Egypt Liveaboard
Salem Express Wreck
潜点红海南部

Salem Express Wreck

进入内部 · 360

Walk the Salem Express

浏览 7 个带可点击热点的场景。拖动以环顾四周，滚动或双指缩放。

Gallery

5 photos from this story

Explore the Tragic History of the Salem Express Wreck Dive in the Red Sea:

Salem Express is a famous shipwreck located in the Red Sea, Egypt. This dive site is a fascinating underwater attraction and a place of great tragedy. The Salem Express is a somber reminder of the potential dangers of sea travel and a poignant memorial to those who lost their lives in the disaster. In this article, we'll explore the history of the Salem Express and what you can expect when diving into this incredible wreck.

History of Salem Express

Salem Express

The Salem Express was a ferry between Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Safaga, Egypt. On December 17, 1991, the ferry returned from Mecca with over 600 passengers on board when it hit a reef and sank. The disaster was a tremendous loss of human life, with an estimated 470 to 800 people losing their lives. The exact number of casualties remains unknown due to discrepancies in the passenger manifest and difficulties in identifying remains.

Diving in Salem Express Wreck

Salem express wreck

Salem Express is often described as a "ghost ship" because of the eerie atmosphere created by the abandoned belongings of the passengers and crew. Divers can find personal items such as clothing, suitcases, and shoes scattered around the wreck. While these items serve as a haunting reminder of the tragedy, they are also a testimony to the human side of the disaster.

The Salem Express Wreck is now a popular dive site for experienced divers, but it is not recommended for beginners due to the area's depth and often strong currents. The wreck lies at a depth of 32 meters, and the ship's top is around 18 meters, making it accessible for advanced open-water divers. The boat remains intact and offers a haunting and eerie diving experience. Divers can swim through the ship's interior and see the remains of the cabins and corridors and the vehicles being transported on board. There is also a memorial plaque outside the ship, a poignant reminder of the tragic loss of life.

Liveaboard trips to Salem Express Wreck

Salem express wreck

The Salem Express Wreck is often included in liveaboard diving trips in the Red Sea. These trips usually depart from Hurghada or Safaga and take divers on a tour of some of the best dive sites in the area. The Salem Express Wreck is typically the trip's highlight, and many divers choose to pay their respects by leaving a small tribute or wreath on the memorial plaque on the ship.

Conclusion

Salem Express wreck dive is a must-see for experienced divers visiting the Red Sea. This site is a fascinating underwater attraction and memorial to the hundreds of people who died in the disaster. Diving the Salem Express is a poignant reminder of the fragility of human life and the importance of safety and caution when traveling by sea. It's no wonder that Egypt's liveaboard diving tours often include this dive site in their itineraries.

Visual Tour at Salem Express

Where is Salem Express?

Salem Express

The location of Salem Express Wreck is 16 kilometers south of Safaga. From Safaga to the dive site is 20 kilometers traveling southeast. The distance between Hurghada and Salem Express is 70 kilometers.

Frequently Asked Questions for Salem Express Shipwreck

常见问题

Can anyone dive at the Salem Express Wreck, and what certification is required?
The Salem Express Wreck is a deep and challenging dive, and it's recommended only for experienced divers with the appropriate certification and training, such as Advanced Open Water or higher.
How deep is the Salem Express Wreck, and what is the visibility like?
The Salem Express Wreck lies at a depth of around 30-40 meters (100-130 feet) and visibility can vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions. It's generally good with a range of 20-30 meters (65-100 feet).
What can divers expect to see at the Salem Express Wreck?
The wreck itself is also interesting to explore, with areas such as the passenger cabins and cargo holds still intact. Many personal belongings, including luggage, toys, and even cars, can be found within the wreck. However, it's important to approach these items with respect and not disturb or remove anything from the site.
Do divers need a flashlight when diving at the Salem Express Wreck?
Yes, it's recommended to bring a dive flashlight when diving at the Salem Express Wreck. The interior of the wreck can be dark, and a light is necessary to see the details of the wreckage and any marine life hiding within.
What are the boat ride and diving conditions like to reach the Salem Express Wreck?
Salem Express Wreck is located in the open sea, and the boat ride to the site can be rough, especially in the early morning when the winds are stronger. The dive itself can also be challenging due to currents and surge, so it's recommended for experienced divers only.
Are there any special considerations or precautions when diving at the Salem Express Wreck?
Diving at the Salem Express Wreck can be emotionally challenging due to the tragic history of the ship. It's important to approach the dive with respect and sensitivity to the lives lost in the disaster. As with any deep dive, proper planning, training, and equipment are essential for safety.
On the map

Salem Express Wreck

Red Sea, Egypt

Open in Google Maps ↗