Abu Nuhas

Abu Nuhas is a shallow reef plateau and a well-known ship graveyard featuring four main wrecks: Carnatic, Chrisoula K, Giannis D and Kimon M. The wrecks lie across a sandy bottom and are encrusted with hard and soft corals, providing scenic structure and habitat; divers commonly swim between wreck sections and penetrate accessible chambers. Depths range from about 5 to 32 m depending on the wreck, with visibility typically very good (around 20-30+ m) and water temperatures roughly 22-28 °C. The site is boat access only (liveaboards or day boats) using moorings or tender drop-offs; common practice is to descend on a shotline or downline and drift between wrecks. Currents from the Gulf of Suez are often moderate to strong, especially near reef edges, and surface waters can be choppy. Wreck-penetration skills or advanced open-water experience are often recommended; hazards include strong currents and structural dangers such as sharp metal and confined spaces. The Carnatic is a British steam cargo vessel that ran aground and sank in 1869 while carrying passengers, wine and gold. The Chrisoula K was a Greek freighter that sank in 1981 carrying Italian tiles, with shallow sections starting around 4-5 m. The Giannis D is a Japanese-built cargo ship sunk in 1983 with notable engine-room and tunnel features. The Kimon M is a German cargo ship sunk in 1978 with stern sections near 32 m. A fifth wreck, the Sea Star dredger, lies at about 90 m and is beyond recreational limits. Wrecks rest upright or broken up with holds, tunnels and collapsed sections that permit exploration where safe.