Over the past five years, 16 accidents have occurred involving liveaboard dive vessels operating in the Red Sea. Alarmingly, three liveaboard dive boats have been lost in the last 21 months, leading to multiple fatalities, including UK nationals. In response to these ongoing incidents, the UK Government’s Marine Accident Investigations Branch (MAIB) has issued a safety advisory aimed at UK divers considering a dive holiday in the region.
Key Safety Concerns Identified
The MAIB’s investigations have highlighted several serious safety deficiencies aboard some Red Sea liveaboard vessels:
- Poor Vessel Construction: Many dive boats were found to be poorly built and, in some cases, significantly modified or extended, leading to instability.
- Defective Safety Equipment: Essential lifesaving equipment was frequently defective, out-of-date, or even missing.
- Fire Hazards: A lack of structural fire protection contributed to the rapid spread of fires, while fire detection and suppression systems were often absent or non-functional.
- Inadequate Emergency Exits: Escape routes were often blocked by lockable doors, lacked emergency lighting, and were not properly marked.
- Poor Crew Training and Safety Briefings: Passengers often received little to no safety briefings, and crews were found to be inadequately trained and unfamiliar with their vessels.
Statement from the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents
The Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents emphasized the need for travelers to exercise caution when booking liveaboard dive trips in the Red Sea, stating:
“Divers should be aware of the significant safety risks associated with some liveaboard dive vessels operating in the Red Sea. To ensure their own safety, travelers should choose only reputable vendors who can provide assurances regarding the safety standards of their vessels. Additionally, upon boarding, passengers should insist on a thorough safety briefing from the crew before departure.”
Recommendations for Divers
In light of these findings, the MAIB strongly advises prospective customers to:
- Book through reputable vendors who can verify the safety standards of their vessels.
- Request a comprehensive safety briefing from the crew upon arrival.
- Inspect safety equipment such as life vests, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits before setting sail.
- Ensure emergency escape routes are accessible, well-lit, and properly marked.
With the popularity of liveaboard diving in the Red Sea continuing to grow, these safety precautions are more critical than ever. The MAIB urges all divers to take necessary steps to protect themselves and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the region’s spectacular underwater world.
Comments
