Red Sea
Red Sea Yacht Charter Guide
Above all things, the Red Sea region is famed for world-class diving, with over 2000 kilometers of thriving reef stretching along its coastline. This underwater wonderland is home to a rich and biodiverse ecosystem, with rays, octopus, turtles, and over a thousand species of fish living amongst a kaleidoscope of corals. Enjoy unique access to the myriad of reefs, blue holes, atolls, wrecks, and lagoons whilst exploring the region on a superyacht charter. Weeks could be spent in this vivid blue ocean, but the surrounding desert landscape has plenty to offer too. Towering mountains of yellow and red hide a rich history, with glimpses of the past seen in fortresses, oases, abandoned villages, and archaeological sites. Explore the area with a camel safari or 4X4 tour, and if you crave yet more culture, take a short flight to the iconic Egyptian sites of the Valley of the Kings and the Pyramids of Giza. Rejuvenate by soaking in the Red Sea’s salty waters, enjoying treatments in one of the region's excellent spa retreats, or party the night away in some of Sharm el Sheiks' exclusive bars. Find a private paradise on one of the many uninhabited islands or catch a fresh tuna from your tender.
With the perfect balance of culture, adventure, relaxation, beach life, nature, and water sports on offer, a visit to the Red Sea is guaranteed to offer all who visit something truly memorable.
Best Time To Visit:Â The sun shines all year in the Red Sea, with the most pleasant weather between October and April.
Key Cruising Areas:Â Starting in the yachting hub of Hurghada, cruise north towards the Southern Sinai region, incorporating Tiran Island, Ras Mohamed National Park, and Sharm el Sheik before continuing on to the Gulf of Aqaba.
Don’t Miss: The diving. The Red Sea has so many world-class dive sites that the difficulty is choosing which to visit. Take on the maze of underwater mountains found at ‘Devil’s Head’ or admire the marine life at the ‘Aquarium’.
Best Spots for Wining and Dining:Â Sharm el Sheik offers the greatest range of fine dining options and upmarket bars, but for the ultimate dining experience, spend the afternoon fishing for your own dinner. Then enjoy the fruits of your labor with an alfresco meal on the deck of your superyacht, accompanied by a crisp glass of white wine.
Best Local Dish:Â The spiny lobster caught fresh from the Red Sea, which is particularly delicious when barbecued over coals.
Local Culture: When cruising the Gulf of Aqaba, venture into the Ras Abu Gallum Protectorate, where Bedouin of the Mizena tribe have lived and fished for centuries. Take a camel safari with a Bedouin guide into the area’s spectacular mountain ranges to learn more about their culture, including a stop at the now deserted village of Bir El Oghda.
Best Beach:Â The best beaches can be found on small islands dotted throughout the Red Sea, including the uninhabited Giftun El Saghir.
IYC recommends:Â Visiting the ancient fortress of Salah El-Din (Saladin) on Pharaoh Island before snorkeling in its shallow waters. This island citadel has a fascinating history and offers spectacular views of the coasts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
More To Explore
Chartering a yacht in Oman is to experience an exciting and emerging destination that few have yet discovered. Away from the well-trodden tourist and yachting itineraries, Oman offers a unique alternative to traditional Mediterranean and Caribbean cruising.Bordered by the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, with a coastline spanning the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, the country has much to offer when it comes to yachting experiences. Dramatic contrasts from fjord-like inlets and desert mountains to pristine beaches provide ever-changing backdrops perfect for exploring via luxury yacht.Itineraries can be as adventurous or relaxed as you like, while being rich in cultural heritage. Snorkel in gin-clear waters among rich marine life, explore charming centuries-old coastal villages, hike mountainous and desert terrain, and experience the warm Arabian hospitality. Here are the reasons why this emerging yachting destination should be next on your list, and what to expect on a yacht charter to Oman:
Imagine stepping straight from the deck and plunging into the underwater world without dealing with the equipment or logistics that come with scuba diving. When diving from a luxury yacht charter, that’s exactly what can happen.A yacht charter opens the door to a whole host of diving opportunities. Whether drifting alongside abundant marine life, exploring vibrant reefs and intriguing shipwrecks, or navigating technical cave systems, there are countless worldwide scuba diving destinations to enjoy on a yacht charter.No matter if it’s your first foray into the sport or you are looking for an exciting challenge, diving can be enjoyed by a range of abilities. As well as the convenience factor, you will also benefit from personalized touches and a comfort level adjusted to you and your group when diving. You may opt for a completely dive-focused itinerary for the week or dives that accompany other water- and shore-based adventures. The beauty of a yacht charter is that flexibility remains key. So, if you are considering adding scuba diving to your next yacht charter itinerary, here is everything you should know about how to get under the hull:
An accumulation of turquoise bays, unspoiled wilderness and exotic excursions await those who journey across the Red Sea by superyacht. Stretching between the Suez Canal and the Gulf of Aden with Africa on one shore and Asia on the other, the Red Sea combines internationally acclaimed dive sites with sandy shored islands and outrageously gorgeous coral reefs. Starting out from the Sinai Peninsula in the far north, its unspoiled waterfront settlements and ancient desert shores contain all the ingredients for a diverse, marine-rich and adventure-filled superyacht charter. From the pristine escapes of Saudi Arabia to Egypt's vibrant reef ecosystems, your journey will encompass a diverse tapestry of natural beauty and cultural wonders, making it an unparalleled superyacht charter experience.