Sha'ab Abu Nuhas

Sha'ab Abu Nuhas, known in diving circles as the 'Ship Wreckers' reef,' is a crescent-shaped reef in the Strait of Gubal that has claimed an extraordinary number of vessels since the nineteenth century — four of which have become world-class wreck dives positioned within a few hundred meters of each other on the reef's northern flank. The reef's treacherous position in the shipping lane between the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea made it a frequent hazard for vessels heading to and from the Suez Canal. The four main wrecks are the Carnatic (1869, British steamer), Chrisoula K (1981, 'Tile Wreck'), Giannis D (1983), and Kimon M (1978, 'Lentil Wreck'), each offering a distinct dive profile. A full day on Sha'ab Abu Nuhas typically covers two or three of the wrecks, with the rest of the reef providing excellent wall diving along its northern edge. The reef top rises to within 3 meters of the surface and drops steeply into deep water on all sides. The reef itself is as rich as the wrecks. The north wall is draped in gorgonian fans, black coral bushes, and soft coral gardens. Napoleon wrasse and giant moray eels are resident, and grey reef sharks, tuna, and barracuda patrol the blue water off the reef's corners. Scorpionfish, crocodile fish, and lionfish populate the coral heads, and night diving reveals hunting octopus, basket stars, and Spanish dancers. Coral cover is exceptional, reflecting the reef's long-standing protected status. Sha'ab Abu Nuhas is Advanced Open Water territory due to the depth of the wrecks and occasional strong currents. Reached by day boat from Hurghada (1.5 hours) or as a keystone of most northern Red Sea liveaboard itineraries. Visibility 20-30 meters, water temperatures 22-29°C. Best conditions run March through November, with the wrecks divable year-round for travelers willing to accept cooler winter water temperatures.