12 October 2026

Diving Red Sea in November: Conditions, Wetsuits & Liveaboards

Diving the Red Sea in November is an excellent option for divers who want to explore Egypt’s reefs, famous wrecks, and offshore dive sites as the region transitions from autumn to winter. Water temperatures remain relatively warm, while air temperatures become more comfortable than during the summer months. For liveaboard divers, November offers opportunities to explore different Red Sea itineraries, provided the route and dive sites suit the prevailing weather and sea conditions.

Key Takeaways

Red Sea water temperatures around Hurghada are typically about 25–27°C in November, although conditions vary by location and year.
A 3–5 mm wetsuit is a practical starting point, depending on personal cold tolerance and the number of daily dives.
Northern and southern liveaboard routes offer different combinations of reefs, wrecks, and offshore dive sites.
Wind and sea conditions can affect access to exposed reefs and may require itinerary changes.
Checking available departures and choosing a route suited to your experience level are essential when planning a November safari.

Is November a Good Time to Dive in the Red Sea?

Yes, November can be a very good month for diving in Egypt’s Red Sea. The water generally retains warmth from summer, while the air becomes more comfortable for spending several days aboard a liveaboard yacht. It is a useful time to combine reef diving, wreck exploration, and offshore adventures without the intense summer heat. However, the experience depends on where you dive and what you want from your trip.

For comfortable diving: Water temperatures remain suitable for recreational diving, although repeated dives can make you feel colder as the day progresses.
For wreck enthusiasts: Northern itineraries can combine historic wrecks, including the SS Thistlegorm, with coral reef dives.
For experienced divers: Southern offshore routes may offer access to sites such as the Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and Elphinstone Reef, depending on the itinerary and conditions.
For quieter travel: November falls outside the peak summer period, although visitor numbers and prices vary with departure dates and holidays.

The main consideration is that autumn conditions do not guarantee calm seas every day. Wind, currents, and local restrictions can influence which sites are accessible. A flexible itinerary and an experienced crew are therefore important when planning a liveaboard trip.

Red Sea Water Temperature and Weather in November

Water temperature, wind, and conditions on deck all affect your comfort during a multi-day diving safari. Around Hurghada, the sea typically measures approximately 25–27°C in November. Temperatures can differ between locations, and the water may feel cooler during deeper dives or after several consecutive dives. Air temperatures are generally more moderate than in summer, but evenings and early mornings can feel cool, especially when the wind picks up.

What wetsuit should you wear in November?

A 3–5 mm wetsuit is a sensible starting point for November diving in the Egyptian Red Sea. Your best choice depends on how easily you feel cold, your dive duration, and how many dives you plan to complete each day.

3 mm full wetsuit: May suit divers who tolerate cooler water well, particularly during shorter dives.
5 mm full wetsuit: Worth considering if you feel the cold, make multiple dives daily, or expect longer dives.
Additional protection: A hood or other suitable thermal accessories may improve comfort for cold-sensitive divers.
Between dives: Pack a windproof jacket, dry clothing, and a towel to stay warm on deck.

Remember that staying warm between dives is just as important as choosing the right wetsuit. On a liveaboard, you may spend several hours in changing wind and weather conditions, so preparation makes a noticeable difference to comfort.

Best Red Sea Liveaboard Routes in November

A liveaboard safari allows you to reach dive sites that may be impractical to visit on ordinary day trips. The best route depends on your interests, experience, departure port, and the conditions expected during your travel dates. Sadko Safari Fleet offers a range of Red Sea itineraries, including northern routes and offshore expeditions.

Northern Red Sea: Wrecks and Reef Systems

The northern Red Sea is a strong option for divers interested in historic shipwrecks alongside coral reefs. The North+Tiran liveaboard itinerary combines famous wreck sites, including the SS Thistlegorm and wrecks around Abu Nuhas, with the reef systems of the Straits of Tiran. Depending on the planned route and conditions, this combination offers variety across a multi-day trip. Divers should check the experience requirements for individual sites, particularly where currents or more demanding conditions are expected.

Southern Red Sea: Offshore Reefs and Pelagic Life

For experienced divers looking for remote reefs and the possibility of encountering larger marine species, southern offshore itineraries are worth considering. The Brothers, Daedalus and Elphinstone safari visits offshore sites known for deep walls, currents, and potential encounters with sharks and other pelagic species. These sites are not suitable for every diver. Experience requirements, current conditions, and the operator's safety procedures should guide your choice. Marine-life sightings are never guaranteed, and the final route depends on operational and weather conditions.

How to Choose the Right Route

Before booking a November trip, consider these factors:

Your experience: Some offshore routes require substantial experience and confidence in currents.
Your interests: Choose between wreck-focused itineraries, reef exploration, or offshore marine-life encounters.
Departure port: Check whether the safari starts and finishes in Hurghada or Port Ghalib.
Available dates: Review the Sadko Safari Fleet schedule for planned and confirmed departures.
Weather flexibility: Understand that the captain may adjust the route to maintain safety.

No single itinerary is automatically the best choice for everyone. Matching the route to your experience and expectations is more useful than choosing a trip based on the month alone.

How to Prepare for a November Liveaboard Safari

A little preparation helps you stay comfortable and make the most of your time underwater. Before departure, check your equipment, review the itinerary, and confirm any experience or certification requirements with the operator. Use this checklist when planning your trip:

Diving equipment: Bring a suitable wetsuit, mask, fins, and any personal equipment you prefer to use.
Thermal comfort: Pack a windproof layer and warm, dry clothing for evenings and surface intervals.
Certification and experience: Confirm that your qualifications and logged experience meet the requirements of your chosen route.
Travel arrangements: Allow enough time for transfers and follow the operator's guidance before booking connecting travel.
Weather and itinerary: Check current conditions and understand that planned dive sites can change.
Rest and hydration: Stay hydrated, get sufficient sleep, and follow dive briefings and safety procedures.

If you are comparing November with the following month, our guide to diving in the Red Sea in December will focus more closely on winter conditions, thermal protection, and planning for cooler days. For a later winter trip, the January diving guide will cover preparation for the colder part of the season.

Plan Your November Red Sea Diving Trip

November offers a useful balance of relatively warm water and more moderate air temperatures, making it an appealing time to explore Egypt’s Red Sea by liveaboard. Choose your route according to your experience, preferred dive sites, and comfort in cooler conditions, and remain flexible if the weather changes. Explore the Red Sea liveaboard itineraries and check the current departure schedule to find a safari that fits your plans. Or contact us to make your decision easier.

FAQs

Is the Red Sea too cold for diving in November?

No. Water temperatures around Hurghada are commonly around 25–27°C in November. Most recreational divers can enjoy the conditions with a suitable wetsuit, although personal cold tolerance and the number of daily dives affect comfort.

Can you see sharks in the Red Sea in November?

Sharks inhabit parts of the Egyptian Red Sea, and some offshore reefs are known for potential shark encounters. Sightings depend on the location, season, environmental conditions, and individual animal movements. No operator can guarantee an encounter.

Is November suitable for a Red Sea liveaboard?

Yes, November can be suitable for a liveaboard safari, offering access to a variety of northern and southern routes. However, offshore access and the final itinerary depend on weather, sea conditions, operational restrictions, and the requirements of the chosen route.

How do I choose a November diving safari?

Start with your experience level and preferred type of diving, then compare itineraries, departure dates, and available places. You can review the Sadko Safari Fleet itineraries and check the schedule before contacting the team about a suitable departure.