Kategorie: News
After a series of serious accidents on Egyptian safari boats, ranging from fires to the tragic capsizing of the Sea Story, it was clear that many divers' confidence in the safety of diving safaris in the Red Sea – and not only there – had been shaken. Booking numbers plummeted, international media picked up on the incidents, and discussions about port closures and inadequate standards continued unabated. In this tense climate, the question remained: Will something finally happen – or will things simply continue as before?
The answer is: Something is happening. More and more operators are recognizing that safety is not a nuisance, but the foundation of their business. Some had already done their homework, while others have begun to critically examine their ships and processes in recent months. A current example of this is the Emperor Elite, one of the flagships of the renowned Emperor fleet. At the end of July 2025, the ship underwent a comprehensive technical inspection in Port Ghalib – and the results are impressive.
The inspectors examined all safety-related systems: from firefighting equipment and rescue equipment to navigation devices and emergency procedures. The result paints a clear picture: the Elite is in solid shape. All 33 fire extinguishers on board were tested and ready for use, as were the fire alarm system, CO detectors, and fire hoses. The rescue equipment is complete and functional: 68 life jackets, eight lifebuoys, two life rafts, two dinghies, EPIRB, and SART. Evacuation plans are posted in all cabins, the emergency lighting works, and the crew was able to confidently demonstrate their knowledge of emergency procedures in discussions with the inspectors.
Of course, there were also some minor complaints. Two fire extinguishers need to be replaced, inventory lists updated, and the echo sounder repaired. It is also recommended that the regular emergency drills be better documented. But that is precisely the point of such an inspection: to identify weaknesses before they become dangerous. All in all, the conclusion is clear: the Elite is a ship in good condition that takes responsibility for its guests.
It is important to note that this audit does not cover every conceivable issue. Complex issues such as the structural stability of safari boats, which played a decisive role in the Sea Story case, are not yet covered by the audits. This is precisely where initiatives such as the independent audits by Maritime Survey International (MSI) come in, which go much further and cover a broader range of criteria. Nevertheless: any check that creates transparency and helps operators make their ships safer is a step in the right direction – and the elite show how important these steps are.
Emperor is thus sending an important signal to the industry. Those who can demonstrate safety, who work transparently and who are committed to checks and standards have a strong argument on their side, not only with the authorities but above all with their guests.
This is part of a development that we have seen increasingly clearly in recent weeks: the standstill is over. Audits have been carried out, operators are doing their homework, crews are being trained, and there is a movement towards greater safety and trust. Yes, there are still unanswered questions, and yes, there is a long way to go. But with every ship that is inspected and improved, we take another step forward – away from negative headlines and toward safe and sustainable diving tourism.
Taucher.Net expressly welcomes this development. We have often critically identified the problems and built up pressure, because things could not continue as they were. But we also see the progress. The message is clear: something is happening. Operators are taking responsibility, and guests can regain confidence. If this path is consistently pursued – with checks like the one on the Elite, but also with more in-depth audits like those by MSI – then the Red Sea has a real chance of regaining its role as a top destination for diving safaris. Safer, more transparent, and stronger than ever before.
Emperor Elite website: -> https://www.emperordivers.com/liveaboard-boat/emperor-elite/
Complete audit document -> https://taucher.net/tnetdocs/EMPEROR_ELITE_Report.pdf