THISBE - Safaga

The Thisbe, a cargo vessel that met its end in 1972 after some bad luck and a solidified cargo, sits close to the surface in Safaga. At just a meter deep, this isn't a dive site, it’s a snorkel or free-dive spot, really more of a surface attraction. You’ll see the hull and parts of the superstructure, completely colonised by small reef fish and soft corals. It’s a great option if you have non-diving friends along, or for an easy afternoon bob around, watching the sun glint off the encrusted metal. We’ve seen juvenile snapper darting through the rusted holds, and colourful parrotfish picking at the hull.

Location
Safaga, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
26.675000, 33.934166
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

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 THISBE

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 THISBE

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 typical maximum depth for recreational diving at the THISBE dive site?
The THISBE dive site is remarkably shallow, with a typical maximum depth for recreational diving at just 1 meter. This makes it an accessible site for divers of various experience levels to explore the wreck.
What kind of unique marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at THISBE?
At the THISBE dive site, divers will primarily encounter the fascinating underwater topography of a historical wreck. This motor vessel, measuring 100.3m x 14.6m, offers an intriguing structure to explore, showcasing portions of its hull and superstructure. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
Is THISBE considered a challenging dive site, and what is its difficulty level for different certifications?
Yes, THISBE is considered an intermediate dive site. Its classification suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort with wreck diving or similar conditions. This difficulty level makes it suitable for certified divers looking to expand their skills beyond beginner sites.
What are the best months or seasons to dive at THISBE for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving at THISBE, nor does it detail optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general information on when to dive in the Red Sea, Egypt, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What specific scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive safely at THISBE?
Given that THISBE is classified as an intermediate dive site, it is recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. While no specific certifications are explicitly required in the data, having experience with wreck diving or similar environments would be beneficial for safe exploration.
What are the prevailing currents, visibility, and water temperature typically like at the THISBE dive site?
The available data for the THISBE dive site does not include details on prevailing currents, typical visibility, or water temperature. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators in Safaga for the most current conditions before diving.