News
The most chilled out diving in the Red Sea?
While relaxing on the beach at Marsa Shagra recently it occurred to me that this was the fifth time I had visited this charming and relaxed dive destination. This is very unusual for me; with so many places to visit in the world, I rarely go back to the same place twice.
But Marsa Shagra is rather special. I always say that although it might not offer the very best diving in the Red Sea (for that you probably want to take one of the liveaboards to the offshore reefs), it certainly does offer the most chilled out.
Once you have checked in and been checked out by one of the dive guides, you are free to dive on the house reef any time you like. No need for a guide. So it is perfectly possible to find yourself and your buddy all alone on what must be one of the best preserved house reefs in Egypt.
Successive Egyptian governments have pressured the owners of the village to expand, but they have always resisted. The result is that the house reef is in excellent condition with fewer divers visiting it than might otherwise be the case. This ecological outlook (they describe themselves as an ‘Eco-village’) is evident throughout the operation – everyone there is concerned with the welfare of the reefs and marine life, which is a delight to see.
Another thing that makes Shagra an ideal venue is the range of diving available. As well as the house reef there are excursions by truck up and down the coast to visit numerous other shore diving sites. There are also speedboat dives out to sites offshore, including Elphinstone Reef, where it is possible to see large pelagics. While we were there, others (not us unfortunately) saw oceanic white tips and even a whale shark. We were lucky enough to see the mythical Dugong not far from Marsa Abu Dabab though, so we couldn’t complain.
Booking onto dives seems complicated to begin with, but in reality is simple. Just go to the dive centre, check in on the computer screen and see what excursions are available for the following day – easy! Some dives require a minimum number for a trip to go ahead, but that is rarely a problem even when the village is quieter. On this visit I was in a small group of four. We all wanted to visit Abu Ghusun, a very pretty reef with one of the few wrecks in that part of the Red Sea. It’s a great dive, but many people seem to be put off by the hour-and-a-half drive involved. After three days of trying with no luck (just the four of us were booked on and the minimum required was ten), the dive manager took pity on us and agreed to run the trip for just us! That was a result, especially since it turned out to be my first dive of 2015 – and my 1000th dive to boot.
And that is one of the other special things about Marsa Shagra – the staff are truly excellent. Always friendly and helpful, they go a long way to making the experience as great as it is, be it the dive guides, admin folks or the catering staff.
Speaking of the catering, that is also excellent. When I first visited Marsa Shagra in 2003 there was a small Bedouin bar on top of a small hill where you could drink and relax. That has now been replaced by a restaurant where great food is served buffet style. The staff are very proud of the food that they serve. This was at no time more evident than on New Year’s Eve, when they put on an enormous and extravagant spread that was a sight to behold. Dinner was delayed for a good hour or so as no-one wanted to spoil all their hard work by eating it!
The Bedouin bar has now moved to the far end of the beach and is a great place to spend the evening relaxing and stargazing at the end of the day.
There is a choice of accommodation, once again to suit all tastes and pockets, ranging from simple but roomy tents through to en-suite guest houses with air conditioning. The bonus for those in the tents is that they are on the beach and look out onto the sea, so if you rise early you can watch the spectacular sunrises.
And as if all of this wasn’t enough, there are a number of other activities available, including a desert star gazing tour, camel and horse riding and quad biking (great fun on your off-gassing day).
After a visit a few years ago I asked the group (about 15 of us that time) what they thought could be done to make the place any better. A lot of head scratching ensued. One person suggested it could be free (yeah, right), but really the only thing we could think of was that they could probably do a slightly better job of keeping people in the same group next to each other when they allocate lockers for your dive gear – but that is probably not down to them anyway, since some folks seem to ignore their allocated number and just go where they will. So, that was all we could come up with.
Hmm… maybe a few cushions to sit on when you go on day long truck dives… but now I’m just being picky.
So there you have it. The dive club that I belong to is already planning a visit to the Red Sea at the end of the UK dive season, so it’s very likely we’ll be visting Marsa Shagra again. As for me, I fully expect that I will be returning in the not too distant future. There are plenty of other places to visit in the world, that’s true; but once you find somewhere this special, you’ll be drawn back time and time again – it’s like visiting an old and much loved friend.
For More details for holidays to Marsa Shagra, contact Oonasdivers by calling +44 (0)1323 648924, email info@oonasdivers.com or visit www.oonasdivers.com/egypt/resorts.
Scubaverse.com has teamed up with Oonasdivers to give one of you the chance to win a dive holiday to one of the Red Sea’s other southern dive villages, Marsa Nakari. To enter this awesome competition, click here.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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