Discovery II Liveaboard Overview

Diving in Egypt’s Red Sea should be on your diving bucket list if it isn’t already. The warm conditions, incredible biodiversity, and affordable prices make the experience enjoyable and attainable.

The Discovery II (also known as Samira), is part of a liveaboard fleet built for divers, so you’ll love your time above water too. Samira means “evening conversationalist, wind, and air.” With multiple sundecks and lounges, the boat certainly lives up to its moniker. Chat with fellow passengers about the chances of seeing dugongs, or who logged the greatest number of fish species—there are a lot.

Underwater, you’ll be immersed in protected waters that have spawned many unique species and world-class sites. With consistent top-notch visibility, you’ll be able to see everything from macros to pelagics. And, with year-round sailings, the biggest decision you need to make about this trip is which itinerary to choose. Pro-tip: bring enough local currency for the mandatory fees to avoid paying extra.

Dive in to discover more about the Red Sea and Discovery II.

Where to book

Discovery II liveaboard yacht cruising through calm blue water

PADI TravelSecure online booking Liveaboard.comNo booking fees Divebooker.comFree DAN insurance

Diving on the Discovery II

Rows of scuba tanks labeled Discovery lined up on the dive deck

A school of black and white striped fish circling a shark near the surface

A green sea turtle swimming through open blue water

A branching coral formation with reef fish swimming around it in blue water

Multiple 7-day itineraries are offered on the Discovery II, and include wrecks, reefs, walls, and more. The number of dives varies depending on itinerary and conditions. Among the stops is one of the best wreck dives in the world, the SS Thistlegorm. This war wreck showcases sunken relics (including circa-1940 motorcycles), slowly being reclaimed by nature. Tuna, barracuda, and turtles are all area residents.

Brothers Islands, a bit more of a commute, is the epitome of Egyptian diving. Comprising two uninhabited islets, you’ll feel as though the waters here are uncharted, though they are both very much in the liveaboard circuit. The Brothers offer a variety of sites and a chance to spot everything from macro coral critters to dramatic pelagics like oceanic whitetip sharks.

Elphinstone Reef is not only enormous—around 1230 feet (375 m) long—it’s essentially a retreat for nudibranchs, with about 175 species recorded. If nudis aren’t your thing, the glamorous gorgonians, diverse schools of fish, and rays and sharks patrolling the blue are sure to please you. If your appetite for Red Sea dives is bottomless, check out these dive camps in Southern Egypt to incorporate into your trip (or the next one)!

Highlights:

Diversity of world-class dive sites
Aquatic biodiversity
Exceptional visibility

Onboard the Discovery II

Covered lounge seating on the Discovery II's upper deck with a spiral staircase

Crew work area on deck with tanks, storage lockers, and a wooden crew-only door

Sun deck loungers and shaded seating on the Discovery II at dusk

Yellow sofa seating and a flatscreen TV in the Discovery II's main salon

A cabin bed piled with towels next to an ensuite bathroom on the Discovery II

Originally constructed in 2014, Discovery II was refitted in both 2018 and 2022. Sitting at 114 feet (35 m) long, it was also designed with divers in mind. Containing 11 cabins with ensuites and air-conditioning, Discovery II can house 22 guests comfortably. Although aesthetically similar to its sister vessel, the Discovery I, Discovery II is the newer and larger of the two.

The dining room and main salon feature an open-concept design, allowing you to both socialize and never miss a meal. Multiple wrap-around bench couches provide cushy seats for movies on the flatscreen. The dining area is comprised of two long tables, with padded benches and individual seating.

Multiple fresh-air lounges offer space to relax, and a shaded, open-air bar area is ideal for sipping a refreshing drink. The upper sun deck features a large sunning bed along with a small, permanently shaded area for respite from the rays. A seating area can be covered or open as desired.

On the shady dive deck, gear up before boarding the tenders. Individual storage baskets will keep your gear organized under the benches, and additional storage shelves are on the wall. A wetsuit drying area keeps your suits close at hand for the next underwater adventure.

Highlights:

Multiple sundecks
Refitted in 2022
Sleek, spacious, and organized

Dining on the Discovery II

Dining tables set with plates and glasses in the Discovery II's dining room

An open-air bar with stools and a spiral staircase aboard the Discovery II

A tray of stewed vegetables and fried chicken pieces served buffet-style

Stuffed peppers, onions, and vine leaves arranged in a serving tray

Meals onboard Discovery II are served buffet-style and include Western and local dishes. Dietary restrictions are accommodated, but should always clearly be communicated in advance. Vegetarian and Halal food are easily provided.

Meals generally consist of a protein like chicken, as well as vegetables, salad, and a rice dish. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are available all day.