Salem Express - Safaga

Diving the Salem Express is a different kind of Red Sea wreck dive. This isn't a site that screams with coral or vast schools of fish, though you'll spot triggerfish and the occasional barracuda cruising by. Instead, it’s a sombre, reflective experience. The ferry lies on its starboard side, largely intact, and you can still make out the lifeboats, the funnels, and even some personal belongings scattered on the seabed around it. We often find ourselves pausing, looking at the rows of portholes, each one telling a silent story. It’s a dive for those who appreciate the history and the unique atmosphere a modern tragedy brings, rather than just the biology.

Location
Safaga, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
26.639717, 34.061577
Type
wreck

Best Time to Dive in Safaga

The warmest water temperatures in Safaga occur in August, averaging 29.2°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 22.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.1°C
  • February: 22.3°C
  • March: 22.1°C
  • April: 22.8°C
  • May: 25.0°C
  • June: 26.5°C
  • July: 27.7°C
  • August: 29.2°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 27.4°C
  • November: 26.7°C
  • December: 24.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Safaga

Nearest Dive Centres to Salem Express

Marine Life in Safaga

Home to 32 recorded species including 22 reef fish, 5 whales & dolphins, 2 seagrass & algae, 1 sharks & rays, 1 sea cucumbers, 1 hard corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Salem Express

Based on average water temperature of 25.5°C, currents 16 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°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 of the Salem Express wreck dive?
The maximum depth of the Salem Express wreck dive is not specified in the available data. Divers interested in this site should consult local dive operators in Safaga for precise depth information and dive planning.
What can divers expect to see when diving the Salem Express wreck?
When diving the Salem Express wreck, divers will explore the remains of an Egyptian-French passenger ship that tragically sank on December 14, 1991, after striking a reef. This site is particularly notable for the heavy loss of life, making it a poignant historical wreck dive in the Red Sea.
What is the difficulty level of the Salem Express dive, and what experience is recommended?
The Salem Express dive is rated as intermediate in difficulty. Divers should possess the necessary experience and training for wreck diving at this level to safely explore the site, ensuring a rewarding and responsible dive.
When is the best time of year to dive the Salem Express for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Salem Express for optimal conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal conditions, it's best to consult local dive centers in Safaga or refer to general when to dive guides for the Red Sea.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Salem Express?
Given the Salem Express is an intermediate level wreck dive, divers should typically hold an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. A wreck diving specialty certification is highly recommended to ensure you have the skills and knowledge for safe and responsible exploration of such sites.
What are the typical currents and visibility like at the Salem Express dive site?
The available data does not provide specific details regarding the typical currents or visibility at the Salem Express dive site. For the most current conditions, it is always advisable to check with local dive operators in Safaga, Egypt before planning your dive.