Blue Storm · Egypt · 8 Days / 7 Nights
This safari is presented as a more challenging option, featuring significant drop-offs decorated with immense gorgonians and vibrant soft corals. The journey explores the southern Red Sea, focusing on the St. John's reef system, which offers a mix of tunnels, drop-offs, and hard coral formations. The itinerary also includes the Fury Shoal area, known for its caves, coral gardens, and a tugboat wreck. Divers can anticipate sightings of sharks, rays, and other large pelagic animals drawn to the reefs. Max guests on this trip: 24.
Port Ghalib
Arrival at the marina for check-in and boarding. You will receive a general boat briefing and have time to set up your equipment before dinner. The first night is spent on board in the port.
Good to know: The vessel remains docked in the Port Ghalib marina overnight.
Port Ghalib Area
After an early departure, the day begins with one or two check dives at a local site near Port Ghalib to ensure all equipment is in order. The liveaboard then commences its journey southward toward the deep south marine parks.
Good to know: The initial dives are used to check weighting and gear. The trip to the far south often involves overnight sailing.
St. Johns
The first full day of diving takes place in the St. Johns area, a vast collection of reefs known for their stunning hard coral formations and network of swim-throughs. Dives may include sites like Habili Ali or Gota Kebir, offering chances to see sharks and other large pelagic fish.
Dive sites: Habili Ali, Gota Kebir
Good to know: St. Johns is renowned for its labyrinthine reef structures, tunnels, and healthy coral gardens.
Rocky Island, Zabargad Island
Today's dives are at the isolated and legendary islands of Rocky and Zabargad. Rocky Island is characterized by sheer drop-offs that attract oceanic whitetip sharks and hammerheads, while Zabargad offers unique topography, a wreck, and beautiful coral walls.
Dive sites: Rocky Island, Zabargad Island
Good to know: Night diving is not permitted within the marine park boundaries. Dives here are subject to weather conditions.
St. Johns
The itinerary dedicates another day to the extensive St. Johns reef system, allowing for exploration of different sites like the caverns of Umm Arouk. The area's diverse topography provides a variety of dive profiles, from gentle slopes to exciting drop-offs.
Dive sites: Umm Arouk
Good to know: This day offers more opportunities to experience the rich biodiversity and unique coral formations of the St. Johns plateaus.
Fury Shoals
The boat moves north to Fury Shoals, an area famous for its pristine hard coral gardens. Dives at sites like Sataya are known for potential encounters with resident spinner dolphins, while other reefs showcase magnificent and colorful coral.
Dive sites: Sataya Reef
Good to know: Fury Shoals is characterized by exceptionally varied coral formations and is often a highlight for dolphin sightings.
Elphinstone Reef, Port Ghalib
The last day of diving begins with an early morning visit to the legendary Elphinstone Reef, a site famous for its strong currents, vibrant soft corals, and shark encounters. After the final dive, the vessel returns to the Port Ghalib marina in the afternoon.
Dive sites: Elphinstone Reef
Good to know: Two dives are typically conducted to allow for sufficient off-gassing time before flying. The final evening is spent on board in the marina.
Port Ghalib
Following a final breakfast on board, guests will check out from the liveaboard. Transfers are provided to the local airport for onward journeys.
Good to know: Check-out is normally completed by mid-morning.