Egypt
The Abu Saimma was a wooden Egyptian fishing trawler, of the type common in the Red Sea. The boat is believed to have entered the Mikalawa lagoon for engine repairs when it struck the reef and sank, and there was later a salvage attempt that was abandoned. The name Abu Saimma is unconfirmed, and the dates of construction and sinking are unknown.
Fishing nets still wrap the boat's propeller and rudder. A resident family of batfish patrols the gantries, and the stern hold is filled with glass fish.
The reef next to the wreck is home to many species of Red Sea fishes and invertebrates, and its caves, overhangs and sandy bottom form different habitats. On top of the reef there is a series of tall coral towers, with sunlit caverns you can swim through. Mikalawa Island, also known as Saranaka, is an overnight stop for boats and has an interesting selection of birds.
Information on this page, including technical data such as depth, current, visibility, access, and recommended level, is informational and may vary. Confirm actual conditions with a local operator before the dive.
Tap to see what might appear on this dive
Reviews are from other divers — personal experiences, not guarantees.