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Diving on the Golden Dolphin I liveaboard
The Red Sea has an abundance of marine life, coral reefs, outstanding visibility, and incredible wrecks dating back to the 1800s, offering endless possibilities to divers from around the globe.
In recent years, weather conditions have shifted throughout Egypt, with winters reaching a record low and summers reaching a record high. Land temperatures now range from 46 F (8 C) to 122 F (50 C), and water temperatures range from 61 F (16 C) to 86 F (30 C).
This means there’s a season to suit everyone’s needs, especially for those looking to escape Europe’s cold. What better way to do that than to cruise on a liveaboard for a week or two? You may even encounter dolphins, rays, dugongs, or different species of sharks.
Offering flexible itineraries from the North to the Deep South and everything in between, the Golden Dolphin’s flexible itineraries depart on at least three to four monthly trips. Guests can choose from destinations such as the Straits of Tiran, Brothers Islands, Elphinstone, Rocky Islands, Zabargad, St. Johns, and more. Others can also explore historic wrecks like the SS Thistlegorm, Salem Express, Giannis D, and Carnatic.
Certain dive sites may require advanced certification due to strong currents, and others can only be reached by zodiac. The Golden Dolphin I is equipped with two zodiacs to ensure guests are dropped off and returned safely to the yacht. Free nitrox is available for certified divers.
Guests can enjoy up to three or four dives a day, depending on the route and the weather conditions. An experienced crew is on hand to ensure the highest level of service and an unrivaled dive experience.
Highlights:
- Pristine visibility up to 100 feet (30 m)
- Incredible marine and coral life
- Free nitrox
- Two zodiacs
- Equipped for sidemount diving, technical diving, and rebreather support
Onboard the Golden Dolphin I
The Golden Dolphin I is one of four Golden Dolphin vessels operating in Egypt. Meticulously designed for the ultimate diving experience and made with superior-quality wood, it was built in 2003, refurbished in 2007, and extended in 2014. Measuring 118 feet (36 m) with 10 spacious cabins, this yacht comfortably accommodates up to 20 guests.
Eight twin-bed cabins are located on the lower deck and two double cabins are located on the upper deck, offering guests a room with a view. All cabins feature ensuite facilities, minibars, storage space, and air conditioning. The air-conditioned lounge is designed for guests to relax, dine, and gather for dive briefings. It has a TV for entertainment, comfortable sofas, and dining tables. There’s also free Wi-Fi if you need to stay connected.
Guests can unwind between dives in the shaded outdoor lounge area on the lower deck, equipped with comfortable chairs and tables, or enjoy taking in the views and lying in the warm sun on the sun loungers in the rooftop’s open lounge.
The dive deck is designed with a spacious platform, a storage area for gear and equipment, and a hanging area for wetsuits. It is large enough for divers to move around freely and safely while they assemble their gear and clean their equipment after their dives.
Highlights:
- 10 ensuite cabins
- Free WiFi
- Camera and charging stations
Dining on the Golden Dolphin I
No liveaboard is complete without a top-notch dining experience to keep divers fueled for their time underwater. The Golden Dolphin I is up to the challenge, with a professional chef onboard to ensure that guests are served freshly prepared meals daily.
Every morning, guests are served hot entrees, fresh fruits, cereal, and select beverages. A buffet follows for lunch and dinner, and includes a range of dishes from local and Western cuisine as well as vegetarian and vegan options to suit individual preferences.
Guests also have access to complimentary snacks, soft drinks, coffee, and tea. For an additional charge, guests can choose from a bar fully stocked with beer and a fine wine selection to unwind at the end of a dive day.
Highlights:
- Excellent variety of freshly prepared food
- Complimentary snacks throughout the day
- Local beer and wine selections are available at extra cost
Things we like:
- The yacht is in pristine condition
- Helpful crew readily on hand
- Various itineraries
Things we don't like:
- Not enough time to explore islands along the routes
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2003 |
| Max Divers | 20 |
| Price Range | Budget |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | Yes (free) |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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