The reef of Abu Nuhas in the northern Red Sea is a ship’s graveyard, with four wrecks accessible to recreational divers. Let’s take a closer look at one – the Giannis D
Words by Jo Mattock, photographs by Charles Hood
This ship was carrying a cargo of wood when it struck the reef and sank in 1983. The Giannis D split in two when it sank and now lies in two halves. The wreck lies on its port side, with the stern on the sea bed at 20m and the top of the mast at a safety-stop-friendly 5m.
Divers can penetrate the wreck in the stern section. You can swim through the bridge and it’s possible to enter the engine room and accommodation areas too. However, the angle of the wreck can be disorientating when you’re inside, so be careful.
Giannis D’s stern section is particularly photogenic – its bridge and funnel looking like tiers on a wedding cake. Even if you’re not holding a camera, take a minute to admire this view of one of the Red Sea’s classic wrecks.
Abu Nuhas lies just north of Shadwan Island. It’s around 20 miles from the resort of El Gouna and you can also get day boats here from Hurghada, which is 25 miles away, and even Sharm El Sheikh if you’re prepared for a three-hour boat ride – it’s just over 30 miles. The reef is also a popular stop for liveaboards touring the northern Red Sea. As the reef is dangerous to boats, most dives take place from RIBs while the larger boat moors at a safer distance.
