Lewini Liveaboard Overview

woman carrying a scuba tank near a rocky cave entranceDIVEIN contributor Rebecca Strauss taking a selfie near a city canal
By
Kiani Versluys
woman carrying a scuba tank near a rocky cave entrance
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Kiani is a PADI instructor with a passion for traveling. From taking her first breath under water in the Gulf of Thailand, to working in the...
Rebecca Strauss
DIVEIN contributor Rebecca Strauss taking a selfie near a city canal
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Rebecca has been an avid traveler and scuba diver for many years. She began her editorial career by updating travel guides, which took her all over...
White and navy liveaboard dive boat at anchor on calm open water
Part of the esteemed Dune fleet, Lewini stands out as a premier choice for liveaboard dive safaris in the northern and central Red Sea.
Liveaboard yacht anchored in calm turquoise water, stern view
This vessel, dating to 2003, underwent a complete renovation in 2019.
Dining tables under woven pendant lamps beside windows facing the sea
On the Lewini liveaboard, divers are treated to tasty meals served buffet-style three times a day.
Covered deck lounge area with wooden bar and cushioned seating
For those looking to unwind with a drink, alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and rum are available for purchase after daily activities.
Oceanic whitetip shark swimming with pilot fish in open water
Oceanic whitetips are not guaranteed, but are nonetheless very likely on your Red Sea dive safari.
Pod of dolphins swimming together over a sandy seabed
Lucky divers may encounter dolphins underwater.
Large school of jack fish schooling above a coral reef
The iconic Golden Triangle encompasses renowned sites like Brothers Islands and Daedalus Reef.
Shaded deck area with orange bean bags and wooden tables
The partially covered sundeck with a bar provides a perfect spot to unwind between dives or enjoy the sunset.
Cabin with a red-linened double bed and towel decorations
Each cabin features an ensuite bathroom, individually controlled air-conditioning, and ample storage space.
Twin cabin with red bedspreads, mirror and porthole window
Guests can choose their own cabins for an extra fee at the time of booking.

The Red Sea offers an unparalleled underwater adventure thanks to crystal-clear visibility and thriving marine biodiversity. Waters teem with pelagic species like sharks and rays, and vibrant coral reefs pulse with colorful fish. Iconic wrecks like the legendary Thistlegorm entice history lovers, and the chance to snorkel alongside playful dolphins adds an extra touch of magic.

Part of the esteemed Dune fleet, Lewini (formerly Ghani) stands out as a premier choice for liveaboard dive safaris in the northern and central Red Sea. This vessel, dating to 2003, underwent a complete renovation in 2019.

Lewini features 11 cabins and one suite, all equipped with toilets and showers.

Stretching approximately 121 feet (37 m) in length, Lewini offers an intimate yet spacious setting for up to 24 divers. Briefings are conducted in both French and English, and the ship caters predominantly to a French-speaking clientele.

About this overview

To help you decide whether this liveaboard fits your dive style, budget, and comfort needs, we’ve researched the boat, itinerary, onboard experience, diving setup, and overall value.
We review liveaboards based on the details that matter most during a multi-day dive trip, including cabins, food, crew support, dive operations, safety, route quality, and how the boat compares with similar options in the destination.

Things we like:

  • Family- and budget-friendly
  • Renovated in 2019
  • Nitrox is included

Things we don't like:

  • Surcharge for supervision by a diving instructor for OWD beyond (65 feet) 20 m
  • No dedicated photography area
  • Surcharge to choose your cabin

Diving on Lewini liveaboard

Oceanic whitetip shark swimming with pilot fish in open water
Bluespotted ribbontail ray resting on a coral reef
Large school of jack fish schooling above a coral reef
Group of spotted eagle rays gliding together over the seafloor

Whether you’re drawn to historical shipwrecks or vibrant coral reefs, Lewini offers tailored itineraries to suit your preference. For those seeking thrilling underwater landscapes, canyons and swim-throughs await.

Dive depths typically range up to 65 feet (20 m), and diving primarily takes place from the back of the boat. Because the Red Sea can feature unpredictable currents, divers should carry personal SMBs.

Lewini offers a variety of unique Red Sea diving itineraries. The iconic Golden Triangle encompasses renowned sites like Brothers Islands and Daedalus Reef, or chose the Daedalus, Elphinstone & Fury Shoals (DEF) route for even more variety.

Lewini’s versatile itineraries cater to families with young snorkelers or divers as well as offering opportunities to swim with wild dolphins and discover beginner-friendly dive sites.

Depending on the trip, specific qualifications and experience levels may be required for certain dives. If you don’t feel qualified for a particular dive, PADI courses are available on board.

Nitrox is available free of charge for certified divers. Additionally, gear rental is available at a surcharge.

Highlights:

  • Free nitrox
  • Up to 18 dives per trip
  • Marine life including frequent pelagics and dolphins
  • Dive sites including walls, wrecks, canyons, and gorgonian gardens

Onboard Lewini

Spacious liveaboard salon with cream sofas and patterned pillows
Rows of cushioned sun loungers under shade canopies on the sundeck
Covered deck lounge area with wooden bar and cushioned seating
Shaded deck area with orange bean bags and wooden tables

Onboard the Lewini, divers can enjoy newly renovated living space designed to accommodate up to 24 guests across 11 cabins and one suite. Each cabin features an ensuite bathroom, individually controlled air-conditioning, and ample storage space. Guests can choose their own cabins for an extra fee at the time of booking. The communal areas include a spacious indoor dining area and salon with AC.

The exterior spaces of the Lewini are designed for both socializing and relaxation. The partially covered sundeck with a bar provides a perfect spot to unwind between dives or enjoy the sunset.

Diving from the Lewini takes place from the well-equipped dive deck located at the rear of the boat. Here you’ll find gear bins for equipment storage, heated freshwater showers for rinsing off after dives, and ample space for preparing and staging dive gear.

Highlights:

  • Spacious, well-equipped dive deck at the back
  • Heated showers
  • Newly renovated interior spaces

Dining onboard Lewini

Liveaboard dining room with wooden tables and hanging lanterns
Dining tables set for guests beside large windows overlooking the sea
Crew member serving snacks from the onboard bar counter

On the Lewini liveaboard, divers are treated to tasty meals served buffet-style three times a day. From breakfast to lunch and dinner, dishes cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving Egyptian, French, or international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Dietary restrictions and preferences are also accommodated with enough advance notice. Additionally, coffee, tea, snacks, and fruit are available throughout the day for a quick pick-me-up. For those looking to unwind with a drink, alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and rum are available for purchase after daily activities.

Highlights:

  • Mix of French and Egyptian cuisine
  • Vegetarian options available
  • Buffet-style meals

Things we like:

  • Family- and budget-friendly
  • Renovated in 2019
  • Nitrox is included

Things we don't like:

  • Surcharge for supervision by a diving instructor for OWD beyond (65 feet) 20 m
  • No dedicated photography area
  • Surcharge to choose your cabin
Key facts
Year built: 2003
Max divers: 24
Rental equip: Yes ($)
Camera station: Yes
Internet: No
Min logged dives: No minimum
Nitrox: Yes (free)
Aircon: Yes
Trip length: 5-7 Nights
Price range: Budget
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