Emperor Asmaa · Egypt · 7 nights
Embark on a captivating journey through Egypt's Deep South, exploring iconic reefs and submerged wonders. This itinerary focuses on the renowned St. Johns reef system, a sprawling collection of vibrant hard and soft corals, drift dives, and swim-throughs teeming with reef fish. Expect encounters with schooling barracuda, trevally, and possibly sharks like grey reef and oceanic whitetips, especially around the outer reefs. The trip also includes dives at Fury Shoals, known for its diverse pinnacles and coral gardens, and the legendary Elphinstone Reef, famous for its pelagic action. This route offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's diverse underwater landscapes, from intricate coral formations to thrilling encounters with larger marine life.
Arrive at Marsa Alam and transfer to Port Ghalib for embarkation. After the welcome briefing and equipment setup, the boat will depart, often conducting a check dive at a local site like Marsa Shouna if time allows.
The journey continues south to the Fury Shoals reef complex. Dives may include sites such as Sha'ab Claudia, known for its easy-to-navigate swim-throughs, and Malahi, famous for its impressive coral pillars.
Arrive at the renowned St. Johns area. Dives are planned at sites like Habili Ali and Gota Kebir, which feature steep walls and offer chances to see grey reef sharks, hammerheads, and diverse coral formations.
A full day dedicated to exploring the vast St. Johns reef system. Dives may take place at Gota Soraya or Habili Gafar, known for their vibrant soft corals and abundant schools of fish.
Enjoy morning dives at sites like St. Johns Caves (Umm Arouk) before the vessel begins its journey north. This site is famous for its shallow cave system illuminated by shafts of light.
Sailing north, the plan often includes a stop at the legendary Elphinstone Reef, conditions permitting. This world-famous site is a long, finger-like reef with sheer walls and strong currents that attract oceanic whitetip sharks and hammerheads.
The final dives of the trip are conducted at sites closer to the port, such as Marsa Mubarak, famous for its resident turtles and dugongs. The boat returns to the Port Ghalib marina in the afternoon for the final night on board.
After breakfast on board, guests check out and disembark for their transfer to Marsa Alam airport or a local hotel.