BASSAM B
Protected Area
محمية شاطئ العباسية الطبيعية
Why dive here
BASSAM B is a wreck dive in Tyre, Lebanon.
The Bassam B is a proper punch in the gut, a wreck with a story you feel as much as see. Sunk by explosives back in '89, this 70-meter motor vessel lies on its side, split and twisted, telling a tale of conflict. We love how the damage is so evident, the hull plates peeled back like tin foil, exposing the bones of the ship. It’s a shallow dive, barely kissing the surface at its deepest point, making it accessible to pretty much anyone comfortable in the water. This isn’t about pristine corals; it’s about history and how nature reclaims things. We’ve seen schools of juvenile barracuda shimmering in the holds, and the odd grouper lurking under what used to be the bridge. Look for the prop, it's still largely intact and makes for a striking photo. We’d suggest going early in the morning for the best light, as the sun catching the metal has a real melancholic beauty. It’s a raw, poignant experience, perfect for those who appreciate wrecks with a past.
Typical BASSAM B Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
BASSAM B Wreck History
Year Sunk
1989
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
sabotage
The M/V BASSAM B was a 70-meter motor vessel whose final moments were dramatic and violent. In August of 1989, while anchored in Sidon, Lebanon, the ship was targeted in a deliberate act of sabotage. Three explosive devices were detonated underwater against its hull, ripping the vessel apart. The damage was catastrophic, and the BASSAM B quickly capsized and sank, coming to rest near the coast of Tyre.
Today, the wreck lies in exceptionally shallow water, with parts of it resting at a depth of just one meter. This makes it one of the most accessible wrecks in the world, suitable for snorkelers and beginner divers. The vessel is largely broken up due to the force of the explosions and subsequent salvage efforts, but its scattered remains create a fascinating underwater landscape. Divers can easily explore the debris field and the main sections of the hull, which have become a thriving habitat for local fish and invertebrates. Despite its shallow depth, it is classified as a dangerous wreck, so caution is advised around sharp metal edges.
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ONE
TYRE DIVING CENTER
Stingray Divers
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كيرياكوس
Diving In Lebanon
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