Elphinstone Reef
Elphinstone Reef (also: Abu Hamra ) is the name of a coral reef that is located about 9 km east of the coast of the Red Sea in southern Egypt , north of the city of Marsa Alam .
The reef was discovered by Robert Moresby around 1830 when he came across the approximately 600 m long, spindle-shaped reef to map the Red Sea. This was now named after John Elphinstone (12th Lord Elphinstone), whose son John Elphinstone, 13th Lord Elphinstone later became governor of Madras and Bombay .
The reef is now especially known for its rich biodiversity. Due to its location in the open sea and the frequent prevalence of currents, it is therefore one of the demanding top diving spots in southern Egypt. Divers particularly appreciate the increased probability of meeting large fish on the reef. There are daily crossings for experienced divers.
On January 6, 2007, an accident occurred on the reef in which a group was carried away by strong currents. Four divers have been missing since then, only one was able to swim to the shore as he swam towards Badawia Resort, about 15 kilometers away, and reached the beach there.
literature
- James Horsburgh: India Directory, Or, Directions for Sailing to and from the East Indies, China, Australia, Cape of Good Hope, Brazil, and the Interjacent Ports , Volume 1. WH Allen, London 1836, p. 282 (digitized) .
Web links
Individual evidence
- ↑ Elphinstone . Omneia - Diving and Travel website, accessed June 24, 2015.
- ↑ Tauchresort rejects responsibility for diving accidents. Tauchsport.de, January 18, 2007, accessed June 24, 2015.
Coordinates: 25 ° 34 ′ 20 ″ N , 34 ° 49 ′ 36 ″ E