Dreaming of diving with dugongs (sea cows) in the Red Sea? Marsa Alam is one of the best places in the world to encounter these gentle marine mammals in their natural habitat. 

From the best dive sites and the ideal time to visit to your chances of seeing one and how to interact responsibly, this FAQ guide answers the most common questions about where to dive with dugongs in Marsa Alam, Egypt, helping you plan an unforgettable underwater adventure.

What is a Dugong?

At first, we should explain exactly what a Dugong is for those who don’t know this creature yet. A Dugong isn’t a manatee. Dugongs and manatees are the only two species from the living mammal that belong to the Sirenian animal order. 

Although these two species belong to the same family, they live in different oceans. Manatees live in shallow waters near the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. On the other hand, dugongs inhabit the shallows near the coastlines of the Pacific and Indian Ocean. These mammals prefer shallow waters because they must surface to breathe. 

Both dugongs and manatees can only hold their breath for 2 to 4 minutes while diving and as a result, they rarely dive beyond 10 feet. The lifespan of dugongs is around 50 years as ( the oldest known Dugong lived 73 years).  

Where Can You Scuba Dive with Dugongs?

You can find many dive sites around the world where you can scuba dive with Dugongs but Marsa Alam in Egypt, is one of the best places to spot them in their natural habitat. The majority of the dugong sightings in the Red Sea have been off the coast at Abu Dabbab, which is a sandy-bottomed lagoon that is around 30km away from Marsa Alam.

Dugongs are attracted to this area because of its rich seagrass beds. Some times, we spot a dugong in Marsa Mubarak after about an hour of searching in 5-meter-deep water. What an amazing experience!

How many Dugongs Can You See?

In the 1980s, the population of dugongs in the Red Sea was estimated at around 4000, however, now, the estimated amount is unknown (although the population is now much smaller). Along the entire coastline between Marsa Alam and El Quseir which reaches 100km, there are just 7 dugongs although the actual number could be higher. On a trip to Marsa Mubarak, you are supposed to see one.

Where Can I Practice Diving with Dugongs in Marsa Alam?

The best dive sites to practice diving with dugong in Marsa Alam are Marsa Mubarak, Abu Dabbab Bay, and Wadi El Gemal, in which there are shallow seagrass beds which attract these creatures.

What is the Best Time to See Dugong Marsa Alam?

Between 6:00 AM and 9:30 AM in the morning is considered the best time to see a dugong in Marsa Alam when the sea is calm and dugongs are actively feeding.

Is It Guaranteed to See a Dugong in Marsa Alam?

No, the sightings of a dugong are not guaranteed, because they are rare animals, and you may need to follow a list of several snorkeling trips to spot one.

Can You Swim with Dugongs in Marsa Alam?

Yes, but you must be responsible by following these tips:

• Be in a safe distance from marine animals.
• Avoid touching or chasing dugongs.
• Follow the eco-friendly guidelines of snorkeling.

Why is Marsa Alam Famous for Dugongs?

Marsa Alam is a famous dive site for dugong sightings because its shallow bays rich in seagrass, which provide the ideal habitat for these marine mammals.