New Travel Warnings for Britons Visiting Egypt Amid Diving Safety Concerns
The FCDO has updated travel warnings for Britons traveling to Egypt, particularly regarding diving tours in the Red Sea, highlighting safety concerns due to recent incidents, including fatalities. Recommendations include booking through reputable vendors and ensuring safety protocols are observed before and during diving activities.
Travel advisories for Britons heading to Egypt have been updated, especially for those planning diving activities in the Red Sea. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) reports recent incidents, some with fatalities, involving British tourists on diving boats. These alerts stress the varying safety standards among diving operators, warning potential travelers about inadequate safety and insurance provisions.
The FCDO advises booking liveaboard dive holidays through reputable vendors able to guarantee their safety standards. Upon arrival on the vessel, tourists should insist on a comprehensive safety briefing. It is also recommended that guests observe safety protocols on board and remain vigilant regarding operational safety conditions.
Tourists should consider choosing operators linked to their tour representatives and be mindful of weather conditions before finalizing trip arrangements. It is crucial to avoid diving or snorkeling alone, adhere to insurance depth limits, and remain informed about the risks of diving, including the rare possibility of shark attacks in the region.
Andrew Moll OBE, Chief Inspector of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), revealed awareness of 16 accidents in the past five years linked to diving vessels in the Red Sea, some resulting in fatalities. The MAIB urges extreme caution when selecting liveaboard vessels, highlighting the likelihood that they may not meet UK standards for construction and maintenance. Safety bulletins provided by the MAIB outline guidance for those venturing on liveaboard trips.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) regularly issues travel warnings to safeguard British travelers in regions with reported safety concerns. Recent incidents involving British nationals while diving in the Red Sea prompted the FCDO to emphasize the importance of choosing reputable tour operators and adhering to established safety protocols to minimize risks associated with diving activities in foreign waters. The MAIB’s involvement provides additional expertise to enhance safety measures and prevent accidents.
In summary, British tourists planning to dive in Egypt should exercise caution and adhere to safety recommendations issued by the FCDO and MAIB. Ensure to vet diving operators, demand safety briefings, and never dive alone. With proper precautions in place, travelers can enjoy safer experiences while exploring the Red Sea’s underwater attractions.
Original Source: www.gbnews.com
