North, Tiran & Dahab Tour
Anemone Turquoise July 2025
Operated by Oceanic-Liveabords
July 5, 2025
After arriving at the harbor in Hurghada, we checked in aboard the yacht Anemone Turquoise. The atmosphere on deck was full of excitement—old friends greeting each other warmly, new faces full of anticipation. Once everyone had set up their dive spot and stowed the equipment, we gathered for our first dinner together. The salty breeze, gentle lapping of waves against the hull, and collective anticipation of the coming week set the tone for an early and restful night.
July 6, 2025
The first full day began with a comprehensive boat and safety briefing before the anchor was lifted—our Northern Route adventure had officially begun. Our first stop was Shaab El Erg, a wide reef system famous for its friendly resident dolphins. We completed our check dive there in clear water and mild current, surrounded by healthy hard corals and curious lionfish.
After lunch and a relaxed surface interval, we continued to Shaab Mahmoud, a reef formation of dramatic coral pinnacles and sand channels. The site was alive with reef life—lionfish, Napoleon wrasse, and even a passing eagle ray offered a perfect afternoon dive.
July 7, 2025
At dawn, we reached the legendary Ras Mohammed National Park, located at the very tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Here, the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba meet, creating nutrient-rich currents that support an explosion of marine life. Our first dive took us to the iconic Shark & Yolanda Reef, known for its steep walls, schooling snapper, and the quirky remains of the sunken Yolanda cargo—bathroom fixtures scattered along the reef slope. In the afternoon, we dove at Thomas Reef and Gordon Reef, part of the stunning Tiran Strait. Vibrant soft corals, swirling glassfish, and the occasional reef shark made these dives unforgettable. The evening ended in utter calm, the sea mirror-like beneath a canopy of stars.
July 8, 2025
During the night, our captain crossed the Gulf of Aqaba toward Dahab, aiming for a sunrise dive at the world-famous Blue Hole—a vertical sinkhole dropping more than 100 meters, with crystal-clear water and haunting beauty. Later, we explored Gabr El Bint, known for its towering sea fans and rich coral walls, and The Canyon, where narrow crevices and sandy tunnels create a surreal underwater landscape. The serene Dahab coastline and tranquil conditions made it an exceptional diving day.
July 9, 2025
On our journey westward, we stopped again within Ras Mohammed Park to dive Jackson Reef and Jack Aley, both known for their strong currents and pelagic encounters. By afternoon, we reached the legendary wreck of the SS Thistlegorm, a WWII British cargo ship sunk by German bombers in 1941. With ideal conditions, we explored its cargo holds—filled with trucks, motorbikes, and ammunition crates—an awe-inspiring time capsule of history. The crew decided to stay overnight and dedicate the next day to diving the site again.
July 10, 2025
A second day on the Thistlegorm offered new discoveries—the changing light revealed hidden corners and details missed before. The atmosphere around the wreck was both mystical and humbling, making it one of the most memorable experiences of the journey.
July 11, 2025
For our final dives, we visited Gubal Island and Bluff Point, perfect for a relaxed end to the safari. Moray eels, cuttlefish, and colorful coral gardens filled the scenes of our farewell dives. That evening, we celebrated ashore with a festive dinner and lively music, closing a spectacular week of exploration and friendship across the Northern Red Sea.