DUNRAVEN - Sharm el-Sheikh

The Dunraven, for us, is one of those wrecks you keep coming back to. We’re talking about an 82-metre steamship that went down in 1876, lying inverted at 30 metres. What we really love about this site is the way the wreck has become a living reef. You drop down, and the first thing you notice is the massive, copper propeller, often swarming with glassfish. Swim along the hull, and you’ll find cracks and openings everywhere. We usually head for the stern, where you can actually poke your head inside some of the larger gaps – just be mindful of your buoyancy and any surge. Inside, the light filters through the hull, catching schools of batfish that seem to hang suspended. Don't forget to look for the resident moray eels peeking out from behind corroded beams. The corals here, soft and hard, are doing incredibly well, painting the metal a surprising range of colours. For us, it’s not just a wreck dive; it’s a masterclass in how marine life reclaims and transforms. Keep an eye on your bottom time; 30 metres flies by down here.

Location
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
27.706112, 34.117220
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

Marine Protected Area: محمية رأس محمد

Best Time to Dive in Sharm el-Sheikh

The warmest water temperatures in Sharm el-Sheikh occur in August, averaging 29.9°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 22.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.6°C
  • February: 22.8°C
  • March: 22.5°C
  • April: 23.3°C
  • May: 25.6°C
  • June: 26.9°C
  • July: 28.4°C
  • August: 29.9°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 27.8°C
  • November: 27.1°C
  • December: 25.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Sharm el-Sheikh

Nearest Dive Centres to DUNRAVEN

Marine Life in Sharm el-Sheikh

Home to 13 recorded species including 6 whales & dolphins, 5 reef fish, 1 sharks & rays, 1 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for DUNRAVEN

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 10 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 Dunraven dive site and its shallowest point?
The Dunraven dive site has a maximum reported depth of 30 meters. While the shallowest point is not explicitly detailed in the provided information, this depth typically refers to the deepest part of the wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Dunraven?
Divers exploring the Dunraven can expect to encounter the impressive features of a steam ship vessel, built in 1873 and sunk in 1876. Key wreck features include its 2-cylinder compound inverted engine and its substantial dimensions of 82.3m x 10.1m. Specific details regarding marine life are not provided in the current data, but you can explore general wildlife information for the region.
Is the Dunraven wreck dive suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered advanced?
The Dunraven wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it unsuitable for beginner divers. Its designation as a "Dangerous wreck" further indicates that it requires a certain level of experience and training to safely explore.
What is the best time of year to dive the Dunraven wreck for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Dunraven wreck is not available in the provided data. For general seasonal guidance on diving in Sharm el-Sheikh, please consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the Dunraven, especially for wreck penetration?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated for the Dunraven, its intermediate difficulty and classification as a "Dangerous wreck" strongly suggest that advanced certifications are highly recommended. For any wreck penetration, specialized wreck diving training and experience are essential to ensure diver safety.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Dunraven dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the Dunraven dive site. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator prior to diving.