SS Carnatic

The Carnatic is one of the oldest and most intriguing wrecks in the Red Sea. This British steamship, built with a wooden hull, sank in 1869 on Abu Nuhas Reef while carrying a cargo of cotton, copper, gold, and bottles of wine—earning it the nickname “the wine wreck.”
En route from Suez to Bombay, the Carnatic struck the reef at full speed during a night crossing. Despite staying afloat for over 24 hours, the captain chose to wait for help instead of evacuating. Eventually, the ship broke in half and sank, tragically claiming 31 lives.
Today, the wreck rests between 20 and 27 meters and is considered one of the most beautiful shipwrecks in the Red Sea. Its skeletal frame is now covered in vibrant soft corals, and its open structure makes for a safe and visually stunning dive. Inside, divers can swim through clouds of glassfish, while outside, giant moray eels, lionfish, and even turtles are often spotted. With its rich history, breathtaking coral growth, and diverse marine life, the Carnatic is a must-visit dive site at Abu Nuhas.