SS Thistlegorm is one of the well-known wrecks in the Red Sea that combines history with diving. Visiting the ship, known for its vehicles and wartime cargo, requires different preparation than an ordinary reef day. It should be clear whether the plan covers observing the outside of the wreck or a visit to the interior, which requires specialized training.
A brief history of the Thistlegorm
The British merchant ship carrying military supplies during the Second World War sank on 6 October 1941 after an air attack. Remnants of its cargo, such as vehicles and motorcycles, play an important role in identifying the wreck. This heritage is not a backdrop for dive tourism but a historical site that must be protected.
Where and at what depth?
The wreck is located in Sha'ab Ali, in the north of the Red Sea. The PADI site record gives a maximum depth of 32 metres; this is a reference value, not the target depth of your dive. The outer sections and interior areas do not fall under the same route or competence scope. The actual profile, training limits and the conditions of the day are determined with the operator.
Current CDWS experience requirement
The CDWS protection guidance dated 8 October 2025 states that divers with fewer than 20 dives, or who have difficulties with buoyancy control, are not permitted to visit the wreck. This requirement is not an automatic participation approval that substitutes for a certificate name. The training level the operator requests, recent experience and other conditions are separately confirmed.
Expressions such as CMAS two-star or Advanced mentioned in past programmes should not be used as universal equivalence. Send your card and dive logs to the operator to have your suitability for the planned route assessed in advance.
Current, visibility and the distinction within the wreck
Current and the need for buoyancy control are important in preparing for this visit. Exploring the outside of the wreck does not grant authorization to enter the closed or overhung interior sections. If there is an interior plan, appropriate training, equipment and operator procedures are evaluated separately. This guide does not provide instructions for entering the wreck or a route for execution.
Protecting the wreck
CDWS guidance prohibits touching the wreck, sitting on it or striking it with fins. When taking photographs, distance and buoyancy control must also be maintained. Taking pieces from historical cargo is not part of the visit. Tying the boat up is the responsibility of the crew; visitor divers learn the field rules during the briefing.
Alternative for an unsuitable participant
It should not be required that the entire group take part in the Thistlegorm dive. A reef day suited to experience or a non-diving leisure programme can be arranged separately under the current organisation. The alternative's number of dives, transport and price difference should be explained from the offer, not assumed.
Frequently asked question: if I have 20 dives, can I definitely join?
No. Alongside the CDWS experience threshold, buoyancy, training, recent experience and the daily field assessment are also required. The final decision is clarified through the assessment of the operator providing the planned service.
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Sources
CDWS Thistlegorm visit guidance — October 2025, PADI history article and PADI site record. Source check: 19 October 2026. Contains no specific date, price or dive count announcement.
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