Travel News & Updates

MAIB Safety Bulletin: Safety Issues on Egyptian Liveaboard Dive Boats Operating in the Red Sea

Over the last 5 years, 16 accidents have occurred involving liveaboard dive vessels operating in the Red Sea. Three liveaboard dive boats have been lost in the last 20 months that resulted in numerous deaths including some UK nationals. Today, Marine Accident Investigation Branch has published safety advice aimed at people considering a dive boat holiday in the Red Sea.

The key safety issues identified were:

Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, said:

The MAIB is aware of 16 accidents that have occurred over the last 5 years involving liveaboard dive vessels operating in the Red Sea. It is deeply regrettable that a number of these accidents have resulted in the loss of life and our thoughts are with all those affected.

Introducing Emperor Divers New Alor Itinerary

New for 2025, the trip enables guests to embark on a journey through the hidden treasures of the amazing Alor archipelago providing encounters with awe-inspiring marine life, from playful dolphins and majestic whales to the elusive mola mola and various species of sharks.

Because of its location, this part of the Alor archipelago is an area difficult to reach other than from a liveaboard making it an extra-special diving experience.

Bali Implements Tourist Tax

The fee is to be paid through lovebali.baliprov.go.id or directly at the international airport and seaport in Bali.

Effective from February 14, 2024, the tax mandates a one-time fee of IDR 150,000 (about USD 10) for each foreign visitor. This initiative, aimed at supporting local projects in Bali, includes waste management, infrastructure development, and cultural heritage preservation.

Airlines are raking it in on ancilliary fees. In 2021, U.S. airlines alone amassed a staggering $5.3 billion solely from baggage fees.
Airlines are raking it in on ancilliary fees. In 2021, US airlines alone amassed a staggering $5.3 billion solely from baggage fees.

US administration targets “resort fees" and other hidden travel costs

A new bipartisan Senate bill, the "Hotel Fees Transparency Act," seeks to make hotel pricing more transparent by ensuring that consumers are better protected from hidden costs and made aware of the total cost of their stay, including any additional fees, at the time of booking.

This move is in response to the growing concern over hidden charges that often surprise guests upon checkout.

The Arenui announces Special Deals on Last Cabin for Alor and Forgotten Islands

The Arenui has one cabin remaining on cruises to Alor and the Forgotten Islands available at a special deal for anyone able to travel at the last minute.

July 8 - 16 to Alor-Forgotten Islands, for more information visit www.thearenui.com/diving/alor-flores/ and www.thearenui.com/diving/forgotten-islands/

Emperor Divers to work in cooperation with Seven7Seas

The cooperation will see Emperor help to promote the Seven7Seas brand and assist in the running of this hugely-popular, Egypt-based boat.

A five-time winner of the ‘Best Liveaboard in the Red Sea’, Seven7Seas is 41 metres long and has 12 spacious cabins each with en-suite and separate shower room.

The boat’s 5-star service brings great food and facilities and is perfect for exploring the waters with its large dive deck which has individual storage space and dedicated rinse tanks.

Re-Introducing the Humboldt Explorer

Diving on Humboldt Explorer is already a five-star experience, but now the liveaboard has even better accommodations. It also features a more contemporary salon and sun deck, upgraded dive deck, and fresh plumbing.

Humboldt Explorer received the Fleet’s largest overhaul to date. Short of building a new boat, the liveaboard is brand new.