6 of us had a fantastic time. Got to see many of the classic wrecks and a few reefs.
From Hurgarda aboard Blue O Two vessel Blue Fin itinerary Best of Wrecks.
A slight delay typified British airlines but we arrived in time for the boat briefing and most importantly dinner.
Unusually there was quite a strong wind and that cooled the temperature quite considerably. So for the first few days coming out of the sea after diving felt quite chilly. Because of the wind the potential itinerary had to be adjusted slightly whilst still getting to the signature sites. We got to dive some lesser visited sites and all were relatively quiet due to the weather and current instabilities.
Zodiac entries both off the boat and out of the sea were interesting especially with the extra bit of swell. Everyone did get in eventually with a little help from their friends. The wind did make for a little more excitement on the journeys as well.
In preparation for one of the dives a member of our group found that their wetsuit had grown significantly despite the large amounts of food available. This was immediately followed by the most well proportioned person on the boat loudly complaining the loss of his suit. Oops !!!
There was the oft asked question of coercion. Just who was being persuaded to do what by whom ?
The food was very good and organised exceptionally, especially extra portions given to K and J, by Samir and Hamdi.
Guides Abdul and Jose were great. Good briefings. Clear and concerned for safe dives but able to relax and share a joke. The dive crew were always just there to lend a hand kitting up. Why don’t we have that on UK live-aboards then !?!?!
19 dives, 16 daytime , 3 night time. Maalak (Big Gubal Island), The Barge (Small Gubal Island), The Ulysses, The Kingston, Thistlegorm, Carnatic, Giannis D, Aida (Big Brother), South Plateau, Numidea, Salem Express, Tobla Arba, El Minya, The Trawler.
A great trip. Lots of colourful healthy reefs, some good metal, lots of interesting and pretty fish. Sharks in the water when we were not. Dolphins in the water with some of us. Turtle in the water with all of us. Underwater antics from ‘the boys and girls’.
Most enjoyed sites Giannis D, the 7 pinnacles (night) and the Salem Express despite some pre-dive concerns about it.
