Please bring your dive certification card(s) (physical or digital e-card).
If you have lost your certification card(s), we have the possibility to verify your certification online for PADI or SSI.
A valid dive certification/e-card is mandatory for diving on board.

If it has been more than six months since your last dive and you have fewer than 30 logged dives, you will be required to complete a scuba review before departing on our liveaboard trip or as your first dive. The maximum allowable depth for each diver is determined by their certification level; however, dives typically do not exceed 30 meters unless you hold a Deep Diver, Rescue Diver, Divemaster, or higher certification.

Although our dives are planned conservatively, a dive insurance is mandatory.

Many of our dive sites are remote and far from hospitals or recompression chambers. In case of a diving-related accident, your insurance must cover emergency evacuation and recompression treatment.

It is the diver’s responsibility to ensure they have adequate insurance coverage for diving activities.

If your current insurance does not cover diving, please consult our staff before the trip departure for additional insurance options. Please note, having diving insurance is mandatory for all liveaboard trips.

We operate around ten different liveaboard routes across the Northern and Southern Red Sea, covering several cities that host at least one hyperbaric medical center.

These centers are located in
•⁠ ⁠Dahab
•⁠ ⁠Sharm El-Sheikh
•⁠ ⁠Hurghada
•⁠ ⁠Safaga
•⁠ ⁠El Quseir
•⁠ ⁠Porto Ghalib

All dives on our boat are guided, with a maximum of 8 to 10 experienced divers per guide.

In Case of Separation

If you become separated from your group while diving, search for no longer than one minute before ascending to the surface.
At 7 meters, inflate your SMB (Surface Marker Buoy), perform your safety stop, and a Zodiac (speed boat) will pick you up in a short time.

Missed Dive Briefing

If you miss the dive briefing, you will not be permitted to join the dive.

Buddy Checks

A buddy check is required before every dive.

Alcohol Policy

Alcohol consumption is prohibited before and between dives; your first drink can only be enjoyed after your last dive. This rule also applies to snorkelers.

Surface Marker Buoys (SMBs)

We recommend that every diver carry their own SMB to signal to dive tenders when ready to surface.
However, inflating one SMB per buddy team is sufficient for this purpose.

While some boat traffic is expected in busier areas, it is not necessary to drift with your SMB throughout the entire dive.

SMBs can be provided on board.

Adherence to Guide Instructions

Divers must adhere to the instructions of dive guides and instructors, who have the authority to prohibit participation in dives at their discretion.

Reasons for prohibition may include:
•⁠ ⁠Non-compliance with National or Natural Park rules
•⁠ ⁠Handling marine life improperly
•⁠ ⁠Consuming alcohol between dives
•⁠ ⁠Not following safe diving practices.

Please note that no refunds will be issued for missed dives under these circumstances.

Number of Dives and Refund Policy

Please note that the number of dives listed in any package is an estimate based on normal conditions and is not guaranteed.

Changes may occur due to personal choices, illness, or other circumstances, and no partial refunds will be provided.

Air Consumption and Dive Duration

Stay hydrated to avoid dehydration, which is commonly associated with decompression sickness and general discomfort.

If you have high air consumption, you may rent a 15-liter tank to extend your dive time and align better with your group.
•⁠ ⁠Minimum air remaining in your tank upon surfacing should be 50 bars
•⁠ ⁠Maximum dive time is 60 minutes, though dives may be shorter due to non-decompression limits, air consumption, or boat schedules.
•⁠ ⁠Always stay close to your dive buddy and group
•⁠ ⁠Regularly monitor your air gauge
•⁠ ⁠A 3-minute safety stop at 5 meters is required before surfacing
•⁠ ⁠Inflate your BCD at the surface and follow dive guide/instructor instructions during pickup by the dive vessel
•⁠ ⁠If using a digital underwater camera, you must comply with “Safe Diving” and “Ecological Awareness” rules. Failure to do so may result in restrictions on camera use underwater.

Scuba Review Recommendation

If you are unsure of your diving skills, we strongly recommend participating in a Scuba Review before the trip departure.

To join our scuba diving liveaboards, divers are generally required to be Advanced Open Water Divers (AOWD) with 50+ logged dives.

However, some of our special liveaboards accept Open Water Divers (OWD) with 20+ logged dives, provided that they complete the Advanced Open Water Course (AOWC) on board.

Certain itineraries are available; however, they are recommended for advanced divers only.

Please review our sample itinerary for more details.

All dives on our boat are guided, with a maximum of 8 to 10 experienced divers per guide.

In Case of Separation

If you become separated from your group while diving, search for no longer than one minute before ascending to the surface.
At 7 meters, inflate your SMB (Surface Marker Buoy), perform your safety stop, and a Zodiac (speed boat) will pick you up in a short time.

Missed Dive Briefing

If you miss the dive briefing, you will not be permitted to join the dive.

Buddy Checks

A buddy check is required before every dive.

Alcohol Policy

Alcohol consumption is prohibited before and between dives; your first drink can only be enjoyed after your last dive. This rule also applies to snorkelers.

Surface Marker Buoys (SMBs)

We recommend that every diver carry their own SMB to signal to dive tenders when ready to surface.
However, inflating one SMB per buddy team is sufficient for this purpose.

While some boat traffic is expected in busier areas, it is not necessary to drift with your SMB throughout the entire dive.

SMBs can be provided on board.

Adherence to Guide Instructions

Divers must adhere to the instructions of dive guides and instructors, who have the authority to prohibit participation in dives at their discretion.

Reasons for prohibition may include:
•⁠ ⁠Non-compliance with National or Natural Park rules
•⁠ ⁠Handling marine life improperly
•⁠ ⁠Consuming alcohol between dives
•⁠ ⁠Not following safe diving practices.

Please note that no refunds will be issued for missed dives under these circumstances.

Number of Dives and Refund Policy

Please note that the number of dives listed in any package is an estimate based on normal conditions and is not guaranteed.

Changes may occur due to personal choices, illness, or other circumstances, and no partial refunds will be provided.

Air Consumption and Dive Duration

Stay hydrated to avoid dehydration, which is commonly associated with decompression sickness and general discomfort.

If you have high air consumption, you may rent a 15-liter tank to extend your dive time and align better with your group.
•⁠ ⁠Minimum air remaining in your tank upon surfacing should be 50 bars
•⁠ ⁠Maximum dive time is 60 minutes, though dives may be shorter due to non-decompression limits, air consumption, or boat schedules.
•⁠ ⁠Always stay close to your dive buddy and group
•⁠ ⁠Regularly monitor your air gauge
•⁠ ⁠A 3-minute safety stop at 5 meters is required before surfacing
•⁠ ⁠Inflate your BCD at the surface and follow dive guide/instructor instructions during pickup by the dive vessel
•⁠ ⁠If using a digital underwater camera, you must comply with “Safe Diving” and “Ecological Awareness” rules. Failure to do so may result in restrictions on camera use underwater.

Scuba Review Recommendation

If you are unsure of your diving skills, we strongly recommend participating in a Scuba Review before the trip departure.

Night dives are available on our scuba diving liveaboards, except when staying overnight at certain dive sites where night dives are prohibited by the Marine National Parks Authority.

This includes areas like
•⁠ ⁠Brothers Islands (currently no overnight stays permitted)
•⁠ ⁠⁠Daedalus Reef
•⁠ ⁠⁠Elphinstone Reef

PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is the world’s most popular and largest dive training organization.

Your PADI certification is recognized and accepted by dive centers worldwide.

Our courses are conducted by a team of highly trained, multilingual instructors who are committed to providing the highest level of care and attention.

We offer instructions in English, French, Spanish, and Russian.

At Blue Shades Diving & Liveaboard, safety is our top priority.

We believe that proper dive education is essential, especially for novice and inexperienced divers.

All our courses include the relevant PADI materials, and our experienced instructors are always available to answer questions and provide in-depth knowledge.

Please contact us for details about available courses and pricing.

You can complete the Advanced Open Water (AOW) course while on board.

AOW Certification Requirements:

To achieve the Advanced Open Water Diver certification, you must fulfill the following:

1.⁠ ⁠Complete the five Knowledge Reviews for your selected Adventure Dives

2.⁠ ⁠Successfully complete five Adventure Dives, including the mandatory Deep and Underwater Navigation dives

3.⁠ ⁠Finish the “Thinking Like a Diver” knowledge development section

Depth Requirements:

For divers aged 15 and older, the maximum allowable depth is 30 meters (100 feet).

Diver Prerequisites:

You must be certified as a PADI (Junior) Open Water Diver or Open Water Diver.

A 12-liter (air) tank and weights are provided free of charge.

Dive equipment rentals are available; please let us know at the time of booking if you will need our dive gear.

A full set of gear includes:
•⁠ ⁠BCD (Buoyancy Control Device)
•⁠ ⁠Regulator with an alternate air source and tank pressure gauge (bar)
•⁠ ⁠Dive Computer
•⁠ ⁠Short or long wetsuit
•⁠ ⁠ABC; Mask, snorkel, boots, and fins
•⁠ ⁠SMB (Surface Marker Buoy)
•⁠ ⁠Torch for night diving
•⁠ ⁠15-liter aluminum/steel tank

Nitrox tanks are available at an additional cost (divers must have appropriate certification to use Nitrox)

When using our dive gear, you are responsible for it.
While our equipment undergoes regular maintenance, it is each diver’s responsibility to ensure the rental equipment is in proper working order before use, as reliable, well-maintained gear is essential for safe diving.

If you bring your own dive equipment, please ensure it has undergone annual inspections or mandatory service checks.

Boat Safety Compliance

Our boats meet all safety standards set by the following authorities:
•⁠ ⁠Ministry of Tourism
•⁠ ⁠CDWS (Chamber of Diving and Water Sports)
•⁠ ⁠Coast Guard

Safety Equipment Onboard

All boats are equipped with:
•⁠ ⁠Automatic inflatable life rafts
•⁠ ⁠Throw rings
•⁠ ⁠Life jackets for adults and minors
•⁠ ⁠Radio and satellite communications
•⁠ ⁠Navigation systems
•⁠ ⁠Chase boats
•⁠ ⁠Fire extinguishers
•⁠ ⁠First aid kits
•⁠ ⁠Emergency oxygen kits
•⁠ ⁠AEDs
•⁠ ⁠A crew trained in first aid

Smoking Policy

Smoking is permitted only in designated areas.

Please refrain from throwing cigarette butts or any other rubbish into the sea.

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor areas, including cabins, the dive deck, saloon, and dining areas.

Charging Electronic Devices

You can recharge your electronic devices using the 220v plugs available on the boat.

Please note that we are not liable for any damage to your electronic devices during charging.

Spring (March to May)
During spring, water temperatures begin to warm, leading to comfortable, extended dives.

Visibility often exceeds 40 meters, allowing divers to fully appreciate the vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life.

This season is particularly appealing to marine biology enthusiasts, as many species exhibit fascinating breeding behaviors.

Summer (June to August)
Summer in the Red Sea features warm waters with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), making it an ideal time for night diving.

The underwater world comes alive with bioluminescence, creating a starry effect, and nocturnal creatures such as nudibranchs and flatworms display vivid colors and patterns.

Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is often regarded as the best time to visit.

With the summer heat subsiding, cooler temperatures and varied marine life return.

Divers can enjoy long, comfortable dives exploring wrecks and reefs without the summer crowds.

The pleasant water temperature and changing light conditions make this season particularly great for underwater photography.

Winter (December to February)
Winter offers a unique diving experience with cooler water temperatures around 22°C (71.6°F) attracting species like manta rays and dolphins.

Visibility remains excellent, and lower humidity ensures clear skies.

With fewer tourists, winter provides a serene diving experience and is an excellent time for those looking to escape colder northern climates while enjoying some winter sun.

We recommend bringing minimal luggage for your liveaboard safari.

Light clothing and a sweater for cooler evenings should be sufficient.

We provide shampoo and shower gel in the cabins; however, please bring your own personal toiletries.

While we have basic medical supplies available on board, you should bring any prescription medications you may need.

Packing List (Do Bring)

Please remember to bring your logbook, certification cards, travel and diving insurance details, personal clothing, swimwear, a light jacket or sweater, toothbrush, toothpaste, and sunblock (preferably coral-friendly products).

Don’t forget your prescription medications and some cash for any extras on board.

Nice to Bring but Not Necessary

Consider bringing books, a laptop, or other personal entertainment.

We do have a small selection of books, magazines, and movies available for your enjoyment.

*Check-In*

Check-ins for our liveaboards occur on Saturdays between 13:00 and 15:00, with departure on Sunday morning, unless special arrangements or private trips have been scheduled.

During check-in, we will:
– Verify your certificates, insurance, and equipment sizes
– Assess diver experience and food requirements
– Complete necessary paperwork, including collecting national park fees and assisting with insurance if needed

A brief overview of onboard rules will also be provided.

This process typically takes about 25 to 35 minutes per guest or small group.

*Onboard Briefing*

Following check-in, a general boat and safety briefing will be conducted.

This includes introductions to the crew and dive staff, and is followed by dinner.

*Check-Out*

The liveaboard will return to port on Friday around 15:00.

Check-out takes place on Saturday after breakfast, around 10:00.

We will arrange transfers to your hotel or the airport, unless special arrangements or private trips are planned.

We arrange all of your transfers between airport, boat and hotel.

We are pleased to arrange hotel accommodations.

Simply provide us with the dates, even if it’s just a couple of days before your arrival.

We are also happy to assist with recommendations on locations that are conveniently close to your departure or arrival port.

The choice of airport will depend on your departure or arrival port, typically Hurghada or Marsa Alam Airport.

We recommend to consult us before booking your flights to ensure the most convenient airport selection.

The pickup point is located outside the main gate of the arrival hall; our driver will be waiting with a sign displaying your name or our Blue Shades Diving logo, which we will confirm with you in advance.

Pickup Timing for Early Arrivals

If you arrive a day before embarkation and have a hotel stay, please provide us with the hotel name or address.

Our pickup will be around 14:00, and we will confirm the exact time with you in advance.

A dedicated chef and assistant prepare delicious and nutritious meals throughout the day, served buffet-style in the dining area.

Our kitchen team specializes in delectable cuisine from around the world, with snacks and fruit available at all times.

Our chefs cater to special requests, but we kindly ask that these be limited to allergies or religious beliefs.

Complimentary water, tea, coffee, and soft drinks are provided, along with rehydration and mineral salts, which are highly recommended.

For special holidays like Christmas and Easter, our chef prepares unique festive menus.

We provide free WiFi when there is internet coverage, but some locations, such as Brothers Islands, Daedalus, Saint John’s, Rocky, and Zabargad, have no coverage.

Mobile phone coverage works similarly, as it is connected to the same network carrier as the WiFi.

For those who require constant connectivity, we offer Starlink internet service for an additional charge.

To book your trip, please check our website.

You can contact our Blue Shades Diving sales office via email or WhatsApp.

We accept payments by wire transfer or credit card, though credit card payments may incur additional charges; please confirm with the office for details.

A 30% deposit is required within 72 hours of your reservation to confirm your booking, with the balance due 60 days before the trip departure.

Included:
•⁠ ⁠Accommodation in a double room
•⁠ ⁠8 days / 7 nights all-inclusive meal plan
•⁠ ⁠Snacks and fresh fruits available all day (seasonally)
•⁠ ⁠Unlimited water, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and juice
•⁠ ⁠3 to 4 dives per day
•⁠ ⁠12-liter tank and weights

Excluded/Extras:
•⁠ ⁠Marine Park and port fees
•⁠ ⁠Courses on board
•⁠ ⁠Crew gratuities
•⁠ ⁠Equipment rental
•⁠ ⁠Higher deck cabins and suites
•⁠ ⁠Nitrox use
•⁠ ⁠15-liter tank
•⁠ ⁠Airport transfer for groups or individuals in the same city

Onboard charges are preferably paid in cash.

Most major currencies, including USD, GBP and Euro, are accepted, as well as wire transfers.

A 30% deposit is required within 7 days to confirm your booking.

Full payment is due 90 days before the trip departure date.

Your reservation is obligation-free, and you can cancel anytime within the first 72 hours of confirmation for a full refund, minus USD 100.00 per person to cover banking and administrative charges.

For cancellations made more than 60 days before the trip, a 70% refund will be issued.

Cancellations made 60 days or less before the day of embarkation are non-refundable.

Refunds will be processed within 10 business days to your bank account, credit card or PayPal account.

If you wish to change your booking to a later date or a different trip after the original booking has been confirmed, we will assist you as much as possible.

However, such changes are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

No refund will be issued if you fail to arrive by the scheduled departure.

However, if we can accommodate by delaying departure while maintaining the schedule, we will try, but this must be agreed upon at the time of booking.

All prices are based on double occupancy.

Single guests from different bookings will share a cabin with a guest of the same gender.

A single supplement rate of 80% of the full price (not applicable to discounted prices or specials) applies for a guaranteed private room.

Non-diver guests are eligible for a 10% discount on the full price.

Snorkeling is available for non-divers at no extra charge.

Children aged 8 and over are welcome on board when accompanied by their parents.

Parents are fully responsible for their children at all times, as there are no childcare facilities available.

It is the parent’s duty to ensure that children attend safety briefings and adhere to all safety procedures.

Parents must also ensure that their children do not disturb the peace of other guests or interfere with the effective running of the cruise.

On embarkation day, our staff will pick you up from the airport or your hotel and bring you to the boat.

Check-in is available from 13:00 to 15:00 on Saturdays, and the boat departs on Sundays morning.

Please book a flight that allows ample time to reach the boat before departure.

Upon arrival, snacks, hot and cold beverages will be available while you settle in, followed by dinner.

Check-out is on Saturdays at 08:00.

Breakfast will be served on board at 08:30, after which our staff will assist you with disembarkation and transport to the airport or your hotel.

Please ensure you have at least 18-24 hours between your last dive and boarding a flight or traveling to higher altitudes.

Upon embarkation, our cruise director may need to see the following documents:
•⁠ ⁠A health certificate issued by a physician if you have a known medical condition (certain conditions, such as epilepsy, asthma, diabetes, lung conditions, or heart disease, may prohibit you from scuba diving)
•⁠ ⁠A passport with at least six months of validity from the day of embarkation
•⁠ ⁠Open Water certification or equivalent
•⁠ ⁠Dive log or dive computer history
•⁠ ⁠Dive/travel insurance is mandatory
•⁠ ⁠⁠Completion of our Guest Information Form, along with the understanding and signing of our “Terms and Conditions/Waiver” and any other relevant paperwork

We strongly advise purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, evacuation, and medical coverage for all trip-related activities.

Please note that if guests choose not to carry travel insurance, we will not be held responsible for any financial loss due to trip cancellation for reasons beyond our control.

For full boat charters, the price and terms are based on the special group offer.

The maximum number of passengers is limited to the agreed boat capacity.

These trips cannot be canceled, and it is the responsibility of the person chartering the boat to find replacements if needed.

A 10% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.

A second installment of 20% is due 180 days before the charter, and the final balance payment is due 60 days prior to the trip.

If the charter is booked 60 days or less before the departure, 100% of the payment is required.

Payments must be made via wire transfer in USD or Euro, and all charges are to be paid by the remitter.

We do not accept any legal liability for any loss or damage to your luggage or dive equipment while transferring to or from the boat or while on board.

However, we will assist you with any insurance claims for lost or damaged items.

Our liability is limited to circumstances caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct of our staff, with compensation capped at a 100% refund of your booking.

In the event of trip cancellation due to circumstances beyond our control, such as war, civil unrest, terrorist activities, political disputes, government restrictions, or adverse weather conditions that pose a safety risk, a total refund minus incurred expenses may be granted at our discretion.

We recommend booking refundable hotels and flights, as these expenses will not be covered by us.

If a trip is canceled due to bad weather, you can choose an alternate trip of equivalent value, subject to availability, or receive a total refund minus any charges incurred.

If a trip must be cut short due to unforeseeable circumstances, a partial refund may be offered at our discretion.

The itinerary may be altered by the Cruise Director or Captain to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone on board, following warnings from the Egyptian Coast Guard or Egypt’s Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

We reserve the right to deny boarding or forfeit a guest’s trip if they display abusive, inappropriate, or threatening behavior toward other guests or staff members.

Please avoid participating in any scuba or water-related activities after consuming alcohol.

Any damage or loss to equipment or property belonging to Blue Shades Diving will be charged to you at the Cruise Director’s discretion.

Your experience from the moment you book your trip until the end of your cruise is very important to us.

If you receive excellent service, please share your feedback with others.

If you encounter any issues with the service provided, please let us know directly.

One of the best ways to explore the world’s oceans and seas is on a liveaboard cruise.

You will be transferred directly from the airport to the comfortable boat that will be your home for a few unforgettable days, alongside fellow divers.

Accommodations include fully equipped cabins with sheets, towels, an en-suite bathroom, and air conditioning.

Delicious and nutritious meals are freshly prepared in the onboard kitchen by a dedicated chef and served in the dining area. The boat features relaxation areas, including a lounge with sofas and entertainment, sundecks with loungers and mattresses, and a spacious dive deck to prepare and dive from.

Additional diving is done from the boat’s RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats).

A liveaboard offers something special for those who love water activities, allowing you to explore undisturbed, remote diving sites and national parks that daily boats can’t access.