Red Sea Liveaboard Season 2026: Record Bookings as Egypt Eases Visa Rules for Divers
Egypt's new 90-day diving visa and simplified entry process are driving record liveaboard bookings for the 2026 Red Sea season, with operators reporting 30% year-over-year growth.
The 2026 Red Sea liveaboard season is shaping up to be the busiest on record, with operators reporting booking increases of 30% compared to the same period last year.
The surge is largely attributed to Egypt's introduction of a new 90-day diving visa, which streamlines entry for international divers visiting specifically for diving holidays. The visa can be obtained online prior to arrival and costs $25, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Popular itineraries including the Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and the Elphinstone route are already fully booked through July. Some operators have added additional vessels to meet demand.
Water temperatures in the Red Sea currently range from 22-24°C in the north to 26-28°C in the south. Visibility regularly exceeds 30 meters, with the best conditions typically between April and November.
The Red Sea remains one of the world's top scuba destinations, known for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life including oceanic whitetip sharks and hammerheads, and numerous historic shipwrecks including the SS Thistlegorm.