UK Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for British Tourists Booking Boat Tours in Egypt’s Red Sea This Spring Amid Safety Concerns and Fatal Incidents: New Updates You Need to Know

Monday, March 3, 2025

As spring approaches, British holidaymakers heading to Egypt are being urged to exercise caution when booking boat tours in the Red Sea. The UK Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel advisory following several incidents involving British nationals, some of which have led to fatalities. The warning focuses on ‘liveaboard’ vessels used for diving and overnight trips. Tourists are advised to book with reputable operators, insist on safety briefings, and follow key safety guidelines, including diving with a buddy and checking weather conditions, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The advisory specifically targets ‘liveaboard’ vessels operating in the Red Sea, which are designed for tourists wishing to dive directly into the ocean. These boats often host guests overnight or for extended periods. While the exact details of the incidents involving British tourists have not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that various types of boats have been involved in these unfortunate events.

In response to these incidents, the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) of the Department for Transport is urging tourists to book tours only with reputable operators to ensure that stringent safety standards are upheld. They also recommend that holidaymakers insist on receiving a thorough safety briefing from the crew before embarking on their journey.

The Foreign Office has shared additional guidelines for staying safe while enjoying water activities abroad. Some key safety tips include:

• Always dive or snorkel with a buddy or guide.
• Follow all safety regulations on board and remain cautious at all times.
• Check the weather forecast and remain vigilant to any changes in conditions.
• Ensure that your dive depth does not exceed the limit of your insurance policy, as doing so could invalidate your coverage.
• Whenever possible, book excursions through your tour representative or a trusted, reputable operator.

As tourism continues to thrive in Egypt, particularly around the Red Sea, it is crucial for holidaymakers to prioritize their safety and take the necessary precautions when booking and embarking on boat tours. Ensuring that your chosen operator follows the highest safety standards can be the difference between a memorable vacation and a preventable accident. Always remember, safety comes first, and a well-informed holiday is the best kind of holiday.

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