Progress in diving and explore the seabed of the Red Sea
In summary
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Sports
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Duration14 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationRed Sea / Marsa Alam
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AgeFrom 10 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions260.51 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
German
English
Italian
Arabic
In a few words
Dive into the heart of the Red Sea for an extraordinary learning experience in Marsa Alam . This prime destination boasts crystal-clear waters and pristine coral reefs , providing the perfect setting to hone your technical skills while experiencing true exploration. Here, training transcends mere practice to become a daily adventure.
Each dive allows you to take another step towards independence. One day, you'll work on your navigation skills or deep diving ; the next, you'll drift along sheer walls or above vibrant coral gardens. The diversity of the dive sites guarantees smooth progression, where the joy of discovery naturally enhances your aquatic confidence .
More than just a certification, this course is an invitation to become a more confident and experienced diver. By exploring one of the world's richest marine ecosystems, you'll gain confidence at every stage. Gently push your limits and transform your perspective on the underwater world during this experience dedicated to excellence and adventure.
The highlights
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Explore the iconic dive sites of the southern Red Sea
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Advanced dives among reefs, wrecks, canyons and pelagic encounters
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Ideal for experienced divers seeking variety and adventure
Photos
Sport
Level
Scuba diving
The expert's opinion
This program is designed for certified Open Water divers who are ready to take the next step. Whether you want to dive deeper, navigate with more confidence or simply explore a wider range of dive sites, the Advanced Open Water course helps you develop your skills and grow as a diver. It is the natural progression after your Open Water certification and opens the door to more diverse and rewarding diving experiences in the Red Sea.
In figures
Diving
- 2 average daily practices
- Maximum depth: 30 m
Snorkeling
- Average duration/day: 1h
Management
German
English
Italian
Arabic
Mido has worked in the watersports and diving industry for many years, bringing extensive experience in safety and instruction to the team. He began his professional career in 2008 as a lifeguard, before obtaining his International Lifeguard certification from Royal Life Saving UK in 2009.
A diving instructor since 2015, he achieved the rank of Elite Instructor with PADI in 2017, a distinction obtained again in 2022 and 2024. He also holds 10 specialty instructor qualifications and completed the CDWS Technical Director training in 2021.
His favorite dive sites include Marsa Egla, Om Halhala and El Moray, where he enjoys sharing the beauty of the Red Sea with divers of all levels.
Sherif has been diving since 2017 and brings a calm and positive energy to every outing. In addition to scuba diving, he also practices kitesurfing and freediving, demonstrating his deep connection with the ocean.
His favorite dive site is Ghota al Shalaniat, one of our superb spots in Wadi El Gemal National Park, renowned for its abundant marine life and the great diversity of underwater creatures that can be observed there.
His favorite marine animals are hammerhead sharks, encounters he particularly enjoys during his dives.
Program
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Arrival
- Transportation Bus - 00h05 - 7km
- Accommodation Apartment
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Upon arrival in Marsa Alam, you will settle into your accommodation. After meeting the team, you will register for the course, complete the medical questionnaire, and receive a full program overview. You will also test and adjust your equipment to familiarize yourself with the diving gear you will be using during your training.
Access to SSI's digital learning materials is usually provided before your arrival, allowing you to start the theory in advance and make the most of your time in Marsa Alam.
Day 1 -
Advanced Open Water Course
- Transportation Bus - 00h20 - 15kmper day
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 2
- Maximum depth (in m) 30 m
- Accommodation Apartment
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
During the first few days, you will take your SSI Advanced Open Water Diver certification.
The course consists of several adventure dives, including deep diving and navigation, as well as additional specialty dives depending on conditions and your interests. Training takes place on various reefs around Marsa Alam and focuses on improving your buoyancy, underwater navigation, and overall comfort underwater.
Once the course is successfully completed, you will receive your SSI Advanced Open Water certification, allowing you to dive worldwide to a depth of 30 meters.
Days 2 to 4 -
Exploring the reefs of Marsa Alam
- Transportation Bus - 00h30 - 25kmper day
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 2
- Maximum depth (in m) 30 m
- Accommodation Apartment
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Once you have obtained your certification, the following days are devoted to discovering the underwater wonders of the Red Sea.
During this period, you will undertake several guided exploration dives at different sites around Marsa Alam. The program combines shore dives, speedboat trips to our home reef, and dives at Abu Dabbab, offering a wide variety of underwater landscapes.
Abu Dabbab is particularly renowned for its canyons, its mountain-like rock formations, and its impressive reef structures. Depending on the conditions, the site offers both relaxing dives and magnificent drift dives. Schools of fish, rays, and even small reef sharks can sometimes be observed.
Each dive offers you the opportunity to gain experience while exploring colorful coral gardens and the incredible marine biodiversity that makes the Red Sea famous.
Days 5 to 9 -
Wadi El Gemal National Park
- Transportation Bus - 01h30 - 90km
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 1
- Maximum depth (in m) 30 m
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 0h45
- Accommodation Apartment
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
One of the highlights of the trip is a full-day excursion to Wadi El Gemal National Park, one of the most protected and wildest areas in the southern Red Sea.
During this day trip, you will visit the famous "Dolphin House," where, with a bit of luck, you might have the opportunity to snorkel with dolphins in their natural habitat. The excursion also includes snorkeling on magnificent reefs and some relaxation time on a small, pristine sandy island surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Day 10 -
Even more diving in the Red Sea
- Transportation Bus - 00h15 - 15kmper day
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 2
- Maximum depth (in m) 30 m
- Accommodation Apartment
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The following days are dedicated to continuing the exploration of the reefs around Marsa Alam.
You will continue to dive at a wide variety of sites, including shore-accessible reefs, our house reef, and other surrounding dive sites. You will enjoy relaxing dives while observing turtles, rays, schools of fish, and the vibrant coral ecosystems of the Red Sea.
Days 11 to 13 -
Relaxation & Departure
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Your last day is a no-diving day, to ensure you meet the recommended surface interval before your flight. Relax, enjoy the sea one last time, and let the memories of two unforgettable weeks of diving in the Red Sea wash over you.
Day 14
Accommodation
Stay by the water in our modern residential complex of 56 charming chalets. You can enjoy two swimming pools—one for adults and one for children—perfect for relaxing after a day of diving. Each spacious chalet has two bedrooms, is fully furnished, and features a kitchen, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. To make your stay even more enjoyable, housekeeping and room service are available at any time.
Access
The exact time of your visit to the dive center may vary depending on your arrival time at your accommodation on the first day. We would be happy to arrange a personalized schedule for you so that your arrival, transfer, and check-in at the dive center fit perfectly into your travel itinerary.
Return transfers between your accommodation and the dive center are always included. This allows us to organize your stay at the center flexibly and stress-free, adapting it to your arrival time and daily schedule.
Go to the starting point
Free parking is available directly in front of the dive base. As guests are transferred from their accommodation to the dive base, parking is mainly relevant for guests with their own vehicle, and ample space is available right on site.
Marsa Alam International Airport is a small airport located about 45 minutes from the dive base. Airport pickup is included.
Price details
The price includes
- 14 nights in a two-bedroom apartment
- 12 days of diving including 3 days of training
- Half board (breakfast and dinner every day)
- Drinks during meals
- Airport transfers
- All transport between the apartment, the dive center and the dive sites
The price does not include
- Flights
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Equipment for additional outings
- Soft drinks and water at the dive center
Options
- Relaxation Package for Non-Diver : CHF-886.44 / person
- Two weeks in the heart of the Red Sea : CHF-111.61 / person
- Two weeks in the blue waters of Marsa Alam: Intermediate Divers : CHF175.64 / person
- Two weeks of exploration in the Red Sea: Advanced Divers : CHF216.81 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate what formalities are required for entry and stay in the destination country. You can also consult this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
For connecting flights operated by different airlines, also check the formalities for countries you transit through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are compliant, in particular regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to still be valid 6 months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account customs restrictions and other obligations of the destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date — remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Equipment is not included. If needed, you can rent your equipment at the dive center for an additional fee.
Equipment to bring
If you already own your own equipment, feel comfortable with it, and wish to use it, you are more than welcome to bring it.
Clothing to bring
Please bring a swimsuit to wear under your wetsuit, a towel, and reef-friendly sunscreen.
The Sherif team
Located in the heart of Marsa Alam, this dive center offers personalized experiences throughout the southern Red Sea. Our local partner distinguishes itself with a small group approach, guaranteeing a high level of safety and flexible outings tailored to each client's needs.
Thanks to its own fleet of boats and speedboats, the dive center has access to a wide variety of sites, from Port Ghalib to Abu Ghusun. It also enjoys exclusive access to the protected Wadi El Gemal National Park, currently being the only dive center operating there. The international and multilingual team, passionate about marine life and responsible tourism, provides instruction in scuba diving, freediving, and snorkeling for all levels.
