About this spot
Salem Express rests on the floor of the Red Sea near Safaga, Egypt, making it one of the region's most significant wreck dives. The cargo vessel sank in 1991 and now sits at depths between 12 and 32 meters, offering advanced divers a chance to explore a substantial steel structure. The wreck is intact enough to permit penetration diving for qualified explorers, though the site demands respect for the ship's history and the technical skills required at depth. Divers descend through the wreck's holds, cabins, and corridors, discovering cargo, personal effects, and machinery frozen in time. The structural integrity varies throughout the vessel—some sections remain stable while others show signs of deterioration. Strong currents are common in the Red Sea, so buoyancy control and awareness are essential. The wreck attracts experienced divers seeking a serious challenge beyond coral and reef diving. Access is typically by liveaboard or day boat from nearby ports. Local operators know the site well, and divers should verify their experience level matches the dive's demands. The Red Sea's warm waters and year-round diving season mean the Salem Express is accessible throughout the year, though sea conditions and operator schedules may vary seasonally.
📖 Guide: Diving in Egypt: 258 Sites From Wrecks to Hammerheads
Best months
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 🤿 Pack: 3/2 mm shorty
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 220V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- 🤿 Wetsuit 3/2 mm shorty
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 8h · direct
- Jet-lag: 7h east · 5 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Salem Express?
Year-round diving is possible in Egypt's Red Sea, though conditions vary seasonally. Check with local operators for current sea state and current forecasts before booking, as these factors change monthly.
›What depth and experience level is required?
Salem Express reaches 32 meters at its deepest point and is rated for advanced divers only. Wreck penetration demands additional training beyond recreational certification. Current awareness and excellent buoyancy control are mandatory.
›What marine life might we see?
The Red Sea supports diverse reef fish and pelagics, though specific species at Salem Express vary. Ask your dive operator what they typically encounter on wreck visits to that location.
›How do we access Salem Express?
Most divers reach Salem Express by liveaboard or day boat from Red Sea ports like Safaga. Confirm departures and operator experience with wreck diving before committing. International travelers should verify current travel and diving permits for Egypt.
