Marsa Mubarak

Marsa Mubarak is a sheltered bay, and currents inside the bay are generally mild. The shallow seagrass area and reef edges are usually calm, making them ideal for beginners and snorkellers. On the outer reef, conditions can vary and current may be present. The map may show a general current direction, but actual conditions can change and should be assessed by the guide on the day. The dive profile is selected based on conditions, not on a fixed route. Divers should be prepared for variable conditions and follow the guide’s assessment.

Green turtles are strongly associated with the seagrass habitat at Marsa Mubarak. They feed over the meadows, and the shallow bay provides suitable feeding habitat. Divers may encounter them while they are feeding or moving through the bay. The best encounters come from remaining still and giving the turtle space to continue feeding naturally. Divers should never touch, chase, or block a turtle’s path. Avoid contact with seagrass and coral. Encounters are never guaranteed.

Finding a dugong at Marsa Mubarak is a wildlife encounter, not a scheduled attraction. The dugong is a wild, seagrass-dependent animal whose presence is unpredictable. Sightings are never guaranteed. Patience is more important than pursuit. Divers must allow the animal to determine its own direction and distance. Never chase, touch, or surround a dugong, and never block its route to the surface. Avoid disturbing the seagrass habitat.

DO: Maintain neutral buoyancy. Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife. Let animals choose their direction. Remain calm and quiet. Leave animals an unobstructed route. Move slowly around seagrass.

DO NOT: Chase turtles or dugongs. Touch animals. Surround them. Block their route. Feed wildlife. Stand on seagrass. Damage coral.

These guidelines are essential for responsible diving at Marsa Mubarak — the wildlife is the reason people come, and respecting it is the only way to keep it here.

Shore diving may be possible at Marsa Mubarak where local access and operator arrangements permit. A suitable entry can provide access to the shallow bay, seagrass meadows and nearby reef areas without a boat journey. However, many visits are organised by boat, and shore access should not be assumed for every visitor or operator. The available entry point and dive route must be confirmed locally.

Marsa Mubarak offers excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography.

For wide-angle work, the seagrass meadows, green turtles, reef formations and larger reef scenes are the primary subjects. When a dugong is encountered, a wide-angle setup is the right choice — but the photographer must let the animal determine the distance. Never chase, block or surround a dugong for a photograph.

For macro, the seagrass-associated subjects, pipefish, small reef fish and reef life around the coral structures reward patient, slow observation. The shallow, calm conditions provide excellent opportunities for macro work.

Responsible photography is essential. Maintain neutral buoyancy at all times. Do not touch, chase or block any marine life. Do not damage seagrass, coral or stand on reef structures. Allow wildlife to determine the distance. The goal is to photograph behaviour as it unfolds naturally.

Marsa Mubarak is a sheltered bay commonly visited by boat, with shore entry also possible where local access and operator arrangements permit. Listen carefully to the guide’s briefing before entering the water. Conditions can vary between the sheltered bay and the outer reef. Stay within the planned profile and maintain appropriate buoyancy. Protect seagrass and reef — avoid contact with seagrass beds and do not stand on coral. Respect all wildlife — turtles and dugongs are wild animals and must not be chased, touched or surrounded. Surface signalling equipment (SMB) should be carried where appropriate to the dive plan. Follow the guide’s instructions at all times.