Discovering the Depths: My Liveaboard Adventure on the M/Y Scuba Scene
There’s something magical about waking up to the gentle sway of the ocean, the promise of adventure awaiting just beneath the waves. I recently had the chance to embark on a Liveaboard journey in the Red Sea, cruising along the iconic North and Tiran route aboard the M/Y Scuba Scene. For a full week, the sea was our playground, with 20 dives offering endless opportunities to explore the vibrant underwater world that the Red Sea is famous for.
The Red Sea Route: North and Tiran
The North and Tiran route is a favourite among divers for good reason. It’s a perfect blend of stunning coral gardens, historic wrecks, and dramatic drop-offs. We explored famous sites like the SS Thistlegorm, an iconic World War II wreck that’s now home to a teeming array of marine life, and the Ras Mohammed National Park, where the underwater scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
But the crown jewel of the trip for me was the Shark and Yolanda Reef. Nestled in the Ras Mohammed National Park, this dive site is legendary among divers. The reef is a kaleidoscope of colors, with schools of barracuda and snapper swirling around you, while vibrant coral formations provide shelter for a myriad of smaller creatures. The sense of awe as you glide through this underwater paradise is something that’s hard to put into words.
A New Challenge: Sidemount Diving
One of the personal highlights of this trip was diving in a sidemount configuration for the entire week. For those unfamiliar, sidemount diving involves wearing your tanks on your sides rather than on your back. I’ve always been intrigued by this setup, and this trip was the perfect opportunity to fully immerse myself in it.
From the very first dive, I was hooked. The sidemount configuration offers a level of comfort and freedom that traditional setups simply can’t match. Not only does it allow for better streamlining and buoyancy control, but it also feels inherently safer, as you have easier access to your tanks and valves. Plus, let’s be honest— it looks undeniably cool!
Over the course of 20 dives, I became increasingly comfortable with the setup. By the end of the week, sidemount felt like second nature, and I found myself appreciating the added flexibility it offered, especially in tighter spaces like wrecks and caves. If you’ve been considering trying sidemount, I can’t recommend it enough. It adds a new dimension to diving that’s both fun and practical.
The M/Y Scuba Scene Experience
Of course, a Liveaboard trip is only as good as the boat you’re on, and the M/Y Scuba Scene did not disappoint. The vessel is well-equipped, spacious, and offers a level of comfort that makes life at sea a pleasure. The crew was exceptional, always on hand to assist with gear, share local knowledge, and ensure that every dive was as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Meals were a highlight, with a variety of delicious dishes served daily, catering to all tastes. After a long day of diving, there’s nothing better than sharing stories over dinner with fellow divers, reliving the day’s adventures, and gearing up for the next day’s dives.
Final Thoughts
Diving in the Red Sea is an experience that every diver should have on their bucket list. The combination of stunning dive sites, the thrill of exploring underwater wrecks, and the sheer beauty of the marine life make it a destination like no other. My time aboard the M/Y Scuba Scene was unforgettable, and I can’t wait to return to these waters for more underwater adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, a Liveaboard in the Red Sea is an adventure that’s not to be missed.
Equipment list:
Regulators: Apeks MTX Sidemount set
BCD: XDeep Stealth Tec Sidemount wing
Fins: Apeks RK3
Computer: Garmin MK3i
Mask: Apeks VX1