Salem Express Wrack Tauchen

Salem Express Wreck Diving: History, Depth & Conditions

Few dives in the Red Sea leave as lasting an impression as visiting the Salem Express. The wreck of the ferry that sank in 1991 off the coast near Safaga is today one of the most-visited — and most emotionally significant — wreck dives in the region. This guide covers its history, depth, and diving conditions.

The History of the Salem Express

The Salem Express was an Egyptian car ferry that, in December 1991, struck a reef during a storm on its way from Jeddah to Safaga and sank within minutes. Hundreds of lives were lost in the disaster — the exact death toll remains disputed to this day. Out of respect for the victims, serious dive operators maintain a particular restraint when diving this wreck: penetrating the wreck's interior is not offered by responsible dive centers.

How Deep Is the Salem Express?

The wreck lies on its side at around 30 meters depth, with the shallower parts of the hull starting at around 10-15 meters. This depth range makes the wreck accessible to different certification levels — the upper sections are already visible to Open Water divers with sufficient experience, while full exploration requires PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification.

Diving Conditions at the Salem Express

Visibility varies by season between 10 and 25 meters. The wreck sits in a relatively sheltered bay, keeping currents generally moderate. Around the wreck, its own ecosystem has developed over the years — coral growth, reef fish, and occasionally larger pelagic species can be observed.

Those looking for more highlights in the area: the Salem Express dive site at Makadi Bay is one of our most popular wreck dives — easily combined with other top spots like the House Reef Makadi Bay on a single day trip.

Who Is This Dive Suitable For?

Given the depth and the particular sensitivity of the site, we recommend at least PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification. We dive the Salem Express exclusively with experienced guides who ensure a respectful approach to this historic site.

Not yet Advanced certified? No problem — many of our guests complete the Advanced course and the Salem Express day trip within the same week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it allowed to dive inside the wreck?
No — out of respect for the victims, responsible dive operators, including Scuba World Divers, do not offer penetration dives into the wreck's interior. PADI guidelines also recommend particular restraint here.

How do you get to the Salem Express?
The dive site is located off Safaga and is reached from our Soma Bay and Makadi Bay bases as part of day trips.

Is the Salem Express suitable for beginners?
The upper sections of the wreck are visible to experienced Open Water divers, but full exploration is reserved for Advanced-certified divers.

Are there other wrecks in the area?
Nearby you'll also find the El Mina Wreck at Makadi Bay — ideal as a complement to a wreck diving day.

Visit the Salem Express with Scuba World Divers

Our bases in Soma Bay and Makadi Bay offer regular, respectfully guided trips to the Salem Express. Learn more about our dives in the Makadi Bay dive guide. Book online and save 10%.