SS Dunraven

The Dunraven is one of the oldest and most famous shipwrecks in the Red Sea. This British sail-steamship was built in 1873 and used to transport cargo between England and India. The 80-meter-long vessel, with a displacement of around 1,600 tons, featured an iron hull and a hybrid sail-steam propulsion system, typical of ships of that era.

In March 1876, while en route from Bombay to the UK carrying a cargo of cotton and spices, the Dunraven struck Shaab Mahmoud Reef near the southern entrance of the Suez Gulf. The collision severely damaged the hull, causing rapid flooding. Despite the crew’s efforts to save the ship, it eventually capsized and sank to a depth of approximately 30 meters. Fortunately, the sailors were rescued by a passing vessel, but the cargo was lost forever.


The wreck now rests upside down at a depth of 15–30 meters. Despite being underwater for more than 140 years, the ship remains well-preserved and is a fascinating dive site. Its hull is encrusted with corals, penetration is possible.

The dive usually starts at the stern, where the ship’s massive propeller and rudder, now covered in marine growth, can still be seen. Moving forward, divers can enter the ship’s interior through spacious openings, exploring the engine room and seeing the large boilers that once powered the vessel. Light filtering through cracks creates a mesmerizing effect inside the wreck, making for an atmospheric dive.

Over the years, the Dunraven has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, attracting a wide variety of marine life. Inside the wreck, divers often encounter lionfish, moray eels, shrimp, and schools of glassfish that create a magical shimmering effect. Barracudas and trevallies patrol the outer hull, while octopuses and cuttlefish hide in crevices.

On the sandy seabed around the ship, stingrays can often be seen resting, while the wreck itself is home to an array of hard and soft corals. Angel fish, butterfly fish, and scorpionfish are common, and lucky divers may even spot a passing sea turtle gliding through the water.

What Makes Dunraven Special?
This wreck offers a unique combination of features that make it a must-dive site:

Ideal Depth – Lying at 18–30 meters, the Dunraven is accessible to a wide range of divers, including those with limited wreck-diving experience.
Easy Penetration – The structure is well-preserved, with open spaces allowing for safe and effortless exploration.
Historical Significance – As one of the oldest wrecks in the Red Sea, the Dunraven provides a glimpse into 19th-century maritime history.
Rich Marine Life – The wreck is teeming with diverse marine species, making it a fantastic dive for both wreck enthusiasts and underwater photographers.
A dive at the Dunraven promises an unforgettable experience, combining the allure of a historic shipwreck with the beauty of the Red Sea’s vibrant marine ecosystem.