Welcome to the underwater realm of the Red Sea, where history and marine life converge in a spectacular display. In this edition of Top Ten Egypt Tours’ blog series on the Top Dive Sites in the Red Sea, we embark on an exhilarating journey to explore the iconic Thistlegorm Shipwreck. Submerge yourself in the depths of history as we uncover the secrets of this sunken treasure lying beneath the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Egypt.

The SS Thistlegorm was a British merchant vessel built in 1940. During World War II, she was commandeered by the Royal Navy and tasked with transporting vital supplies to the Allied forces in the Middle East. On October 6, 1941, while en route to Alexandria, Egypt, the Thistlegorm was tragically sunk by German bombers. Today, she rests on the sandy bottom of the Red Sea, just off the coast of Sha’b Abu Nuhas, a haven for marine life and a magnet for scuba diving enthusiasts.

The Thistlegorm shipwreck is located in the Straits of Gubal, approximately 30 miles north of Sharm el-Sheikh. The wreckage lies at a depth of around 100 feet (30 meters), making it accessible to advanced divers with the appropriate training and equipment. The site is divided into two main sections: the bow section and the stern section.

A Journey into the Past

Descending upon the Thistlegorm is akin to embarking on a journey through time. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, the ship’s imposing silhouette emerges from the depths, its cargo holds a silent testament to its wartime mission. Vehicles, motorcycles, weaponry, and other supplies lie scattered around the vessel, eerily preserved by the cool, protective embrace of the Red Sea.

A Realm of Marine Life

The Thistlegorm is not just a historical landmark; it is also a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Schools of colorful fish dart in and out of the ship’s wreckage, while larger creatures like angelfish, parrotfish, and even barracudas patrol the surrounding waters. Divers may even encounter the occasional shark or manta ray, adding a touch of thrill to their underwater exploration.

One of the most exciting aspects of diving at the Thistlegorm shipwreck is encountering schools of fish swimming through the wreckage. These schools can be quite large and offer an incredible spectacle as they dart in and out of the cargo and equipment strewn about the deck. It’s not uncommon to see schools of fish swimming through locomotives or tanks, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this already captivating site.

As you embark on the extraordinary journey to explore the Thistlegorm Shipwreck, you’re not just diving into the depths of the Red Sea; you’re immersing yourself in a piece of living history. Join Top Ten Egypt Tours in preserving and sharing the legacy of the Thistlegorm, where every dive is a step back in time and a celebration of the beauty that lies beneath the waves. Dive deep, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime.