Diving and surfing on Socora Island

Socotra Water sports

Diving/Snorkeling:

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. Enjoy the soothing tranquility of this fascinating paradise as you watch multitudes of colorful reef fish glide among dense coral formations sprinkled with giant clams, turtles, sharks and barracudas.

Surfing:

Surfing on Socotra Island only began some years ago, when professionals and surf lovers realized the excellent condition that this region has to offer.

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.