DOMINION TRADER (POSSIBLY) - Tyre

The Dominion Trader, or what we believe to be her scattered remains, is one of those dives that sticks with you long after you’ve toweled off. It’s not about pristine reefs or giant pelagics here; it's about history, raw and exposed. We're talking about a wreck so close to shore it feels almost impossible, lying in just a meter of water. The ship was driven aground by a storm after a fire, and the waves have really torn into her over the years, leaving big, twisted metal sections. Diving the Dominion Trader is less about penetration and more about exploring a marine archaeology site. The hull is severely broken, but you can still trace the outline of her 78-meter length. You’ll feel the surge pulling gently as you fin over crumpled decks and bulkheads, now home to small groups of damselfish and parrotfish grazing on the algae-covered metal. We love the way the light refracts through the shallow water, illuminating every barnacle and mollusc that’s made a home on the wreck. It’s a shallow dive, so our favourite approach is to take it slow, really soaking in the scale of the destruction and the resilience of the life that’s colonised it. This site is ideal for photographers looking for unique light and texture, or anyone who appreciates the stark beauty of a wreck that’s truly become part of the sea.

Location
Tyre, Lebanon, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
33.568500, 35.372166
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: محمية شاطئ العباسية الطبيعية

Nearby Dive Sites in Tyre

Nearest Dive Centres to DOMINION TRADER (POSSIBLY)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the DEMA Trader shipwreck dive site?
The DOMINION TRADER shipwreck dive site has a maximum depth of 1 meter. This extremely shallow depth means it's more of a snorkeling or very shallow free-diving site, or perhaps even visible from the surface.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the DEMA Trader?
Divers exploring the DOMINION TRADER can expect to see the remains of a 78m x 12.5m motor vessel that was seriously damaged by fire and driven aground. The wreck has broken her back, indicating significant structural damage and a scattered or broken up appearance, with portions of the hull or superstructure visible. Specific marine life details for this site are not provided in our current data, but you can explore general marine life databases for the region.
How challenging is the DEMA Trader wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner wreck divers?
The DOMINION TRADER wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. While the maximum depth is only 1 meter, the wreck's broken-up nature and exposure to elements might contribute to this rating. It may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without some prior experience, even in very shallow water.
What is the best time of year to dive the DEMA Trader for optimal conditions and visibility?
Our current data for the DOMINION TRADER does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or visibility. For general guidance on diving in Lebanon, you might consult our when to dive resources.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the DEMA Trader, especially for wreck penetration?
Given the DOMINION TRADER's intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess at least an Open Water Diver certification, although the 1-meter depth makes it accessible even for snorkelers. Due to the wreck being broken and at such a shallow depth, extensive wreck penetration opportunities are highly unlikely, and therefore, specialized wreck penetration certifications would not typically apply here.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the DEMA Trader dive site?
Information regarding typical current conditions and visibility at the DOMINION TRADER dive site is not provided in our current data. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator in Tyre, Lebanon before planning their dive.