Blogs
Discover Peace and Tranquillity in Egypt’s Eastern Desert and its Amazing Red Sea
There is a dive resort in the Red Sea that is stuck in time; a time when the marine life was not bombarded by modern times. No tourist hotels, no day boats, and very few divers… simply the Red Sea at its best.
That place is the multi award winning Roots Red Sea.
Nestling on the edge of the Eastern Desert beside a mountain back drop, Roots Red Sea offers an idyllic comfortable retreat in the desert making you truly feel at one with nature.
Roots Red Sea is a small friendly resort aimed at scuba divers, snorkellers and those who want a quiet, peaceful, relaxed atmosphere but with the convenience of having the small traditional town of El Quseir on its doorstep. The tag of a camp should not be taken too literally; it relates more to the location than the outstanding accommodations with modern facilities.
Roots Red Sea is managed by British-owned and run Pharaoh Dive Club, who have an unsurpassed reputation for friendly helpful staff delivering great personal service. Owners Steve and Clare have vast experience of the Red Sea, having been working the region for over 35 years.
Their simple mantra is to deliver the holiday the guest wants and treat everyone the way they would like to be treated themselves. There is a distinct no problem attitude and nothing is too much trouble for the team. It’s certainly a winning formula, as testified by their guests. TripAdvisor award winners every year since opening resulting in being accredited to the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame.
It’s no wonder that Roots Red Sea boasts an annual 75% repeat guest rate. It’s one of the diving world’s best kept secrets!
But you don’t go to the Red Sea to sit in a hotel, no matter how perfect it is – you go for the diving, and that certainly doesn’t disappoint – starting with the awesome house reef!
Roots Red Sea isn’t just the base for Pharaoh Dive Club, its operated by them too. Unlike the majority of holiday resorts across Egypt, at Roots Red Sea everything revolves around making your diving experience as good as it
could ever be.
The dive operation is seamless, from arrival to departure. All the check-in procedures are on-site, right next to the accommodation, and once completed, it’s just a short walk away to the private beach on Abu Sauatir Bay – Roots Red Sea‘s house reef. On the beach, you will find all you need to while away the hours: sun loungers, parasols, toilets, showers, and the Beach Bistro where lunch is served each day.
Diving with Pharaoh Dive Club is extremely relaxed and flexible. For those with suitable experience, the house reef is open from 8am to 5pm for unlimited unguided diving. Come and go as much as your computer allows!
Everyday, if you want, there are options to go further afield and explore the amazing variety of sites both locally and those which require day excursions. Trips are run by bus to shore locations and by zodiac for the less accessible sites.
There is more than enough local diving to fill the days for many visits, however we do also have access to some of the more renowned dive sites, and offer regular opportunities for our divers to experience them.
ELPHINSTONE
Elphinstone Reef is one of Egypt’s most exhilarating diving spots. The summit of a subterranean mountain barely reaches the surface and is abound with rich in colourful corals and fish species, all attracting the interest of hungry barracuda, dolphins and sharks. This is one of the few places where divers can regularly come in direct contact with the awesome Oceanic White Tip shark.
These encounters are only for experienced advanced divers due to the reef’s location in the open-sea, with its alluring but dangerously deep coral plateaus and caves and its infamous and constantly changing currents. You’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
SALEM EXPRESS
The Salem Express is a wreck to be dived with immense respect for the poor souls who lost their lives in tragedy just an hour away from its final destination, the Safaga Port.
Originally built in the French shipyards of La Seyne in 1964 and known by several different names during the course of its life, the Salem Express was a 100 meter (300 feet) long roll-on roll-off ferry. She is is resting at a depth of 12 to 30 meters on its starboard side with its bow doors wide open.
On descending, the port side of the ship is merely 12 meters below the surface and is surprisingly intact. The lifeboats with the distinct “S” emblem are indications that they passengers didn’t even get the chance to lower them.
The Salem Express is a fabulous wreck dive for all levels of diver with clear waters allowing you to see the complete wreck as you descent to the the port side to begin your tour.
NIGHT DIVING AT ROOTS RED SEA
Night diving at Roots Red Sea is constantly referred to by our guests as their best ever. The unspoilt reef around the bay changes completely at night with a whole new cast of attractions. Without a doubt, the stars of the show are the awesome Spanish Dancers and eerie Flashlight fish who dart around the reef face.
They may be the stars, but the reef is also abundant with the resident sleeping Hawksbill turtle, sleeping parrot fish in their mucus bubbles exciting finds, and more. When the dive is over and you are back on the beach, you will undoubtedly be reaching for the marine life ID books, as there are some very strange looking night visitors!
FROM ZERO TO HERO: DIVER TRAINING WITH ROOTS RED SEA
Roots is also the perfect location for diver training, from total beginner to going pro.
PADI IDC AT ROOTS
Fancy turning your hobby into a career? Our PADI Pro training is provided by the best in the industry, namely Ocean Turtle Diving. Platinum Course Director Kerrie Eade works alongside Elite Course Director Edwin Lodder to ensure each course is fun and enjoyable whilst delivering the highest level of coaching and extraordinary success rates.
Kerrie and Edwin have achieved the highest level of recognition from PADI for their Pro training. They train in excess of 200 professionals each year, yet still deliver bespoke, tailored training to meet the needs of each candidate.
The next IDC at Roots Red Sea will begin on 30th November through to 7th December with the IE in Hurghada on the 9th and 10th December. Click here for more details or to book:
https://www.oceanturtlediving.com/padi-open-water-scuba-instructor
Have we whet your appetite to come and visit us? Lets make it a simple decision by making a very special offer!
Come and grab some winter sun with our exclusive offer in association with Scubaverse:
Visit Roots Red Sea during the whole of December 2023 through to the end of February 2024, with an amazing 2 for 1 package. Valid for bookings received before 1st November 2023, quoting reference SBV1023.
At Scubaverse, we’re always keen to spotlight initiatives that aim to make diving more accessible, inclusive, and innovative. NovoScuba is a bold new training agency with a mission to reshape how people learn to dive—and they’re inviting the global dive community to be part of something special.
What follows is a passionate look at their vision, values, and how you can get involved.
An Exciting Opportunity for Divers and Dreamers to Own a Piece of the Future of Scuba Diving
The world of scuba diving is about to undergo a revolutionary transformation—and you could be a part of it! NovoScuba, an innovative and passionate scuba diving training agency, is on the brink of a final push towards a global launch, that promises to change the way people learn to dive forever.
After two years of hard work, dedication, and a relentless drive to make the sport of scuba diving more accessible to all, NovoScuba is excited to announce that they are inviting enthusiastic divers, ocean lovers, and supporters of innovation to become shareholders in this game-changing movement.
This is your chance to dive into something much bigger than just a hobby. NovoScuba isn’t just offering training programs; they’re offering a stake in the future of the scuba industry. Are you ready to be a part of a global wave of change?
Who We Are: The NovoScuba Movement
NovoScuba isn’t your average diving school. We’re a movement—a movement that strives to make scuba diving more affordable, accessible, and sustainable for everyone. Our team is made up of passionate divers who are not just certified professionals but also deeply connected to the ocean, the environment, and the people who should be able to experience the wonders of the underwater world. We believe diving is about discovery, adventure, and sharing these experiences with others, not just about profit.
For the past two years, we’ve been working tirelessly to develop a new kind of diving training system. One that utilises cutting-edge technology, digital learning platforms, and a unique approach to make scuba diving training available to people from all walks of life. We’ve built this system with love, sweat, and an unwavering belief in our mission to make the world of diving more inclusive.
But here’s the thing—we’re not doing it for the pay check. In fact, none of our team members have taken a salary because we believe in this mission so much. It’s been a labour of love, and now, we’re asking you to be a part of it.
The Big Vision: Taking the Leap
After two years of intense planning, development, and innovation, NovoScuba is finally on the verge of going global. We’re ready to open our doors to the world, but we need your help to make the leap. We’re asking for your support to refine our digital platforms, expand our global reach, and ensure that we can provide top-notch scuba diving training to divers everywhere, no matter where they are or what their budget is.
This is where you come in.
Why We Need Your Help: A Call to Action
We’re closer than ever to achieving our dream, but we need that final push to launch NovoScuba on a global scale. This is not just about funding a business—it’s about being part of something that will redefine the future of scuba training. We need your help to get us over the last few hurdles, and in exchange, we are offering you an incredible opportunity to own a share in this exciting new venture.
For every £250 donation, you’ll receive 1 Class B share in NovoScuba. That’s right—you’re not just helping us out, you’re becoming part of our future. You’ll have a stake in a company that’s poised to revolutionise an entire industry, and as NovoScuba grows, so does your ownership. It’s more than a donation—it’s a chance to join a passionate and innovative team and help shape the future of scuba diving education.
Imagine being able to tell your friends that you didn’t just support a great cause—you’re a shareholder in the future of scuba diving! That’s an experience that goes beyond just funding; it’s about being part of something that matters.
How You Can Get Involved: Dive Right In!
Here’s how you can join the NovoScuba movement and help us make a splash:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-novoscuba-shape-the-future-of-scuba-training
Donate: Any amount makes a difference! Whether it’s £10 or £1,000, every contribution helps us reach our goal.
- Become a Shareholder: Donate £250 or more, and you’ll receive a Class B share in NovoScuba. This is your chance to own a piece of the future of scuba diving education.
- Spread the Word: Even if you can’t contribute financially, you can still help. Share our campaign with your network and help us spread the word about this exciting opportunity.
- Get Involved: Dive deeper into the NovoScuba community by following us on social media, joining our online events, and staying connected as we grow. Your involvement will help us reach even more people who are eager to learn about the underwater world.
This isn’t just about helping us; it’s about joining a community of like-minded people who believe in making the world of scuba diving open to everyone. Together, we can change the face of scuba diving education and make it accessible for generations to come.
Why This Matters: Changing Lives, One Dive at a Time
Scuba diving is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences on earth. It’s a portal into a whole new world, full of beauty, mystery, and wonder. But for far too long, this life-changing activity has been out of reach for many people due to the high costs of training.
NovoScuba aims to change that by creating a digital-first training system that is not only more affordable but also more accessible. We’re committed to making diving available to people from all backgrounds, regardless of their income or location. With our innovative training methods, we’re able to offer a platform that meets the needs of today’s divers—whether they’re looking to dive for the first time or advance their skills.
We’re not just creating a business; we’re changing lives. We’re giving people the opportunity to explore the world beneath the waves, connect with the ocean, and discover something new about themselves. And we want you to be a part of that transformation.
The Future of Scuba Diving Starts Now
The diving world is ready for change, and NovoScuba is leading the charge. With your support, we’ll continue to grow and make diving more accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a company that is set to disrupt an entire industry.
If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of something truly transformative, now is the time. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join the NovoScuba family and help us shape the future of scuba diving education.
Join Us Today—Let’s Make Waves Together!
Your support will help us reach new heights and bring our dream to life. Together, we can make scuba diving education accessible to everyone, no matter their background or budget.
Dive into the future with NovoScuba—join us today!
For more information or to donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-novoscuba-shape-the-future-of-scuba-training today. Let’s make diving available for all—and let’s make the world a better place, one dive at a time.
Every year, South Africa’s Sardine Run draws thousands of visitors, eager to witness one of the most spectacular marine wildlife events on the planet. Shoals of sardines stretch for miles, attracting a feeding frenzy of predators, including dolphins, seabirds, whales, and, of course, sharks. But while this natural wonder is a goldmine for ecotourism, some argue that it disrupts marine ecosystems or that shark tourism is an unnecessary risk.
The reality?
The Sardine Run doesn’t just showcase nature’s brilliance, it actively protects it.
A Predator Worth More Alive Than Dead
Sharks are the apex predators of the Sardine Run, and their presence is a major draw for divers, filmmakers, and tourists. But beyond the thrill, there’s a critical financial argument to be made: sharks are far more valuable alive than dead. A report by Oceana found that shark ecotourism generates hundreds of millions of dollars globally, while a single dead shark, caught for its fins or meat, is worth mere pennies in comparison.
According to Pew Trusts, reef sharks in Palau contribute an estimated $1.9 million each over their lifetimes through tourism, whereas a single dead shark fetches only $108 at market. The same economic principle applies to South Africa’s waters, where a live shark supports local businesses, jobs, and conservation efforts through sustainable tourism. The question then becomes: why are some still advocating for the mass culling of these creatures when they’re worth exponentially more alive?
Sharks Are Not the Enemy
Despite their economic value, sharks face persistent threats in South Africa. Misguided fears about shark attacks fuel calls for lethal control measures like drumlines and shark nets; outdated and ecologically damaging practices that indiscriminately kill marine life, including endangered species.
Ironically, these same sharks drive South Africa’s multimillion-dollar dive tourism industry, proving that their survival is inextricably linked to the economy.
By protecting the predators of the Sardine Run, South Africa preserves an ecological spectacle while securing jobs in tourism, hospitality, and marine conservation. It’s ensuring that communities along the coast continue to benefit from this natural event for generations to come.
From Passive Observers to Active Conservationists
“In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.”
Baba Dioum’s quote perfectly encapsulates why the Sardine Run and shark conservation efforts are so vital.
“We will conserve only what we love.” Experiencing the Sardine Run first and seeing sharks glide effortlessly through bait balls and feeling the sheer energy of the ocean, creates an emotional connection that turns spectators into advocates. It’s hard not to love something so breathtakingly wild.
“We will love only what we understand.” Sharks have long been vilified, but when people see them in their natural role as apex predators, shaping marine ecosystems, their fear turns into fascination. The more we understand sharks, the more we appreciate their importance in maintaining ocean health.
“We will understand only what we are taught.” Ecotourism, like responsible Sardine Run expeditions, plays a huge role in education. Through firsthand encounters, expert guides, and conservation messaging, people learn that sharks are worth far more alive than dead. This, in turn, supports coastal economies, balancing marine ecosystems, and ensuring the future of this natural phenomenon.
Critics argue that the Sardine Run disrupts natural feeding patterns or stresses marine life due to increased human activity. However, scientific studies suggest that well-managed ecotourism can actually enhance conservation efforts. The presence of responsible tour operators discourages illegal fishing, promotes marine research, and generates funds for conservation initiatives.
Furthermore, ecotourism advocates education and awareness. Anyone who’s ever been lucky enough to experience the sardine run will tell you how incredible it is to witness the greatest shoal on Earth and often leave as passionate champions for ocean conservation. In an age where marine species are vanishing at alarming rates, the Sardine Run may be one of the few large-scale events that turn passive observers into active conservationists.
The Sardine Run is an opportunity to teach, inspire, and create lifelong ocean ambassadors. If we want to protect sharks and the marine environments they support, we need more people to experience, understand, and ultimately, fight for them.
My Sardine Run Experience (Still Seems Surreal!)
Experiencing the Sardine Run firsthand in Cintsa on South Africa’s Wild Coast was one of the most incredible events of my life. I swam alongside foraging dusky sharks in focused grace, watched hundreds of common dolphins expertly and intelligently herd sardines into bait balls, observed the honed precision of countless Cape gannets diving, and saw gentle but giant Bryde’s whales effortlessly slicing through the schools.
My friends who stayed longer even had the amazing opportunity to interact with humpback whales. Cintsa is a hidden gem for the Sardine Run, offering an untouched wilderness without the intense competition of other operators. The encounters I had weren’t just breathtaking, they reinforced why this natural event is invaluable for conservation and ecotourism.
I will be forever grateful to Go Dive Mossel Bay for their incredible passion for the ocean and the unforgettable experiences they’ve given me. Their expertise and dedication to marine conservation made my Sardine Run adventure in Cintsa extraordinary. Cintsa is truly a hidden gem for the Sardine Run, offering an intimate, untouched wilderness where the ocean comes alive without the crowds.
The Bottom Line: The Sardine Run is Vital for Conservation in South Africa
The real controversy isn’t whether the Sardine Run is good or bad for conservation. It’s why we aren’t doing more to protect the species that make it so extraordinary.
Instead of fearing sharks or debating their presence, we should be celebrating them as a cornerstone of South Africa’s ecotourism economy.
Every shark in the Sardine Run represents a long-term financial investment, one that benefits local communities far more than a fleeting profit from finning or culling.
So, the next time someone asks whether the Sardine Run is a threat, remind them of this: a dead shark is worth a few dollars, but a live shark fuels an entire industry. South Africa’s future… both ecological and economic… depends on making the right choice.
Photos: Frogfish Photography
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