Red Sea Master
This 41-metre wooden vessel was completely refurbished in 2016 and now operates in the crystal blue waters of the Red Sea. She graciously welcomes up to 26 guests on board; in four suites, five twin/double cabins, and four fixed twin cabins.
Each cabin is equipped with air-conditioning, a private entertainment system, mini-fridge and a convenient en-suite bathroom. As the Red Sea Master is specially laid-out for having guests spend their holidays aboard, there is of course ample space for all guests to relax and enjoy their diving cruise. A generous sundeck on the fly bridge, a separate bar and sky lounge with state of the art entertainment system and even a Jacuzzi make for a luxurious stay on board.
There is also plenty of room for guests who prefer to relax and unwind in the shade. Featuring a nitrox membrane, booster pump, a technical blending panel, the Red Sea Master fully caters for rebreathers and technical divers.
A range of itineraries covers the whole of the Egyptian Red Sea from the Strait of Tiran in the north all the way down to St Johns in the deep south. These itineraries cater for a wide variety of interests and locations from the wide open national parks of the Brothers and Daedalus, wreck diving in the north or the stunning reefs of the deep south. There is something suitable for all divers, from novice through to highly experienced, with a vast range of wildlife.
On a typical day we offer up to 4 day dives, however the 4th day dive may be substituted for a night dive when the boat is anchored by a reef. A 7-night itinerary provides for between 18-20 dives, whilst during our 10-night itineraries, up to 30 dives will be possible.
The diving day aboard the Red Sea Master is scheduled as follows:- Light Breakfast followed by a briefing and Dive 1. Full Breakfast, relaxation period, briefing and Dive 2. Lunch, relaxation period, briefing and Dive 3. Snack relaxation period, briefing and Dive 4, where possible. Dinner.
Dive sites vary, with something for everyone on most itineraries. Currents are the norm in many spots so on several itineraries it is recommended that divers have experience beyond beginner level to ensure maximum enjoyment. Always check with your agent or our reservations team for the most suitable itinerary for your experience and certification.
Egypt has hot and dry summers and fairly moderate, cool winters; the air temperature can easily touch 40+C (104+F) in summer, while winter is a more comfortable 18-23C (64-73F) with occasional rain and cool nights. Water temperatures vary from 20C in December up to 29C (68F to 84F) in August. Recommended are a 3 or 5mm full wetsuit (summer) and a 5 or 7mm full wetsuit (winter) with a hood/vest in case you feel cold.
Getting there and away… We recommend that you book your international flight to and from Hurghada airport, which is served by many airlines and charter companies from all over the world. Embarkation time of the Red Sea Master is normally at 6pm. Disembarkation is normally between 9 and 10 am in the morning. Please note that these times may vary depending on the itinerary so please check your cruise confirmation carefully. Depending on your onward plans, you can either transfer directly to the airport or check into a hotel to enjoy the Egyptian hospitality a little longer.
On arrival… Passports must be valid for at least six months and citizens from most Western countries can purchase a tourist visa upon arrival (USD25), which allows them to stay in Egypt for up to one month. Some nationalities may be required to purchase a visa prior to arrival, please consult the Egyptian Consulate in your country for more details. If you are traveling with medication, please ensure to bring your physician’s prescription with you.
Money Matters… The local currency is the Egyptian Pound: (EGP). Most hotels and bigger shops will accept major credit cards and there are many ATMs for cash withdrawal. The Euro, USD and UK Pounds are widely accepted.
Climate and weather… Egypt has hot and dry summers and fairly moderate, cool winters; the air temperature can easily touch 40+C (104+F) in summer, while winter is a more comfortable 18-23C (64-73F) with occasional rain and cool nights. Take care all year round when exposed to the sun as it can be intense. In the desert areas temperatures are even more extreme, both hot and cold.
Time zone… Local time is GMT + 2hrs in wintertime, GMT + 1 hr in summertime.
Health… The general standard of medical care in Egypt varies per location but overall, it is fairly poor. It is recommended to take the usual precautions with uncooked food and refrain from drinking tap water. Protect yourself from the fierce Egyptian sun and drink a lot of water; heat strokes are fairly common.
