ZINGARA - Sharm el-Sheikh

We’re always drawn to a good wreck, and the Zingara often gets overlooked for her flashier neighbours. But honestly, this is one of our favourite dives in Sharm. She’s a proper ship, an 82-meter cargo vessel that went down in '84, now resting on her side at about 25 meters. The current here can be a bit frisky, especially around the bow, but it’s usually manageable and keeps the visibility clean. What we love is the sheer scale of her. You can fin along the entire length, peering into the holds where schools of glassfish shimmer like liquid silver. The engine room is accessible for experienced wreck divers, a dark, cathedral-like space that gives you a real sense of her working life. Out on the deck, we often find blue-spotted rays tucked into the sand, and the superstructure is draped in soft corals, a canvas for parrotfish and angelfish. This is a dive for those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a well-aged wreck, not just the coral gardens around it. Our top tip? Get there early to avoid the crowds, especially if you want to poke around inside without bumping into other fins.

Location
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
28.016666, 34.486668
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

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 ZINGARA

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 ZINGARA

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 Zingara dive site?
The provided data indicates a depth of 0m for the Zingara dive site. As a wreck, the Zingara is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, suggesting it may extend to deeper waters. Divers should consult local dive operators for the precise maximum depth of this impressive 82.3m long motor vessel.
What kind of marine life and features can divers expect to see at the Zingara wreck?
The Zingara is a significant feature itself, classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. This motor vessel, built in 1963 and sunk in 1984, measures an impressive 82.3m in length and 12.5m in width. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks typically attract a variety of reef fish and corals over time, offering unique photographic opportunities for divers interested in marine life.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Zingara wreck?
Diving the Zingara wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty level. This designation suggests that divers should have some experience beyond entry-level to safely explore this 82.3m long motor vessel. It's always recommended to dive within your certification limits and consider additional equipment or training for wreck diving.
What is the best time of year or day to dive the Zingara wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day to dive the Zingara wreck for optimal conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal variations and daily conditions, we recommend checking the when to dive section or consulting local dive centers in Sharm el-Sheikh.
What dive certifications are required to dive the Zingara wreck?
While the data classifies the Zingara wreck as an intermediate dive, specific certification requirements are not detailed. Typically, intermediate dives may require an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, especially for wreck penetration. Divers should always verify the exact certification requirements with their chosen dive operator in Sharm el-Sheikh before planning their dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Zingara dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the Zingara dive site. Conditions can vary greatly depending on weather and tides, even in Egypt's Red Sea. For the most current and accurate conditions, it is best to consult local dive centers in Sharm el-Sheikh immediately prior to your dive.