Britons visiting a popular holiday destination have been issued with a fresh warning by the Foreign Office after “fatalities”.
The Government have released advice for UK citizens visiting the Red Sea, as safety standards in the region “vary”.
The Foreign Office said online: “There have been recent incidents involving British nationals on diving boats/tours in the Red Sea. Some of these have included fatalities.
“Safety standards of Red Sea resort diving operators and boats vary considerably. Some operators may not provide adequate safety and insurance standards.”
Visitors have been told that they should observe safety standards on board and exercise caution, make bookings through your tour representative or reputable operator if possible, and check the weather and stay alert to changes.
They have been urged to neither dive nor snorkel without a dive buddy or guide, nor dive below their insurance policy’s depth limit. This is because doing so would invalidate their cover.
The Government adds: “Make sure your travel insurance, or the tour or dive company, will cover the costs for any air or sea rescue, which can cost more than 4,000 US dollars per hour.
“The Egyptian authorities will only start rescue operations when they are guaranteed payment. Book excursions for activities at your resort or through approved agents or tour operators.”
Further, officials describe a risk from wildlife, adding: “Shark attacks are rare, but there have been attacks on tourists in the Red Sea region.
“Monitor any updates from local authorities or your tour operator.”
As regards desert visits, the Government warns that there have been several serious quad bike accidents involving British nationals in resort areas.
Advice reads: “Take the same precautions as you would in the UK. Safety standards vary considerably. Always wear a crash helmet.”
Officials add that there is a small risk from unexploded landmines in some desert areas.
These include north-west Egypt near El-Alamein, on limited stretches of the Mediterranean coast near Marsa Matrouh and on the Red Sea coast south of Suez.
The Foreign Office says: “Dangerous areas are usually well marked with signs and barbed wire fencing.
“Take care and follow local advice, especially if planning trips off marked roads or paths.”