Sataya Reef

Sataya, in the Fury Shoals group off Hamata in the far south of the Egyptian coast, is a large horseshoe reef enclosing a lagoon several kilometres across, sheltered enough that liveaboards moor inside it overnight. A substantial group of spinner dolphins uses the lagoon to rest, and encounters are common though not guaranteed. Around the outer reef are coral gardens, pinnacles and swim-throughs in generally excellent condition because the site is far from the main resort centres and sees less traffic than the northern reefs. It is remote: the drive south from Marsa Alam is long, and most visitors reach it as part of a southern liveaboard itinerary rather than on a day boat. Turtles and reef sharks are regular.

What you actually see

• A multi-kilometre lagoon - sheltered water enclosed by the reef horseshoe.
• Resting spinner dolphins - a resident group inside the lagoon.
• Coral gardens and swim-throughs - the outer reef in good condition.
• Southern remoteness - far fewer boats than the northern sites.

When to go

October to May. Liveaboard itineraries in the deep south run through this season. Early morning in the lagoon for the dolphins. A day trip from Hamata is possible but long; a liveaboard leg is better.

Honest expectations

It is a long way from anywhere and the day trip involves several hours of driving plus the crossing. Dolphin behaviour should not be pressured; follow the operator's distance rules. Weather cancels trips regularly. Facilities at Hamata are minimal.

Nearby

Hamata is the mainland port; the Fury Shoals reefs surround it.