Socotra Island’s warm tropical waters are legendary amongst divers for their
dramatically sheer walls rising from the depths to within inches of the surface
and capped with thriving coral reefs.
Scuba diving in Socotra has gained more importance among visitors to the island
during the last years.
Socotra Island is home to more than 680 species of fish and about 230 species of
hard corals (five are endemic) and 30 species of soft corals. In addition to 300
species of crustacean (nine are endemic), 490 species of mollusks, and 230
species of algae.
A mild climate all year round (except the monsoon), water temperatures of 27 to
36°C, depending on the season, crystal clear waters and the likelihood of
viewing species like barracudas, monkfish, dolphins, rays and even mantas are
the main reasons why lovers of this sport consider the island of Socotra more
and more for their diving holidays.
From current swept plateaus to sheltered coral gardens, Socotra offers a
wonderful rang of diving for of every level of interests and skill. Socotra also
offers extraordinary dives of some old shipwrecks.
The majority of diving on the Island is drift diving along the walls, coral
gardens of the outer reefs, with the dive boat following along from the surface
to meet you upon ascent.
With unparalleled biodiversity and beauty, Socotra Island dive sites provide
exciting snorkeling opportunities as well.
Top off an exciting day with some fun surfing with very strong winds (about 8 ft
average waves in the morning).
Some of the coasts are
rough and steep and the rooks at the bottom of the sea generate not only
excellent waves but also require some precautions.
Due to its location in the Indian Ocean, Socotra Island experiences a very heavy
wind (monsoon) which is responsible for the strong gusts. Surfing is only
recommended for experienced surfers. You should bring a tow board over 7 feet
and a smaller board. And if you are a beginner you should be careful with the
rock formation and stones.
The best time to come for this adventure is during the monsoon season from June
up to late August. In July the wind speed can reach up to 60 mph and you
have to prepare for such conditions.
For experienced surfers Socotra is a real adventure with world-ranked high
waves.