Blog – March 2011

This month we were pleased to host a visit by the founder of IKAN underwater photographic archive, Mr Helmut Debelius, also known as “Abu el Samak”—the father of fishes. Helmut’s passion for the marine world, coupled with a sharp eye and brilliant photography skills, has granted him the honour of having species named after him, such as the Debelius Pygmy Seahorse. The Seahorse, one of the author's own discoveries, is an endemic creature of the Red Sea. During his stay with us Helmut gave two lectures at a packed Camel Bar, about sea horses' behaviour and his quarter of a century’s memories of marine life in all the oceans of the world. His photographs have appeared in the most prestigious nature magazines and he has authored about 30 books -including the famous Red Sea Reef Guide- all more than worthy of a place in any serious diver's library.

Sharm El Sheikh and the Red Sea resorts remained calm during the troubles experienced in other Egyptian cities last month. Flights from the UK to Red Sea resorts have continued throughout the period. Other European countries are now restarting flights to Sharm. Some excellent prices are available for holiday packages and flight-only – and of course, with sunny weather, a sea temperature of 24C and few tourists around, there is no better time to dive in Sharm! Check our Links page for flights from your country, and see below for our special offers.