Introduction

The Salem Express was once a symbol of modernity and luxury, sailing the Red Sea between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. However, on the night of December 17, 1991, the ship met a tragic fate, sinking just off the coast of Egypt. Today, the Salem Express is not just a piece of history but also a world-renowned diving site. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Salem Express, the events that led to its sinking, and why it is now a popular destination for divers from around the world.

The Salem Express: A Brief History

The Salem Express was built in France in 1966 and was originally named the Fred Scamaroni. The ship was purchased by the Egyptian government in the early 1980s and was renamed the Salem Express. The vessel was 100 meters long and had the capacity to carry 1,200 passengers and 80 cars.

The Tragic Sinking of the Salem Express

On the night of December 17, 1991, the Salem Express set sail from the port of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, bound for Safaga in Egypt. The ship was carrying 650 passengers, mostly Egyptians returning home from the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The weather that night was rough, with strong winds and high waves. Despite the poor conditions, the ship continued on its journey.

At around 1:30 am, the Salem Express collided with a reef just off the coast of Egypt. The impact caused a huge hole in the ship's hull, and water quickly flooded the vessel. Within minutes, the Salem Express had sunk to the bottom of the Red Sea.

The Aftermath of the Tragedy

The sinking of the Salem Express was a major tragedy, with over 450 people losing their lives. The Egyptian government launched a massive search and rescue operation, but only a few survivors were found. The bodies of the victims were later recovered and buried in a mass grave near the port of Safaga.

The Salem Express Today: A Diving Site

Despite its tragic history, the Salem Express has become a popular destination for divers from around the world. The shipwreck lies at a depth of around 30 meters, and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea make it an ideal spot for diving.

The wreck is also home to a wide variety of marine life, including schools of colorful fish, moray eels, and octopuses. Divers can explore the interior of the ship, where they will find the remains of the cars and luggage that were once onboard.

Why You Should Take a Diving Tour of the Salem Express

The Salem Express may have a tragic history, but it is also a fascinating dive site. Diving enthusiasts from around the world come to explore the wreck and its surrounding marine life. Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking a diving tour of the Salem Express:

A Unique Historical Experience - Diving on the Salem Express is not just about the marine life; it's also a chance to explore a piece of history.

Beautiful Marine Life - The crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea are home to a wide variety of colorful marine life, making the Salem Express a visual feast for divers.

A Sense of Adventure - Diving on a shipwreck is an exciting and adventurous experience that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Conclusion

The sinking of the Salem Express was a tragedy that claimed the lives of hundreds of people. However, today, the ship has become a popular destination for divers from around the world. The Salem Express offers a unique diving experience, where divers can explore the remains of the ship and its surrounding marine life

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