SS Thistlegorm

The SS Thistlegorm is not just a shipwreck—it’s a time capsule from World War II, offering divers a unique glimpse into history. Built in 1940 by Joseph Thompson & Sons in Sunderland, England, this British merchant vessel was part of the Albion Line but was requisitioned by the British government for war transport.

In the summer of 1941, the SS Thistlegorm embarked on a top-secret mission to deliver crucial military supplies to the British 8th Army in North Africa. Since the Mediterranean was heavily patrolled by German and Italian forces, the ship took a longer route around Africa, through the Red Sea, towards the Suez Canal.

Onboard, it carried an incredible cargo, including:

Trucks and armored vehicles (Bedford, Ford, Morris, Austin)
BSA, Norton, and Matchless motorcycles
Two large steam locomotives with rail cars
Aircraft parts, weapons, ammunition, and fuel barrels
Medical supplies, clothing, and even rubber boots

As the SS Thistlegorm waited near the Gulf of Suez for clearance to enter the canal, disaster struck. In the early hours of October 6, 1941, German Heinkel He-111 bombers from KG 26 spotted the ship and mistook it for a battleship. Two direct hits struck the ammunition hold, triggering a massive explosion that split the ship in half. It sank within minutes.

Out of 48 crew members, 9 tragically lost their lives, while the rest were rescued by the nearby SS Carlisle.

For decades, the wreck remained forgotten until Jacques Cousteau located it in 1955. He filmed the site but kept the location secret. It wasn't until the 1990s that the SS Thistlegorm became a popular dive site.

Resting at 30 meters deep, the wreck is largely intact, with its bow still upright while the stern is torn apart. Divers can explore:

Perfectly preserved motorcycles, trucks, and weaponry
Scattered ammunition and railway locomotives
Thriving marine life, including Napoleon wrasse, barracudas, moray eels, and large schooling fish

Why Dive the SS Thistlegorm?
One of the most famous WWII wrecks in the world
Incredible artifacts frozen in time
A thrilling combination of history and marine life
An unforgettable dive experience for wreck enthusiasts

Diving the SS Thistlegorm is more than just an underwater adventure—it’s a journey into history.