Top Wreck Dives in Hurghada: History Beneath the Red Sea
The top wreck dives in Hurghada combine history, coral and marine life in one unforgettable dive. From a wartime minesweeper just outside the harbour to some of the most famous wrecks in the world, the Hurghada area is a dream for wreck lovers.
Wreck diving needs good planning and the right level of experience. Want to know which wrecks suit you? Tell us your certification and dates in the form below and we will advise you.
Why Is Hurghada Great for Wreck Diving?
The northern Red Sea is one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, and its reefs have claimed many ships over the years. Warm water and good visibility mean these wrecks are now covered in coral and full of fish.
Hurghada is a great base because some wrecks are very close to the city, while others can be reached on longer trips or liveaboards.
El Mina Wreck: Hurghada’s Closest Wreck Dive
El Mina is an Egyptian navy minesweeper that sank near Hurghada’s harbour in 1969. Today it lies on its side on a sandy bottom at around 30 metres, with parts of the wreck shallower.
The wreck is home to glassfish, lionfish, moray eels and scorpionfish, and its guns and structure are still easy to recognise. At Chloe’s Diving Center, you can add El Mina as an extra third dive for €35.
Famous Red Sea Wrecks Reachable from Hurghada
Beyond El Mina, Hurghada gives access to some of the Red Sea’s most legendary wrecks. These are usually longer trips and suit experienced divers.
| Wreck | Area | History | Typical max depth |
| El Mina | Hurghada harbour | Minesweeper, sank 1969 | Around 30 m |
| Abu Nuhas wrecks (Giannis D, Carnatic, Chrisoula K, Kimon M) | North of Hurghada | Several ships wrecked on one reef | Around 20–30 m |
| Salem Express | Near Safaga | Passenger ferry, sank 1991 | Around 30 m |
| SS Thistlegorm | Strait of Gubal | British supply ship, sank 1941 | Around 30 m |
The Salem Express is also a memorial site, so divers visit with special respect. Ask us about the best way to dive these wrecks during your stay.
What Level Do You Need for Wreck Diving?
Many wrecks lie between 18 and 30 metres, so most require at least the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course, which allows dives to 30 metres.
The PADI Deep Diver course (€250) builds confidence for deeper wrecks, and Enriched Air Nitrox (€190) can extend your bottom time. Divers new to the sport should start with the PADI Open Water Diver course and shallower reefs first.
Wreck Diving Safety Tips
- Stay outside the wreck unless you are trained for penetration.
- Watch your depth and no-decompression limits closely.
- Keep good buoyancy to avoid stirring up silt or touching sharp metal.
- Follow your guide’s plan and turn back with plenty of air.
- Never take souvenirs: wrecks are protected heritage.
How Much Does Wreck Diving Cost in Hurghada?
At Chloe’s Diving Center, a day trip with two boat dives costs €55, and an extra third dive on the El Mina wreck costs €35. A daily marine park tax of €5 per person applies.
See all trips, courses and extras on our diving prices in Hurghada page.
Book Your Wreck Dive in Hurghada
The top wreck dives in Hurghada are a must for every curious diver. Start with El Mina and build up to the Red Sea’s legends. Book your dive or message us on WhatsApp.
What is the closest wreck to Hurghada?
El Mina, a minesweeper that sank in 1969, lies just outside Hurghada's harbour and is the closest wreck dive to the city.
Can beginners dive wrecks in Hurghada?
Most wrecks are deep, so Advanced Open Water is recommended. Beginners should first gain experience on shallow reefs.
Can I dive the Thistlegorm from Hurghada?
The Thistlegorm is a long trip from Hurghada and is often dived on special day trips or liveaboards. Contact us to discuss options.
Is wreck penetration allowed?
Only for divers with proper wreck training and suitable conditions. Recreational divers should stay outside the wreck.
