SS Thistlegorm Wreck

The SS Thistlegorm Wreck become a real legend among divers in the Red Sea. It was a British cargo ship used during World War II, carrying supplies to North Africa. Sadly, it was sunk by a German air raid in the dead of night on October 5th or 6th, 1941, while on its way to the Suez Canal.

Today, the wreck rests on the seabed near the Egyptian coast, a fascinating underwater museum teeming with life. This World War II relic has become an artificial reef, attracting colorful fish and even bigger marine creatures. No wonder it’s a popular spot for both divers and history buffs!

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History of SS Thistlegorm Wreck

Divers flock to the SS Thistlegorm wreck, the undisputed king of wrecks in the Red Sea. It’s located just off the Sinai Peninsula, about 40 kilometers from Sharm El Sheikh, and is a dream come true for beginners and experienced divers.

SS Thistlegorm Originally launched in 1940, this British cargo ship met its watery fate just 18 months later during World War II. It was carrying all sorts of wartime supplies on its way to North Africa when a German airstrike sent it down in the dead of night.

Imagine it – tanks, motorcycles, even jeeps, all scattered across the seabed at a depth of 30 meters! The wreck itself is a fascinating mix of history and nature. Despite being sunk in battle, it wasn’t heavily armed, just sporting a small anti-aircraft gun. Today, it’s become an artificial reef, teeming with colorful fish and even the occasional larger marine creature. The wreck is massive, stretching a whole 125 meters long! No wonder it takes multiple dives to explore fully.

The wreck is like a time capsule, with cargo holds overflowing with relics from the war – rifles, grenades, even Wellington boots! You can explore different sections, from the bow down to the holds, some reaching depths of 25 meters. In the middle section, you can see the raw power of the explosion that sunk the ship, with twisted metal and exposed ammunition. But don’t worry, it’s still safe to explore! You might even spot some lionfish or schools of fish hiding amongst the wreckage.

Towards the back, you’ll find the ship’s propeller and a couple of precariously hanging machine guns. As you make your way back up, keep an eye out for the vibrant marine life – schools of fish darting around, or maybe even a majestic hawksbill turtle gliding by. It’s a truly unforgettable experience for any diver!

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Diving in SS Thistlegorm Wreck

The SS Thistlegorm Wreck is a must-see for any experienced diver looking for an adventure. The wreck lies at a depth of 30 meters. Divers should be comfortable with deep diving and have their wreck diving certification.

Once at the site, divers can explore the wreckage, which is still relatively intact, with its cargo of trucks, motorcycles, and even locomotives lying in the hold. The site offers a unique opportunity to experience a piece of history and get up close to the wreckage of a World War II ship.

Marine Life at SS Thistlegorm Wreck

The Thistlegorm isn’t just a historical marvel; it’s a thriving ecosystem. Schools of the vibrant fish dart through the wreckage, while larger creatures might make a surprise appearance. Imagine the thrill of spotting a majestic manta ray gliding past, or a curious shark investigating this underwater anomaly.

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Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the captivating underwater world and rich history of the SS Thistlegorm wreck!

Please Note: Due to the depth and size of the SS Thistlegorm wreck, participation in this dive requires a minimum of Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent). Our team will happily discuss your qualifications and recommend suitable dives if needed.