AL TAIF - Eilat

The Al Taif wreck, sitting upright at 16 metres, is a real favourite for us in Eilat, especially if you're keen on something more than just reef diving. This sizeable cargo ship, almost 100 metres long, has been down since 1981, and that’s given the Red Sea plenty of time to claim it. We love drifting along the deck, peeking into the holds, and navigating the superstructure. What makes Al Taif special is how open it feels, inviting you inside without being too demanding. Large schools of fusiliers often mill around the mast, flickering like silver confetti. You'll spot lionfish tucked into shadowy corners and moray eels peeking from pipes. For photographers, the light playing through the broken hull sections creates some dramatic shots, particularly in the late morning. It’s a pretty chill dive, perfect for advanced open water divers looking for a leisurely wreck exploration without strong currents or deep commitments.

Location
Eilat, Israel, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
29.900324, 32.497940
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
16m

Wreck History - AL TAIF

Year Sunk
1981
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
collision

The story of the AL TAIF is an unusual one. This 103-meter motor vessel was under arrest and moored in the Gulf of Eilat when it was struck by an unknown vessel on January 15, 1981. The collision proved fatal, and the ship sank at its anchorage, coming to rest on a sandy slope.

Today, the AL TAIF is a fantastic and highly accessible wreck dive. Lying at a maximum depth of just 16 meters, it's suitable for divers of almost all levels. The ship rests on its side, and its sheer size is impressive from the moment it comes into view. Divers can explore the large deck areas, peer into the cargo holds, and swim around the superstructure. The wreck's masts reach up towards the surface, often attracting schools of fish and creating a dramatic silhouette against the bright Red Sea sun.

Nearby Dive Sites in Eilat

Nearest Dive Centres to AL TAIF

Marine Life in Eilat

Home to 147 recorded species including 100 reef fish, 16 hard corals, 8 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 whales & dolphins, 4 clams & mussels, 3 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species