ABED AL SALEM - Crete

The Abed al Salem isn’t about huge pelagics or technicolour reefs. No, this is a shallow wreck with a story, perfect for a long, relaxed dive or even a snorkel if the conditions are right. We love it for its sheer accessibility and the way the light plays through the broken hull. She went down in 1981, a cargo ship from Marseilles to Beirut, coming unstuck when two containers broke loose in heavy seas. Diverted to Iraklion, she ended up beached and abandoned. Now, she lies just offshore, the bow barely breaking the surface, making for an easy entry. The stern is the deepest part, sitting at around 5m, so you’re never far from the surface. What we really enjoy is poking around the twisted metal, imagining the chaos of her final hours. Small schooling fish, often hundreds of juvenile barracuda, swirl around the superstructure, shimmering like silver confetti. You'll spot plenty of blennies peeking from crevices and the occasional octopus tucked into a pipe. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs on the hull plates, too. It’s a fantastic site for photographers keen on ambient light wreck shots, especially mid-morning when the sun is high and bright.

Location
Crete, Greece, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
35.342167, 25.061445
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Wreck History - ABED AL SALEM

Year Sunk
1981
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
storm

The motor vessel Abed Al Salem was a modern cargo ship built in 1960. Its final, fateful voyage began in Marseille, with a destination of Beirut. While en route in January 1981, the ship encountered heavy seas that proved to be its undoing. The violent motion of the storm caused two of its cargo containers to break loose from their lashings on deck. This sudden and significant shift in weight caused the vessel to take on a dangerous list, making it unstable and difficult to control.

The crew diverted course, attempting to make for the safety of the port at Iraklion, Crete. However, battling the storm and the severe list, they were unable to save their ship. The Abed Al Salem ultimately ran aground on the Cretan coast and sank. Today, its remains lie in just 5 meters of water, making it a superb site for divers of all levels and even snorkelers. The clear Mediterranean water offers excellent visibility to explore the wreckage, which serves as a dramatic reminder of the power of the sea.

Marine Protected Area: EKVOLI GEROPOTAMOU MESARAS

Best Time to Dive in Crete

The warmest water temperatures in Crete occur in August, averaging 25.1°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 16.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 17.3°C
  • February: 16.4°C
  • March: 16.4°C
  • April: 17.0°C
  • May: 19.2°C
  • June: 22.3°C
  • July: 24.1°C
  • August: 25.1°C
  • September: 24.6°C
  • October: 22.9°C
  • November: 20.9°C
  • December: 18.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Crete

Nearest Dive Centres to ABED AL SALEM

Marine Life in Crete

Home to 11 recorded species including 5 reef fish, 1 other, 1 sea urchins, 1 worms, 1 seagrass & algae, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ABED AL SALEM

Based on average water temperature of 20.4°C, currents 5 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 20°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving the Adeb al Salam shipwreck?
The maximum depth for diving the Abed al Salem shipwreck is 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore a historical wreck in Crete.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to encounter at the Adeb al Salam shipwreck in Ammoudara?
Divers exploring the Abed al Salem shipwreck can expect to encounter the remains of a 65.5m x 9.8m motor vessel, built in 1960 and sunk in 1981. While the provided data doesn't specify marine life, wrecks often attract various species over time, creating artificial reefs. This site is classified as a dangerous wreck, offering unique features for experienced wreck divers.
How challenging is the Adeb al Salam shipwreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Abed al Salem shipwreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty and is also noted as a dangerous wreck. Therefore, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for intermediate-level wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year to dive the Adeb al Salam shipwreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Abed al Salem shipwreck for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on seasonal diving in Greece, you might consult our When to Dive section. Always check local conditions before planning your dive.
What diving certifications are needed to dive the Adeb al Salam shipwreck?
Given the Abed al Salem shipwreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty and a dangerous wreck, divers should hold certifications appropriate for such challenging sites. This typically includes advanced open water certification and potentially a wreck diving specialty. Always ensure your training matches the dive's demands for a safe and enjoyable experience.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, at the Adeb al Salam shipwreck dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical water conditions, currents, or visibility at the Abed al Salem shipwreck dive site. It is always recommended to check local dive conditions with a reputable dive center in Crete before planning your dive. This ensures you are prepared for any environmental factors.