SS Thistlegorm Dive Trip from Sharm El Sheikh: A Day on the World’s Most Famous Wreck 🚢
There are dives you remember, and then there is the SS Thistlegorm. This British armed freighter, sunk in 1941, is widely considered the most dived shipwreck in the world. Today, an SS Thistlegorm dive trip from Sharm El Sheikh lets you explore a real underwater museum frozen in time.
Last week we headed out at 05:00 AM with a fantastic international group: Tiago from Brazil, Kurt and Tim from Switzerland, and Frank from Germany. Here is how the day went, and everything you need to know to join us.
Why Is the SS Thistlegorm So Famous?
Jacques Cousteau located the wreck in the 1950s with the help of local fishermen, and the Thistlegorm has since become one of the most celebrated dive sites on the planet. The ship still carries its wartime cargo, so you can see history exactly where it sank.
Our Day at the Thistlegorm
The Morning Boat Ride and Breakfast
As the sun rose over the Red Sea, we enjoyed a full breakfast on board, woke up slowly, and shared our excitement for the day ahead. The three-hour cruise to the reef at Sha’ab Ali is part of the experience.
Dive 1: Exploring the Wreck’s Exterior
Our first dive covered the impressive outside of the wreck at around 30 meters:
- The massive propeller
- The blast area
- The decks and anti-aircraft gun
- The majestic silhouette of the ship on the seabed
Dive 2: Inside the Cargo Holds
On the second dive, we penetrated selected cargo holds, where the real magic happens. Hovering through the holds, you pass remarkably preserved:
- Bedford trucks
- BSA motorcycles
- Train carriages
- Stacks of munitions
It feels like stepping straight back into 1941.
Requirements to Join the Thistlegorm Trip
The wreck sits at 30 meters, and we want to maximize safe bottom time across two dives. That means proper preparation and experience:
- Certification: Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) or Deep Diver
- Nitrox: a Nitrox (EAN) certification
Free Nitrox fills are included for certified Nitrox divers.
Not Nitrox Certified Yet?
You don’t have to miss out. Complete your SSI EAN (Nitrox) Specialty Course on the boat during the 3-hour morning ride for just €140, certification included. You’ll be fully prepared for your first dive.
Thistlegorm Trip Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 05:00 AM | Departure from hotel / dive center |
| ~3 hours | Boat ride, breakfast and briefing |
| Dive 1 | Exterior structure, decks, anti-aircraft gun and propeller |
| Dive 2 | Penetration of selected cargo holds |
| ~05:00 PM | Relaxed return to Sharm El Sheikh |
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep is the SS Thistlegorm?
The wreck rests at around 30 meters.
Do I need Nitrox to dive the Thistlegorm?
Yes. Nitrox extends your safe bottom time across two dives. If you aren’t certified, you can take the course on the boat for €140.
Where is the Thistlegorm wreck located?
At Sha’ab Ali reef in the Red Sea, about three hours by boat from Sharm El Sheikh.
What can I see inside the wreck?
Bedford trucks, BSA motorcycles, train carriages and munitions in the cargo holds.
Book Your SS Thistlegorm Dive Trip
A huge thank you to Tiago, Kurt, Tim and Frank for an unforgettable day on the water! 🥽
Want to dive the SS Thistlegorm on your next trip to Sharm El Sheikh? Message us or book your spot on the next trip.
📞 Phone / WhatsApp: +20 106 978 1855
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