Dive Boat Capsizes in Cayman Islands Amid Safety Focus

A dive boat capsized in the Cayman Islands while divers were still underwater, prompting a swift rescue response in the North Sound.

Dive boat capsize
Travel & Trips

The incident occurred on 6 April 2026 in the North Sound area of the Cayman Islands, according to local reports. Divers who had entered the water returned to the surface to find their vessel overturned.

All divers and crew were safely recovered, with no serious injuries reported. Nearby boats responded quickly, assisting in bringing those in the water back to safety.

Dive Boat Safety Under Scrutiny After Series of Incidents

A series of dive vessel accidents in recent years has prompted renewed calls for stronger safety awareness and certification standards within the liveaboard sector.

 

Liveaboard at anchor
Travel & Trips
European Underwater Federation

The European Underwater Federation has highlighted ongoing concerns about dive boat safety, following a cluster of incidents in the Red Sea and elsewhere since 2023.

According to the federation, the period after the COVID-19 shutdown saw mixed responses within the dive tourism industry. While some operators used the downtime to refit and modernise vessels, others laid boats up to reduce costs—potentially affecting maintenance standards.

Carry-On Limits Tighten for Dive Travellers with Camera Gear

Stricter enforcement of cabin baggage limits and battery rules is creating new challenges for travellers carrying underwater photography equipment.

Dive gear in carry-on luggage
Travel & Trips

Divers, in particular underwater photographers, heading for dive destinations may be encountering a subtle but noticeable shift in airline cabin baggage policies. While no single new regulation or airline industry standard has been introduced, a combination of stricter enforcement and operational pressures appears to be changing how existing rules are applied—particularly affecting members of the dive community travelling with fragile and expensive equipment.

Travel Pro Tips
Press Release
Received from: Sea Save

2026 Sea Save Foundation SCUBA Travel Auction - Feb 19

Sea Save

With just days remaining, the 2026 Sea Save Foundation SCUBA Travel Auction is entering its final stretch. Featuring 60 specially curated dive travel packages donated by some of the most respected names in the global dive industry, this is the largest SCUBA-focused travel auction in the world — and it closes February 19.

Press Release
Received from: Emperor Adventure

Emperor Group Launches New Brand – Emperor Adventure

Emperor Divers

Emperor Divers has launched an exciting new brand: Emperor Adventure – designed for thrill-seekers and nature lovers looking to explore the world in unforgettable ways.

Emperor Adventure offers expertly-curated outdoor experiences across the globe, from trekking and foraging through Indonesia’s lush jungles and hiking Egypt’s timeless deserts, to surfing the waves of the Maldives and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean and Red Sea.

Emperor Seven Seas Liveaboard Destroyed by Fire

In the early hours of 13 March, a fire broke out aboard the Emperor Seven Seas while it was moored in Port Ghalib, Egypt. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the vessel was ultimately lost. Fortunately, all passengers and crew successfully evacuated, with no reported injuries.

Travel & Trips
Emperor Divers

According to Emperor Divers, the crew and guests executed emergency protocols swiftly, ensuring that everyone was brought safely ashore. Emperor Divers’ ground team has since been assisting those affected, ensuring they receive necessary support.

Press Release
Received from: Marine Accident Investigation Branch

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.

Press Release
Received from: Emperor Divers

Introducing Emperor Divers New Alor Itinerary

Emperor Divers

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

Bali implements a tourist tax to preserve culture and environment, aiming to raise revenue for local arts and traditions.

Travel & Trips

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.

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