The Thistlegorm wreck, on the west coast of the Sinai Peninsula and 40 km from Sharm El Sheikh, is the best known and most popular wreck dive in the Red Sea. The 125m long British army freighter sank after just 18 months of her launch in April 1940. Her last voyage commenced on the 2nd of June 1941 as she sailed to Alexandria and was loaded with wartime supplies during World War II. A long list of inventory includes tanks, aircraft, armoured vehicles, Jeeps and Bedford trucks.
In spite of being privately owned and operated, the SS Thistlegorm was nevertheless fitted with a 4" anti-aircraft gun and a heavy calibre machine gun when she was drafted for war duty.
The ship laid anchor at what was thought a safe location north of the Straits of Gubal, today known as Shag Rock. It was to proceed through the Suez Canal upon receiving instructions.
Reef Summary: Wreck diving Depth: 16 - 33m Visibility: 15 - 25m Currents: Can be strong Surface conditions: Generally calm Water temperature: 22 - 28°C Experience level: Advanced Number of dive sites: 3 Diving season: All year round Distance: 40 km (3 hrs) west of Sharm El Sheikh, 65 km (4½ hrs) north of Hurghada Access: Daytrips and liveaboards
