SS Thistlegorm
One of the best wreck dives of the Red Sea, the Thistlegorm is loaded with military equipment from WW2 era. A must see...
El Tor, South Sinai
Egypt
Where we dived
Dive Site
Thistlegorm is considered one of the best wreck dives in the Red Sea. Although considerably deteriorated in recent years, it still provides plenty to explore both inside and around the wreck. With the bottom at around 30 m, it is accessible to recreational divers with the appropriate experience. The site can be completely calm one day and have a strong current the next, so appropriate experience and good dive planning are essential. The wreck is only accessible by dive boats and liveaboards, so once you are there, you will most probably do multiple dives. Access is via an anchored line directly to the wreck.
The SS Thistlegorm was a British armed merchant ship carrying wartime supplies when she was attacked and sunk by German aircraft in the Red Sea on 6 October 1941. Her cargo included trucks, motorcycles, rifles, ammunition and other military equipment destined for Allied forces in North Africa. The ship sank rapidly, taking nine lives and much of her cargo with her. Today, the wreck and its remarkably preserved cargo offer divers a unique glimpse into a moment of World War II history beneath the Red Sea.
What to expect
Dive Type
Wreck, Deep
ACCESS
Boat, Liveaboard
EXPERIENCE
Advanced, Pro
CURRENT
Strong, Moderate
MAX. DEPTH
16-33m
VISIBILITY
16-30m
WATER
Salt
When to visit
Best Time To Dive
The SS Thistlegorm can be dived year-round, but the best conditions are between April and October when sea temperatures (26°C–30°C) and visibility peak. Early morning or night dives are often preferred to avoid heavy boat traffic, as this is one of the busiest dive sites in Egypt. Divers are advised to follow their dive guides closely, especially during penetration dives.
Meet the Locals
Wildlife
The wreck has become an artificial reef supporting a rich ecosystem and offering photo opportunities both inside and outside the ship. The wreck is not only historically rich but biologically vibrant: Pelagic Fish: Giant trevallies, snappers, and jacks patrol the wreck Reef Fish: Batfish, angelfish, and anthias thrive around the superstructure Macro Life: Nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and shrimps in nooks and crannies Other: Moray eels, scorpionfish, crocodilefish, and barracudas are common Occasional Sightings: Reef sharks and turtles
Where to Go
Dive Site Location
El Tor, South Sinai
Egypt
How good is the dive site
Rate the Dive Site
Dive smarter together—rate the site and share your insights!
Best wreck
Dived during my trip – dec 2025. One of the best dive sites in Red Sea. If you are into wrecks, a top one. The wreck is full of military equipment waitng to be explored. It offers a great views especialy near AA guns at it’s stern. Thi size of exposion that sunk the ship is clearly demonstrated by two steam locomotives resting on each side of the wreck.
Looking for more?
Similar Dive Sites
Explore more dive sites like SS Thistlegorm
Who to dive with
We dived with
Get Involved
Local Projects
If there is a conservation project running at this dive site, we list it here. You may consider to join or take a part to give somthing back, help preserve the place or raise awareness. There's so much we can do to help...
ENJOYED THIS?