Maria Schröder
The Maria Schröder, originally known as the Rolf Jarl, was a steam-powered cargo ship crafted in the iconic "three-island" style.
Launched in 1920, it boasted a sizeable tonnage of 1,917 GRT and dimensions measuring 81 meters in length, 12.8 meters in beam, and nearly 7 meters in draught. Its initial service routes primarily traversed the Mediterranean for over two decades.
During World War II, the ship’s timeline becomes less detailed. It encountered a French patrol off Algeria in March 1940 and was temporarily detained in Oran for inspection. Later reports suggest the vessel was in Norway during the German invasion but managed to evade capture and sailed to France, subsequently entering Allied service.
In wartime efforts, the ship was part of various convoys, including SC9 from Sydney to the UK, Convoy SC91, and Convoy ON122 in the North Atlantic westbound. After the war, it was sold and renamed the Maria Schröder in 1950.
Unfortunately, on April 11, 1956, while en route from Aqaba, Jordan to West Germany, the Maria Schröder ran aground on a reef at Nabq. Efforts to free the vessel failed, leading to its classification as a total constructive loss.
Today, the wreck of the Maria Schröder rests atop the reef, approximately 100 meters offshore in the Nabq State Park area. Most of the ship remains visible above water, with a trail of debris extending from its starboard side down to a depth of about 24 meters. The surrounding coral hosts a diverse array of marine life, attracting bird-watchers, snorkelers, and tourists exploring local tour routes.
Depth (m)
0 - 24Type
Cargo ShipLength (m)
81Beam (m)
12.8Weight (tn)
1917Date Sank
04/11/1956History of Maria Schröder
Built in 1920 by the Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft shipyard in Germany, the Maria Schröder was a 1,900-ton vessel primarily used for transporting goods across various international routes.
On May 27, 1956, the Maria Schröder embarked on what would be its final voyage. The ship was en route to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, carrying a cargo that included a variety of general goods. While navigating through the Red Sea, the vessel encountered a navigational error that led it to run aground on the notorious Sha’ab Abu Nuhas reef. This reef, infamous for its deceptive shallows and strong currents, has been the downfall of many ships over the years.
The collision with the reef was catastrophic, causing significant damage to the ship’s hull. Efforts to refloat the vessel proved futile, and it ultimately sank, coming to rest at a depth of approximately 24 meters (79 feet). Over the decades, the wreck has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, attracting a diverse array of marine life.
Today, the Maria Schröder wreck is a popular dive site, especially appealing to underwater photographers and history enthusiasts. The ship’s structure remains relatively intact, with the cargo holds, deck, and superstructure accessible to divers. The wreck is encrusted with colorful corals and sponges, providing a habitat for a variety of marine species such as lionfish, moray eels, and schools of reef fish.
The Maria Schröder wreck offers divers a unique blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Its well-preserved state and the thriving marine ecosystem it supports make it a compelling destination for those exploring the underwater wonders of the Red Sea. The site serves as a poignant reminder of the maritime history and the unpredictable nature of the sea.