Sha'ab Ali - Straits of Gubal Dive Site Descriptions
Wreck of the SS. Thistlegorm:
To most, I am sure this wreck needs no introduction. In October 1941 she was at anchor behind Shab Ali and awaiting orders to move up through the Suez Canal to deliver a cargo of munitions to the British troops in north Africa when German aircraft bombed the 129m British freighter. The cargo is still virtually intact and includes railway locomotives, bren gun carriers, trucks, motorcycles and a host of ammunition of all sizes. You need to do at least two dives on this wreck to even get a feel for the site. Dive the deeper stern section first and the bow for the second dive of the day. The wreck is home to bat fish, jacks, barracudas, surgeon fish, nudibranchs and rabbit fish graze the hull. The current here can be strong and the visibility reduced so ensure a full briefing from your dive guide and enjoy your visit to this part of British history.