Silky Liveaboard Liveaboard overview

By
Kiani Versluys
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Kiani is a PADI instructor with a passion for traveling. From taking her first breath under water in the Gulf of Thailand, to working in the...
Rebecca Strauss
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Rebecca has been an avid traveler and scuba diver for many years. She began her editorial career by updating travel guides, which took her all over...

With crystal-clear waters featuring 100-plus-foot (30 m) visibility and a balmy average temperature of 78 (25 C) degrees, the Red Sea is truly a divers’ paradise. Marine life includes whale sharks, turtles, hammerheads, oceanic whitetips, and manta rays–all swimming amidst stunning reef formations.

Built in 2020, Silky liveaboard (formerly known as Alia) joins the Dune Red Sea fleet. With its sturdy steel hull and spacious design, this recently constructed 144-foot (44 m) vessel offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. Accommodating up to 26 guests in 13 cabins, the Silky offers an ideal option for everyone from seasoned underwater photographers to novice divers on their first liveaboard trip.

Let’s dive into our review of Silky.

About this review

To help you find a that will fit your needs, we’ve tested, researched, and reviewed the best ones available today.
We test both in the water, diving in various conditions - and in our lab - so we can give you accurate answers on quality, performance, and the overall value.

Read about our test of s

Things we like:

  • Free nitrox for certified divers
  • Modern and spacious accommodations
  • Itineraries for both novice and experienced divers

Things we don't like:

  • Only 2-3 dives per day
  • No daily night dives
  • Alcoholic beverages are not included

Diving on Silky liveaboard

With its diverse range of dive sites and abundant marine life, the Red Sea offers an unparalleled experience for divers of all skill levels. Diving from the Silky is facilitated by zodiacs, which grant easy access to dive sites. Note though that there are typically only two to three dives per day.

The Silky offers a variety of itineraries tailored to different preferences and experience levels. Novices can explore wrecks and shallow reefs, while experienced divers can enjoy swift drifts and deeper dives.

Itineraries starting from the end of 2024 will expand to include trips to Djibouti, followed by trips to Sudan from 2025. These new destinations promise untouched dive sites and unique experiences in diverse marine environments.

Generally, the Silky requires Open Water certification and a minimum of 20 dives for novice trips, while advanced certification, with at least 50 dives, may be necessary for more challenging dives. Additionally, there’s a special trip tailored for junior divers and snorkelers, offering a unique opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.

Gear rentals are available onboard the Silky at an extra cost.

Highlights:

  • New itineraries in untouched environments
  • Marine life sightings including frequent hammerheads and whale sharks
  • Dive sites ranging from walls to wrecks

Onboard Silky

With a total of 13 cabins, the Silky liveaboard offers accommodation for up to 26 guests. The lower deck features nine cabins equipped with convertible beds for twin or double occupancy, making them ideal for families or groups traveling together.

Each cabin offers sea views and a private bathroom. On the upper deck, guests will find four more cabins, a bar, and a spacious indoor lounge complete with a flatscreen TV, sound system, video game console, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Exterior spaces on the Silky include a spacious sundeck, which provides the perfect setting for topping up that tan after a dive. For those seeking adventure, on-board kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are available as well. Heated water showers and dedicated rinse areas for underwater cameras ensure that guests can refresh and maintain their equipment after each dive.

The dive deck of the Silky is equipped with separate gear stations and a dedicated rinse area for underwater cameras. After each dive, guests can indulge in comfort with provided dressing gowns to keep warm.

Highlights:

  • Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available
  • Warm dressing gowns offered after each dive
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Dining onboard Silky

The diverse menu features a combination of Western favorites and local delicacies. Vegetarian options are also available, ensuring that all guests are provided for. Throughout the day, guests can indulge in snacks and refreshments, including free soft drinks and water to keep hydrated.

Please note that while alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and rum are available for purchase onboard, they are not included in the trip package.

Highlights:

  • Buffet-style meals and plated meal options
  • Catering to various dietary preferences and restrictions
  • Included soft drinks and snacks

Things we like:

  • Free nitrox for certified divers
  • Modern and spacious accommodations
  • Itineraries for both novice and experienced divers

Things we don't like:

  • Only 2-3 dives per day
  • No daily night dives
  • Alcoholic beverages are not included
Key Facts
Year Built 2020
Max Divers 26
Price Range Mid-range
Trip Length 5-7 Nights
Internet Yes (free)
Nitrox Yes (free)
Equipment Rental Yes ($)
Camera Station Yes
Air Conditioning Yes
Min. Logged Dives 21-50
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