The C U Red Sea liveaboard moored on the Egyptian Red Sea
C U Red Sea Liveaboard · Diving, Snorkeling and Private Charters

M/Y C U Red Sea Liveaboard in Egypt

The C U Red Sea liveaboard is a 37-metre safari boat carrying 26 guests in 13 cabins, sailing from Hurghada all year. Moreover, she runs diving safaris, snorkeling holidays and full private charters, which makes her unusually flexible for a boat of this size.

The vessel37 m · 10 m beam · four decks
The weekSaturday to Saturday
Who it is forDivers, snorkelers and charters
Dive deck with individual gear stations and tank racks Sun loungers on the upper deck of the vessel Warm wood-panelled cabin corridor below decks
2026Major update
37 mLength
26Guests max.
4Decks

Originally launched in 2010, the vessel completed a full maintenance program and a major update in 2026. Therefore, guests travel on refreshed guest areas and renewed onboard systems while the proven hull stays underneath.

Furthermore, the 37-metre length and the 10-metre beam create generous interior and exterior areas without an overcrowded atmosphere. In addition, a maximum of 26 guests keeps the dive deck calm and the briefings personal.

Unlike a pure diving platform, the boat also works for snorkelers and for travelers who simply want a week at sea. Consequently, mixed groups of divers and non-divers can share the same itinerary comfortably.

Meanwhile, the layout follows the natural rhythm of a liveaboard holiday. Specifically, guests prepare for the next excursion, rest in the air-conditioned interior, eat together and then relax outside while the boat sails between remote reef systems.

Meanwhile, the vessel can be booked as a full private charter for up to 26 guests. As a result, dive centres, clubs, families and photography groups can request a preferred route and departure port.

Finally, the boat operates itineraries from Hurghada and other approved Egyptian ports. Naturally, the exact program depends on the selected route, the weather, official permissions and the weekly sailing plan.

13 private cabins

Firstly, every cabin is en-suite with a private bathroom. In addition, each one has individual air conditioning and practical storage.

Air-conditioned salon

A central indoor lounge hosts briefings, photo reviews and evening company. Meanwhile, it also works as a cool retreat during the afternoon.

Indoor restaurant

Naturally, fresh daily meals come from the onboard galley. Moreover, tea, coffee, water and soft drinks stay available all day.

Two sun decks

Above all, the main sun deck and the upper sun deck give two separate open-air zones. Consequently, you can find company or a quiet corner.

Diving and snorkeling

Naturally, the dive deck supports full scuba operations. In addition, suitable routes can include supervised snorkeling for non-divers.

Private charters

Furthermore, the whole boat can be chartered for up to 26 guests. Therefore, groups can request their own route and departure port.

C U Red Sea Liveaboard Specification

In short, M/Y C U is a 37-metre Egyptian Red Sea liveaboard with a 10-metre beam, built in 2010 and fully updated in 2026. Moreover, she sails seven-night safaris from Hurghada with a maximum of 26 guests in 13 private en-suite cabins across four decks, and she is operated by Red Sea Diving.

At a glance

Year Built / Update 2010 / 2026
Number of Cabins 13
Guest Capacity 26
Gear Rental Available
Wi-Fi Available
Nitrox Available

Vessel and deck layout

  • Boat NameM/Y C U
  • Length37 m
  • Beam10 m
  • Cabins13 Private Cabins with En-Suite Bathroom
  • Capacity26 Guests
  • Guest Decks4
  • Lower DeckSix Twin Cabins and One Suite
  • Main DeckFour Twin Cabins, Restaurant, Salon and Dive Deck
  • Sun DeckTwo Double Cabins, Loungers and Shaded Seating
  • Upper Sun DeckOpen-Air Sunbathing Zone and Refreshment Bar
  • Power Plugs OnboardEU Style at 220V
  • Main ActivitiesDiving, Snorkeling and Private Charters
  • Departure PortHurghada, Egypt
  • Trip LengthSeven Nights and Six Activity Days

Dive Facilities

  • Professional dive deck
  • Individual gear stations
  • Tank racks and storage
  • Freshwater rinse tanks
  • Nitrox available on board
  • Rental equipment available
  • Camera preparation area

Navigation & Safety

  • Life rafts and life jackets
  • Fire alarm and firefighting systems
  • Emergency oxygen units
  • First aid kits
  • GPS and navigation systems
  • Radio communication systems
  • Emergency Action Plan

Food & Drinks

  • Fresh daily meals
  • International and Egyptian dishes
  • Buffet style
  • Dietary requirements on request
  • Tea, coffee, water and soft drinks
  • Snacks available all day

Onboard Facilities

  • Air-conditioned salon
  • Indoor restaurant
  • Main sun deck with loungers
  • Upper sun deck with bar
  • Shaded outdoor seating
  • Wi-Fi on board

Cabin Facilities

  • Private en-suite bathroom
  • Individual air conditioning
  • Two single beds in the twin cabins
  • Double beds in the sun deck cabins
  • Practical storage and reading lights
  • Towels, cabin linen and daily housekeeping
Life on board

Life on the C U Red Sea Liveaboard

Overall, life on board combines active days in the water with quiet evenings at sea. Therefore, nothing feels rushed during a busy week.

Because the boat carries only 26 guests, the atmosphere stays friendly rather than crowded. Furthermore, the shared areas give everyone room to attend briefings, meet other travelers, review underwater photographs or simply do nothing at all.

After the last activity of the day, guests can settle into the air-conditioned salon, take the shaded seating on the main sun deck or move up to the upper sun deck for the sunset. Meanwhile, the crew resets the dive deck for the following morning.

Consequently, the boat suits experienced divers, dive clubs, underwater photographers, snorkelers and travelers joining a Red Sea safari for the first time. In short, she works for a full charter and for individual bookings alike.

The layout

C U Red Sea Liveaboard Boat Map

Indeed, the deck plan below shows how the vessel is arranged across her four decks. Specifically, it runs from the twin cabins on the lower deck up to the open-air sunbathing zone on the upper sun deck.

Deck plan of the C U Red Sea liveaboard showing all four decks
Accommodation

Cabin Types on the C U Red Sea Liveaboard

Altogether, the vessel sleeps up to 26 guests in 13 private cabins across three levels. Because proper rest matters as much as time in the water, every cabin is a fully air-conditioned haven with its own bathroom.

  • Private en-suite bathroom
  • Individual air conditioning
  • Comfortable bedding
  • Practical storage space
  • Reading lights
  • Towels and cabin linen
  • Daily housekeeping
Twin cabin aboard the C U Red Sea liveaboard with two single beds

Twin Cabin

Ten twin cabins make up most of the accommodation: six on the lower deck and four on the main deck. In addition, each one has two single beds in a practical layout. Therefore, they work well for dive partners, friends travelling together and solo travelers sharing.

Suite cabin with a double bed and warm wood panelling

Suite

One suite sits on the lower deck in cabin number seven and forms the largest single cabin on board. Consequently, it suits couples or guests who want extra floor space. Moreover, the lower-deck position stays quiet and stable overnight.

Double cabin on the sun deck with a window onto the sea

Double Cabin

Finally, two double cabins sit on the sun deck, the highest accommodation level on the boat. Their elevated position brings natural daylight and easy access to the open-air areas. As a result, they suit guests who prefer to be close to the deck.

Amenities

Amenities on the C U Red Sea Liveaboard

Between dives, the vessel accordingly works as a floating base camp. In addition, every communal area is designed so surface intervals feel as good as the diving, whether you want company or a quiet corner.

Restaurant aboard the C U Red Sea liveaboard set for a meal

Restaurant

Naturally, good food fuels the day. Meanwhile, the onboard kitchen serves fresh meals timed around the activity schedule: a hearty breakfast, a substantial lunch between sessions and a relaxed dinner afterwards.

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • International and Egyptian dishes
  • Tea, coffee and drinking water
  • Soft drinks and juices
  • Snacks available all day

Above all, guests should report allergies or special dietary needs before arrival, so arrangements can be made with the boat team in advance.

Air-conditioned salon with cream sofas and wide windows

Salon

To escape the midday sun, the climate-controlled salon offers comfortable seating and media facilities. Specifically, it works for briefings, photo reviews, chatting with the guides or simply sharing a quiet coffee.

  • General boat briefings
  • Daily dive-site presentations
  • Safety briefings
  • Underwater photography reviews
  • Relaxing between activities
  • Socializing with other guests

Consequently, the salon becomes the social core of the boat on warm Red Sea afternoons.

Main sun deck of the C U Red Sea liveaboard with loungers and bean bags

Sun Deck

Above all, the main sun deck blends open loungers with deep-shaded seating. In addition, the wide hull gives it real room, whether you want to dry off after a dive, socialize with friends or rest under a clear desert sky.

Upper sun deck with sunbathing loungers and open sea views

Upper Sun Deck

Similarly, the elevated upper sun deck holds a dedicated sunbathing zone with the refreshment bar close by. As a result, guests use it for reading, watching for dolphins and, after dark, stargazing over the Egyptian coastline.

Professional diving facilities

The C U Red Sea Liveaboard Dive Deck

Dive deck aboard the C U Red Sea liveaboard with individual gear stations

The dive deck sits on the main deck and is arranged for safe, organized diving operations. Specifically, the layout provides practical space for:

  • Preparing scuba equipment at individual gear stations
  • Storing personal diving gear, weights and accessories
  • Putting on and removing equipment
  • Attending final dive instructions
  • Preparing underwater cameras
  • Rinsing masks, regulators and cameras in freshwater
  • Entering and leaving the zodiacs

Before each dive, the team gives a site briefing covering the dive plan, maximum depth, currents, entry and exit procedures, marine life, buddy procedures and emergency signals.

In practice, zodiacs are used whenever a site cannot be reached directly from the vessel. Therefore, they support drift dives, remote reefs, offshore walls and pickup operations.

However, the final diving program always depends on the itinerary, diver experience, sea conditions, weather, official permissions and the captain’s safety decision.

Not only diving

Snorkeling Holidays and Private Charters

Because the boat is not limited to scuba programs, she also supports snorkeling holidays and private group adventures in suitable Red Sea areas. Consequently, mixed groups of divers and non-divers can travel together.

Snorkeling guests may enjoy

  • Shallow coral gardens
  • Sheltered lagoons such as Sataya
  • Clear water and reef fish
  • Surface marine-life observation
  • Relaxed time on board between stops
  • Remote Red Sea scenery

A full charter suits

  • Dive centres and dive clubs
  • Tour operators and B2B partners
  • Families and groups of friends
  • Underwater photography groups
  • Snorkeling groups
  • Corporate and incentive groups

Charter organizers can request a preferred route, departure port and activity plan. Nevertheless, the final itinerary must still follow Egyptian regulations, port permissions, marine park rules, weather conditions and the captain’s safety decision.

Safety first

C U Red Sea Liveaboard Safety Standards

Above all, the vessel strictly follows modern Red Sea liveaboard safety criteria. For this reason, she carries current navigation, communication and emergency equipment alongside a trained crew and professional dive guides.

SOLAS life raft carried on board the C U Red Sea liveaboard

Emergency Equipment

Firstly, the boat carries a complete set of emergency equipment. Moreover, every item is checked and maintained before departure.

  • Life rafts
  • Life jackets
  • Fire alarm systems
  • Firefighting equipment
  • Emergency oxygen units
  • First aid kits
The C U Red Sea liveaboard under way on the Egyptian Red Sea

Navigation, Crew and Procedures

Of course, equipment alone is not enough. Therefore, the crew works to a documented plan and briefs every guest before the trip begins.

  • GPS and navigation systems
  • Radio communication systems
  • Emergency Action Plan
  • Trained boat crew
  • Professional dive guides
  • General boat safety briefing
  • Fire and evacuation procedures
  • Nitrox analysis and recording when Nitrox is used

All guests must attend the boat safety briefing and follow the instructions of the captain, cruise director, guides and crew. Furthermore, divers must carry the certification, experience and insurance required for their route.

What to expect

Impressions

Where to go

Routes Sailed by the C U Red Sea Liveaboard

Notably, the vessel can operate all eight of Egypt’s best-known itineraries. However, the precise route and sequence of dive sites may change according to the departure port, weather, wind, currents, guest experience, marine park regulations and official approval. Additionally, further background on Egyptian safari itineraries is available at redsealiveaboard.net.

Dolphins swimming in the northern Red Sea

North

Here, wrecks come paired with reefs. Therefore, possible highlights include Shaab El Erg, Abu Nuhas, SS Thistlegorm, Shag Rock, Beacon Rock and Ras Mohammed.

See the route
The Blue Hole at Dahab seen from above

North & Dahab

Northern wrecks combined with the Blue Hole and the Canyon. In particular, this route suits divers who want history plus dramatic underwater landscapes.

See the route
Oceanic whitetip shark at the Brothers Islands

North & Brothers

Wrecks plus offshore reefs at Big Brother and Small Brother. Because these are exposed offshore sites, the itinerary is aimed at experienced divers.

See the route
Oceanic manta ray gliding through open water

BDE

Brothers, Daedalus and Elphinstone in one itinerary. For this reason, BDE is reserved for advanced divers comfortable with currents and deep walls.

See the route
Spinner dolphins over a Red Sea reef

Daedalus & Fury Shoals

Offshore walls paired with southern reefs such as Sataya, Claudia, Malahi and Abu Galawa. In addition, this route offers the widest mix in one week.

See the route
Grey reef shark in the southern Red Sea

Deep South St. John’s

Caves, tunnels and remote reefs including Habili Ali, Dangerous Reef and Umm Khararim. Consequently, it is a favourite among coral lovers and photographers.

See the route
Green turtle on a reef in the far south of the Egyptian Red Sea

Elba

Above all, this is expedition diving in Egypt’s least-visited southern waters. Because the route involves long navigation, access depends on sea conditions and official authorization.

See the route
Spinner dolphins in the Sataya lagoon

Sataya

Southern reefs combined with the sheltered lagoon of Sataya, also known as Dolphin Reef. Moreover, this route works particularly well for snorkelers.

See the route
The week on board

A Typical Week on the C U Red Sea Liveaboard

The seven-night schedule

Typically, a standard safari runs seven nights on board with six activity days. In practice, the week follows this shape:

  • Saturday: boarding after the confirmed check-in time, cabin allocation, document checks, equipment setup and the safety briefing
  • Sunday: departure, a check dive and the first activities
  • Monday to Thursday: full program with multiple dives per day
  • Friday: two morning dives and the return toward the marina
  • Saturday: breakfast and check-out

Meanwhile, the number of dives varies with the route, sea conditions, arrival times and official regulations. Overall, a typical week offers:

  • Two or three dives on the first activity day
  • Three or four dives per day during the main program
  • Two dives on the final activity day
  • Night dives where permitted

Night diving is not available everywhere, since offshore marine parks and some protected areas do not permit it. Furthermore, wind strength, waves, currents, visibility and official sailing permissions may affect departure times and access to offshore locations.

Of course, no Red Sea itinerary should be treated as a fixed list of guaranteed dive sites. In addition, the captain and dive team may change the route because of wind, waves, current, visibility, marine regulations, port instructions, diver experience or safety considerations. Ultimately, safety takes priority over the planned itinerary.

Price, inclusions and local fees

In short, a seven-night safari aboard M/Y C U starts from €1,200 per person. In addition, two mandatory extras are paid on arrival: the marine park fee of €170 and the port fee of €25, so the compulsory local charges total €195 per person. Furthermore, the exact price depends on the route, the season and the cabin category, and Red Sea Diving confirms it for each departure.

Typically included

  • Seven nights accommodation on board
  • Six activity days from Sunday to Friday
  • Full-board meals and snacks
  • Tea, coffee, water and soft drinks
  • 12-liter air tanks
  • Weights and weight belts
  • Professional Red Sea dive guides
  • Towels and cabin linen
  • Airport or hotel transfers according to the confirmed booking

Normally not included

  • Marine park fee (€170) and port fee (€25), paid locally
  • Nitrox and 15-liter tanks
  • Rental diving equipment and dive computers
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Egyptian entry visa
  • Crew and guide tips
  • Hotel nights before or after the safari
  • Personal diving insurance
  • Flights

Because routes and offers vary, all inclusions, exclusions and prices must be confirmed for the selected departure.

Who it is for

Who Is This Liveaboard Suitable For?

  • Individual liveaboard guests
  • Couples
  • Friends traveling together
  • Dive centres and dive clubs
  • Underwater photographers
  • Snorkeling groups
  • Private charter groups
  • Wreck-diving enthusiasts
  • Experienced offshore divers
  • Travelers looking for a week at sea

A maximum of 26 guests creates a practical group size while keeping a friendly atmosphere onboard. For instance, northern itineraries suit a broader range of qualified divers, whereas offshore routes such as BDE, Brothers, Daedalus and Elba generally require more experience.

Before you book

Important Diving Requirements

Every guest should provide

  • A valid diving certification from PADI, BSAC or an equivalent training agency
  • A diving logbook or digital dive history
  • Valid diving or travel insurance covering scuba activities
  • A medical declaration when required
  • Passport details
  • Emergency contact information

Advanced and offshore routes may require

  • Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent
  • Recent diving experience
  • Experience with strong currents and drift diving
  • Experience with negative entries
  • The ability to deploy a surface marker buoy
  • Appropriate depth training

Above all, Red Sea Diving should confirm the final requirements before booking, because they vary by route and by current regulations.

Choosing a boat

How the C U Red Sea Liveaboard Compares

All of these vessels carry 26 guests in 13 cabins and sail the same eight Red Sea routes from Hurghada. However, they differ in length, age and cabin categories, so the table below sets them side by side.

VesselBuilt / UpdatedLengthGuestsCabinsCabin categories
M/Y C U 2010 / 202637 m, 10 m beam2613 10 Twin, 1 Suite, 2 Double
M/Y Star Jet 2010 / 202540 m, 10 m beam2613 3 Sun Deck, 4 Main Deck, 6 Lower Deck twin
M/Y C Echo II 2014 / 202640 m2613 Master Suite, Double Sea View, Twin
M/Y Ramadan 3 2012 / 202640 m2613 2 Suite, 3 Sea View, 8 Twin

Therefore, the choice usually comes down to cabin layout, activity mix and availability on your preferred dates rather than the diving itself. In addition, our team in Hurghada can check every boat for the same week before you decide.

Good to know

C U Red Sea Liveaboard: Frequently Asked Questions

The vessel

What is M/Y C U?

M/Y C U is a 37-metre Egyptian Red Sea liveaboard designed for diving safaris, snorkeling holidays and private charters for up to 26 guests.

How large is M/Y C U?

The boat is 37 metres long, 10 metres wide and has four guest decks.

When was M/Y C U built and updated?

The vessel was built in 2010 and completed a full maintenance program and major update in 2026.

How many guests can M/Y C U accommodate?

The vessel accommodates a maximum of 26 guests.

Cabins and comfort

How many cabins are onboard?

M/Y C U has 13 private, air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms.

What cabin types are available?

The vessel offers ten Twin cabins, one Suite on the lower deck and two Double cabins on the sun deck. Six twin cabins sit on the lower deck and four on the main deck.

Does the boat have air conditioning?

Yes. All guest cabins, the restaurant and the salon are air-conditioned.

Is Wi-Fi available on board?

Yes. Wi-Fi is available on board, although speed and coverage depend on the mobile network at each location.

Trips and routes

Where does M/Y C U operate?

The vessel operates across the Egyptian Red Sea and can depart from Hurghada or other approved ports depending on the selected route.

Which routes can M/Y C U operate?

Possible itineraries include North, North and Dahab, North and Brothers, BDE, Daedalus and Fury Shoals, Deep South St. John’s, Elba and Sataya.

Choosing a route

Which route is best for wreck diving?

For divers primarily interested in wrecks, the North Route is one of the strongest choices. Possible wrecks include SS Thistlegorm, Giannis D, Carnatic, Chrisoula K, Kingston and Dunraven, although the actual wrecks visited depend on the itinerary and conditions.

Which route is best for snorkelers?

Sataya and Fury Shoals suit snorkelers best, because they combine sheltered lagoons with shallow coral gardens. However, the snorkeling program depends on the route, the sea conditions and the availability of safe snorkeling locations.

Is M/Y C U suitable for advanced divers?

Yes. The vessel operates routes such as Brothers Islands, BDE, Daedalus, Elphinstone and Elba, which may involve strong currents, deep reef walls, open-ocean diving, negative entries and longer navigation.

How many dives are normally offered?

A standard seven-night safari usually includes six activity days, with approximately three to four dives on full days and fewer dives on the first and final days. The exact number depends on the route and conditions.

Are night dives available?

Night dives may be offered at suitable locations where marine park regulations and sea conditions allow them. However, night diving is not permitted at some offshore sites.

Prices, charters and booking

How much does a trip aboard M/Y C U cost?

A seven-night safari starts from 1,200 euros per person. In addition, the marine park fee of 170 euros and the port fee of 25 euros are paid locally. However, the final price depends on the route, the season and the cabin category, so contact Red Sea Diving for the confirmed price and availability of your selected week.

Does M/Y C U offer private charters?

Yes. The vessel can be booked as a full private charter for up to 26 guests, subject to availability and confirmed commercial terms.

Can non-divers join M/Y C U?

Snorkelers and leisure travelers may join suitable itineraries. However, the route should be confirmed before booking, because some advanced offshore itineraries are designed primarily for experienced divers.

Is Nitrox available on M/Y C U?

Yes. Nitrox is available on board and should be confirmed for the selected departure. Every diver using Nitrox must analyze and record the oxygen percentage before diving.

Who operates M/Y C U?

M/Y C U is operated by Red Sea Diving, a diving operator based in Hurghada, Egypt, running Red Sea liveaboard safaris and daily diving for more than twenty years.

Dive sites and marine life

Are the advertised dive sites guaranteed?

No. The captain and dive team may change the route or dive sites because of wind, waves, current, visibility, marine regulations, port instructions, diver experience or safety considerations.

Are dolphin or shark encounters guaranteed?

No. Sharks, dolphins and other marine animals are wild. Encounters depend on the season, location and natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

Why book with us

Diving the Red Sea Since Day One

20+ years of experience

Red Sea Diving has been running liveaboard safaris and daily diving in Egypt for more than two decades. Consequently, we know these itineraries in detail.

Professional crew and guides

Experienced captains, trained boat crew and professional dive guides run every trip. Moreover, they know these reefs season by season.

Safety comes first

The boat carries life rafts, oxygen units and firefighting systems. In addition, an Emergency Action Plan and a briefing precede every dive.

Updated in 2026

M/Y C U completed a full maintenance program covering comfort, technical systems and safety equipment. As a result, the vessel feels current throughout.

Diving, snorkeling and charters

Notably, this vessel is not limited to scuba programs. Therefore, mixed groups and full charters can travel together on the same week.

Talk to us before you book

Above all, our team in Hurghada answers directly. Furthermore, we help you compare routes and confirm availability before any payment.

What are you waiting for?

Book Your Adventure

Tell us which experience you want to enjoy and leave the rest to us. Moreover, if you have questions or you are still choosing between routes, our team will talk it through with you before you commit to anything.

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