Tourists flocking to Egypt for a spring getaway have been issued a stark warning over “liveaboard vessels” operating in the Red Sea. The Foreign Office has reported several incidents involving British nationals on boat tours, with differing types of boats implicated.

Liveaboard vessels are designed specifically for tourists wanting to dive straight into the ocean, often hosting guests overnight or for extended periods. Divers are urged to book only through reputable vendors, insists the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) of the Department for Transport, to ensure adherence to stringent safety standards.

Additionally, holidaymakers should demand that crew members deliver a comprehensive safety briefing before setting off. This cautionary guidance follows an MAIB announcement earlier this month about the growing number of fatalities associated with Egyptian liveaboard dive boats.

Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, recognizing the gravity of the situation, remarked: “The MAIB is aware of 16 accidents that have occurred over the last 5 years involving liveaboard dive vessels operating in the Red Sea. It is deeply regrettable that a number of these accidents have resulted in the loss of life and our thoughts are with all those affected.

“While MAIB does not have the jurisdiction to investigate accidents involving non-UK flagged vessels operating within the territorial waters of another coastal state, we have made the appropriate authorities aware of our national interest and offered every assistance with any safety investigation they conduct.

“Our safety bulletin provides important guidance to those intending to stay on liveaboard vessels. It is important to remember that such vessels are unlikely to be built, maintained, equipped, and operated to the standard of similar vessels in the UK and we urge the exercise of extreme caution when choosing a boat.”

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (Rospa) explained that 30% of drowning-related incidents overseas result from accidents when swimming, largely due to difficulties posed by strong currents and riptides in open water. A comprehensive guide on participating in water activities safely beyond the UK’s borders can be found here.

Safety suggestions when in the water abroad from the foreign office include:

• not dive or snorkel without a dive buddy or guide
• observe safety standards on board and exercise caution
• check the weather and stay alert to changes
• not dive below your insurance policy’s depth limit – doing so will invalidate your cover
• make bookings through your tour representative or reputable operator if possible