Are fish dangerous on the reef in Sharm el-Sheikh and how to swim safely?

In the shallow ('kiddie pool') area there are many surgeonfish, so it's better to swim straight to deeper water. Entry there is via a submerged pontoon; a life vest, mask with snorkel, and reef shoes are essential.

Lionfish (scorpionfish) are mostly seen in the evening rather than during the day. Surgeonfish are common almost everywhere, including the Fanara reef, and aren't as dangerous as their reputation suggests.

According to international diving federation rules, being underwater without a mask is treated as a distress signal — which is why lifeguards may react if they see someone without one.

For up-to-date info on sea and reef conditions, don't ask at the hotel reception (they may not know) — instead ask the lifeguard directly on the beach or check with a dive center.

Lifeguards mostly whistle at people stepping on or swimming too close to corals near shore; if you swim past the buoys toward a neighboring hotel, you're on your own. Also, the lifeguard's whistle is often inaudible while wearing a snorkel mask.

You won't be allowed to swim far out — only a designated zone for viewing fish and the reef is permitted. Strong currents can occur, which are tiring and can carry swimmers away. Lifeguards closely monitor everyone in the water.

Lifeguards have recently become more active, patrolling on SUP boards and moving away anyone hovering directly over the corals while snorkeling.

Venomous lionfish have been spotted right near some entry points into the water — many swimmers are afraid of them, though it's unclear if they can actually attack. Unlike lionfish, needlefish and surgeonfish generally don't bother swimmers.

In one spot known for lots of fish near shore, extra caution is needed due to corals — one swimmer cut her foot even while wearing water shoes.

The key rule on the reef is to stay calm. Panicking in the water frightens fish and can trigger unpredictable behavior. In a panic, you also risk swallowing water or hitting corals — some of which cause burns on contact.

Never touch corals — some species cause painful burns on skin. Keep your distance from the reef and avoid brushing against it with hands or feet.

Surgeonfish are very common in Sharm el-Sheikh and can be aggressive. At some other Red Sea resorts they are less numerous, making it easier to enter the water without concern.

Reef shoes (water shoes) are essential when swimming near the reef. They protect your feet from coral burns, sea urchins, and cuts. Experienced swimmers always wear them and watch where they step when entering the water.

Regular reef swimmers stand chest-deep in the water for hours without any incidents. Fish do not attack people without provocation — there is no need to be afraid, just follow basic safety rules.