Instant Reader Report
on Katerina Maha / [same] in
Red Sea / Yemen on
2003/05
by
Kaz Kotlow , VA, USA
Report Number 030529001522221

 Thailand, Australia, The Red Sea (off Jeddah), and Key Largo. 

Dive Conditions

We used our computers to ensure that we stayed within the no decompression
limits.  Max depth for any of the dives was 115 feet  

Yemen provides little to no support for underwater photography.  The
Katerina M. has a basic underwater camera for use.  The clear water and
variety of sea life make for unforgettable photos.  

Overall Rating

  The diving was just fabulous.  The water was extremely clear on most
dives and temperatures very comfortable.  Captain Maurizio Pazelli is the
owner/operator of the Katerina Maha.  You can contact him directly on his
website info@captainmaurzio.com or call at Country Code 967- 7159-7054.  
  This is the only live-aboard opportunity out of Yemen, and the Yemeni
islands in the Red Sea offer a unique and unparalleled dive opportunity. 
Captain Maurizio is highly knowledgable of the various dive spots, having
spent the last four years focusing on this area.  With limited tourism,
the Yemen islands provide pristine conditions with no other divers to
distract from the experience.  We saw magnificent coral formations, and
wide varieties of fish.  Dolphins appeared on several occasions.  At the
last spot we saw a huge grouper that was approximately 7 feet long and
perhaps three feet wide.  We also did some lobster hunting. 
  Captain Maurizio has a professional crew that will courteously attend to
the needs of the visitor.  Conditions on the boat are comfortable but not
luxurious.  Food quality is generally excellent, with fresh seafood often
provided via the hunting skills of the first mate.  The overall atmosphere
is relaxed and enjoyable.  The boat can accomodate about 12 but there is
only enough SCUBA gear for 5.  The equipment provided is servicable but
not fancy.  I suggest arriving with as much of your own gear as possible
as there are no shops to buy last minute dive items.  
  According to the captain, the only bad times for diving in this area are
late November thru January.  My previous trip in February, we were not able
to get to the best dive sites due to wind conditions.  Late September into
October provides an opportunity to see whale sharks.   

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