Old news and stories
SUBEX Live Ticker MUBA 2011
Last update: Egypt, Febuary 21, 2011
Images and impressions from Saturday evening after the second day of the fair on February 5: After a very well-attended Saturday in the host country-region "Egypt," it was time for the SUBEX exhibition team to spend a nice pleasant evening together. First, Hall 2 should be tested: There were still two hours after the fair closes at 6:00, so they could end the day eating, drinking, and meeting exhibitors. The Feldschlösschen beer, typical for the region, and the band’s good music, had (almost) all the dancing legs swinging. (Photo left: Ayman, Martina, Remo, Laura)
The owners of SUBEX René Galster and Walti Guggenbühl came. Ayman in tow, Doris and Laura from the dive center in El Quseir, Ivonne from the Hurghada dive center, and Steffi from the Head Office. Day One has begun, and already much was going on at the SUBEX booth: Many of Rene and Walti’s friends and guests from the pioneer days on the Red Sea or before came to check on how things were going. Just as at the BOOT show in Dusseldorf, gold and silver members could enjoy a glass of champagne, making it easier to reminisce about the old days.
The interest of non-diving guests was also large; the inflow in Hall 1, the host country area, was more than expected.
SUBEX is a Swiss company that has influenced the world's diving tourism since 1965. For the past 25 years, SUBEX has been based in Egypt with five diving centers on Red Sea. These include not only the oldest surviving dive center in Hurghada, but also one of the greatest. That is reason enough to exhibit in Basel, where Egypt is the host country of the 2011 exhibition.
With a 3 x 4 meter booth, we will welcome our guests with news from the world of diving. There are small gifts, and our members will certainly recognize one or more familiar faces from our dive centers!
We invite you to get excited by the images that we show on the screen.
SUBEX Live Ticker BOOT 2011
We keep you posted: On a regular basis we update you about our participation on the fair trade BOOT Düsseldorf in 2011. You will find us at hall 3, stand 3F59.
Saturday 29 January: The long awaited day had come: On Saturday, Monika Rahimi could be considered the good fairy, as she drew the winner of a Dive Leader training with SUBEX Hurghada worth €3,000. On the day, 26 qualified people were registered, hoping that luck and chance would smile on them. Johann and Monica presented again the idea behind the raffle of the Dive Leader program in Egypt: Namely, to get a good, solid education! 
“ Instructor / Guides QUO VADIS.“ Earlier the same day, SUBEX CEO Johann Vifian addressed concerns of himself and many other dive center operators: ill-trained instructors and guides. The title of the event was "You cannot dive- you can just be cheap ." Johann provocatively questioned the work of diving organizations, who send minmally trained instructors and guides to the dive centers. After the lecture, and the call for more efficient, collaborative work on higher standards, Johann was given a handful of audience applause, which came from the heart. SUBEX is giving away a dive guide worth €3,000 in this year's BOOT show on Saturday the 29th, which was also well received. Ten divers hope to win. We are very excited to see how the other stage appearances on " Instructor / Guides QUO VADIS " will go on Wednesday and Thursday!
Monika contributed three copies of her new book "Diving Without Stress“ to the raffle. Then, with the 26 completed pieces of paper rustling in the bag, Monica closed her eyes and pulled a winner out of the bag: Congratulations Michael Beck! We are pleased that he will undergo professional training with SUBEX this year!Later, in the booth, Monika signed the three books for the audience winners.
After a quiet day at the fair, the SUBEX staff longed for the hot weekend, and so Johann and Verena, Simone and Steffi and owner René made their way to the Unterwasser magazine Rhine cruise. The well-known magazine hosted a rollicking evening with wine, food and dancing on the ship. The four hours on the Rhine were mostly spent laughing and dancing. Managing Director Johann was particularly pleased with the predominantly female company from the House of Subex, because with this he could do his best rock 'n roll dancing.
Unfortunately, owner Walti Guggenbühl could not attend due to health reasons. Thus, René Galster and Johann Vifian welcomed the known and longest-standing faces, and with them the estimated fair troop of Subex.
(Above: Franz Benz of Uemis, Guido Wätzig of SSI, Jürgen Hronek, our Dahab dive center manager)
SUBEX sends guestrs a hello from Dusseldorf on the opening day today, January 22.
They have all now arrived: a few not quite as uncomplicated as planned, but if all goes as planned, it is indeed only half as interesting. The Egyptian customs proved to eventually understand, and all five of those arriving on Thursday had their luggage. The plane arrived finally after some delay-- frozen airplane, missing luggage, missing passengers—at midnight in Cologne , and after the troops ate sausages and bread, there was still the trip to Dusseldorf and a tired check-in at the hotel.
Friday morning there was a meeting to clarify recent purchases, and off to the fair building everyone went. Our constructors Christian and Sina had already finished building our booth. Now we just had to make some last arrangements.
At dinner with the whole team, the first organizational stress fell away: Everything works, power is there, TV is running, the lights work, equipment has arrived. Guests may come!
Day 1, Saturday, January 22.
Then the clock struck 10, and the first guests gathered at our booth. The curious, wanting to know what was going on with the FEEL THE DIVE vouchers, divers, for the raffle of a dive guide training in Hurghada with a total value of €3,000, interested members that just wanted to say hello, business partners looking for candidates who wanted to inquire about a job at the Red Sea, and hungry folks who wanted to enjoy the treats brought from Basel. In brief, all members of staff. In betwee, the five SUNEX staff were slowly preparing for the first trade show at 11:30.
Johann, Simone, and Piesi introduced the FEEL THE DIVE dive. This year, we give away this particulra dive to anyone who wants it. The guest gets a voucher that he can redeem at all SUBEX dive centers. While the three of them listened to the interested visitors, Ivonne and Steffi handed out lottery tickets. At the end of the 10-minute lecture, there was a drawing for three FEEL THE DIVE Lycra shirts, which easily provide sun protection while snorkeling or additional insulation in cooler water.
The winners, two male and one female diver, were delighted with the gifts.
Every day between 11:00 und 12:00, SUBEX invites its gold and silver members to a champagne reception. Perhaps it was coincidence that Harald, who won two 10-dive packages in the beginning of January, has come by during this perios. Of course, he was very welcome.
The opening day was a success for SUBEX.
Today, January 4, we are pleased to announce that for our stage performances, we had the
chance to win a very familiar face as the good fairy: Monika Rahimi, author of the excellent reference book Diving Without Fear, which SUBEX always used for the training of each instructor and guide. On January 29, Monika will draw the name of a lucky winner who will win a three-month guide training with SUBEX.
Here is an overview of our stage performances:
• Saturday, January 22, 11:30: FEEL THE DIVE
• Monday, January 24, 16:50: "You can not dive - you can just cheap"
• Wednesday, January 26, 15:50: "You can not dive - you can just be cheap"
• Thursday, January 27, 12:20, "You can not dive - you can just be cheap"
• Saturday, January 29, 14:10: professional instructor / guide - Quo vadis? (+ raffle Dive Leader course at SUBEX in Egypt)
• Sunday, January 30, 16.50: FEEL THE DIVE
We are delighted that Monica, who has recently published a new book Diving without Stress, will be supporting us in our stage performances.
Today the german information about the BOOT News were sent to the media. Here you can read, what is planned for the fair trade:
As every year, SUBEX THE ART OF DIVING has its own stand at the BOOT show with its four dive centers on the Red Sea--this time even bigger! For our guests and the diving scene we have, as always, thought of something special. Visit us at Booth 3F59.
For our guests: FEEL THE DIVE
Like a fish in water - without feeling neoprene, without lead, diving without a jacket, the sea, just free-diving with tanks on our backs. It’s a feeling, an experience in which the freedom of being in the water, the fun of diving and the giant impression to become one with the underwater world is in the foreground. Free of too much technology, the diver relies on his buddy, and free of lead and jacket, he relies on his lungs. Back to basics: That’s how it was done before, and it’s still fun today. Huge even!
We want each of our guests to enjoy the brilliant feeling of FEEL THE DIVE. The promotion is supported with vouchers for a free guided FEEL THE DIVE next vacation at the resort of choice, as well as a daily raffle of custom-built, high-quality, Lycra FEEL THE DIVE tops, a value of 33 € CHF/24.
For our guests: Daily champagne reception
So the fair is not only informational but also fun and funny, SUBEX treats its Silver and Gold members to a daily champagne reception at its stall between 11 und 12 clock. We look forward to seeing you again.
For the diving scene: "We can not really dive, we can just be cheap."
Hansi Black already recognized this in his report of 2001. SUBEX has this same problem like many other dive centers: We employ instructors and guides who, according to press photographer Udo Kefrig, “suffer a decompression accident already in the shower ". The diving organizations support poor education, as divers can become professional guides with only 50 dives. The courses are stripped down, are poorly evaluated, and everywhere in the world those with no skills at all are employed. They must learn the first time during their practice in the profession, working inefficiently for the company.
We are concerned with our appearance at the 2011 BOOT to find a dialogue of scuba diving companies, associations and individuals that form the professional instructors / guides. We persistently insist that in the future, diving organizations work together with businesses so the quality increases to a reasonable condition - and even that is not enough!
SUBEX runs its own training center in Hurghada, and explained at its stage presentation how this is working, what skills are expected of trained instructors / guides, to make a connection to the future outlook for the profession. We as a diving business, along with those interested in diver education, are interested in the questions: In the next 10 years, will the regulations continue to loosen, and the requirements of the organization continue to lower? Or will something happen in the diving training industry to increase reliability, safety and responsibility?
We support the program item on Saturday, January 29, at 2:10 pm, with the raffle of a dive guide training at SUBEX. The winner will receive 3 months training in Egypt, room and board, a bit of pocket money and of course the intensive course with a value of 2.240 € //1.600 CHF. Prerequisite for the start of the three-month training is 50 dives and the CMAS ** T or the equivalent. The winner will be named in our live Boot2011 ticker on the homepage SUBEX.
After the Shark attack in Sharm el Sheikh
The history:
Big Party
YOUR OPINION/DRAW
The winners will be contacted personally and informed by the end of December 2010 on this website.
Our head office employees Verena Vifian, Stefanie Theimer, Carola Borchert and managing director behind the camera Johann Vifian will be clinking their glasses when the new homepage goes online on 16 June 2010.
Many thanks to everybody concerned for the successful collaboration.
Educational holiday – marine biological seminar on “fluorescence”
For the fifth time in a row, we are collaborating with VDST marine biologists Dr. Ralph O. Schill and Steffen Hengherr to organise a week of marine biology at the Mövenpick Resort Serena Beach in El Quseir.
From 11th to 18th November 2010, Ralph and Steffen will discuss the mysterious blue and red fluorescence of the coral and fish. The seminar participants can make the most of the opportunity to explore the coral reef and research the wealth of fish in the ecological bay of El Quadim from a scientific perspective. The idea is to learn more about the Red Sea’s fascinating eco-system, to enjoy the sensation of plunging into this alien, iridescent cosmos and to develop an understanding of the bright colours of this underwater world.
The informative events consist of varied talks on “How the Red Sea Began” to “Corals – The Reef's Luminescent Master Builders”, “Fishy Fluorescence” and more.
(Both photos: Oliver Meckes)
Of course it’s not just about the theory; guests can also enjoy themed dives, which satisfy the need for rest and relaxation in addition to the thirst for knowledge.
SUBEX and Mövenpick have taken various ecological steps to protect El Quadim bay as a small nature reserve for the past 15 years – it is unique in the northern Red Sea.
The price per participant (exclusive of flight, accommodation and board) amounts to 520 Euros/780 Swiss Francs including VDST special marine biology course “Fluorescence”, certification, 8 guided dives (of which 6 special dives and 2 fun dives) including 12 or 15 litre steel cylinders of your choice and lead, transfers from Hurghada or Marsa Alam airport to the hotel and back, as well as specific programme transfers.
Talk to us about programmes and bookings! We’re happy to answer your questions.
Congratulations and here’s to a good working relationship
To SUBEX, it doesn’t matter which diving instructors have what diving experience – at least not on paper. Their standard of training is personally tested by managing director Johann. In order to be able to train with SUBEX, each diving instructor must go through a special school regardless of age or experience. This extra training takes anywhere between a couple of days and a couple of weeks – basically until the newcomer is able to act and train according to SUBEX standards. Both SSI and CMAS cover this. By the start of May 2010, six diving instructors had completed the theory elements - now it’s onto the practical stage. We look forward to a happy and successful working relationship!
From left to right: Gero, Mike, Natascha and Jürgen, who graduated the course, and Christoph, base manager at the Hurghada base, Michaela, his wife and also an instructor for the Hurghada base, as well as Sohnemann Lennard
(Missing are Andras and Thilo, who also passed the course to become a SUBEX diving instructor)
Enhancing the staff – a new SUBEX “recruit” in Dahab
Diving from the shore in Dahab is a thing of the past! SUBEX is expanding its range of services to include something not offered at any other base.
Dahab on the eastern Sinai coast is renowned for its awe-inspiring underwater worlds – but not for full-day diving trips from a boat that will take you as far as possible to undeveloped, untouched and amazingly well-preserved coral reefs. Quite the contrary. Those looking for the luxury and amenities of boat diving would hardly stop to consider Dahab. Besides the reefs “Gabr el Bint” and “Napoleon Reef”, hardly any of the many dive sites are presently accessed by boat.
SUBEX would like to do justice to the inexhaustible wealth of diving locations in Dahab and take you to explore reefs that no other base has cared to visit to date. As explorer and adventurer in fair weather and quiet seas, you will now have the opportunity to do some pioneering work in these heretofore unexplored sites.
So to offer you access to the richness of Dahab’s underwater world, we’d like to introduce you to our newest “employee”, who, as per SUBEX’S usual standards, is reliable, safe and comfortable: ROMY, a recently refurbished boat with new engine.
The facts: “Quite the lady”, this 21-metre long, 5-metre wide boat bowled us over with her comfortable, spacious salon. Although ROMY is licensed to take 25 people, only 16 guests at most will be on board - thus allowing each a bit more space in which to enjoy their diving experience. 
The deck offers plenty of space for sun-worshippers, as well as providing that relaxing holiday feeling. The captain and cook will take care of the rest. Excellent local knowledge coupled with a finely attuned nose for diver requirements complete the service.
> ROMY Picture gallery
The landing stage is situated just a few minutes from the well-established hotel complexes of Swiss Inn Hotel Dahab, Iberhotel Dahabeya and Hilton Hotel Dahab, which are generally popular with SUBEX divers. This avoids long and tiresome access routes and stops you having to drag heavy equipment for long distances.
We are very pleased to welcome you every day all year round, both on board the new dive boat ROMY and to dives from shore.
The following dive spots are on the programme on our day trips, subject to wind and wave conditions:
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Not subject to weather |
Subject to weather |
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Napoleon Riff, Gabr El Bint (North/ South), Gabr El Bint (North/South), Triple Pool, Moray Garden |
Umm Sid, Abu Galoum (North/South), Shagarat (Gabr el Bint), Shabsaid (Gabr el Bint), The Islands |
Our Dahab team (including ROMY!) is more than happy to answer any queries or requests sent to dahab@subex.org - we can hardly wait to welcome you aboard!
For those that have opted for a diving package on the house reef, it is of course no problem to book an additional boat trip on site.
> Booking diving with ROMY
New opportunities for committed divers
Since winter 2010 SUBEX has expanded its product range. We now offer committed divers in Sharm, El Quseir and Dahab the chance to book 15-dive packages at the house reef. Of course we also grant our special offers on this package too.VDST seminar week “Coral reef fish” with SUBEX in El Quseir
09.07.2007
Experience – Research - Explore
... Together with VDST marine biologist Dr. Ralph O. Schill and his team, the SUBEX Diving Centre organised a marine biology week at the Mövenpick Resort "Sirena Beach“ in El Quseir from 6th to 13th December 2007.
The seminar is aimed at all sport divers with a diving qualification and experience (preferably in tropical waters) interested in learning about the variety of coral reef fish, particular fish species and their habitat and behaviour in the Red Sea. There is a colourful programme comprising fascinating talks, zoological insights and proper bio-dives at the hotel’s private bay, thereby providing the best conditions for marine biological research.
Underwater, participants will learn how to recognise the most important coral fish families and see what role these play in the coral reef habitat by their appearance and swimming/feeding behaviour. El Quseir is not only home to 153 different types of coral fish and 91% of all stone coral varieties in the northern Red Sea; it is also a historical site. German scientist Dr. Carl Benjamin Klunzinger researched here in the 19th century and laid the foundations for modern reef ecology. In a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, SUBEX and the VDST offer a week’s educational holiday where there’s also plenty of diving to be had.
Recommended price per participant approx. EUR 750.00 / CHF 1185,00 including VDST specialist course on marine biology, 7 nights in a double room with half board at the 5-star MÖVENPICK Resort in El Quseir, 8 dives incl. 12 or 15 PTG of your choice with SUBEX air28, lead, transfers from the airport at Hurghada or Marsa Alam to the hotel and back, as well as transfers specific to the programme.
For bookings and information about the seminar, please contact SUBEX Diving Centres via e-mail at info@subex.org or by telephone on 0020 – 65 3548 651.
Your Your SUBEX Team
SUBEX on the BOAT ’07
19.02.2007
Right in the middle of it, not just standing by...
For the third time in a row, we the SUBEX team have had our own stand in ‘Diving Hall 3’ at the largest water sports exhibition in Europe, the nine-day “BOOT”, which opened for the 38th time in Düsseldorf on 20 January.
Welcome to the SUBEX stand
First co-exhibitor on the VDST stand with partner exhibitor the EL QUSEIR CHARTA and HEPCA, this time we were able to cause a real furore with our SUBEX highlight - the air mix SUBEX air28, which amazed many visitors. Because at last we managed to surprise – in a good way – those people who still hadn’t acquired a taste for it, with a fruity and sweet complimentary cocktail. Oh, and a little secret: not only does air28 work as the number 1 energiser underwater, it also helped us keep up our strength during the trade fair, particularly in the evenings.
Show on Stage... with
HEPCA and El QUSEIR CHARTER
Whoever claims that supporters of environmental protection are all talk and no action would be completely wrong this time. For the first time, HEPCA - possibly the most significant NGO in Egypt – stepped on stage to present the example activities for environmental protection in Egypt. Managing Director und anchorman Mr. Amr Ali pulled out all the stops on the topic “Egypt doesn’t just talk, it acts!”, alongside Johann Vifian (who initiated the El Quseir Charter) and guest of honour Dr. Mohamed Saleh, Member of Parliament Egypt. The audience showed its appreciation for perhaps the most spectacular on-stage presentation for an exhibition opening with a standing ovation...
SUBEX air28
Some people enjoy a good debate. At precisely 11 am on the first Sunday of the exhibition, SUBEX caused quite the adrenalin rush on the diving scene as Johann Vifian, managing director and developer of SUBEX air28, held a public debate with Thomas Sobotta from PADI EUROPE on what could be the most exciting question of the future: “Do you need an additional diver’s qualification to dive with enriched oxygen?” SUBEX says NO! Two very helpful experts, doctors Prof. Dr. Dr. Dieter Seiler and Prof. Jochen Schipke, were also on hand with their comments.
Party whispers
What would BOOT be without its parties?! They’re a great way to exchange new gossip on the diving scene. SUBEX had a lot of fun in the middle of it all, but we’re keeping our mouths zipped for the time being...
See you at the next BOOT!
Your SUBEX Team
“Sea” more with SUBEX and VDST
16.12.2006
Marine biology seminar with SUBEX in El Quseir on the Red Sea
Experience – Research – Explore! – This was the motto in December 2006 when a group of knowledge-thirsty divers came to SUBEX at the MÖVENPICK Resort in EL Quseir. With a colourful programme comprising fascinating talks, zoological insights und proper bio-dives, the participants (under the guidance of VDST marine biologist Dr. Ralph Schill and his team - all marine biologists, too: Steffen Hengherr, Stefan Greif and Arndt Stenzel) were able to discover the secrets of the coral reef eco-system up close. Brightly coloured, lush coral reefs and a great wealth of fish made for a very successful bio-week, complemented by radiant sunshine and warm temperatures. Once again, theoretical information and underwater experiments conveyed the importance of protecting the marine habitat. One thing is for certain: this eventful educational week will be hard to forget - and is already on the programme for December 2007 at VDST!
The highest accolade for SUBEX Red Sea
As part of the TOURISM ENRICHES (UNWTO) programme launched by the United Nations, “World Tourism Day 2006” was celebrated on 27th September.
This important event in tourism was an occasion for the Prime Minister of Egypt, H.E. Dr. Ahmed Nazif to invite selected companies and public figures - the so-called crème de la crème of tourism – to attend.
Thus on the evening of the 27thSeptember 2006 in Cairo, 45 companies were honoured by His Excellency Minister of Tourism Zoheir Garranah with the “Award of Excellence”, in recognition of their great contributions to tourism in Egypt .
Alongside tourist professionals such as TRAVCO, Hotel Marriott and Salem Hussein as the owner of the Jolie Ville MÖVENPICK, Johann Vifian, SUBEX’s managing director and partner accepted this special award on behalf of the SUBEX Diving Centre in El Quseir. A worthy recognition of the company’s great commitment and dedication to maintaining and protecting coral reefs, as well of its major progress in boosting diving tourism at the Red Sea.
40-year company anniversary: SUBEX in El Quseir
More than 320 friends of SUBEX in festive party mood
The anniversary week won’t be forgotten in a hurry: The 4 – 11 December 2005 in El Quseir went with a bang, with some lovely memories to take home. More than 180 friends of SUBEX joined founders Walti Guggenbühl and René Galster as well as Johann Vifian, partner and managing director in Egypt, for a week-long celebration in which SUBEX indulged its guests in time-honoured fashion with a great programme of events and plenty of little surprises. Hosts Walti, René and Johann spared no cost or effort.
Meeting point Zurich airport: 144 Swiss SUBEX diving friends took off for Hurghada on board the privately chartered aircraft EDELWEISS from Swiss tour operator KUONI.
Arrival in Egypt – Hurghada Airport: Great atmosphere and summer temperatures awaited the guests, who arrived to a very hearty welcome from Johann and his SUBEX crew. Then it was on to El Quseir in 16 minibuses.
Once at the little Eastern paradise of “Sirena Beach” – the pick of Möven resorts - all guests were given an anniversary SUBEX T-shirt and baseball cap as a welcome gift. And knowing SUBEX, everyone knew there was more to come: the biggest present you can give a diver is, and will always be, a dive. The hosts had thought up something special, giving each anniversary guest 8 dives to arrange as desired. Everyone was able to choose between early morning dives, night dives, boat tours, private reef dives, jeep safaris and more.
Happily, lots of Walti, René and Johann’s “old” friends and “loyal” guests from the past 40 years came to El Quseir and 
made the anniversary week a real family get-together – the atmosphere was fantastic. And those looking for a bit of diversity besides the diving weren’t disappointed, either – Bedouin dinners, archaeological desert tours, city tour, talks and slide show on the underwater world were all on offer.
If that wasn’t enough, guests also had the chance to attend the international symposium on “environmental awareness and eco-friendly diving” held at the Mövenpick Hotel. SUBEX invited expert scientists from Europe and Egypt especially for the occasion. The result of the 3-day symposium set another milestone with the El Quseir Charter, which will be presented to the public for the first time on 21 January at the Düsseldorf trade fair BOOT.
The glitzy highlight “SUBEX Gala Evening”: You’d be amazed how divers manage to scrub up so nicely! If you were used to seeing them in wetsuits and diving gear, you’d have to do a double-take... With glitz, glamour and high heels, the ladies looked dazzling beside the smartly-dressed gentlemen.
The absolute highlight of the whole week was probably the SUBEX Gala Evening. “40 years of SUBEX” with THE ART OF DIVING went the motto, and we celebrated accordingly. A party with an international touch: guests from Europe and Egypt, SUBEX employees and guests of honour from the worlds of politics and science came along to celebrate and pay tribute to SUBEX and its founders.
At 5 pm, more than 300 guests were at the cocktail reception and enjoying seafood on the Seagulls Terrace. A candle-lit path lead the guests safely to the party location, a massive blue and white marquee in the Mövenpick complex.
Johann Vifian gave a festive start to proceedings, which besides the wonderful culinary delights involved lots of great international showbiz stars - making the gala evening simply unforgettable. The famous Swiss presenter and ventriloquist Kliby & Caroline kicked off the evening with great comedy, fast-paced jokes and plenty of charm. Then Phil Dexter “The Voice of Elvis” and “The Blues Brothers” got the audience going with some rock music. 
Flying in from Switzerland especially for the evening was Music Star contestant who represented Eurovision for Switzerland in 2006, Claudia D’Addio – simply known as “The Voice” in Switzerland. And what a voice! It tore everyone from their seat and ended up disrupting the evening programme somewhat with all the encores! And if any gentleman hadn't managed to enchant the lady beside him, Swiss magician “Sveroni” was able to do so instead. He made the whole audience catch their breath and ask “Just how does he do that?” One of the 5 best magicians in the world – and with good reason!
But SUBEX wouldn’t be SUBEX if we didn’t have anything to say about “the good old times” as well as the “new”. So the speeches given by the hosts especially for this evening were an absolute pleasure to listen to. Looking back, Walti Guggenbühl and René Galster told the story of their beginnings on Elba in 1965 and their first diving adventure with jeep and tent at the Red Sea. Johann Vifian took a look into the future presenting a world premier, the ‘SUBEX Air28’” Yet another milestone has been reached in SUBEX history, following the tradition of the last 4 decades.
After the final culinary highlight – dessert, of course - the Cologne band BOULEVARD and its atmospheric and pretty lead singer Songül Wiesmann captivated the audience with the song “SUBEX is Good”, a premiere for the recently produced CD “SUBEX – Sounds of Diving”. Making the atmosphere even more perfect was the moment all SUBEX employees walked onto the stage holding sparklers as a thank-you to hosts Walti, René, Johann and the audience. After a standing ovation and thunderous applause, the stage was opened to all and the party went with a swing until well into the early hours.
Last but not least, Gold SUBEX Members were in for a very special treat: “The Golden Night”. An evening excursion to the El Quseir desert was an awe-inspiring experience for about 20 Gold Member guests. Over a glass of champagne, they marvelled at the colourful rock formations in the soft gleam of the setting sun. And finally there was a 4-course meal created especially by Mövenpick head chef and base leader Michael Latschenberger.
Before packing the cases for the journey home, everyone was able to spend one final day recovering from the party in some beautiful warm sunshine. And so a wonderful, diverse and truly unforgettable week at SUBEX in El Quseir finally came to an end... But one thing’s for sure: the whole SUBEX crew is already looking forward to seeing you all again... very soon!
Hurghada, December 2005
Sabine Zilligen
SUBEX Red Sea
Archive about the SUBEX Diving Center El Quseir, Mövenpick Resort
Base - Diving Center closed on March, 1., 2011 after 17 years
Opening Times
We always adjust the base’s opening times to the light conditions in order to make full use of the sunlight hours.
Base Equipment
The diving base is equipped for 124 guests.
Base Leader
Stefan “Piesi” Piesker is an experienced diver and has been an enthusiastic instructor and instructor trainer for more than 15 years. As a sports student and specialist salesperson for diving, he has been able to turn his passion into his profession. He has been part of the SUBEX El Quseir management team for 5 years and is currently supported by Hans-Jürgen "Hansi" Scherp as Operations Manager.
Check-in
Welcome Dive
At the start of the holiday, each diver – whether ‘independent’ or ‘guided’ – will take part in an initial Welcome Dive. This takes place in a group of 4 people at most, plus a SUBEX guide or diving instructor. The goal is to help each diver feel relaxed underwater and to get to know the programme at El Quadim bay. After the dive, you and the guide will discuss how to arrange the rest of the holiday. You will not be charged for the guide during this initial dive.
Check-out
Please inform the desk that you are about to do your last dive. As you bid farewell to our beautiful bay, the office team will be preparing your itemised bill. This means you don't need to wait for the review and will be able to go through your bill with our staff straight after your last dive. All services can be paid for at check-out either in cash (Euros, Swiss Francs, US dollars or Egyptian pounds) or by credit card (VISA, American Express or Mastercard).
LOCATION Diving Center closed on March, 1., 2011
EL QUSEIR
The former fishing village of El Quseir is situated about 1 ½ hours south of Hurghada by car and one hour north of Marsa Alam Airport - you can still experience the original Egypt here. The inhabitants are friendly and helpful towards tourists. In addition to the small shopping street with bazaars, you can also do guided tours of the old town.
MÖVENPICK SIRENA BEACH RESORT
From afar, what is possibly the most beautiful complex on the Red Sea looks like an Eastern village and is an oasis of peace. The rooms consist of small individual bungalows. Various gourmet restaurants wait on you every day with new specialities and there are also several heated swimming pools as well as a gym and spa area. The hotel offers a wide range of leisure activities such as traditional camel-back excursions to the desert, or the rather faster quad bike option! There is a full description of the Mövenpick Sirena Beach Resort on their homepage. Please send any queries directly to the hotel byquseir@moevenpick.com"> E-Mail.
EL QUADIM BAY – THE ECO-BAY
Today you will find a small nature reserve offering a unique wealth of coral and fish. Rarities such as the Pegasus sea moth and “Red Sea walkman” as well as rays and dolphins are frequently spotted here.
DIVING BASE
The diving base is located at the northern end of the Mövenpick Hotel and can be accessed along our El Quadim bay.
Dive sites in El Quseir Diving Center closed on March, 1., 2011
The house reef
In El Quseir, all dive sites are located on the fringing reef as there are no offshore islands or reefs here.
From shallow waters to deep, gradually sloping beds to steep descents, reef crevices and canyons to grottos, there’s an adventure for every taste and ability just waiting to be had. You’ll find an incomparable wealth of coral and lots of different species of fish and rare creatures. Even our shallow area offers plenty to discover on leisurely dives.
DIVE EXCURSIONS
The dive sites to the north and south of our bay are easily reached by minibus or speedboat. It is up to you to decide which dive site to visit by means of our ‘safari wall’, which depicts all our best spots. Simply choose your favourite(s) and the group and dive guide will together determine which is best for the current weather conditions and dive experiences.
If you’d prefer not to wait until you’re actually here with us, why not take a look at the following gallery and take your inspiration from the most varied of diving locations. > El Quseir dive sites
The SUBEX diving programme in El Quseir Diving Center closed on March, 1., 2011
Dives at El Quadim bay
A 75 metre long pontoon will take you straight from the dive centre to the house reef’s access platform.
This sheltered area means that safe access is possible in any weather condition. Our helpful employees will be waiting for you with the required cylinders, be they SUBEX air28 or Nitrox. They will also be happy to help you assemble your diving equipment.
You can make use of the Zodiac service to take you from the pontoon to the outer reef areas in El Quadim bay, allowing you to experience more of the bay’s reef.
Early morning and night dives are available several times a week and top off our varied programme.
Diving along the coast
Beautiful and exciting dive sites are also to be found to the north and south of our bay. We offer two variants that will help you get to know this interesting spot: daily half-day or full-day excursions in air-conditioned minibuses or speedboats depending on the weather. A diving boat is also available in season. One particularly special full-day experience comes in the form of a visit to the Red Sea Wall with the Divers Valley.
Diving for children
Bringing children and young people closer to life beneath the waves is an important and beautiful task. We offer dives for children and young people, as well as special diving courses. All programmes are subject to age and there will be an initial consultation with the parents or guardians about the child’s physical and mental fitness.
Diving Courses
Regardless of whether you want to do a beginner’s course or consolidate your training, our bay offers perfect conditions for all kinds of SUBEX courses. To get an idea as to whether diving is for you, simply go on one of our taster dives. All details about courses or further training are found here:
EXTRAS Diving Center closed on March, 1., 2011
Environment
Our maxim ecological diving isn’t just a saying – we let our actions speak for us, too. This is why we haven’t just limited the number of guests at the diving base; we’ve also limited the number of divers in the water at one time to 30. We also make sure we explain how to act sensibly at the reef using the most up-to-date press reports e.g. the film “Die letzten Tage im Paradies” (Last Days in Paradise) by German channel WDR. Beach clean-ups and setting up buoys at our safari sites are equally important.
In order to verify for ourselves whether our measures are successful, we carry out a reef check twice a year. The result has been documented in films, for example: Film Archive
Childcare
Childcare is available at the Mövenpick Resort Hotel for parents who would like to go diving, but obviously don’t want to leave their kids unattended. Children aged between 4 and 12 are looked after free of charge during opening times while a babysitter can be hired for an extra charge for children from 1 month to 4 years outside opening times. More information can be obtained directly from the quseir@moevenpick.com">Hotel.
Diving for disabled guests
Our employees are not trained to dive with disabled guests. A suitably qualified diving partner must therefore be responsible for supervision and guidance both underwater and on land. Furthermore, our diving base unfortunately does not have the proper infrastructure for wheelchair access. This sadly means that no disabled facilities are available for diving at the house reef or on diving excursions.
Diving for disabled guests is therefore only possible to a limited extent and requires a willingness to improvise from all parties.
There is no extra charge for additional costs incurred when diving with disabled guests. We gladly accept reservations provided that guests give the base manager full details of their requirements, conditions and requests beforehand.
Snorkelling
Snorkelers will be in their element in this beautiful eco-bay. Marvel at the brightly coloured corals and fish along the reef edge, which you can access from the beach. The pontoon is also open to snorkelers. We would like to highlight the fact that divers take priority here – simply in order to avoid injury as a result of the heavy equipment.
Snorkelling equipment can be hired directly from our snorkelling hut on the boardwalk. There are masks and snorkels available, as well as flippers and shorties in various sizes – for kids, too. The gear is hired out by the day and can be paid on your hotel bill at the end of your stay.
A guided snorkelling trip through our bay is provided for all those who don’t just want to admire the fish in the bay, but would also like to learn some interesting facts. Our snorkelling programme offers a range for beginners as well as special snorkelling options.
See our map of the bay here.
