DUNE Silky · Egypt · 8D7N
This classic Red Sea liveaboard adventure charts a course through the famed “Golden Triangle,” a route revered for its thrilling pelagic encounters and dramatic offshore reefs. The itinerary is designed for experienced divers, visiting the legendary sites of the Brothers Islands, Daedalus, and Elphinstone Reef. Expect deep walls, strong currents, and world-class diving with frequent sightings of oceanic whitetip, thresher, and hammerhead sharks. Due to the challenging conditions and deep profiles at these remote locations, an Advanced Open Water certification with at least 50 logged dives and experience in currents is required to join this incredible expedition.
Safaga, Egypt
Arrive at the airport and transfer to the marina in Safaga. Once on board, you will be assigned your cabin and have time to get acquainted with the vessel. The day includes a welcome meeting and boat briefing from the crew and guides before settling in for the first night.
Good to know: Welcome briefing | Cabin check-in | Dinner on board
Safaga, Red Sea
The diving adventure begins with two checkout dives at renowned local Safaga sites like Panorama Reef or the 'aquarium' of Gota Abu Ramada. These initial dives allow everyone to get comfortable with their gear and the local conditions. In the afternoon, the boat lifts anchor and begins the overnight crossing south towards the legendary Brothers Islands.
Dive sites: Panorama Reef, Gota Abu Ramada
Good to know: Checkout dives | Final equipment checks | Overnight sailing to the Brothers Islands
Brothers Islands, Red Sea
The day is spent exploring the two famous pinnacles of Big Brother and Little Brother, which rise from the deep, attracting a huge variety of marine life. Dives here often include visits to the wrecks of the Numidia and Aida on Big Brother, now completely encrusted in coral. The sheer walls are covered in vibrant soft corals and gorgonian fans, while the blue water offers encounters with grey reef sharks, thoresher sharks in the early morning, and the famed oceanic whitetip shark.
Dive sites: Big Brother, Little Brother, Numidia Wreck, Aida Wreck
Good to know: Weather and park regulations permit a full day of diving. | Overnight navigation to Daedalus Reef.
Daedalus Reef, Red Sea
After an overnight passage, the boat arrives at Daedalus Reef for a full day of diving. This large, isolated reef is best known for its healthy coral and the chance to spot schools of hammerhead sharks off its northern point. The day's dives focus on the dramatic drop-offs and pristine hard coral gardens. Subject to permission from the keepers, there may be a chance to go ashore and visit the iconic Victorian lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea.
Dive sites: Daedalus North, Daedalus East Wall
Good to know: Lighthouse visit is subject to official approval. | Dives are often in strong currents.
Daedalus Reef & Southern Red Sea
The morning provides a final opportunity for up to three more dives at Daedalus Reef, scanning the blue for its famous pelagic residents. After the dives, the vessel begins the seven-hour daytime crossing back towards the mainland coast. The boat will moor in a sheltered bay for the night, where a night dive may be offered depending on the arrival time.
Dive sites: Daedalus Reef
Good to know: Daytime navigation back towards the mainland. | Possibility of a night dive.
Elphinstone Reef, Southern Red Sea
Today is dedicated to Elphinstone, a finger-like reef renowned for spectacular drift dives along its steep, vibrant walls. Divers explore the northern and southern plateaus, which serve as cleaning stations and hunting grounds for oceanic whitetip sharks and occasional hammerheads. The walls are a tapestry of purple soft corals, huge gorgonians, and black corals. For appropriately certified divers, the famous deep arch on the southern plateau is a major highlight.
Dive sites: Elphinstone North Plateau, Elphinstone South Plateau
Good to know: Currents can be strong and unpredictable. | The 'Arch' is a deep dive suitable for tec divers only.
Marsa Alam, Red Sea
The last two dives of the trip take place at sites close to Port Ghalib, such as Marsa Shoona or Abu Dabbab. These shallower coastal sites offer a relaxing end to the week, with beautiful coral gardens and a high probability of encountering resident green sea turtles feeding on seagrass. After the dives, there is time to rinse and start packing equipment as the boat makes the short journey back to Port Ghalib marina for the farewell dinner.
Dive sites: Marsa Shoona, Abu Dabbab
Good to know: Rinse and dry dive gear. | Final night moored in Port Ghalib.
Port Ghalib, Egypt
After a final breakfast on board, it is time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow guests. Disembarkation takes place in the morning, followed by a transfer to Marsa Alam Airport or a local hotel, depending on your onward travel plans.
Good to know: Final breakfast on board | Airport or hotel transfers