The Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety has introduced a new set of regulations requiring each diving safari yacht in the Red Sea to be staffed with a minimum of six certified crew members. While the regulations have prompted some concerns within the industry, they are widely regarded as a necessary step towards enhancing safety standards and ensuring a more structured and professional approach to marine tourism in Egypt.
Regulation Overview: Enhancing Safety Standards
The six certified personnel include the captain, safety officers, divers, and other essential crew members. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Egyptian government to elevate the safety standards within the country’s rapidly growing marine tourism sector, particularly in the high-risk environment of diving and safari tours.
Therefore, each vessel will have a well-trained crew capable of managing potential emergencies, maintaining high operational standards, and safeguarding both tourists and staff.
Addressing Industry Concerns
The diving safari industry is currently experiencing a significant shortage of qualified personnel, with an estimate of more than 1,200 certified crew members to fulfill the staffing requirements across the 200+ safari yachts and 2,000 marine activity boats in the Red Sea region.
At present, only 88 crew members hold the necessary certifications, raising concerns about the ability of operators to comply with the new staffing requirements. The industry has called for a grace period to allow companies more time to meet these standards, as the shortage of qualified personnel could disrupt operations and negatively impact the sector’s ability to serve its customers.
Training Gaps and the Need for Collaboration
One of the key factors contributing to the shortage of qualified crew is the lack of accessible and sufficient training programs. Despite years of practical experience in the field, many workers are unable to meet the certification standards because the Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety has not conducted qualifying courses since 2023. This gap in training opportunities has created significant barriers for local workers eager to obtain the necessary credentials.
Industry stakeholders have also pointed out that the current qualification criteria do not always align with the unique operational requirements of the Red Sea and South Sinai regions. Given the distinct challenges posed by the local marine environment, such as strong currents and complex underwater conditions, there is a growing call for the authorities to adjust the standards to better reflect the realities of working in these areas.
To address these issues, industry representatives are advocating for a collaborative approach between the Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety and private sector companies. By working together, they believe it will be possible to expedite training processes and increase the pool of qualified personnel, ensuring compliance with the new regulations and the continued safety of marine tourism activities.
Long-Term Benefits for the Sector
By raising the bar for safety and crew qualifications, the regulations will improve the quality of services provided to tourists, reduce safety risks, and ensure a more reliable and professional operating environment for the sector.
The new staffing requirements reflect the government’s commitment to aligning Egypt’s maritime safety standards with international best practices. As the Red Sea is one of the world’s top diving destinations, maintaining high safety standards is essential for sustaining its reputation and ensuring the long-term viability of the sector.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
The implementation of these regulations is a significant step toward the sustainable development of Egypt’s marine tourism industry. While there is a need to address training deficiencies and workforce shortages, the long-term benefits of a well-trained, certified workforce will help the country maintain its position as a premier diving destination.
As the industry adapts to the new requirements, Egypt continues attracting tourists from around the world, seeking secure, world-class diving experiences in one of the most biodiverse marine environments globally. The new regulations, though challenging in the short term, offer a roadmap for a safer, more professional, and sustainable future for Egypt’s Red Sea diving safari sector.
