Panorama Reef

Panorama Reef is also known as "Abu Alama," which means "Father of the Mast." This is a reference to the concrete pillar that once marked the northern end of the reef and has since been replaced by a modern beacon.   It is an elongated, oval-shaped reef. At the northern end lies an exciting plateau that begins at a depth of approximately 12–15 meters and is beautifully covered with soft corals. Large gorgonian fans grow on the steeply sloping walls of the plateau at depths ranging from 30 to 45 meters. These are home to long-nosed damselfish.   On the northern plateau, it’s always worth taking a look into the open water—with a little luck, a gray reef shark might swim by.   The western reef wall is the more exciting one for the end of the dive.   The southern plateau begins at 20 meters and ends at a depth of approximately 40 meters. At the southeast corner, large gorgonian fans grow between 22m and 30m. The large anemone field at the southwest corner of the main reef, located between 3m and 15m, is perfect for a safety stop.