The **National Star** in Tyre, Lebanon, isn't just another wreck; it's a piece of history resting upright on the seabed at 28 metres. We love how this motor vessel, sunk after a rather dramatic incident in 1991, has settled, making it relatively straightforward to explore. As you descend, the sheer scale of its 81-metre length starts to register, a dark silhouette against the blue.
Our favourite part is the penetration into the deeper holds; the light filters in from above creating an eerie, almost cathedral-like atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the resident groupers that often lurk in the shadows here, and we've seen schools of snapper darting in and out of the broken superstructure. The main deck offers a good sense of the ship's layout, and while it's classified as "dangerous," with careful planning and good buoyancy, much of the exterior is accessible and rewarding. It’s an ideal dive for those with some wreck experience looking for a deeper, more substantial artificial reef.
Location
Tyre, Lebanon, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
33.560000, 35.349000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
28m
Marine Protected Area: محمية شاطئ العباسية الطبيعية
What is the typical depth range for diving at NATIONAL STAR, and are there any particularly deep sections?
The typical depth for diving at the NATIONAL STAR wreck is 28 meters. The provided data indicates this as the primary depth for exploration, suggesting a consistent depth profile for the site.
What kind of marine life and unique underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at NATIONAL STAR?
The NATIONAL STAR is an 81.4m x 11.9m motor vessel wreck, offering an interesting artificial reef structure for divers to explore. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks typically attract a variety of local fish and invertebrates, creating a vibrant ecosystem. For more general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How would you rate the difficulty of the NATIONAL STAR dive site, and is it suitable for divers with an Open Water certification?
The NATIONAL STAR dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. Given its depth of 28 meters, it is generally suitable for divers with an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience, as Open Water certifications typically limit dives to 18 meters.
What is considered the best time of year or season to dive at NATIONAL STAR for optimal conditions and marine sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at the NATIONAL STAR for optimal conditions or marine sightings. For general guidance on dive seasons in the region, you might consult our when to dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications or experience levels recommended or required to dive safely at NATIONAL STAR?
Given the NATIONAL STAR is an intermediate difficulty dive to 28 meters and classified as a dangerous wreck, an Advanced Open Water certification or higher is highly recommended. Divers should also have experience with wreck diving and be comfortable with deeper dives to ensure safety.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at NATIONAL STAR, and how do they impact the dive experience?
The provided data does not include specific information on the usual current conditions or visibility at the NATIONAL STAR. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator prior to diving to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.