Location - North Umm Gamar encompasses two sites: the north plateau and Halg Umm Gamar (‘The Neck of Umm Gamar”)  (illustrated). The north plateau is characterised by big table corals, big fish and strong currents. Halg Umm Gamar is basically a sheltered bay with a wall to the south and a 60° coral slope to the north. At its centre, on a sandy bottom are two deep coral blocks.

Sea Conditions - It has to be fairly calm to even try to moor here because the boat swings very close to the reef. Current picks up as you head northwards.

Dive Plan - Take in the deep coral blocks first (if you have the necessary experience), then head either way. If you head north, take care not to pass the point at which the current splits. This could result in you getting swept around the corner. If you head south, look out for black coral trees. There is also a cave at 8m just beyond a prominent cleft in the reef top.

Marine Life - The most common fish here are lunartail and peacock groupers, unicornfish, sohal and orangespine surgeonfish, bannerfish and bluecheek butterflyfish are also in abundance. This reef is special for one thing in partic­ular - Spanish dancers during the day. They are usually between 15 and 20m but they appear as shallow as 4m.