wreck

Log This Dive

DAMMAM

The Dammam. We love a wreck that tells a story, and this one, sitting just five metres deep, is a fantastic introduction to the Red Sea’s knack for reclaiming history. It’s an old landing craft, scuttled way back in the 70s, and time has turned it into a surprisingly vibrant artificial reef. Even though it’s shallow, don’t let that fool you; it’s not just a quick snorkel. You can spend a good chunk of an hour here, finning over the deck, ducking into the cargo hold if you’re comfortable with small penetrations – it’s really more of an overhead environment, open to the light. The structure itself is a rusty skeleton, draped in soft corals and sponges. We’ve spotted everything from lionfish peeking out of crevices to schools of snapper schooling in the shadows. Look closely, and you’ll find nudibranchs crawling over the metalwork. Our pick for this site? Go early in the morning. The light penetration is incredible, illuminating the wreck in a way that really brings out the colours of the corals and the flashes of the fish. It’s perfect for new wreck divers or anyone who just wants a relaxed, interesting dive without the pressure of depth. Just keep an eye on your buoyancy, it’s easy to kick up the silt inside if you’re not careful.