Oceanman el Gouna

Swimming in mid-September at El Gouna means navigating water that typically hovers around 27°C to 29°C, allowing for minimal technical apparel. The Red Sea here is defined by its extreme shallowness near the coast; while the sea has an average depth of 490 meters, the race takes place over the extensive shallow shelves that characterize roughly 25% of this Red Sea basin. These shelves protect the race from the deep-water currents associated with the Red Sea Rift, providing a controlled environment. However, the wind remains the primary variable for a swimmer's stroke; the prevailing northerly winds can create surface chop, necessitating a reliable sighting technique to maintain a straight line through the complex network of lagoons that make up this city, established in 1990.

Navigating the lagoons

The course layout draws directly from the city's unique geography, which spans 20 islands interconnected by 10 kilometers of coastline. As you navigate the water, the architectural landmarks of the resort provide constant orientation. The Abu Tig Marina stands out as a distinct nautical hub, its masts and harbor structures serving as a visual anchor while you transition between the open lagoons and the more protected channels. Beneath the surface, the environment is part of a Global 200 ecoregion, where you will likely encounter segments of the 200 identified hard and soft coral species. The clarity of these shallow waters offers high visibility, allowing swimmers to observe the intricate coral structures that thrive in this warm, nutrient-rich environment.

Beyond the water's edge, the landscape is dominated by the stark contrast between the turquoise lagoons and the surrounding desert. Though not on the swim path, the massive double-spiral of the Desert Breath land art installation serves as a reminder of the scale of the environment you are traversing. The race, which offers distances ranging from 500 meters to a full 10-kilometer marathon, utilizes this specific geography to create a sheltered yet expansive race circuit. The logistical planning accounts for the tidal influence on these shallow channels, ensuring the water remains navigable for all distances throughout the September event dates.