Before you step on board, it helps to know what daily life on a Red Sea liveaboard is really like. A liveaboard lets you visit dive sites you’d never reach from shore. Knowing what to expect helps you get the most out of your trip. A little preparation can turn a good holiday into an unforgettable adventure. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect once you’re onboard.
Life Onboard
Cabins:
Most Red Sea liveaboards have compact, comfortable cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Expect cruise-style layouts: twin or double beds, storage under the bed, and just enough space for essentials (other gear stays at your dive station).
Meals:
You get three meals a day plus snacks, often featuring Egyptian and international flavors. Breakfast might be eggs, bread, fruit, and coffee. Lunch could be chicken with salad; dinner might be pasta or a baked dish. Tea, coffee, and water are always available.
Dive Schedules:
Most days include three to four dives: early morning, mid-morning, afternoon, and sometimes night, really depending on travel times and local regulations. Each dive begins with a briefing that covers site layout, depth, entry and exit points, and highlights the marine life to watch out for.
What to Pack and What’s Provided
What’s Provided:
- Tanks, weights, and belt (included in your trip cost)
- Meals, snacks, and drinks (tea, coffee, water)
- Towels for cabin use (but bring your own dive towel)
Pro Tip: Pack a spare mask strap and fin strap — they’re cheap and can save a dive.
What to Pack:
- Pack your own dive kit, including mask, fins, wetsuit, and computer, for comfort and familiarity. If you don’t have these, most boats offer gear rental, but confirm in advance.
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral while protecting your skin
- Soft-sided duffel instead of a hard suitcase — storage space is limited
- Seasickness tablets, even if you think you won’t need them
- A hoodie or light jumper for cool evenings on deck. A pair of socks can be handy in winter months
Safety Briefings and Dive Procedures
On arrival, the guides give a safety briefing: where life jackets are, how to board the life raft, and what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency. Don’t tune out as these details matter.
Before every dive, you’ll get a detailed site briefing. Listen closely, even if you’ve dived the site before as currents and conditions change daily.
Most Red Sea liveaboards use the buddy system. You’ll dive with a partner, check gear together, and stick close underwater. If you are certified and equipped to dive solo, make sure you’ve notified the operator in advance and agreed on logistics.
Common First-Timer Surprises
- The constant gentle motion of the boat, even when anchored, may feel unusual at first, but you’ll soon get your sea legs.
- With several dives a day, your wetsuit may stay damp. If you’re not comfortable with this, pack a second suit.
- You’ll be more tired than you expect. Early starts, multiple dives, and fresh sea air mean early nights are the norm.
- You’ll have downtime between dives. Bring something you enjoy, such as a book or cards, so you can relax between adventures.
Benefits of Being Prepared
- Confidence: Know what’s coming before you board.
- Comfort: The right gear means fewer hassles and more fun.
- Enjoyment: The more relaxed you are, the more you focus on diving and liveaboard life.