A Guide to Red Sea Wreck Diving: Famous Wrecks and Their Stories

Quick answer: the most famous wreck near Sharm El Sheikh is the SS Thistlegorm, a Second World War cargo ship, dived on a full-day boat trip. Wreck dives are for certified divers: ask us about a private diving trip for certified divers. Not certified yet? Start with the PADI Open Water course (£399).

The Red Sea is a well-known diving destination, loved for its colourful coral reefs and rich marine life. Its waters also hold a collection of famous shipwrecks, each with a story to tell. Red Sea wreck diving mixes adventure, history and marine life, and it is one of the main reasons many certified divers come to Sharm El Sheikh.

Planning a dive? Compare all options for diving in Sharm El Sheikh: the intro dive, the PADI course and boat dives for certified divers, with prices.

Why Red Sea Wreck Diving Is Worth It

Exploring a sunken ship is like visiting a moment in history. Over the years, wrecks become artificial reefs and attract plenty of marine life, from schools of fish to, on some days, sea turtles. They are popular with underwater photographers and anyone interested in history.

The Most Famous Wrecks in the Red Sea

1. The SS Thistlegorm: Often called the “Titanic of the Red Sea,” this British WWII cargo ship was sunk in 1941. Much of its cargo, including motorcycles, trucks and parts of a locomotive, can still be seen on and around the wreck.

2. The Dunraven: Sunk in 1876, this Victorian-era steamship lies upside down near a coral reef. Its hull is covered in soft corals, and its interior is suited to experienced divers.

3. The Giannis D: A Greek freighter that ran aground in 1983. Its remains are now covered in marine life and make a rewarding dive for experienced divers.

Dive with PyraSafari: Safety First

Wreck diving needs experience and good planning. Our private Red Sea diving trip is for certified divers and comes with your own dive guide. It is booked on enquiry, so tell us your certification level and experience, and ask us on WhatsApp which dive sites and wrecks are possible on your dates. New to diving? Start with a beginner intro dive from the beach.

See the PyraSafari advanced diving package (multiple dive sites) for certified divers.