Rosalie Moller
The British vessel Rosalie Moller, commanded by Australian Captain James Byrne, embarked on an independent journey from South Africa to Alexandria in July 1941.
After brief stops in Durban and Aden, the ship entered the Red Sea and was stationed at “Safe Anchorage H” in the Gulf of Suez, awaiting further instructions. Following the bombing and sinking of the Thistlegorm on October 6, 1941, by German aircraft, the Rosalie Moller faced a similar fate 48 hours later when it was bombed. A single bomb penetrated the No. 3 hold, causing enough damage for the vessel to sink. Two crew members lost their lives in the attack.
Today, the Rosalie Moller lies virtually intact on the seabed, resting upright at a depth of 45-50 meters, showcasing its masts, decks, deployed starboard anchor, and cargo remnants, while the bridge remains stripped and the captain’s safe forced open. The ship’s funnel, a symbol of its history, suffered damage in 2001 due to a deliberate attempt to remove the copper steam whistle.
Depth (m)
17 - 50Type
Cargo ShipLength (m)
109Beam (m)
15Weight (tn)
3,960 tnDate Sank
10/08/1941History of Rosalie Moller
The Rosalie Moller, a British cargo ship, has a fascinating history and is a well-known wreck in the Red Sea. Built in 1910 by the shipbuilding firm Barclay Curle & Co. in Glasgow, the Rosalie Moller was initially named Francis, later renamed in honor of its owners, the Moller Line. The 108-meter (354 feet) long vessel was primarily used for transporting coal, playing a crucial role in supplying the British naval fleet during both World Wars.
During World War II, the Rosalie Moller was anchored in the Gulf of Suez, awaiting orders to proceed through the Suez Canal. On October 7, 1941, just two days after the sinking of the SS Thistlegorm by German bombers, the Rosalie Moller met a similar fate. Luftwaffe bombers, part of the same squadron, targeted the Rosalie Moller, dropping bombs that hit the ship’s starboard side. The explosion caused the vessel to catch fire and sink rapidly, resulting in the loss of two crew members.
Today, the Rosalie Moller lies at a depth of 30 to 50 meters (98 to 164 feet), resting upright on the seabed. Over the years, the wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting a diverse array of marine life. The ship’s well-preserved structure, including the bridge, masts, and cargo holds, offers a captivating dive experience.
Divers exploring the Rosalie Moller can witness an abundance of marine species such as barracudas, tuna, and glassfish. The wreck’s intact state and its historical significance make it a popular site for experienced divers. The combination of its wartime history and the thriving underwater ecosystem provides a unique and poignant glimpse into the past, making the Rosalie Moller one of the most intriguing wrecks in the Red Sea.