Daedalus

Daedalus Reef (also known as Abu el-Kizal) is a small circular reef approximately 500 metres in diameter, sitting in the open Red Sea between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, more than 80 km from the nearest coast. A staffed lighthouse stands on the reef itself. The structure is entirely reef, with vertical walls that begin as shallow as 5 metres and plunge beyond 40 metres into blue water, dropping steeply to depths exceeding 100 metres. The north side is considered the most rewarding section, offering large drop-offs grown with huge gorgonians, caves and overhangs, while the west side hosts a city of anemones with resident clownfish and the east presents steep walls layered with caves and overhangs. Visibility is excellent, typically 20–30 metres or more.

Marine life at Daedalus is dominated by large pelagic species. Hammerhead sharks appear regularly in groups, oceanic whitetip sharks (longimanus) patrol the blue water, and oceanic manta rays are an almost guaranteed encounter along the walls. Thresher sharks and whale sharks are also commonly seen, along with tuna, barracuda, giant Napoleon fish, manta rays, and sea turtles. The walls themselves are covered in hard and soft corals and gorgonians.

Strong winds from the north are a persistent feature of the reef, so boats typically anchor on the south side. Zodiacs are regularly used to ferry divers who want to begin their dive on the more exposed north side. Currents range from moderate to strong and are frequently variable. The site is rated for advanced divers — Advanced Open Water certification or above is the standard requirement.