Marine Life & Conservation
The wrecks of Abu Nuhas: Carnatic, Giannis D, Chrisoula K and Kimon M
Abu Nuhas is a reef in the Strait of Gubal, about 5 km north of Shadwan Island, that sits in a busy shipping lane just after the Suez Canal. Its corals rise almost to the surface, making it hard to see — and several ships ran onto it: the Carnatic in 1869, the Kimon M in 1978, the Chrisoula K in 1981 and the Giannis D in 1983. Today they make one of the Red Sea's best wreck days.
By 71 Guardians · Published 19 Oct 2026
Why did so many ships sink here?
The reef lies in a heavily used lane — the last obstacle for ships leaving the Suez Canal — and its corals reach almost to the surface without breaking it, so it's hard to spot in calm seas, low sun or at night.
What is the story of the Carnatic?
A P&O steam-and-sail ship launched in 1862, the Carnatic left Suez for Bombay on 12 September 1869 and struck the reef early the next morning. She broke in two on 14 September; about 30 people died (sources give 30 or 31). Her cargo included copper, cotton, Royal Mail and coins for the Indian mint. She lies at about 18–27 metres.
And the other wrecks?
- Kimon M — a freighter lost in 1978; its bow still lies on the reef.
- Chrisoula K — a Greek freighter lost in 1981.
- Giannis D — a Greek freighter lost in 1983.
Sources disagree on how many wrecks there are in total — at least four, possibly more.
How do we dive Abu Nuhas?
As a special day trip from Hurghada (extra charge) or on our North Wrecks & Reefs liveaboard. See each wreck's own dive-site page for depths.
Frequently asked questions
Which Abu Nuhas wreck is best for beginners?
Your guide chooses by conditions and level; depths range to around 30 m.
Can you go inside the wrecks?
Only with the right training and guide — see Wreck diving safety.
Questions before you dive with us?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we're divers in Hurghada and happy to help.
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