Where to book
Diving on the Aphrodite liveaboard
Diving in Egypt is a year-round activity, with water temperatures ranging from 70 to 86 F (21 to 30 C). Water visibility can reach over 200 feet (60 m) or fall as low as 50 feet (15 m). A lack of rain and tributaries generally mean visibility in the Red Sea remains high, although sites with sandy bottoms and currents tend to have reduced visibility.
With notably high salinity, especially in warmer months, don’t be shocked if you need more weight to descend in the Red Sea. These dry and salty conditions make staying hydrated extra-important to stay happy and avoid the bends.
The number of dives differs slightly between itineraries but usually numbers between 17 to 20. Review the itineraries carefully when making your arrangements, as not all of them return to the port of origin, with Hurghada and Port Ghalib the primary ports. Rental gear is available for those who travel light.
Calm conditions and clear visibility make the Red Sea and Aphrodite suitable for most levels of certified divers, but divers will benefit from drift and wreck diving experience. Those wishing to expand their scuba education may opt into onboard PADI courses such as Advanced Open Water, Nitrox, Rescue Diver, and more
With 12 different itineraries to choose from, you will never run out of new things to see in the Red Sea. Dive a 7,000-year-old reef with hundreds of coalesced corals, or frolic with dolphins—aptly a symbol of the goddess Aphrodite—at Sataya Reef. You can see a wreck with no name off the island of Zabargad.
The 1300-foot-long (400 m) Daedalus reef boasts regular hammerhead sightings and is a healthy spot to check off some of the 1,000 species of fish in the region. The renowned Brothers Islands serve up everything in one spot with walls, corals, megafauna, and wrecks.
Highlights:
- Variety of itineraries
- World-class wrecks
- Underwater visibility and biodiversity
Onboard the Aphrodite
At 115 feet (35 m) long, the Aphrodite holds 23 divers in 11 comfortable cabins. Multiple berth options are available to suit a variety of travelers. Originally built in 2008, Aphrodite has been modified and renovated multiple times since. Colorful décor features local influence and creates a memorable atmosphere.
Inside, you’ll find warm wood paneling and a proliferation of art. The main salon features multiple wrap-around couches with a plethora of throw pillows, and well-placed, large coffee tables. A large-screen video entertainment center sits above the library, and a small bar serves up beverages and snacks.
If you need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is accessible when Aphrodite is in harbors and close to shore. All cabins are equipped with mini bars, a music channel, and adjustable air-conditioning.
The covered dive deck offers ample room for gearing up before boarding the tenders. Individual storage baskets under the benches keep you organized, and you will marvel at how quickly your wetsuit dries hanging in the desert air.
An on-deck camera station caters to underwater photographers with a separate rinse station. A charging station is located just outside the door to the main salon.
Multiple sundecks offer shaded and open options. Soak up some sun on a waterproof lounger or bubble your troubles away in an uncovered hot tub. Wildlife enthusiasts should bring binoculars to scan for the many sea, shore, and migratory birds that have been recorded in the Red Sea and Egypt, including many endangered and endemic species.
Highlights:
- Colorful furnishings
- Multiple sundecks and lounges
- Variety of cabins to choose from
Dining on the Aphrodite
Aphrodite treats you to a non-alcoholic welcome beverage, such as juice. All alcoholic beverages incur a separate charge. Soda, juice, water, tea and coffee are all included. Espresso is available for purchase for additional energy.
All meals are served buffet-style, easily accommodating vegetarian and halal diets. Dietary restrictions should be communicated when booking to ensure you are happily fed.
Regular snacks and fresh fruit will keep you fueled and hydrated all day. A beach barbeque provides an opportunity to feel the sand under your feet while you bond with other guests.
Highlights:
- Welcome refreshment and beach barbecue
- Availability of fresh fruit
- Espresso for purchase
Things we like:
- Hot tub
- Vibrant dive sites
- Calm and consistent conditions
Things we don't like:
- Mandatory fees not included
- Alcohol and espresso charged separately
- Many itineraries make scheduling tricky
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2008 |
| Max Divers | 22 |
| Price Range | Budget |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | No |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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