Abu Tair reef, a vibrant diving destination situated in the Red Sea off the coast of Jeddah, welcomes divers of all skill levels to explore its lively underwater world and captivating shipwrecks. This mesmerizing underwater landscape is characterised by multi-coloured coral gardens, diverse marine life, warm water temperatures and no currents, ensuring a remarkable diving experience.
At the north end of Abu Tair reef, Marble Wreck (officially Abusabaa) offers a perfect introduction to shipwreck exploration. Named after the cargo it was carrying when it sank in 1979, Marble Wreck lies in shallow waters just 10m below the surface. Over time, the Red Sea has transformed the ship into an artificial reef, providing a habitat for diverse marine life, such as lionfish, soldierfish, moray eels and bluespotted stingrays. The ship’s bow and mast are adorned with pink sponges and Acropora corals, creating a breathtaking underwater scene.
The dive features a large coral pinnacle and provides the opportunity to swim through schools of juvenile barracudas. With minimal currents, divers can fully appreciate the rich history of the shipwreck and the vibrant marine life of the surrounding Abu Tair reef.
Advanced and experienced divers will enjoy Cable Wreck, on the more southern end of the reef. Named after the industrial cargo it was carrying when it ran aground in 1978, MV Stefanos now rests at a depth of 25m and serves as a thriving artificial reef. Home to an array of hard and soft corals, the shipwreck provides a fascinating backdrop for underwater photography and is a popular spot for those looking to discover the Red Sea’s most sunken secrets. Divers can observe an abundance of marine life, including bluestripe snappers, goatfish, tuna and even the elusive whale shark. While the ship’s bridge can be accessed by skilled divers, caution should be exercised due to sharp edges and loose ropes.
Drifting along the reef’s captivating coral gardens and shipwrecks, visitors can expect to create unforgettable memories in the Red Sea.
The sandy area around Marble Wreck is awash with different types of sea shells. Ranging from ornate clam shells to giant spider conches, the gentle currents and absence of mass tourism has meant that many of these mollusc treasures have remained intact. While it’s tempting to take them home, you never know what sea creature the sea creature is protecting.
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