SS Turkia - Sharm el-Sheikh

The SS Turkia is one of those deeper Red Sea wrecks we always hear about but rarely get to dive. It’s off the main liveaboard routes, which keeps it quiet, a real bonus. This old steam cargo ship, built in 1909, stretches about 90 meters, a proper dive into history. She went down loaded with World War Two gear, much like the Thistlegorm, and you can still make out some of the cargo in the deeper holds. Expect to find schools of fusiliers swirling around the superstructure and plenty of resident reef fish making their home in the metalwork. It’s a site for experienced divers comfortable with depth, offering a genuine sense of exploration away from the crowds.

Location
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
27.980000, 34.480000
Type
wreck

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 SS Turkia

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 SS Turkia

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 SS Turkia wreck dive site?
The maximum depth of the SS Turkia wreck dive site is currently unknown based on the available information. Divers should consult with local dive operators in Sharm el-Sheikh for the most up-to-date site specifics before planning their dive.
What kind of marine life and historical cargo can divers expect to see on the SS Turkia wreck?
Divers exploring the SS Turkia wreck can expect to encounter a large amount of diverse marine life that has made this historical site its home. Additionally, the wreck is known to contain World War 2 paraphernalia, offering a fascinating glimpse into its past as a cargo ship.
How difficult is the SS Turkia dive site, and is it suitable for divers who are not professionals?
The SS Turkia dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. This means it is suitable for experienced recreational divers who possess appropriate training and comfort with wreck diving, but it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Non-professional divers with intermediate certification and experience can certainly explore this magnificent wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive the SS Turkia for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the SS Turkia dive site is not available in the current data context. For general guidance on diving seasons in Egypt, please refer to our When to Dive section or consult local dive centers in Sharm el-Sheikh.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to explore the SS Turkia wreck?
Given the SS Turkia's classification as an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, it is highly recommended that divers possess advanced open water certification or a recognized wreck diving specialty. While specific requirements may vary by operator, having experience and training beyond basic open water will ensure a safer and more enjoyable exploration of this significant wreck.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the SS Turkia dive site?
Details regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the SS Turkia dive site are not provided in the available data. Divers planning a trip to Sharm el-Sheikh should inquire with local dive operators for the most current site conditions before their dive.