Diving in the Red Sea is a bucket list experience for many underwater enthusiasts. With vibrant coral reefs, pelagic encounters, and famous wrecks like the Thistlegorm, it’s essential to have the right gear to ensure safety, comfort, and maximum enjoyment. Here’s our breakdown of the top 10 must-have scuba diving gear items specifically suited for the Red Sea.

  1. 7mm Wetsuit (or Semi-Dry)
    While the Red Sea is warm, cooler thermoclines can surprise you at depth. A 5mm suit may suffice in summer, but a 7mm or semi-dry is ideal for year-round comfort, especially on liveaboards.
  2. Regulator with Environmental Sealing
    A high-performance, environmentally sealed regulator handles warm surface waters and cooler depths without free-flowing issues — essential for deeper dives and wreck exploration.
  3. Dive Computer with Nitrox Mode
    Many Red Sea liveaboards offer Nitrox. A reliable, easy-to-read dive computer with Nitrox functionality helps you extend bottom times safely — perfect for multi-dive days.
  4. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
    The Red Sea sun can be brutal. Protect your skin and the delicate coral ecosystems with a biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen.
  5. Lightweight Travel BCD
    A streamlined, lightweight BCD is easier to pack and offers better mobility on liveaboard dive decks and Zodiac boats.
  6. Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
    The Red Sea can have strong currents, and an SMB is crucial for safety. It ensures you’re visible to your dive boat after a drift dive.
  7. High-Quality Mask and Snorkel
    A properly fitting, low-volume mask prevents fogging and leaks, ensuring clear views of the stunning reefs — and a snorkel is handy for surface swims.
  8. Fins Designed for Currents
    The Red Sea is famous for exhilarating drift dives. Stiff-bladed or split fins designed for power and efficiency will help you navigate currents with ease.
  9. Underwater Torch
    Whether exploring wrecks or checking out nocturnal marine life, a powerful dive torch is a must-have for Red Sea diving adventures.
  10. Reef Hook
    For sites with strong currents, a reef hook allows you to stay in one place without damaging the coral — ideal for watching sharks cruise by.

Ready to Dive the Red Sea?
Let Red Sea Safaris handle the planning. We’ll get you on the best liveaboards, ensuring you’re fully equipped for an unforgettable Red Sea adventure.