BAALBECK - Tyre

The *Baalbeck* is, for us, Tyre's signature wreck. Sunk in a gale back in '78, this 100-meter freighter now rests perfectly upright at a shallow 17 meters, making it accessible for most divers. You descend onto the huge main deck, often hazy with schools of silversides swirling over the rusted holds. Our favourite feature is definitely the bow, towering towards the surface, its structure a lattice of metal, now home to clouds of anthias and the occasional curious grouper. What makes *Baalbeck* special isn't just its size, but its story. That mast, once sticking out of the water, took a direct hit during hostilities, a stark reminder of Lebanon's turbulent past. Exploring the cargo holds, you get a real sense of its working life before it became an artificial reef. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs tucked into the crevices; we've spotted some beauties on the stern section. It’s a comfortable dive, often with good visibility, making it a great option for newer wreck divers or those wanting a relaxed exploration. We’d suggest going early in the morning, before any boat traffic stirs up the sediment.

Location
Tyre, Lebanon, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
33.904446, 35.514168
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
17m

Wreck History - BAALBECK

Year Sunk
1978
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
storm

The motor vessel Baalbeck, built in 1948, served for three decades before meeting a dramatic end in the historic port of Tyre, Lebanon. On November 30, 1978, a fierce gale battered the coast, causing the Baalbeck to break its moorings and sink alongside the main breakwater. Its story took another violent turn when its mast, which remained upright and visible above the waves, was subsequently struck by a bomb during the Lebanese Civil War, a stark reminder of the turbulent history of the region.

Today, the Baalbeck rests at a comfortable depth of 17 meters, making it a popular and accessible dive site. The wreck is largely intact, lying on its side near the shelter of the breakwater. Divers can explore its decks and superstructure, now home to a variety of Mediterranean marine life. The clear waters and shallow depth provide excellent conditions for underwater photography, capturing the unique intersection of maritime and military history that defines this fascinating wreck.

Nearby Dive Sites in Tyre

Nearest Dive Centres to BAALBECK

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at the Baalbeck dive site?
The Baalbeck dive site, located in Tyre, Lebanon, offers diving at a depth of 17 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many certified divers.
What kind of marine life or underwater features can divers expect to see at Baalbeck?
Divers at the Baalbeck dive site can explore the remains of a 100.3m x 13.1m motor vessel, built in 1948 and sunk in 1978. This wreck is classified as showing mast/masts, which were notably struck by a bomb during hostilities after its sinking. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species over time.
How challenging is diving at Baalbeck, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the Baalbeck site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is generally not suitable for absolute beginners, who should seek easier sites to gain experience. Divers should possess appropriate certification and experience for intermediate conditions.
What is the best time of year to go diving at Baalbeck for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Baalbeck dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal conditions in the region, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What diving certifications are required to dive at the Baalbeck site?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating for the Baalbeck dive site, divers should possess certifications and experience beyond entry-level. While specific certification requirements are not detailed, an advanced open water certification or equivalent experience is typically recommended for intermediate dives. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like for diving in Baalbeck?
The provided data for the Baalbeck dive site does not include specific details on usual currents or water conditions such as visibility or temperature. Divers should consult local dive centers in Tyre, Lebanon for up-to-date information before planning their dive.