Kimon M is one of the four famous shipwrecks of Abu Nuhas Reef in the northern Red Sea. This 106-meter-long German freighter sank in 1978 while en route to India carrying a cargo of lentil. Due to high speed and challenging weather conditions, the ship failed to avoid a collision with the reef. It remained afloat for several days before strong waves finally pushed it off the reef, sending it to the sandy seabed below.
Today, the wreck of Kimon M rests at a depth of 4–30 meters, lying on its starboard side. The bow is heavily damaged and partially buried in the sand, but the stern is relatively well-preserved. Divers can explore the engine room, where massive diesel engine remains visible, as well as parts of the ship’s interior, now home to a variety of marine life. The cargo holds, once filled with packs of lentil, have transformed into a maze of twisted metal structures adorned with soft corals and sponges.
Marine life thrives on Kimon M. Inside the wreck, moray eels, lionfish, and large schools of glassfish create a mesmerizing scene as they swirl around divers. Outside, surgeonfish and snappers move in coordinated groups, while barracudas and tunas patrol the area in search of prey. On the sandy seabed near the wreck, stingrays can often be spotted hiding among the debris.
Due to the extensive damage, Kimon M offers both an exciting and slightly challenging dive. Penetration requires careful navigation and good buoyancy control, as some corridors are narrow and collapsed structures can limit visibility. However, even without entering the wreck, it remains an impressive dive site with its sheer size and abundant marine life. Early morning dives here are particularly stunning, as the sunlight filters through the wreckage, casting an eerie yet beautiful glow over the scene.