Emperor Asmaa · Egypt · 7 nights
Embark on an iconic Red Sea adventure, exploring the renowned 'Famous Five' dive sites. This itinerary journeys north from Hurghada to the historic wrecks of Abu Nuhas, then south to the vibrant reefs of Ras Mohammed National Park. Discover the thrilling pelagic encounters at the Brothers Islands, before concluding the trip with a sail back to Hurghada. Expect a diverse range of marine life, from schooling barracudas to various shark species, and stunning coral formations.
Guests are met at the airport upon arrival and transferred to the liveaboard. After settling into cabins and a welcome briefing, the vessel will depart from Hurghada. There is an opportunity for a check dive after departure to acclimatize to the equipment and conditions.
The journey north from Hurghada leads to the renowned wrecks of Abu Nuhas. This area is famous for its 'wreck graveyard,' featuring four distinct shipwrecks including Giannis D, Carnatic, Lentil Wreck, and Tile Wreck. These sites offer diverse diving opportunities, from deep to shallower sections, with excellent visibility and abundant fish life often observed around the structures.
Dive sites: Giannis D, Lentil Wreck, Tile Wreck, Carnatic
Today features a dive at the world-famous WWII wreck of the SS Thistlegorm, an iconic British vessel laden with a cargo of military supplies. Following this historic dive, the itinerary moves to Ras Mohammed National Park. This protected area offers stunning reefs at sites like Shark & Yolanda, known for magnificent anemones, vibrant coral formations, and diverse marine life, often featuring strong currents.
Dive sites: SS Thistlegorm, Shark & Yolanda Reef, Panorama Reef, Safaga
The Brother Islands, located offshore from El Quseir, are a pinnacle of Red Sea diving. These two small islands, Big Brother and Small Brother, are part of a protected marine park. They are renowned for their wall dives, dense soft corals, and gorgonian forests, creating a kaleidoscope of colour and attracting a wide array of pelagic species. Currents can be strong, enhancing the chances of encountering larger marine life.
Dive sites: Big Brother, Small Brother
Continuing exploration around the Brother Islands, divers will encounter the wrecks of Aida II and Numidia, adding a historical dimension to the dives. These wrecks are adorned with rich soft and hard corals, providing habitat for numerous reef fish and often attracting larger marine predators. The vibrant conditions here are ideal for observing the dynamic ecosystem of this marine protected area.
Dive sites: Big Brother, Small Brother, Aida II wreck, Numidia wreck
Daedalus Reef is a large, isolated reef located far offshore, characterized by its lighthouse. Its steep walls plunge into the blue, creating ideal conditions for drift diving and attracting significant pelagic action. This remote pinnacle is well-known for regular sightings of schooling hammerhead sharks and oceanic whitetip sharks, making it a thrilling destination for experienced divers seeking large marine life encounters.
Dive sites: Daedalus Reef
The boat sails back towards Hurghada, offering a final opportunity for diving at sites like Panorama Reef or the wreck of Salem Express, if conditions allow and dive time permits. Divers must observe the 24-hour no-fly time before their flight. In the evening, the vessel will moor at approximately 1 PM, and guests can enjoy dinner and an overnight stay onboard.
Dive sites: Panorama Reef, Salem Express
After a final breakfast on board, check-out begins early morning. Guests will disembark by midday, concluding their Red Sea liveaboard journey.