Salem Express
This is a maritime grave and should be treated as such. Dive her with respect.
Salem Express
This is a maritime grave and should be treated as such. Dive her with respect.
Built and launched as the Fred Scamaroni in France in 1964, this passenger ferry was later sold to the Samatour line and renamed the Salem Express. On December 14, 1991, she hit the Hyndeman reef and tore a huge hole in the hull. The impact of the shock caused the cargo doors to open, water poured in and the boat sank in 20 minutes. According to official reports, 650 pilgrims returning from Mecca were on board, but it is claimed that up to 1,600 people were actually on board. Only 180 people survived the tragedy.
This is a maritime grave and should be treated as such. Dive her with respect. The wreck lies at a depth between 12m and 30m. She has a length of 115 meters long and lies on her starboard side.
Extended story of the Salem Express (click here)
Location features:
Depth: 35 mtr
Level: Advanced
Type: Wreck dive
The photos in the carousel are from marine biologist Anja Blonk all photos were taken on the Salem Express.
This shot of the Salem Express was captured by Wendy Versluis.