Red Sea Wildlife
OFFSHORE DIVE CHARTERS

Saudi Red Sea Liveaboard Expeditions

7-day offshore dive expeditions exploring unpressured atolls, pinnacles, and marine reserves.

Reaching the outer atolls of the Saudi Red Sea requires purpose-built steel-hull expedition yachts. These self-contained vessels offer full accommodation, dive decks, Nitrox membrane blending, and dedicated camera stations far beyond coastal day-boat reach.

Expedition Fleet Technical Specifications

At a glance: comparing pricing bands, locations, and ideal guest profiles.

SpecificationFleet StandardPractical Importance
Vessel Length & Hull38 to 44 metres, Heavy-grade steel hullEnsures stability during open-water sea passages
Cabin AccommodationEnsuite air-conditioned staterooms with private showersHotel-standard comfort after multiple daily dives
Dive Deck FacilitiesIndividual equipment stations, dedicated gear boxesSmooth, organised staging for up to 4 dives daily
Compressor SystemsDual Bauer compressors + Coltri Nitrox MembraneContinuous, reliable 32% Enriched Air Nitrox fills
Camera SupportDedicated charging bench, compressed air blowersSafe environment for high-value camera rigs and strobes
Safety InfrastructureDual 50L medical oxygen, automated defibrillator (AED), satellite commsComprehensive offshore emergency medical readiness
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Pelagic Offshore Expedition From $2,450 – $4,200 per berth / week

7-Day Farasan Banks Oceanic Expedition

Departs Al Lith Marina (South of Jeddah)

Best for: Advanced certified divers, liveaboard veterans, and underwater photographers.

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The standard route for dedicated pelagic divers in the southern Saudi Red Sea. Sailing 30 to 50 miles offshore into the uninhabited Farasan Banks, this itinerary focuses on vertical wall diving, schooling hammerhead sharks, and pristine hard coral pinnacles.

Up to 20–22 dives including sunset & night divesExplores Marmar, Dohra, and Shib Ammar reefsContinuous Enriched Air Nitrox support
✓ Highlights & Pros

Access to remote atolls impossible to reach on day trips; all-inclusive diving, meals, and transfers.

— Considerations

Open sea passages require motion sickness medication for sensitive travellers.

Barrier Reef & Wreck Circuit From $1,850 – $3,100 per berth

5-Day Yanbu & Seven Sisters Pelagic Route

Departs Yanbu Commercial Port

Best for: Divers seeking an efficient high-density shark itinerary with convenient airport access.

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A focused five-day itinerary exploring the offshore barrier reefs of Yanbu. Designed for divers seeking shark wall diving and shipwreck exploration with shorter transit times from regional airports.

The Seven Sisters barrier reef systemExploration of the Iona cargo wreckHammerhead cleaning station dives
✓ Highlights & Pros

Direct domestic flights into Yanbu Airport (YNB); shorter sea crossings; dramatic wall topography.

— Considerations

Afternoon surface chop can occur during seasonal northwest wind periods.

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Life Onboard a Saudi Liveaboard Charter

A typical day aboard a liveaboard begins with light refreshments at 6:00 AM, followed by a safety briefing and the first dive at 6:45 AM (optimal timing for morning shark activity). A cooked breakfast follows, with Dive 2 around 10:30 AM, lunch at 1:00 PM, Dive 3 at 3:30 PM, and a sunset or night dive on sheltered reefs.

In accordance with Saudi maritime regulations, alcohol is not sold or permitted aboard commercial dive vessels in national waters. Culinary programs emphasize freshly caught Red Sea fish, quality grills, fresh salads, and mocktails.

For coastal day trips and yacht charters out of Jeddah, see our Jeddah coastal experiences, or view our dive sites directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are liveaboards suitable for non-diving partners?
While non-divers can relax on the sun deck and snorkel on shallow reefs, liveaboard schedules are heavily structured around 3 to 4 deep dives daily. Land-based resorts in Jeddah or AlUla offer more entertainment for dedicated non-divers.
What permits are required for international divers?
International divers require a valid Saudi Tourist eVisa. The liveaboard operator submits passenger manifests to the Saudi Border Guard for official maritime cruising clearance.
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