Shaab Maksour

Shaab Maksour is an elongated offshore coral reef characterized by very steep walls, two main coral plateaus separated by a deep central canyon, and numerous overhangs, cracks and swim-throughs. Two large coral pinnacles rise from the southern plateau to about 6-9 m below the surface, forming a natural focal point and common mooring and safety-stop area. The site is noted for abundant large pelagics and regular shark sightings, which are a primary attraction for visiting divers. The site is accessed only by boat or liveaboard, with mooring possible at the southern tip and no shore entry. Water temperatures typically range 24-30°C and surface visibility is often excellent, about 20-40 m. Typical dives descend along the wall or pinnacles to plateaus around 20-25 m and commonly extend to 30-40 m, while the drop-offs continue to roughly 90-100 m. Medium to strong currents are common and drift diving is typical; strong currents and very deep drop-offs are significant hazards, so the site is suitable only for experienced or technical divers, who should use surface marker buoys, dive with guides, and follow marine park mooring and permit rules.