Solo Exploration of Ras Muhammad National Park

Day 5: Beneath the Surface: Discovering the Secrets of Marsa Bareika and C-Quest Island

Dive into the serene beauty of Ras Muhammad National Park, exploring the underwater wonders of Marsa Bareika and the unique C-Quest Island.

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Diving into Delight


Today marked another chapter in my solo exploration of Ras Muhammad National Park, and what a day it was! The Red Sea continued to reveal its stunning secrets, offering moments of tranquility and awe that I am eager to share. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Osprey Ras Mohamed after a hearty breakfast, I set out to explore two distinct jewels within the park's vast expanse: Marsa Bareika and C-Quest Island.

The morning began with anticipation as I prepared for my dive at Marsa Bareika. Translated as “Blessed Dock” or “Calm Big Pond” , the name itself promised a serene experience, and it certainly delivered. The journey to the dive site was smooth, the crystal-clear waters reflecting the cloudless sky. As someone who appreciates the quiet moments, I found the gentle bobbing of the boat and the distant horizon incredibly soothing.

Before submerging, I took a moment to appreciate the landscape. Marsa Bareika is a natural bay, shaped like an amphitheater. I could see how its sheltered location provides ideal diving conditions for all skill levels. The air was warm, typical for this time of year, with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of the sea. It was a perfect day for diving.

Once underwater, I was immediately greeted by a kaleidoscope of marine life. The visibility was exceptional, allowing me to fully appreciate the intricate coral formations. Schools of colorful fish darted around me, seemingly unperturbed by my presence. I spotted several lionfish, their elegant fins swaying gently in the current, and numerous glassfish shimmering in the sunlight that pierced through the surface.

I explored the signature canyon, which starts at just 6 meters. The canyon gently slopes down to around 30 meters, offering incredible visibility and structure. The marine life was abundant, with swarms of glassfish and lionfish. I kept my eyes peeled for nudibranchs, shrimp, and even the elusive sea moth. While I didn't spot any whale sharks or eagle rays, as they are more common in the summer months , the sheer diversity of marine life was more than enough to captivate my attention.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.


As I ascended, I made a stop near a vibrant red anemone at around 6-7 meters. It was a picturesque spot, the perfect end to a mesmerizing dive. The anemone was home to a family of clownfish, their bright orange bodies a stark contrast against the red and green hues of their host. It was a moment of pure joy, a reminder of the simple beauty that nature offers.

Back on the boat, I savored a light lunch and reflected on the dive. Marsa Bareika truly lived up to its name, providing a blessed and calm experience. It’s fascinating how the Red Sea Riviera is a popular tourist destination , yet beneath the surface, there’s a tranquil world teeming with life, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Sharm El Sheikh.

Explore Marsa Bareika, a breathtaking national park in South Sinai, Egypt, where stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life await every adventure seeker.
Explore Marsa Bareika, a breathtaking national park in South Sinai, Egypt, where stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life await every adventure seeker.

After lunch, it was time to head to C-Quest Island, a location that promised a different kind of underwater adventure. While Marsa Bareika was about serene exploration, C-Quest Island offered a more intriguing and mysterious allure.

The boat ride to C-Quest Island was short, but the anticipation was palpable. As we approached the island, I could see its unique rock formations rising from the sea. The island is relatively small, but its underwater landscape is what makes it special. The stories I had heard hinted at unique coral formations and diverse marine life, and I was eager to see it for myself.

Diving at C-Quest Island was a different experience compared to Marsa Bareika. The currents were a bit stronger, and the underwater topography was more varied. I descended into a world of vibrant corals, each one a unique masterpiece of nature. The coral reefs were teeming with life, and I found myself surrounded by schools of fish of all shapes and sizes.

One of the highlights of diving at C-Quest Island was exploring the intricate network of underwater caves and crevices. As I swam through these narrow passages, I felt a sense of adventure and discovery. The sunlight filtering through the openings created a magical play of light and shadow, adding to the mystique of the place.

I spotted several species of fish that I hadn't seen at Marsa Bareika, including the Napoleonfish. These gentle giants glided gracefully through the water, their size and presence commanding respect. I also saw a few moray eels hiding in the crevices, their serpentine bodies adding an element of intrigue to the dive.

As I explored further, I came across a stunning coral garden, a riot of colors and shapes. Soft corals swayed gently in the current, creating a mesmerizing dance. Hard corals formed intricate structures, providing shelter for countless marine creatures. It was a breathtaking sight, a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature.

During my dive, I couldn't help but think about Erika and Lena. Erika would have loved the vibrant colors of the coral, and Lena, with her artistic eye, would have been fascinated by the intricate patterns and textures. I made a mental note to share my photos and videos with them, hoping to convey the magic of this underwater world.

Emerging from the water, I felt a sense of exhilaration and gratitude. C-Quest Island had exceeded my expectations, offering a unique and unforgettable diving experience. The combination of stunning coral formations, diverse marine life, and intriguing underwater topography made it a truly special place.

Discover the serene beauty of C-Quest Island, a stunning tourist attraction in the Suez Gulf with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.
Discover the serene beauty of C-Quest Island, a stunning tourist attraction in the Suez Gulf with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

Back on the boat, I savored the last rays of the sun and reflected on the day's adventures. Both Marsa Bareika and C-Quest Island had offered unique perspectives on the beauty of Ras Muhammad National Park. From the serene calmness of Marsa Bareika to the adventurous allure of C-Quest Island, each dive had been a journey of discovery.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Red Sea, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This solo journey has been a remarkable experience, allowing me to connect with nature in a way that I hadn't anticipated. The Red Sea has a way of captivating the soul, and I am grateful for the opportunity to explore its wonders.

Before heading back to the familiar comforts of Osprey Ras Mohamed for dinner, I made a quick stop at Kogy Art House. While I didn't find any antique maps to add to my collection, I did find a beautiful handcrafted wooden sculpture that reminded me of the coral formations I had seen during my dives. It was a perfect memento of the day's adventures.

Discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts at Kogy Art House, the perfect gift shop in Second Sharm Al Sheikh for your Egyptian adventure.
Discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts at Kogy Art House, the perfect gift shop in Second Sharm Al Sheikh for your Egyptian adventure.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit El Fanar Lighthouse and Saline Lake [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I am particularly interested in seeing the panoramic views from the lighthouse and exploring the unique ecosystem of the Saline Lake. And perhaps, I’ll end the day at Latinos Bar [Itinerary of Tomorrow], enjoying a quiet drink as I reflect on my experiences.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. The Red Sea continues to surprise and delight, and I am eager to uncover more of its hidden treasures.

This journey is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new things and connecting with nature in a way that enriches the soul. And as I continue my solo exploration of Ras Muhammad National Park, I am reminded of the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations.

Goodnight from Ras Muhammad National Park. Until tomorrow!
Go to day 4 Submerged Wonders: Diving into Ras Ghozlani and Yolanda Reef
Go to day 6 Beacon of Beauty and Salty Serenity: Exploring Ras Muhammad's Wonders
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Solo Exploration of Ras Muhammad National Park

Embark on a solo adventure to Ras Muhammad National Park, exploring Egypt's vibrant marine life and untouched landscapes.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Tanaka Hiroshi
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Antique Shop Owner
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 53

Konnichiwa! I'm Tanaka Hiroshi, a passionate traveler and antique shop owner from Heidelberg, Germany, originally from Matsumoto, Japan. My blog, Evendo, is a window into my journeys through time and across the globe. I share stories of historical sites, cultural experiences, and the hidden gems I discover along the way. Join me as I explore the world, one antique and one adventure at a time!

Interests:
  • History
  • Art
  • Gardening
  • Classical Music
  • Local Cuisine
More about Tanaka Hiroshi

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