Blue Planet Liveaboards stands as a premier provider of diving adventures in Egypt’s Red Sea, offering unparalleled experiences aboard their state-of-the-art vessels. With a commitment to safety, luxury, and environmental stewardship, they have established themselves as leaders in the liveaboard diving industry.
Company Overview and History
Founded with a passion for the sea and a dedication to exceptional service, Blue Planet Liveaboards has grown over the years, continually updating their fleet to meet the highest standards of comfort and safety. Their team comprises experienced professionals who share a love for diving and the marine environment, ensuring that guests receive knowledgeable guidance and support throughout their journey.
The Fleet
Blue Planet Liveaboards boasts a fleet of four modern vessels, each designed to cater to the diverse needs of their guests:
- MY Blue: Accommodating up to 24 guests, this vessel features 12 cabins, including a master cabin, seaview cabins, and double cabins. Equipped with twin MAN V12 engines totaling 2200 HP, MY Blue ensures a smooth and reliable voyage.
- MY Blue Seas: Also hosting 24 guests, MY Blue Seas offers 12 cabins with various configurations. Powered by twin 700 HP Cummins K 19 engines, this vessel combines power with elegance.
- MY Blue Pearl: Designed for a more intimate experience, MY Blue Pearl accommodates 20 guests across 10 cabins. Its twin 764 PS Caterpillar engines provide both strength and efficiency.
- MY Blue Storm: With a capacity for 24 guests in 11 cabins, MY Blue Storm is powered by twin Doosan V12 engines totaling 2200 HP, ensuring both speed and stability.
All vessels are equipped with modern navigation and safety systems, including free Nitrox for qualified divers, ensuring both safety and enhanced diving experiences.
Photo by geoff trodd on Unsplash
Diving the Egyptian Red Sea
The Red Sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. Egypt’s portion of the Red Sea offers a plethora of dive sites suitable for all levels, from shallow reefs teeming with colorful fish to deep wrecks that tell tales of maritime history.
Image courtesy of Kimmo Hagman
Notable Dive Sites
- SS Thistlegorm: One of the most famous wreck dives in the world, this British World War II ship was sunk in 1941. Divers can explore its fascinating cargo, including military vehicles, motorcycles, and rifles.
- Ras Mohammed National Park: Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, this marine reserve features stunning walls, coral gardens, and abundant marine life, including barracudas, tuna, and reef sharks.
- Elphinstone Reef: A world-class dive site known for its steep drop-offs, strong currents, and frequent encounters with oceanic whitetip and hammerhead sharks.
- Daedalus Reef: A remote reef famous for its large pelagic species, including schools of hammerhead sharks. The strong currents make it suitable for advanced divers.
- Brothers Islands: These two small islands offer steep walls covered in soft corals, with regular sightings of oceanic whitetip and thresher sharks. The wrecks of Aida and Numidia add an element of historical intrigue.
- Abu Nuhas Ship Graveyard: This site features four wrecks, including the famous Giannis D and Carnatic, offering exciting wreck diving opportunities with an abundance of marine life.
- St. John’s Reef: A collection of remote reefs near the Sudanese border, known for its dramatic underwater topography, including caves, tunnels, and drop-offs.
- Fury Shoal: A vast reef system offering shallow lagoons, coral pinnacles, and an array of marine life, including dolphins and turtles.
Photo by Gerald Schömbs on Unsplash
Northern vs. Southern Red Sea Diving
Egypt’s Red Sea is typically divided into northern and southern regions, each offering distinct diving experiences:
- Northern Red Sea: This area is renowned for its historical wrecks, such as the SS Thistlegorm, and vibrant reefs like those in Ras Mohammed National Park. The proximity to popular tourist destinations makes it accessible and ideal for divers seeking a mix of wrecks and reefs.
- Southern Red Sea: Known for its remote and pristine dive sites, the southern region offers encounters with larger pelagic species and untouched coral formations. Sites like St. John’s Reef and Fury Shoal provide unique underwater landscapes, attracting divers looking for less frequented spots.
Traveling to Egypt
Egypt is well-connected to major international destinations, with direct flights to cities like Cairo and Hurghada. Travelers can obtain tourist visas upon arrival or in advance, depending on their nationality. Domestic flights, buses, and private transfers facilitate movement between cities and coastal towns. It’s advisable to check current travel advisories and health guidelines before planning your trip.
Safety Considerations
While the Red Sea offers unparalleled diving opportunities, it’s essential to choose reputable operators. Recent incidents have highlighted the importance of vessel maintenance and safety protocols. Blue Planet Liveaboards prioritizes safety, adhering to stringent standards to ensure the well-being of their guests. Divers are encouraged to verify the credentials and safety records of operators when planning their trips.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey with Blue Planet Liveaboards offers divers an exceptional opportunity to explore the wonders of the Egyptian Red Sea. With their modern fleet, experienced crew, and commitment to safety, guests are assured a memorable and enriching diving experience.
