NEJMAT EL PETROL XVIII (POSSIBLY) - Jeddah

The Nejmat El Petrol XVIII, a tanker that came to grief in 1991, isn’t your typical Red Sea wreck, and that’s precisely why we love it. Instead of a deep, dark plunge, you’re looking at a site topping out at 18 metres, making it approachable for most divers. We’d suggest going early in the morning, before the boat traffic picks up. The wreck itself lies on its starboard side, largely intact, with the stern particularly well-preserved. You can swim through the superstructure, a real treat as shafts of light pierce the gloom, illuminating the schools of glassfish that shimmer inside. Keep an eye out for lionfish tucked into every shadowy corner, and we’ve often seen large groupers patrolling the deeper parts of the hull. For photographers, the engine room offers some moody shots, especially when there’s a gentle current pushing visibility. It’s a compelling piece of history, now a thriving artificial reef, offering a different flavour of Jeddah diving.

Location
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
21.441100, 39.110455
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
18m

Best Time to Dive in Jeddah

The warmest water temperatures in Jeddah occur in August, averaging 31.6°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 25.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.4°C
  • February: 25.4°C
  • March: 25.4°C
  • April: 26.7°C
  • May: 28.9°C
  • June: 29.6°C
  • July: 30.0°C
  • August: 31.6°C
  • September: 31.1°C
  • October: 30.9°C
  • November: 30.0°C
  • December: 28.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Jeddah

Nearest Dive Centres to NEJMAT EL PETROL XVIII (POSSIBLY)

Marine Life in Jeddah

Home to 4 recorded species including 4 reef fish.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for NEJMAT EL PETROL XVIII (POSSIBLY)

Based on average water temperature of 28.7°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site?
The Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site offers an exciting exploration opportunity at a depth of 18m. Divers can expect to explore this fascinating wreck, located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, at this specific depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly)?
At the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly), divers will primarily encounter the impressive underwater features of a sunken tanker vessel. This wreck, measuring 81.4m x 13.7m, provides a unique structure to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of reef fish and other creatures, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its classification as a dangerous wreck and the specific skills required for wreck diving, it is generally not recommended for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate training and equipment to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site is not available in our current data. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, please consult our when to dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly listed, given the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a dangerous wreck, divers should ideally hold an Advanced Open Water certification or a Wreck Diver specialty. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate and explore such a site. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and water conditions at Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly), and how do they affect diving?
Details regarding the typical current and water conditions at the Nejmat El Petrol XVIII (possibly) dive site are not available in the provided data. Divers planning to visit this site should consult with local dive centers in Jeddah for the most up-to-date information on conditions before diving.