Sindalah: your next luxury superyachting adventure
Planning your Red Sea yacht charter
Published 05 三月 2025
The Red Sea is emerging as one of the most captivating superyacht destinations, offering an alluring blend of unspoiled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class diving. Whether you are drawn to the pristine reefs of Egypt, the uncharted coastlines of Saudi Arabia, or the luxurious experiences on board, a yacht charter in the Red Sea promises adventure and exclusivity in equal measure.
Why choose the Red Sea for a superyacht charter?
The Red Sea’s breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and year-round warm climate make it a perfect superyacht charter destination. Unlike the crowded hotspots of the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, the Red Sea remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism, with many destinations only recently opening their doors to tourists. This means for those looking for an exclusive escape with tranquillity and seclusion in abundance, there’s no better place. With diverse marine life, exceptional diving sites, and rich historical landmarks, the region offers a unique yachting experience perfectly marrying luxury with adventure.
Top destinations for your Red Sea yacht charter
Egypt
Egypt’s Red Sea coast is a yachting paradise, offering everything from vibrant resort towns to remote islands and pristine diving sites. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are the main yachting hubs, boasting modern marinas with full-service facilities, luxury resorts, and a vibrant nightlife scene. But turn your attention offshore and you'll discover the true magic of an Egyptian yachting experience.
Stunning islands dot the coastline, providing the perfect setting for private anchorages and watersports. The Giftun Islands, just off the coast of Hurghada, offer idyllic sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, perfect for paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkelling. Further south, Wadi Gemal National Park is a breathtaking stretch of protected coastline where guests can experience unspoiled nature, desert landscapes, and the unique Bedouin culture.
Saudi Arabia
For those looking to experience something genuinely unique and off the beaten yachting track, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast offers a treasure trove of unique attractions. The nation’s rich heritage and traditions have of course been uniquely shaped by it being the birthplace of Islam, and also a historic regional trading hub since ancient times. Having only lifted its veil to foreign visitors very recently in 2019, the conservative Kingdom is now going through a massive transformation, evolving its century-old customs, and investing in a number of huge developments, including both NEOM and the Red Sea Project.
Located on the northeast tip of the Red Sea, the giga-development of NEOM stretches along almost 300 miles of coastline and offers 40 islands for the waterborne to explore. A new focal point for yacht owners and charterers seeking an alternative winter cruising ground, NEOM is just a day’s cruise through the Suez Canal from Europe (or a short flight if you would rather meet your yacht there). With every luxury service imaginable, including a state-of-the-art superyacht marina on Sindalah Island, beach clubs and high-end resorts, NEOM is fast becoming the gateway to the Red Sea and to all the new offerings of the Red Sea Project.
The latter, the Red Sea Project, encompasses an archipelago of more than 90 islands near Umluj. Often referred to as the Maldives of the Middle East, the waters lapping these islands are home to unrivalled marine biodiversity with great swathes of coral reef untouched by modern man. In fact, in contrast with Saudi Arabia’s reputation as the desert kingdom, the opportunities for snorkelling and diving along the 1,000 miles of Saudi coastline are plentiful.
Beyond your yacht: activities and experiences in the Red Sea
Diving and snorkelling
The Red Sea is a diver’s paradise, boasting some of the most biodiverse and well-preserved coral reefs in the world. Ras Mohammed National Park, the Brothers Islands, and Elphinstone Reef offer thrilling underwater experiences, from swimming with dolphins to exploring dramatic shipwrecks. The clear visibility and warm waters make snorkelling equally spectacular for those looking to enjoy marine life at a more leisurely pace.
In Egypt, the SS Thistlegorm is an unmissable site. Regularly voted one of the top wreck dives in the world, this 126.5m British-built cargo ship was sunk by a German bomber in 1941. Today, it serves as both a war grave and an iconic underwater museum. Witness military artefacts such as locomotives, tanks, motorbikes, and rifles remain remarkably preserved, plus a wealth of marine life including batfish, barracudas, and snappers, this is a truly unparalleled dive experience.
For a more exclusive experience, the remote St John’s Reef system near the Sudanese border offers some of the most untouched diving in the Red Sea. With steep walls, caverns, and diverse marine species, this area is a dream for advanced divers and those looking for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Around Saudi Arabia, all manner of sub-tropical marine life (think great coral walls and small reefs to wrecks and a variety of shark species) can be discovered by both beginners and advanced divers alike.
Immerse yourself in the history and culture
The Red Sea region is steeped in history, with influences from ancient Egypt, the Nabataeans, and the Ottoman Empire. Explore the Nabataean Tombs, reminiscent of Petra, or visit the Dahlak Archipelago, where ancient trading posts tell the story of a bygone era. And, of course, no trip to Egypt would be complete without a visit to the Valley of the Kings, just a short inland journey from the coast. Private helicopter transfers allow guests to seamlessly combine their luxury yacht experience with a tour of ancient wonders. Or, visit the bustling souks of Jeddah for an authentic glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.
Ashore in Saudi Arabia, the vibrant culture that has long been kept out of sight boasts centuries-old customs and civilisation along with modern riches, while desert-trekking through the Acacia Valley – a massive swathe of rocky desert escarpment known as the 'Edge of the World' – is a rewarding experience for any intrepid explorer, with numerous archaeological wonders to visit along the way. And if one UNESCO World Heritage site isn't enough, Saudi Arabia is home to no fewer than six, including the historic city of Jeddah.
Spend time ashore wandering the ancient streets of the historical area of Al-Balad and the bustling Souq Al Alawi which flourish with the rich mix of influences and traditions of this important trade route. The UNESCO-protected Al Ula on the Arabian Peninsula was also a major outpost on the trade route and the ancient walled city here is home to a few stunning and well-preserved archaeological sites.
Try your hand at deep-sea fishing
Deep sea fishing in the Red Sea offers anglers an exceptional adventure, renowned for its abundance of prized fish species including marlin, sailfish, tuna, and even the elusive grouper. The waters surrounding Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula and the offshore islands of the Saudi coast are popular fishing spots, where the deep blue of the sea drops dramatically, creating the perfect environment for big game fishing.
By planning your charter with Burgess, we'll help you make the most of your charter by bringing an experienced local guide on board. From providing invaluable insights into the best fishing techniques and locations, this experience will be one to remember.
The best time to charter a yacht in the Red Sea
The best time to charter a yacht in the Red Sea is between October and May, when temperatures are warm but comfortable, and visibility for diving is at its peak. The summer months can be extremely hot, making winter and spring the preferred seasons for luxury yacht rentals in the region. Calm seas and minimal rainfall ensure smooth sailing and uninterrupted exploration.
The Red Sea awaits. Plan your exclusive yacht charter with the Burgess team today.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Red Sea with a bespoke yacht charter tailored to your desires. Whether you seek adventure beneath the waves, cultural immersion, or the ultimate in luxury, Burgess ensures an unparalleled experience. Contact our team today to craft your exclusive Red Sea itinerary and secure your private superyacht rental.
To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.
- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.
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