The Yolanda Shipwreck: Discover An Egyptian Treasure
- Written:
- By Christian Llewellyn
Explore the Yolanda Shipwreck at Ras Mohamed, a breathtaking dive site filled with marine life, coral reefs, and an intriguing wreck history.
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Introduction to the Yolanda Shipwreck
Nestled in the world-famous Ras Mohamed National Park, the Yolanda Shipwreck is one of the most unique and fascinating dives in the Red Sea. Known for its scattered cargo, including bathtubs and toilets, this site offers an unforgettable combination of history, marine life, and dramatic underwater landscapes.
Story Behind the Yolanda Wreck
The Yolanda was a Cypriot cargo ship that met its fate in 1980. Carrying a shipment of bathroom fixtures bound for the Middle East, the vessel ran aground on Yolanda Reef during a storm. Over time, the wreckage slipped into the deep, leaving behind an unusual debris field filled with porcelain remnants, making it one of the most famous Red Sea wreck dives.
The Stats: Depth, Conditions & Accessibility
Depth: 15m – 200m+ (most dives focus on the shallower remains)
Water Conditions: Excellent visibility (20m+), occasional strong currents
Accessibility: Boat dive (commonly visited via day trips from Sharm El Sheikh or liveaboards)
Best Time to Dive: March to November for warm waters and optimal visibility
15m
Minimum Depth
Boat
Boat Dive Only
200m
Maximum Depth
Season
March - Nov
Yolanda Shipwreck Location
The Yolanda Shipwreck is one of the most iconic dive sites in the Red Sea, situated in Ras Mohammed National Park, at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. This wreck forms part of the renowned “Shark and Yolanda Reef” dive site, named after both the ship and the abundance of marine life in the area. The wreck’s remnants rest near two coral pinnacles surrounded by clear, turquoise waters that teem with vibrant coral gardens and diverse aquatic species.
Traveling to the Yolanda Shipwreck is relatively straightforward, as the nearest major town, Sharm El Sheikh, is well-connected via its international airport. Sharm El Sheikh receives flights from various European, Middle Eastern, and African destinations, making it a convenient hub for divers worldwide. From the airport, the town’s center and marina are just a 15–20-minute drive, accessible by taxi or shuttle services provided by many hotels and dive centers.
To reach the wreck, divers typically embark on day boats from Sharm El Sheikh’s main marina. The journey to Ras Mohammed National Park takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on weather conditions and the boat’s speed. Liveaboard dive vessels also include the Yolanda Shipwreck in their itineraries, especially those covering the northern Red Sea. For liveaboard divers, this offers the convenience of diving multiple Red Sea sites without the need for daily boat commutes.
My Experience Diving the Yolanda Shipwreck
Descending onto the site, I was immediately struck by the vibrant marine life swarming around the wreckage. Schools of batfish and snappers drifted through the scattered cargo, while moray eels peeked out from behind porcelain toilets. The highlight was swimming along Shark Reef, where reef sharks patrolled the blue. The sheer drop-off beyond the wreck hinted at the deep abyss where the ship’s hull now rests.
What You’ll See: Wreck Features & Marine Life
Wreck Features: Cargo of toilets, bathtubs, and pipes; remains of the ship scattered on the reef
Marine Life:
Common Sightings: Napoleon wrasse, barracuda, moray eels
Rare Encounters: Hammerhead sharks (especially in summer months)
Macro Life: Nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and shrimp hiding within the coral
Practical Dive Info & Booking a Trip
- Recommended Dive Operators: Emperor Divers, Red Sea Diving College, Camel Dive Club
- Estimated Cost: $60–$150 per dive trip, depending on operator and package
- Conservation Notes: Ras Mohamed National Park enforces strict diving regulations to protect the reef—avoid touching coral and marine life.
My Recommendations
1. Choose the Right Dive Season
The best time to dive the Yolanda Shipwreck is between March and November, when water temperatures are warmer (23–29°C / 73–84°F), visibility is excellent (20–30 meters / 65–100 feet), and marine life is abundant. While diving is possible year-round, winter months can bring cooler water and stronger winds.
2. Assess Your Experience Level
While parts of the wreck and surrounding reef are suitable for intermediate divers, currents at this site can be strong and unpredictable. Advanced certification (e.g., Advanced Open Water) is recommended, along with experience diving in currents and at depths up to 30 meters (100 feet). Those with limited experience should dive with a reputable guide or instructor.
3. Prepare for Strong Currents
The Shark and Yolanda Reef area is known for strong drift currents. Use a reef hook or focus on your buoyancy skills to avoid exertion. Plan your dive to drift with the current rather than against it and stay close to your group to prevent separation.
4. Use the Right Gear
- Reef-Safe Dive Equipment: The site includes delicate coral gardens; avoid using gloves and ensure streamlined gear to prevent accidental damage.
- Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): The open-water location and strong currents make an SMB essential for safe ascent and boat pickups.
- Wetsuit: A 3–5mm wetsuit is usually sufficient for warmer months, while a 5–7mm suit is better for winter diving.
5. Hire a Reputable Dive Operator
Choose a dive operator in Sharm El Sheikh with experience leading trips to Ras Mohammed National Park. Look for reviews that highlight safety standards, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality rental equipment.
6. Plan for Marine Life Encounters
The wreck site is not only about the wreck itself but also the incredible biodiversity. Be prepared to encounter schools of snappers, jacks, and batfish, as well as turtles and reef sharks. For photographers, wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the dramatic scenery and marine life.
7. Respect Depth and Dive Limits
While the wreck’s debris lies between 15–40 meters (50–130 feet), the main ship slid into the abyss at 200 meters (656 feet). Stay within recreational limits and avoid venturing into deeper areas unless you are trained in technical diving.
8. Combine the Dive with Nearby Sites
Most dive trips include Shark Reef alongside the Yolanda Wreck. This vibrant site features stunning coral walls and frequent pelagic visitors like grey reef sharks and barracudas. Divers should plan for a multi-site dive for a fuller experience.
9. Stay Hydrated and Protected
Sun exposure during the boat ride can be intense, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated between dives.
10. Learn the Wreck’s History
Understanding the wreck’s story—how the Yolanda ran aground in 1980 and its cargo of bathtubs and toilets scattered across the seafloor—adds depth and meaning to the dive. Sharing this background with divers enhances their appreciation for the site.
My Rating of the Yolanda Shipwreck
Accessibility to the Yolanda Shipwreck is best suited for divers with some experience, as currents in the area can be strong and unpredictable. While the site itself offers varying depths—making it accessible to both advanced divers and intermediate-level enthusiasts with proper supervision—its open-water location means divers should have confidence in their buoyancy and navigation skills. Non-divers or snorkelers can still enjoy the vibrant marine life at shallower depths near the reefs, though they won’t be able to explore the deeper wreck itself. The area’s natural beauty and the rich history of the Yolanda Shipwreck make it a must-visit destination for any diver exploring the Red Sea.
Overall I would give the Yolanda Shipwreck a 7.5 rating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How deep is the Yolanda Shipwreck?
The main wreckage sits between 15-30m, but the ship’s hull sank beyond 200m
Can beginner divers explore it?
The shallow wreckage is accessible, but strong currents make it better suited for Advanced Open Water divers.
What are the main hazards?
Strong currents and deep drop-offs near Shark Reef—always dive with a guide.
What marine life can be found there?
Everything from Napoleon wrasse and moray eels to hammerhead sharks in the summer.
Book Your Trip & Dive The Yolanda
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Advertising Disclaimer
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue our work—thank you for your support!
Written By:
Christian Llewellyn
I’m Christian Llewelyn, an experienced scuba diving instructor and underwater photographer.
I’ve made it my mission to explore and document the fascinating stories of world wrecks. Here, you’ll find detailed insights into each site’s history, location, and diving experiences, as well as tips on local dive schools and how to make your wreck diving adventures unforgettable. Dive in and join me on this journey beneath the waves!
