Aphrodite · Egypt · 8 Days / 7 Nights
Embark on a classic liveaboard safari through the northern Red Sea, renowned for its spectacular wreck diving and vibrant reef systems. This itinerary provides ample opportunities to explore historic shipwrecks like the iconic SS Thistlegorm and the ancient Carnatic. Additionally, divers will immerse themselves in the rich marine biodiversity of Ras Mohammed National Park, famous for its dramatic drop-offs and abundant coral gardens.
The steamship 'Carnatic' struck the reef and sank in September 1869. Lying at approximately 24 meters, her hull is broken amidships, revealing a photogenic interior filled with tube sponges, alcyonarians, and table corals. Her bow and stern remain intact, and abundant natural light makes internal penetration straightforward.
The 'Dunraven,' a steam and sail-powered vessel used for transporting spices and timber, ran aground on Shaab Machmud reef in March 1876. The ship quickly sank, breaking into two halves. It lies upside down, with the stern at 28 meters and the bow at 18 meters. The propeller and rudder are heavily overgrown with corals, and the wreck's interior is home to thousands of glassfish.
The 'Thistlegorm' is widely considered the most famous wreck in the Red Sea. This British vessel, carrying military equipment for British troops in North Africa, was attacked and sunk by a German bomber on October 6, 1941. It lies upright at a depth of 30 meters, with an intact cargo of tanks, trucks, motorcycles, weapons, and railway components, offering an incredible historical dive experience.
Guests board the vessel in Hurghada, Egypt from aroun. After a welcome briefing, cabin assignment and dive-equipment check, the crew prepares for departure. No diving is scheduled on the first day; the evening is spent settling in on board before the first dives the following morning.
The diving adventure begins in the Northern Red Sea, with the exact sites selected based on current conditions. This region is renowned for its diverse dive experiences, combining enthralling wreck dives with vibrant coral reef explorations. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life amidst stunning underwater landscapes.
Today's dives focus on the famous 'Wreck Alley' of Abu Nuhas. This reef is home to four significant wrecks, each offering a unique historical and diving experience. The Giannis D. is a notable highlight, lying at a maximum depth of 27 meters and extensively covered in hard and soft corals.
Dive sites: Giannis D., Carnatic
This day is dedicated to exploring the legendary SS Thistlegorm, one of the most famous wrecks in the Red Sea. This British military transport ship, sunk in 1941, lies upright at 30 meters and is packed with a remarkable cargo of tanks, trucks, motorcycles, and military hardware. The dive offers a unique glimpse into World War II history.
Dive sites: SS Thistlegorm
Today's diving takes place around The Brothers Islands, renowned for their exceptional pelagic action and dramatic wall dives. These remote pinnacles rise from great depths, attracting a wide variety of sharks and other large marine animals. The strong currents often bring nutrient-rich waters, supporting vibrant coral growth on the walls.
Diving today is centered in Ras Mohammed National Park, featuring the iconic Shark and Yolanda Reefs. These reefs form part of a plateau at 20 meters, with stunning drop-offs descending hundreds of meters. The area is famous for its healthy soft corals, abundant fish life, and the potential for early morning shark sightings. The cargo of the Cypriot freighter Yolanda, including household toilets, remains a quirky highlight.
Dive sites: Shark Reef, Yolanda Reef
The final dives of the trip explore more captivating sites in the Northern Red Sea, chosen to maximize enjoyment based on conditions. After completing the dives, the liveaboard begins its journey back to Hurghada. The evening is spent relaxing, recounting the week's adventures, and preparing for disembarkation.
After a final breakfast on board, guests will check out from the liveaboard. Transfers to the airport or local hotels are arranged, concluding the diving safari in Hurghada.
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