"Discover Thistlegorm: A Fascinating Dive Back in Time"

Sunken Stories: The Thistlegorm Shipwreck - A War Memoir Reclaimed by Nature

The SS Thistlegorm, an illustrious British merchant vessel, was crafted by J.L. Thompson and Sons in Sunderland. Launched in 1940, it met a tragic fate when German aircraft targeted it in 1941 off the Egyptian shoreline amid the turmoil of World War II. Today, this historical relic has been reborn as a sanctuary for a dazzling array of marine life and hosts an extraordinary collection of wartime artifacts.

Divers from across the globe flock to explore its remains, captivated by the intricate details of its inner components and marvelling at this sunken time capsule. Amidst the vast amounts of cargo - motorcycles, rifles, amphibious cars, and even steam locomotives - visitors bear witness to how nature has seized control and transformed this once mighty vessel into a unique habitat. The Thistlegorm shipwreck stands as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of war, while simultaneously showcasing the beauty and power of nature making it one of the best wreck sites in the Red sea and arguably around the globe.

 

Thistlegorm shipwreck location

Motorcycle in the holds of the thistlegorm shipwreck

One of the wrecks many motorcycles in the Thistlegorms holds.

Hidden Depths Revealed: The Resurgence of the Thistlegorm Shipwreck

In the annals of maritime history, the discovery of the Thistlegorm shipwreck by French explorer Jacques Cousteau in 1956 stands as a significant milestone. Yet, for decades, the exact location of this submerged treasure remained a well-guarded secret.

It wasn't until the early 1990s that the shipwreck was rediscovered, coinciding with the burgeoning development of the resort town of Sharm El Sheik. As if awakened from its slumber, the Thistlegorm began attracting scores of divers, drawn by the allure of exploring this remarkable underwater museum.

Motorbikes loaded into the back of many military trucks

Plunging into the Abyss: The Allure and Challenge of the Thistlegorm Shipwreck

Resting in the tranquil depths of 30 meters, the Thistlegorm shipwreck presents an enticing challenge to advanced level divers. Its considerable depth, coupled with potential strong currents and fluctuating visibility, demands a certain level of expertise and caution. It is crucial for divers to heed briefings about site conditions and be prepared for unexpected changes underwater. However, when conditions are favorable, the water clarity is spectacular, offering an unrivaled opportunity for a leisurely exploration of the wreck.

Furthermore, open water divers seeking to advance their skills can consider liveaboard boats that include the wreck in their itinerary, provided the tour company permits it. This allows them to complete their advanced certifications while experiencing the allure of this historical underwater museum.

Dated shells amongst the wreckage of the Thistlegorm shipwreck

Dated shells amongst the wreckage of the Thistlegorm shipwreck

The Thistlegorm Wreck: A Must-Visit for Every Diving Enthusiast

The Thistlegorm dive site is truly a gem that should feature on every diver's bucket list. Day boats to the site can be arranged from either Sharm El Sheik or Hurghada, but these are contingent on having enough passengers due to the wreck's remote location.

To guarantee an unforgettable experience and to avoid any disappointment, we highly recommend opting for a liveaboard boat that includes this site in its itinerary. The chance to undertake night dives at this wreck is simply phenomenal. Imagine descending from the deck into an open cargo hold of the wreck, your torch illuminating World War II motorbikes and other vehicles in the enveloping darkness - it's an experience not to be missed! Liveaboard diving proves to be the best option for exploring this wreck, as it allows for multiple dives at this captivating location.

The Emperor fleet offers exceptional liveaboard experiences for diving enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning Thistlegorm wreck. Four recommended options for experiencing this iconic dive site are the Emperor Elite, Emperor Superior, Seven Seas Egypt and Emperor Asmaa. All four boats vary in price due to their facilities, but they all provide the superb Emperor service.

For those looking for a budget-friendly and shorter diving trip, why not check out the Snefro Pearl liveaboard? This option, offers an affordable experience for divers looking to explore the beautiful underwater world. The Snefro Pearl liveaboard accommodates only 12 passengers, making it ideal for smaller groups. Nitrox is available on board free of charge. Click here for more information and to book your diving vacation. It's a great choice for divers who want to make the most of their budget without compromising on the quality of their diving experience.

Looking for a reliable and convenient platform to book liveaboards for your next diving adventure? Look no further than Divebooker.com. With a wide range of liveaboard options available all over the world, Divebooker.com makes it easy to find the perfect diving experience for you. What sets them apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction and safety. Not only do they offer a seamless booking process, but they also provide free DAN dive insurance with every booking. This means that you can dive with peace of mind, knowing that you are covered by comprehensive insurance. Whether you're exploring the stunning Thistlegorm wreck or embarking on a diving expedition in any other corner of the globe, Divebooker.com has got you covered. Start planning your next underwater adventure today!