Red Sea Diving Academy
The Salem Express was a passenger ferry that met a tragic fate in the Red Sea, sinking after striking a reef late on December 14, 1991. The disaster occurred around 11:13 PM, leading to one of the deadliest maritime accidents in the region.
Many passengers trapped below deck perished as the ship went down. Survivors faced brutal conditions, battling strong waves in a desperate struggle for survival. Official reports state that 180 people were rescued, while 470 lost their lives. However, unofficial estimates suggest a far higher death toll, with recovery teams retrieving 850 bodies during the intense three-day rescue mission.
Today, the Salem Express wreck rests at a depth of 12 to 30 meters, making it accessible to divers but still a haunting reminder of the tragedy. Due to its massive size, exploring the entire wreck typically requires multiple dives.
For divers, the site is both a historical landmark and a solemn memorial, offering a glimpse into the ship’s final moments.
The Salem Express is one of the largest and most iconic wrecks in the Egyptian Red Sea, rivaling even the famous Thistlegorm in size and intrigue. Resting on its starboard side, the wreck offers a haunting yet fascinating dive, with depths ranging from 29 meters at the stern to 32 meters at the bow.
One of the most striking features is the open front hatch, once used for vehicle loading – now an entry point for advanced divers eager to explore deeper into the wreck. Along the bow deck, divers can spot cleats, winches, and chains, with anchors still hanging on either side, frozen in time.
While penetrating the wreck requires experience, its external structure is equally captivating. The damaged bow bears a massive anchor suspended above the fatal crack, while the bridge, deck, and masts remain remarkably intact. The funnel, adorned with its distinctive emblem, stands as a solemn reminder of the ship’s past. At the stern, two giant coral-encrusted propellers complete this underwater spectacle.
Whether you’re drawn to its history, marine life, or sheer scale, the Salem Express wreck is a must – dive for any serious diver exploring the Red Sea.
1 Day – 2 Dives Duration: 07:00 – 16:00 Certified divers only – Explore the beauty of Wreck Salem Express and be amazed by its wonderful marine life.
One day onboard includes two dives with our dive guides. Lunch break between the dives.
Lunch, Coffee, Tea, Water & other refreshing beverages are included. Vegetarian/Vegan options are also available (please notify staff in advance). Please inform staff before your arrival if you have any allergies we should be aware of.
Two tanks air 12L + weights.
Transportation for hotel guests in Safaga.
Scuba Diving Guide.
For your Daily Dive experience, you only need to bring your (Swimsuit and a towel).
Your diving certification or a photo of your diving certification
Everything else is provided by us!
Price Salem Express Diving
NOT INCLUDED
Transportation two ways
For added security, we may ask you to tell us the room number of your hotel. This acts as a secret code between you and the driver. We may also ask for a phone number in case we need further communication with you.
Transportation time The Transportation time depends on the distance of your hotel and the number of guests. Nevertheless, this will be decided as soon as your reservation is confirmed. In the morning, pick-up is between 06:45 and 08:45. In the afternoon, drop-off is between 15:00 and 17:00.
Dive In Hurghada | Red Sea Diving Academy | Professional Scuba Diving Center in Red Sea Since (2005 – 2025)
Dive In Hurghada | Red Sea Diving Academy | Professional Scuba Diving Center in Red Sea Since (2005 – 2025)