The Umbria Wreck - Port Sudan & Sanganeb

The Umbria, resting on her port side at Wingate Reef, is a genuinely special dive. You're not just looking at a wreck here, you’re swimming through history. We love picking out the details – the Fiat cars still strapped down, the crates of bombs, the wine bottles, all remarkably preserved. It feels less like a shipwreck and more like a time capsule. Despite its age, a surprising amount of soft coral has found a home on the decks, and we often spot whitetip reef sharks patrolling the deeper sections. It’s a comfortable dive for most wreck enthusiasts, with plenty to see both inside and out.

Location
Port Sudan & Sanganeb, Sudan, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
19.666700, 37.266700
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Sanganeb Atoll

Best Time to Dive in Port Sudan & Sanganeb

The warmest water temperatures in Port Sudan & Sanganeb occur in August, averaging 32.0°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 25.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.1°C
  • February: 25.4°C
  • March: 25.5°C
  • April: 26.7°C
  • May: 29.0°C
  • June: 30.1°C
  • July: 31.0°C
  • August: 32.0°C
  • September: 31.7°C
  • October: 30.9°C
  • November: 29.5°C
  • December: 28.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Port Sudan & Sanganeb

Marine Life in Port Sudan & Sanganeb

Home to 55 recorded species including 41 reef fish, 14 hard corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for The Umbria Wreck

Based on average water temperature of 28.8°C, currents 9 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 maximum depth of The Umbria Wreck and what is its average depth for diving?
The current data does not specify the maximum or average depth for diving The Umbria Wreck. However, it is known to lie on its port side at a 75° angle at Wingate Reef, close to Port Sudan.
What specific cargo and marine life can divers expect to see when exploring The Umbria Wreck?
When exploring The Umbria Wreck, divers can expect to see its original cargo, which includes a huge load of bombs and weaponry. While specific marine life is not detailed in this context, the Red Sea is renowned for its vibrant ecosystems, and you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
How difficult is The Umbria Wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The Umbria Wreck is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests it is suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level, but it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Experienced divers will find it a rewarding exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive The Umbria Wreck for optimal weather and underwater conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive The Umbria Wreck for optimal weather and underwater conditions. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, please consult our When to Dive resource.
What diving certifications are required to dive The Umbria Wreck, particularly for internal penetration?
The specific diving certifications required to dive The Umbria Wreck are not detailed in the provided information. However, given its classification as an intermediate wreck dive, standard advanced open water certification is generally recommended for such sites. For any internal penetration, specialized wreck diving certifications are typically required to ensure diver safety and proficiency.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water temperatures at The Umbria Wreck dive site?
The provided data does not include information regarding the typical currents, visibility, or water temperatures at The Umbria Wreck dive site. Divers should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning their dive.