This long-anticipated policy change allows Red Sea yacht charters to explore Egypt’s entire coastline—from the untouched reefs to the ancient harbors of the Mediterranean—without the regulatory constraints that previously hindered access.
The decision follows engagement between maritime industry players and local authorities, with the Felix Maritime Agency playing a leading role in lobbying for reform. “This is a big win,” said Bahi Naguib, Operations Director at the Felix Maritime Agency. “Opening Egypt’s waters to foreign-flagged commercial yachts is a long-overdue move that puts us on the map as a serious charter destination.”
The policy shift responds to growing demand from international yacht owners, brokers, and charter guests seeking new and culturally rich cruising grounds. Egypt’s combination of world-renowned dive sites, archaeological treasures, and expanding marina infrastructure makes it a natural fit for high-end Red Sea charter itineraries.
However, Naguib cautions that the groundwork is still being laid. “There’s still a lot to sort out from customs and crew handling to basic marina infrastructure,” he said. “We also need to grow our domestic charter scene and invest in marine protection—especially through mooring systems that prevent anchor damage to our reefs. This is a strong first step. Now the real work begins.”