A powerful, moving deep dive
Salem Express
The passenger ferry that sank near Safaga in 1991. Deep and quiet, for advanced divers. You will not forget this one.
The story
History written in coral
The Salem Express was a 100-metre roll-on/roll-off passenger ferry working the route between Safaga and Jeddah. On the stormy night of 17 December 1991, returning full of pilgrims from Mecca, she struck Hyndman Reef and sank in less than half an hour. Hundreds of lives were lost, making her both a wreck and a memorial.
She lies on her starboard side between 12 and 30 metres, her twin propellers, giant “S” funnels and bow visor clearly visible. Life vests and luggage still rest around the wreck. We dive her with respect and stay outside the passenger areas.
Marine life has softened her story: the hull is now carpeted in hard corals, and the surrounding sand hosts eagle rays and moray eels. It is a serious, emotional, unforgettable dive for experienced divers.
History & key dates
1966
Built in France as the ferry "Fred Scamaroni".
1988
Bought by an Egyptian company, renamed Salem Express, and put on the Safaga to Jeddah pilgrim route.
17 December 1991
In a night storm, returning from Mecca, she strikes Hyndman Reef and sinks in about twenty minutes. Hundreds of lives are lost.
Today
A protected wreck and memorial, dived quietly and with respect.
Dive highlights
- Iconic twin “S” funnels & propellers
- Lies on her side, huge dramatic silhouettes
- Hard-coral carpet over the hull
- Eagle rays & morays on the sand
- 2 respectful guided dives
From the wreck
Salem Express facts
- Built
- 1966, France
- Sunk
- 17 December 1991
- Ship
- 100 m ro-ro ferry
- Depth
- 12 - 30 m
- Level
- Advanced recommended
- Location
- Hyndman Reef, near Safaga
- Getting there
- ~1 h transfer + boat from Safaga
Ready to dive today?
The water is 28°C, the visibility is over 30 m, and a boat with your name on it leaves tomorrow at 8 AM.