Why Dive the Red Sea?

Located between the northeastern corner of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, the Red Sea has long been a mecca for divers from around the globe. Its warm waters, excellent visibility (we’re talking up to 30 meters), and diverse marine life make it a dream destination for free diving and scuba diving alike. With over 1,200 species of fish and 200 species of coral, many of which you’ll only find here, it’s no wonder the Red Sea is often called one of the seven wonders of the underwater world.

Oh, and did we mention the shipwrecks? From the hauntingly beautiful SS Thistlegorm to the Dunraven, these underwater time capsules offer a glimpse into history, making Egypt diving not just an adventure but also a journey through time.

The Perks of a Liveaboard

Now, imagine this: instead of commuting back to a hotel after each dive, you’re lounging on the deck of a liveaboard, sipping something cold, as the sun sets over the horizon. That’s the magic of liveaboard diving. It’s not just a trip; it’s an experience. Here’s why a Red Sea liveaboard should be on your bucket list:

1. Dive, Eat, Sleep, Repeat: A liveaboard maximizes your time in the water. With multiple dives scheduled daily—and sometimes even night dives—you’ll explore a variety of dive sites that would be impossible to cover in a standard resort-based itinerary. Plus, everything’s taken care of for you. Meals? Sorted. Gear? Ready to go. Your biggest challenge? Deciding whether you want seconds at dinner.

2. Access to Remote Dive Sites: Some of the best spots in the Red Sea are off the beaten path. Liveaboards give you access to remote reefs and wrecks that are far from the reach of day boats. Places like the Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and Elphinstone are renowned for their breathtaking beauty and thrilling encounters with pelagic species like hammerhead sharks and oceanic whitetips.

3. Do a Freediving Course onboard: One of the coolest perks of a liveaboard is the chance to up your diving game. On most of our trips, you can complete your freediving course and receive certification right onboard, with expert instructors guiding you every step of the way. Imagine leveling up your skills in one of the most stunning underwater classrooms on the planet!

4. All About the Vibe Tribe: There’s something special about bonding with fellow ocean lovers over shared adventures. A liveaboard is like Summer Camp for grown-ups—except with better food, more laughs, and in this case, hundreds of dolphins joining the party. By the end of the trip, you’ll have made lifelong friends and collected stories to tell for years to come.

Red Sea Diving Highlights

Soak up some of the best Freediving spots with the best humans from around the world – check out the epic vibes of this adventure. Trust us, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss!

5. Coral Gardens: The Red Sea’s coral reefs are unlike anything else on Earth. You’ll swim through vibrant gardens where soft corals sway like underwater flowers, and hard corals form intricate structures that look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. Ras Mohammed National Park is a standout, boasting some of the most pristine reefs in the world.

6. Marine Life: Whether you’re a free diver reveling in the silence or a scuba diver bubbling away, the marine life in the Red Sea is mind-blowing. From playful dolphins and majestic manta rays to tiny nudibranchs and schools of glittering anthias, it’s a biodiversity bonanza. With hundreds of playful dolphins in the region, visiting Sataya Dolphin House reef is a must, especially if you can join one of the specialty dolphin workshops designed to make the most of this unique experience. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a dugong or two.

7. Shipwrecks: Wreck diving in the Red Sea is a must. The Abu Galawa wreck, a famously stunning coral-covered tugboat, offers a unique diving experience suitable for beginners and beyond with its vibrant marine life and fascinating history. The SS Thistlegorm, a British World War II cargo ship, is an underwater museum filled with motorbikes, trucks, and wartime supplies, all encrusted with coral. The Dunraven and Rosalie Moller are also worth a visit, each with its own unique story and marine inhabitants.

8. Shark Encounters: Adrenaline junkies, rejoice! The Red Sea is a hotspot for sharks. Depending on the season, you can encounter hammerheads, grey reef sharks, silky sharks, and even the elusive tiger shark. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of seeing one of these magnificent creatures glide past you in their natural habitat.

What to look for in a Liveaboard?

Okay, so we’ve sold you on the idea of a Red Sea liveaboard (you’re welcome). But what makes Freedive Adventures so special? Well, our liveaboards combine top-notch vessels, expert guides, activities, workshops and access to some of the best dive sites in the region. Here’s what you should look for when choosing a liveaboard (and a sneak peek of what to expect sailing with us):

• Comfortable Accommodation: Tidy cabins on board a well-kept vessel with all the amenities you need for a week at sea. You want a floating boutique hotel, but with better views.
• Delicious Cuisine: The onboard chefs will be whipping up meals that are as memorable as the dives themselves. Fresh, flavorful, and guaranteed to keep you fueled for the next adventure.
• Expert Guides: Whether you’re new to free diving or a seasoned pro, the crew will have your back. They’ll help you make the most of every dive, sharing tips, tricks, and plenty of laughs along the way. And you should be able to opt-in for a freediving course (or two).
• Workshops Aplenty: Immerse yourself in daily activities both onboard and on secluded islands (your legs will thank you), whilst getting amongst wildlife interaction workshops such as those designed for Sataya Dolphin House Reef to ensure the happiness of our finned friends.
• Tailored Itineraries: These trips should be designed to showcase the best of the Red Sea, from the iconic sites to the hidden gems. No two days should be the same, and every dive will be a new adventure.

Tips for Liveaboard Life

Pack Smart: Space on a liveaboard is limited, so bring only what you need. Essentials include dive gear, sunscreen (reef-safe, of course), and your sense of adventure.

Stay Hydrated: Diving can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water. And maybe save the celebratory drinks for after the last dive of the day.

Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning underwater scenery, but remember to stay present in the moment, too. Some memories are best kept in your heart.

Be Respectful: The Red Sea is a delicate ecosystem. Avoid touching corals or disturbing marine life, and always follow the guide’s instructions. Let’s keep this paradise pristine for generations to come.

The Red Sea is more than just a diving destination; it’s a journey into a world of wonder and awe. And with a Red Sea liveaboard, you’re not just visiting—you’re immersing yourself in it. So whether you’re a free diver chasing the serenity of the deep or a scuba diver eager to explore every nook and cranny, this is an experience you’ll never forget.