Salem Express Wreck

Safaga · Red Sea Governorate · Egypt

The Salem Express is one of the most sombre and affecting wreck dives in the world. This 115-metre passenger ferry lies upright on the sandy seabed at approximately 30 metres depth, just south of Safaga on the Egyptian Red Sea coast. On the night of December 14, 1991, the vessel struck Hyndman Reef while carrying passengers returning from pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The ship sank within minutes, and the tragedy claimed hundreds of lives. The wreck rests largely intact, with the superstructure rising from the seabed to within 12 metres of the surface. The port side shows the impact damage from the reef collision, while the starboard side remains well preserved. Coral and marine life have progressively colonized the hull over the decades, with soft corals, sea fans, and sponges adorning every surface. The upper decks and bridge area are draped in beautiful pink and purple soft corals, creating a striking contrast against the dark steel. Massive schools of glassfish swirl around the superstructure, their silvery bodies catching the light in mesmerizing clouds. Lionfish hover beneath overhangs, barracuda patrol the surrounding water column, and large groupers have made their homes in the wreck's external recesses. The stern section, with its propeller and rudder clearly visible, is a favourite spot for photographers. All diving on the Salem Express is external only. Penetration is forbidden both as a mark of respect for the victims and due to the structural risks involved. Despite this restriction, the exterior offers more than enough to fill multiple dives. The sheer scale of the ship, the rich marine life, and the emotional weight of the site make this a profoundly memorable dive. The journey from Safaga takes about 45 minutes by boat, and from Hurghada roughly two hours. Conditions are generally calm with mild currents and excellent visibility between 20 and 30 metres.