BEAUTY JUDY - Fujairah

Beauty Judy is one of our favourite wreck dives in Fujairah, especially for divers who appreciate a good backstory and a bit of a shallow potter. This isn't a deep dive by any stretch, topping out at 10 metres, so you get plenty of bottom time to really soak it all in. She’s a landing craft, built in Glasgow back in 1944, and her journey ended quite dramatically when she dragged anchor in heavy weather in Dubai and grounded on a breakwater. We love that tangible history. Today, she lies split into two main sections. The bow is perhaps our pick, lying on its side, and you can swim through the old ramp area, feeling the slight current push you as you navigate the narrow passage. It’s tight but exhilarating. Look closely at the metalwork; you'll see it’s absolutely coated in coral and anemones, providing homes for all sorts of reef fish. You often find schools of snapper hanging in the shade of the hull, and we’ve seen moray eels peeking out from holes. The stern section is less intact but still offers interesting swim-throughs and plenty of nooks to poke around in. Because it’s so shallow, the light penetration is fantastic, making for great visibility on good days and really highlighting the vibrant colours of the marine life. It’s a perfect spot for newer wreck divers or those who just want a relaxed dive with a fascinating piece of maritime history.

Location
Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
25.272223, 55.286110
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Wreck History - BEAUTY JUDY

Year Sunk
1975
Vessel Type
barge
Cause
grounding
Tonnage
640 tons

Originally built in Glasgow in 1944 as a Landing Craft Tank (LCT), this vessel served a purpose far from the warm waters of the UAE. Like many of its kind, it was designed for the rigors of WWII, built to transport tanks and vehicles onto invasion beaches. After the war, it was sold into civilian service and eventually found its way to the Middle East, renamed the "Beauty Judy" and operated by Roberto Maritime S.A.S.

Its final chapter began on March 9, 1975. While anchored at Port Rashid in Dubai, the "Beauty Judy" was caught in severe weather. The storm's fury caused the vessel to drag its anchor, ultimately driving it hard aground onto the port's breakwater. The damage was extensive, and the vessel was declared a total loss. Rather than being scrapped, the wreck was later moved and intentionally scuttled off the coast of Fujairah to create an artificial reef.

Today, the "Beauty Judy" rests in just 10 meters of water, making it an accessible and popular site for divers of all levels. The shallow depth allows for long, relaxed dives with plenty of natural light. The wreck is now a thriving marine habitat, often surrounded by schools of snapper and fusiliers. Divers can explore the open cargo bay and swim around the superstructure, which is encrusted with corals and home to moray eels, scorpionfish, and the occasional turtle.

Marine Protected Area: محمية جبل على الطبيعية

Nearby Dive Sites in Fujairah

Nearest Dive Centres to BEAUTY JUDY

Marine Life in Fujairah

Home to 14 recorded species including 4 other, 3 hard corals, 2 sharks & rays, 2 crabs & lobsters, 1 starfish, 1 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Beauty Judy?
The Beauty Judy dive site offers a typical depth of 10m, making it accessible for various certification levels. This relatively shallow depth allows for extended bottom times and excellent light penetration on this fascinating wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Beauty Judy?
Divers at Beauty Judy can expect to explore a captivating landing craft vessel, which was sunk on March 9, 1975. As a prominent wreck, it naturally serves as an artificial reef, attracting a variety of local marine life. While specific species are not detailed, wrecks like this often become home to reef fish, corals, and other invertebrates, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Beauty Judy dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Beauty Judy dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not ideal for absolute beginners, divers with an Open Water certification and some experience may find it manageable. We recommend consulting with a local dive center in Fujairah for guidance if you are a less experienced diver.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Beauty Judy for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at Beauty Judy for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide. We always recommend checking with local dive operators in Fujairah for current conditions and seasonal recommendations.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or recommended for diving at Beauty Judy?
Given its intermediate difficulty and a depth of 10m, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient for diving at Beauty Judy. However, due to the wreck classification and intermediate rating, some prior diving experience is recommended to fully enjoy the site. Always dive within the limits of your training and experience.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Beauty Judy dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or water conditions at the Beauty Judy dive site. As conditions can vary, it is always best to consult with local dive centers in Fujairah for the most up-to-date information before planning your dive.