Chrisoula K
The Chrisoula K, carrying floor tiles from Italy to Jeddah, collided with Sha’ab Abu Nuhas Reef in late August 1981, leading to substantial hull damage and rendering it a constructive total loss.
The crew, picked up by the Egyptian Navy, was safely transported to Suez as the ship began sinking at the base of the reef in 20-30 meters of water. Over the years, the wreck has deteriorated due to natural elements, with the bow almost entirely vanished above water. Diving the wreck requires calm seas and reveals the main part of the ship in an upright position, while the stern has tilted onto its starboard side. Exploration of the engine room is possible but disorienting due to its tilted position. The wreck remains largely untouched, allowing access to the cargo holds where the tile cargo is still present, making it a distinctive dive spot in the Red Sea.
Depth (m)
4 - 27Type
Cargo ShipLength (m)
106.4Beam (m)
14.8Weight (tn)
3720Date Sank
30/08/1981History of Chrisoula K
The Chrisoula K, a well-known shipwreck in the Red Sea, has a rich history intertwined with maritime trade and adventure. Built in 1954 by the Öresundsvarvet shipyard in Landskrona, Sweden, the vessel was originally named Dora Oldendorf and served as a general cargo ship. Over the years, it changed ownership and names several times, eventually becoming known as the Chrisoula K under the ownership of the Greek shipping company, Clarion Marine Company.
On August 31, 1981, the Chrisoula K embarked on what would become its final voyage. The ship was transporting a cargo of Italian floor tiles from the port of Livorno, Italy, to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Navigating through the Red Sea, the vessel struck the treacherous Sha’ab Abu Nuhas reef, a notorious hazard for maritime vessels. The impact was severe, causing extensive damage to the hull, and the ship sank rapidly, coming to rest at a depth of approximately 25 meters (82 feet).
Today, the wreck of the Chrisoula K is a popular dive site, often referred to as “The Tile Wreck” due to its cargo of floor tiles, many of which remain scattered across the seabed. The ship lies upright, with much of its structure intact, including the cargo holds, bridge, and engine room, providing divers with a fascinating underwater exploration experience.
The wreck has become an artificial reef, hosting a vibrant ecosystem of marine life. Divers can encounter a variety of species, such as groupers, lionfish, and moray eels, among the coral-encrusted remnants of the ship. The combination of historical significance, structural integrity, and thriving marine biodiversity makes the Chrisoula K a captivating destination for divers exploring the Red Sea’s underwater treasures.