Thistlegorm Wreck
A legendary WWII shipwreck in the Red Sea, offering divers a unique journey through history and vibrant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Thistlegorm Wreck
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary WWII shipwreck in the Red Sea, offering divers a unique journey through history and vibrant marine life.
"One of the best wrecks in the world! A place with a rich history and marine life!"
Nitrox Certification
Consider getting Nitrox certified for longer bottom times on this deep wreck. :diving_mask:
Multiple Dives Needed
You'll likely need 2-3 dives to fully explore the Thistlegorm. :diving_mask:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cargo Hold
Inside the wreck
Explore trucks, motorcycles, rifles, and more military supplies frozen in time. A true underwater museum.
The Bridge and Deck
Upper levels of the wreck
Discover the ship's command center and deck, offering a glimpse into its operational past.
Marine Life Haven
Surrounding the wreck
Witness vibrant coral growth and diverse marine life that have made this historic wreck their home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Advanced Divers Only
Book Your Dive Trip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Nitrox Certification
Consider getting Nitrox certified for longer bottom times on this deep wreck. :diving_mask:
Multiple Dives Needed
You'll likely need 2-3 dives to fully explore the Thistlegorm. :diving_mask:
Respect the History
Do not disturb or remove artifacts; it's a protected historical site.
Check Currents
Surface currents can be strong. Be prepared for a potentially choppy boat ride. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
Nitrox Certification
Consider getting Nitrox certified for longer bottom times on this deep wreck. :diving_mask:
Multiple Dives Needed
You'll likely need 2-3 dives to fully explore the Thistlegorm. :diving_mask:
Respect the History
Do not disturb or remove artifacts; it's a protected historical site.
Check Currents
Surface currents can be strong. Be prepared for a potentially choppy boat ride. :ocean:
Capture the Moment
Bring an underwater camera to document the incredible sights. +1 :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The SS Thistlegorm wreck is universally praised as one of the world's best wreck dives, offering an unparalleled historical and marine experience. Divers are awestruck by the preserved cargo and the sheer scale of the vessel, feeling transported back in time. While the experience is overwhelmingly positive, some mention strong currents and the need for multiple dives to fully explore.
"You have to see it. Words cannot describe the scale of the tragedy during the war.
It's amazing how all the metal survived. It's good that such an object is available for viewing. I impressed by the achievements of the man who discovered it. After seeing it with your own eyes, when you watch the film, it again seems like you are inside the ship"
rimma krish
"One of the best wrecks in the world! A place with a rich history and marine life! A great experience!"
Cinderella Eldawley
"Famous wreck in Red Sea. Loads of scuba divers have been here. Myself I had 5 dives when writing this. Some crowded even offseason. You need at least 2-3 dives to have seen it all. Quite often strong current on the surface and right above the wreck."
Vinh H Nguyen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thistlegorm is located in the Red Sea, accessible by boat from Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Trips typically involve a 2-hour boat ride. Many dive centers in Sharm El Sheikh offer dedicated excursions.
Expect a boat journey of approximately 2 hours each way from Sharm El Sheikh to reach the Thistlegorm wreck.
The Thistlegorm is primarily a dive site. While some boat tours might pass over it, the best way to experience it is through scuba diving.
Yes, many liveaboard trips in the Red Sea include the Thistlegorm as a key dive site, allowing for multiple dives over a few days.
Booking with a reputable dive center in Sharm El Sheikh is the most common and convenient way to arrange transport and diving for the Thistlegorm. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dive centers typically include park fees and permits in their excursion costs. Confirm this when booking your trip.
Costs vary by dive operator but generally include boat, guide, lunch, and park fees. Expect prices to be in the range of $100-$200 USD per person for a day trip.
The primary restriction is dive certification level. Most operators require Advanced Open Water certification due to the depth and potential currents.
It's recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance, especially if you have specific dates or a preferred dive center.
Typically, trips include boat transport, guided dives, equipment rental, meals, and park fees. Always verify inclusions with your operator.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
Most dive operators require at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification due to the wreck's depth (around 30 meters).
To truly appreciate the wreck, 2 to 3 dives are highly recommended. This allows exploration of different sections and depths.
You'll find a preserved cargo of trucks, motorcycles, rifles, ammunition, and other WWII military supplies.
Yes, currents can be strong, especially on the surface and around the wreck. Divers should be prepared for this.
No, the Thistlegorm is generally not suitable for beginner divers due to its depth, potential currents, and the need for good buoyancy control.
📸 📸 Photography
The cargo hold with its preserved vehicles, the intact bridge, and the abundant marine life offer incredible photo opportunities. +2
An underwater camera or a waterproof housing for your phone is highly recommended to capture the details of the wreck and its inhabitants.
It can be dark inside the wreck, so dive lights are essential for both visibility and for bringing out the colors in your photos.
Yes, but always be mindful of the wreck's integrity and avoid touching or disturbing artifacts.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always follow your dive guide's instructions and respect the historical significance of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the SS Thistlegorm
+2The cargo is remarkably well-preserved, offering a unique window into wartime logistics. Divers can explore the holds filled with Bedford trucks, BSA motorcycles, Bren guns, rifles, and even a steam locomotive. The explosion that sank the ship blew away much of its midships superstructure, making it highly accessible to divers.
+2Today, the Thistlegorm is considered one of the world's premier wreck diving sites, attracting divers from across the globe. Its historical significance, combined with the vibrant marine life that has colonized its structure, makes it an unforgettable experience. However, concerns exist about its preservation due to the sheer volume of visitors and potential artifact removal.
Diving the Thistlegorm: What to Expect
Most dive operators require at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification due to these depths and the potential for strong currents. The dive typically involves two or three separate dives to fully appreciate the scale and contents of the Thistlegorm. Divers can penetrate the wreck, exploring the cargo holds, the bridge, and the crew quarters. Visibility can vary, but when good, it offers stunning views of the preserved military equipment and the marine life that has made the wreck its home.
Be prepared for a boat journey of about two hours from Sharm El Sheikh. Dive centers usually provide all necessary equipment, meals, and guidance. It's crucial to listen to your divemaster, as currents can be unpredictable, and safety is paramount when exploring such a significant historical site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit