed and White Island boat trip offers an optional short intro dive as an add-on.
What to expect
The experience
A guided introductory scuba dive with an instructor, a briefing, equipment and supervised time underwater.
Best time
Water is warmest from late spring to autumn; calm days give the best visibility.
How long
Plan on a half day, including briefing, kitting up and travel; confirm exact timing with the operator.
Tips
Answer the medical form honestly, do not fly for at least eighteen to twenty-four hours after diving and tell the instructor if you feel any discomfort.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Curious travellers who want to try scuba once, without committing to a course.
- Families
- Possible for older children if the operator allows it; confirm age limits first.
- Couples
- A memorable shared experience, especially early in the trip so you can still fly home comfortably.
- Pair with
- A relaxing semi-submarine ride or an evening in Naama Bay.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need a diving certificate?+
No, a Discover Scuba Diving session is designed for beginners. An instructor supervises you throughout.
How deep will I go?+
Intro dives are kept shallow, and the exact depth is set by the instructor and local rules. Your instructor will tell you at the briefing.
Can I fly after diving?+
Not straight away, because divers should wait roughly eighteen to twenty-four hours before flying. Book the dive early in your trip.
Who should not dive?+
People with certain medical conditions, pregnant travellers and anyone unwell should check with a doctor first. Answer the medical form honestly.
Is equipment included?+
Operators normally provide the equipment and the instructor. Confirm what is included when you book.
