GHINDA (POSSIBLY) - Gulf of Tadjoura

Ghinda, or what we believe is Ghinda anyway, sits about 10km from Mokha, a relic from 1976. This coaster went down carrying matches and drums, and while some cargo was salvaged, the hull remained. It’s a shallow wreck, perhaps too shallow if we're honest, barely breaking the surface. We love it for the historical context, the sense of a lost era. You can practically reach out and touch the past. What you'll mostly see are the skeletal remains of the superstructure, now home to a surprising number of small schooling fish. It's not a deep dive, more of a snorkel, really. Bring a torch if you want to peer into the shadowed sections, but don't expect dramatic swim-throughs. The light filters in, giving the whole scene a rather melancholy feel. It’s a site for those who appreciate history and the slow reclamation by the ocean, rather than for divers chasing big pelagics or vibrant coral. Go at high tide; it gives you a little more room to manoeuvre.

Location
Gulf of Tadjoura, Djibouti, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
13.088333, 43.333332
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Best Time to Dive in Gulf of Tadjoura

The warmest water temperatures in Gulf of Tadjoura occur in January, averaging 26.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 26.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.9°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • February: 26.9°C (air: 25.3°C)
  • March: 26.9°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • April: 26.9°C (air: 28.9°C)
  • May: 26.9°C (air: 32.5°C)
  • June: 26.9°C (air: 35.7°C)
  • July: 26.9°C (air: 36.4°C)
  • August: 26.9°C (air: 34.9°C)
  • September: 26.9°C (air: 34.5°C)
  • October: 26.9°C (air: 30.2°C)
  • November: 26.9°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • December: 26.9°C (air: 25.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Gulf of Tadjoura

Marine Life in Gulf of Tadjoura

Home to 205 recorded species including 95 hard corals, 75 reef fish, 8 sharks & rays, 6 crabs & lobsters, 5 sea cucumbers, 4 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for GHINDA (POSSIBLY)

Based on average water temperature of 26.9°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • 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 at the Ghinda dive site?
The provided data for the Ghinda dive site indicates a depth of 0m. This suggests the wreck is extremely shallow, possibly at the surface or partially exposed. Divers should be prepared for a very shallow dive experience.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ghinda?
The primary underwater feature at Ghinda is the wreck of a coaster vessel, which sank on March 13, 1976. This site is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. While the available data does not specify particular marine life, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
Is the Ghinda dive site suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered an advanced dive?
The Ghinda dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. This means it is generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers, but rather for those with some prior diving experience. Divers should possess the necessary skills and confidence for intermediate-level conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ghinda for optimal weather and water conditions?
The provided data for the Ghinda dive site does not include specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal weather and water conditions. To plan your dive, it is advisable to consult local dive operators in the Gulf of Tadjoura for current conditions and seasonal recommendations. You can also explore general when to dive information.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Ghinda?
While the data classifies Ghinda as an intermediate dive, it does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required. Divers should typically hold at least an Open Water certification with some experience. It's always best to check with local dive centers in Djibouti for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Ghinda dive site?
The provided data for the Ghinda dive site does not include details on typical current conditions or visibility. As conditions can vary, especially around wrecks, it is recommended to inquire with local dive operators in the Gulf of Tadjoura before planning your dive. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date information for a safe and enjoyable experience.