description MV Salem Express Overview
MV Salem Express was an Egyptian passenger ferry that sank in the Red Sea during the night of 14 to 15 December 1991 after striking a reef near Safaga, Egypt. Many passengers were returning from the pilgrimage to Mecca, and official accounts reported more than 470 deaths, although the exact toll remains disputed. The wreck lies on its starboard side and has become a well-known but sensitive diving site because many victims were trapped inside the vessel.
help MV Salem Express FAQ
How did the MV Salem Express sink in the Red Sea?
The ferry sank during the night of December 14 to 15, 1991, after striking a reef near Safaga, Egypt. The impact ruptured the bow door, allowing massive amounts of water to flood the car deck.
Why was the sinking of the MV Salem Express so deadly?
Many passengers were returning from a pilgrimage to Mecca, and the ship was heavily overloaded. Official accounts reported more than 470 deaths, though the actual toll is believed to be much higher.
Can scuba divers visit the MV Salem Express wreck today?
Yes, the wreck rests in relatively shallow waters in the Red Sea, making it a highly visited but controversial dive site. Divers are often asked not to penetrate the wreck or touch the debris out of respect for the victims.
What kind of ship was the MV Salem Express before it sank?
It was an Egyptian roll-on/roll-off passenger ferry that had previously operated in French waters under a different name. At the time of the tragedy, it was running a route between Safaga, Egypt, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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