Blogs
A day in the life of Marsa Shagra with Sea to Sky
Sea to Sky is delighted to collaborate with Red Sea Diving Safari (RSDS), encompassing three distinct diving “villages” – Marsa Shagra, Marsa Nakari, and Wadi Lahami. Each village possesses its own unique charm, and although they share a common ethos of sustainable and eco-friendly diving, they differ in many aspects.
Established by its founder, Mr. Hossam Helmy, in 1990, RSDS’s sustainable tourism model has been well-defined, catering to divers of all levels and experiences. The commitment to eco-friendly practices is a key aspect of the RSDS experience.
Traveling to RSDS can be achieved via two main airports: Marsa Alam Airport or Hurghada Airport. Marsa Alam is approximately a 40-minute drive from Marsa Shagra, while Hurghada entails a transfer of approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Marsa Nakari is situated 40 km south of Marsa Shagra, and Wadi Lahami is 140 km away. RSDS facilitates all necessary transfers, ensuring a hassle-free experience with friendly drivers and comfortable vehicles, ranging from cars to minibuses based on the number of passengers. This commitment to convenience reflects RSDS’s dedication to providing a seamless and enjoyable journey for its guests.
I’ve been a dedicated visitor to RSDS for over a decade, a testament to the commendable operation they run. Each year, I make it a point to visit one of the villages, and on this particular trip in December 2023, it was heartening to encounter both familiar and new faces. The continuity of the team at RSDS, along with the addition of fresh members, is a testament to the sense of community fostered there. The warmth and friendliness extended to me upon arrival always make me feel like a long-lost friend, reinforcing the familial atmosphere that RSDS cultivates.
My journey began with a visit to a supplier in Hurghada, and I had prearranged both the transfer and accommodation through the head office. Guests like myself are required to use agents for bookings, ensuring a standardized cost structure. Despite not being able to book directly with RSDS, the pricing clarity remains consistent across agents.
Promptly at 10am, my transfer arrived, allowing me to embark on the journey south to Marsa Alam. The drive itself was uneventful but pleasant, offering a straightforward route. A scheduled rest break en-route provided an opportunity to grab a coffee and a bite to eat, making for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Upon my arrival at Marsa Shagra, I was dropped off at the main reception just after 1pm by the driver. Taking charge of unloading my bags, I proceeded to check in, which turned out to be a straightforward process. The reception efficiently gathered my passport details and accommodation voucher. As a Tour Operator (TO), we provide guests with a voucher confirming booking details, and this was handed in at the reception. Once the formalities were completed, I received my keys.
Assisted by one of the staff members, we made our way to my chosen accommodation. Marsa Shagra offers a diverse range of lodging options, including Superior Deluxe, Premium Deluxe, and Deluxe chalets (my choice for this visit). Other options include huts, Royal Tents, standard tents, and accessible chalets. The Royal tent, positioned on the shore, stands out as a popular choice, offering a light and breezy ambiance that truly captures the essence of Egypt. If you’re interested, I can provide more details about the various accommodation options available.
Notably, Marsa Shagra provides an environmentally conscious amenity — an unlimited number of cold water dispensers distributed throughout the villages. Guests are encouraged to bring their own water bottles for free refills whenever needed, reflecting RSDS’s commitment to sustainability and guest well-being.
Once settled in, with a quick shower and dive kit organized, it was time to make my way to the equipment room near the reception at Marsa Shagra. This is where guests check in for their prearranged diving packages, typically agreed upon with their Tour Operator (TO). The most popular choice is the 5-day unlimited house reef diving package, though there’s flexibility for daily unlimited diving as well. There’s a diving package to suit every preference.
Upon arrival at the equipment room, you complete mandatory forms required by PADI and RSDS. You can collect any necessary weights or equipment, get assigned a locker number, and then head over to the dive shade. Managed by Shazli and an exceptional team, including Shekaa, the dive shade staff are always welcoming, cheerful, and highly professional. Shekaa even assisted me in unpacking my dive gear and organizing it in the allocated locker, providing a helpful touch to the overall experience.
The dive shade, conveniently located opposite the equipment room, is equipped with all the amenities and facilities a diver might need. This includes changing rooms, clearly labelled clean tanks for equipment, fresh water, and more. The layout is well-designed and well-thought-out, contributing to a seamless diving experience.
It’s worth noting that all guests are recommended to attend the daily morning Orientation talks at the dive office at 9am. These talks provide detailed information about RSDS Marsa Shagra, covering procedures, offshore excursions, diving operations, night diving, reef topography, speed boats, dive profiles, and more. In addition and as part of the diving package, two orientation dives are included accompanied by a dive guide. It’s a valuable session for understanding the workings of RSDS.
One of the standout features of RSDS, particularly at Marsa Shagra and Marsa Nakari, is the concept of unlimited diving. The flexibility to grab a tank and explore the underwater world at your own pace, either with a buddy or using the buddy board to find one, adds to the appeal of the RSDS experience. It’s a great way to make new friends and fully immerse yourself in the diving community.
After my visit to the equipment room, I made my way to the restaurant for lunch, passing by the cafeteria and dive office where I exchanged greetings with Basta and Marie, who, alongside Maher, efficiently manage the dive operation with a focus on safety and professionalism.
The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a buffet style, and I was truly impressed by the extensive choices available. The spread included around 20 different salads, 10 hot dishes, assorted bread, soup, and a variety of fresh fruits. The culinary offerings at RSDS cater to diverse dietary needs, accommodating intolerances as well as providing options for vegans and vegetarians. No one would leave hungry with such a variety on offer.
After a satisfying lunch, I leisurely made my way to the cafeteria for a Turkish coffee. Soft drinks, teas, and regular coffees are complimentary, though diet drinks and Turkish coffees come with a separate charge. Following the delightful Turkish coffee experience, I headed to the dive shade to gear up. As a certified Self Reliant instructor, I had the flexibility to dive on my own. For the day, I aimed to complete a check dive and ensure all my equipment functioned properly.
Equipped with my stage, two masks, two computers, and two DSMBs, I added my name to the diving board, signalling to the staff that I had entered the water and indicating the expected time of my return. The water temperature was a comfortable 25 degrees, considering it was December. The highlight of Marsa Shagra undoubtedly lies in its house reef. The reef’s profile, running from North to South with an entry through a sandy sloping bottom, is ideal for confined courses. As the sandy bottom gradually deepens, you’re compelled to dive, and the healthy reef teems with millions of beautiful fish and marine life. My first underwater encounters included a free-swimming peppered moray and a turtle, making it a truly magical experience.
The profiles at Marsa Shagra is such that with the unlimited diving package you have use of the Zodiacs, so can opt for 6 different profiles of diving, whether it be shore / shore, Zodiac / shore or Zodiac / Zodiac, on either the North reef or South Reef.
After completing my check dive, I emerged from the water, removed my name from the board, and rinsed all my gear. Once I stored my equipment in the locker and hung up my wetsuit, I headed to one of the hammocks for a well-deserved rest, accompanied by the soothing sound of the sea lapping against the shore—pure bliss. A short nap later, I went to the dive centre to sign up for the 6am Elphinstone trip. Afterward, I returned to my chalet for a shower and change of clothes, then made my way to the chill-out area near the dive shade to socialize with fellow guests and enjoy a refreshing Stella beer, a fitting reward for completing my check dive.
Dinner, starting at 6:30pm, proved to be another culinary delight. Marsa Shagra offers themed main courses each night, and on this particular evening, it was Egyptian night. Freshly grilled chicken, koftes, and a variety of sides graced the menu. The real star, however, was the dessert selection—mind-blowing in terms of variety, flavours, and presentation. Satisfied and anticipating the Elphinstone trip the next morning, I retired to my chalet.
The next day began early at 5 am. After a cup of coffee, I headed to the dive shade to prepare my gear for the Elphinstone trip. Our guide, Kareem, also the freedive instructor and a friend I’ve known for years, led the trip. Kareem, affectionately known as the “shark whisperer,” provided a thorough briefing on the trip, the dive profile, and how to behave in the presence of white tip sharks. A 15-minute boat ride took us to Elphinstone, where, after checking the current, we embarked on an exhilarating and safe dive with encounters with white tip sharks. We returned to Shagra in time for breakfast.
Breakfast, like lunch and dinner, was served buffet-style, offering fresh eggs cooked to your liking, felafel, foul, pastries, and fruits. The food and variety were impeccable.
In summary, my day at Marsa Shagra, a diving eco-village built for divers by divers, was a slice of heaven in southern Egypt. With excellent amenities, a dedicated staff, and a commitment to sustainable diving, it’s a unique and enriching experience. If you’re a diving enthusiast, Marsa Shagra and RSDS offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning and healthy reefs of the Red Sea. Don’t just take my word for it—go and experience it yourself and revel in the beauty of Marsa Shagra and RSDS.
Join Sea to Sky and embark on new diving adventures! Visit www.myseatosky.co.uk for more information.
Blogs
Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba
Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces
NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.
Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking
Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:
“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.
A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”
About NovoScuba
Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.
With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.
Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!
Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.
NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.
A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission
NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.
NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.
Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration
NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.
Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.
NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.
Quality Training at a Great Price
NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.
Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity
At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.
Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success
NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.
Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload
Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.
Crossover Made Easy
For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.
Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership
NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:
- Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
- Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
- Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.
Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement
NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.
Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth
At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.
Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution
Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.
For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.
Blogs
Experience World-Class Diving and Luxury at its Finest with Lumbalumba Resort
Lumbalumba Resort – Manado is an intimate dive and snorkel retreat nestled in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia—a hidden gem within the world-renowned Coral Triangle, home to the planet’s highest marine biodiversity.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
With only six luxurious chalets (just nine rooms), we provide a cozy, flexible atmosphere where every guest receives the genuine, personal attention they are looking for.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Our philosophy is simple: we can only succeed when you’re truly satisfied. Choosing to stay small allows us to deliver the extra-special, personalized service you seek, making your experience here genuinely unforgettable.
For us, you’re not just another tourist.
For you, we’re not just another dive resort.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Rustique situated in our lush bontanical gardens are 3 different types of accommodation, including a family Chalet.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Enjoy a relaxing dip in our infinity pool, unwind at the bar, and savor mouthwatering dishes from our renowned kitchen—each meal crafted to delight your taste buds in every bite.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Lumbalumba Resort has two different kinds of boat; our inboard powered, custom-made catamaran, Diver III, and Diver IV, our fast outboard-powered dive boat.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Both are very comfortable with lots of space to relax from, to and in between dives.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Experience stunning visibility and vibrant coral reefs teeming with schooling fish. Bunaken is also a haven for marine life, boasting a thriving population of Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles. It’s not uncommon to encounter 15 to 20 turtles on a single dive or snorkeling trip!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
But it’s not just about the big sights and wide-angle views. Close to the resort, you’ll find numerous muck and macro dive sites, reminiscent of the famous Lembeh Strait. And let’s not forget the gem of Lumbalumba—the spectacular House Reef, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Read what what our guests think about us at
Tripadvisor
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And read what our guests think of us at
SCUBAVERSE
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Beyond diving and snorkeling, there’s is much to explore on land as well!
Discover the Tangkoko Jungle, home to fascinating wildlife like the rare Black Macaque, vibrant Hornbill birds, and the world’s smallest primate, the enchanting Tarsius Monkey.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Take a day trip to the Minahasa Highlands to witness active volcanoes, soothing hot springs, bustling local markets, intricate handicrafts, and breathtaking landscapes.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And for thrill-seekers, we offer exciting options like white-water rafting, perfect for those craving an extra dose of adventure!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
We hope this newsletter has provided you with a glimpse into what we have to offer. However, it’s just the beginning—there’s so much more waiting for you!
We offer an incredible combination trip with
Black Sand Dive Retreat in Lembeh
We also offer our
Uncover North Sulawsi program with Pulisan Beach Resort
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
GETTING HERE
The easiest way to reach Manado is by flying with Singapore Airlines via Singapore. There are four direct flights each week, taking just three hours to get to Manado, with departures on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
BOOK NOW!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com
Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974
Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado/
Stay safe and healthy and we look forward to meet you in Manado soon!
Best wishes,
Juud, Roel and the whole Lumbalumba Team
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