Abu Nuhas Wrecks
Explore a graveyard of ships, now vibrant artificial reefs teeming with marine life in the Red Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Consistent water temps
Abu Nuhas Wrecks
Best Time
Consistent water temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a graveyard of ships, now vibrant artificial reefs teeming with marine life in the Red Sea.
"Simply put, if you want to see some of Egypt's most amazing Underwater Cultural Heritage, be sure to check out these sites!"
🐬 Dolphin Sightings!
Keep an eye out for dolphins, they frequently visit the Abu Nuhas area during surface intervals!
🌊 Beware of Surface Waves
Surface conditions can be wavy, making boat transfers challenging. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giannis D Wreck
North of Abu Nuhas Reef
A striking cargo vessel split in two, offering incredible swim-throughs and marine life.
Carnatic Wreck
Abu Nuhas Reef
A 19th-century historical gem, adorned with soft corals and offering a unique underwater cultural heritage experience.
Chrisoula K Wreck
Abu Nuhas Reef
Explore this well-preserved wreck, a favorite for its historical significance and abundant marine life.
Kimon M Wreck
Abu Nuhas Reef
The fourth major wreck at Abu Nuhas, offering another fantastic opportunity for wreck diving enthusiasts.
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Planning Your Visit
Day Trip vs. Liveaboard
Dive Site Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐬 Dolphin Sightings!
Keep an eye out for dolphins, they frequently visit the Abu Nuhas area during surface intervals!
🌊 Beware of Surface Waves
Surface conditions can be wavy, making boat transfers challenging. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
💡 Beginner-Friendly Wrecks
The Tile Wreck (Kimon M) is great for beginners due to shallow depths and easy swim-throughs.
📸 Underwater Photography
The light shining through the holds of the wrecks creates stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐬 Dolphin Sightings!
Keep an eye out for dolphins, they frequently visit the Abu Nuhas area during surface intervals!
🌊 Beware of Surface Waves
Surface conditions can be wavy, making boat transfers challenging. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
💡 Beginner-Friendly Wrecks
The Tile Wreck (Kimon M) is great for beginners due to shallow depths and easy swim-throughs.
📸 Underwater Photography
The light shining through the holds of the wrecks creates stunning photo opportunities.
🧭 Navigate with Care
A lighthouse is now present, but historically this reef was a hazard. Dive with experienced guides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Abu Nuhas is celebrated as an exceptional wreck diving site with four distinct shipwrecks offering historical exploration and abundant marine life. Divers praise the unique underwater cultural heritage and the chance to see dolphins. However, some visitors note that surface conditions can be wavy, making boat transfers challenging.
"Several ship wrecks around the area.
Both old ones and later ones. Well known is Carnatic and Giannis D.
Quite wavy in the surface and getting up back on the small boats."
Vinh H Nguyen
"An incredible dive site. There are a series of wrecks which are all incredible and unique in their own ways. One of the wrecks is an interesting piece of history and the other three appear to be insurance jobs. These are great dives for anyone wanting to dive the Red Sea and be sure to keep an eye open for dolphins which frequently visit the area."
Matt H
"This is such an amazing wreck site! We came for the Wrecks At Risk Project, you can see more if you google it. Our group spent several days documenting and photgraphing these amazing wrecks. the Carnatic was my favorite-- its soft corals, historical context, and swim throughs make this site a must see for any avid wreck diver in the area. Great for night dives, nitrox, or a fly over for OW divers, no diver will leave without feeling as if they just entered another world. Simply put, if you want to see some of Egypt's most amazing Underwater Cultural Heritage, be sure to check out these sites-- real life maritime archaeology!!!"
Aloof Nerd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Abu Nuhas Wrecks are typically accessed by boat from Hurghada. Day trips are common, but be aware that the journey can be long and surface conditions might be rough. Liveaboard safaris also frequently include Abu Nuhas as a dive stop.
Yes, Abu Nuhas is possible as a day trip from Hurghada, though it's a significant boat journey. Some dive operators offer dedicated trips.
For a more relaxed experience and to visit multiple wrecks, a liveaboard safari is often recommended. Day trips are feasible but can be more demanding due to travel time and potential sea conditions.
No, the Abu Nuhas Wrecks are located offshore in the Red Sea and can only be accessed by boat. There is no land access.
Most dive trips to Abu Nuhas depart from the marinas in Hurghada, Egypt.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, you do not need a special permit beyond standard dive certification. Dive operators will handle any necessary park fees or entry charges as part of your trip package.
Diving at Abu Nuhas is typically available from sunrise to sunset, depending on the dive operator's schedule. Some operators offer trips from 6 AM to 5 PM.
The cost of a day trip can vary depending on the dive operator, but expect prices to range from $70 to $150 USD per person, often including lunch and two dives.
It is highly recommended to book your Abu Nuhas dive trips in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Many dive centers offer discounts for group bookings or for purchasing dive packages that include multiple sites. It's best to inquire directly with operators.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The four main wrecks accessible to recreational divers are the Giannis D, the Carnatic, the Chrisoula K, and the Kimon M. 
The average depth at Abu Nuhas is around 20-24 meters (65-79 feet), with a maximum depth of about 30 meters (98 feet).
Visibility at Abu Nuhas is generally good, ranging from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 100 feet), depending on conditions.
Yes, currents can be quite strong at Abu Nuhas, especially on the northern side where the wrecks are located. Divers should be experienced and aware of current conditions.
Besides the wrecks themselves, you can expect to see abundant marine life, including various reef fish, corals, and sometimes dolphins. +1
Some wrecks, like the Tile Wreck (Kimon M), are suitable for novice divers due to their shallow depths and easy swim-throughs. However, currents and depth on other wrecks may require more experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The light filtering through the wrecks, especially the holds of the Giannis D and Carnatic, offers incredible photographic potential. The marine life around the wrecks also makes for great shots.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the wrecks. Good lighting, such as strobes or video lights, is essential for bringing out the colors in the deeper, darker sections.
Always maintain buoyancy control to avoid damaging the wrecks or disturbing marine life. Be aware of your surroundings and any strong currents.
No, the wrecks are underwater and can only be accessed by diving or snorkeling. Snorkeling might offer limited views of the shallower parts of some wrecks.
You can find stunning underwater photography of the Abu Nuhas Wrecks on Instagram by searching hashtags like #wreckdiving, #abunuhas, and #redseadiving.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family includes certified divers, Abu Nuhas offers an incredible experience. The shallower wrecks are suitable for Open Water divers, providing a thrilling introduction to wreck diving.
The chance to spot dolphins adds an extra layer of excitement for everyone on board. 💰 Budget Travelers
While the cost of the dive trip is a factor, remember to factor in transportation to the marina and any personal gear rental if you're not bringing your own. Packing your own snacks and water can also help reduce on-board expenses.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Giannis D and Carnatic wrecks, in particular, offer numerous angles and swim-throughs for creative shots. +1Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the scale of these underwater giants. Don't forget adequate lighting, as deeper sections can be dark. The vibrant marine life that has colonized the wrecks also provides excellent subjects for macro photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shipwrecks of Abu Nuhas
+1Among the most famous are the Giannis D, a 100-meter general cargo vessel that broke in two after running aground in 1983 during a storm,
+1 and the Carnatic, a 19th-century steamship that sank in 1869. The Chrisoula K and the Kimon M (also known as the Tile Wreck) complete the quartet of wrecks most accessible to recreational divers. +2These wrecks are not just historical artifacts; they have become vibrant artificial reefs, teeming with marine life. Soft corals adorn their structures, and schools of fish dart in and out of their holds, making them a paradise for divers and underwater photographers alike.
+1Diving Abu Nuhas: What to Expect
However, it's important to note that the northern side of the reef, where most wrecks lie, can experience strong currents and rough surface conditions. Divers can expect to explore the various levels of the wrecks, from the shallowest points to depths of around 30 meters. Visibility is typically good, often ranging from 10 to 30 meters, allowing for clear views of the shipwrecks and the abundant marine life that has made them their home.
Beyond the wrecks, keep an eye out for dolphins, which are frequent visitors to the area and often seen during surface intervals.
The combination of historical exploration and the chance for wildlife encounters makes Abu Nuhas a must-visit for any diver in the Red Sea.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit