Thistlegorm
The next three dives (that means the whole diving day) we spent on SS Thistlegorm. Thistlegorm is most probably the most famous wreck in the world. It was a British armed Merchant Navy ship and was sunk on 6 October 1941 near Ras Muhammad.
She set sail on her fourth and final voyage from Glasgow on 2 June 1941, destined for Alexandria, Egypt. The vessel's cargo included: Bedford trucks, Universal Carrier armoured vehicles, motorcycles, guns, cases of ammunition, and rifles as well as radio equipment, Wellington boots, aircraft parts, railway wagons and two steam locomotives.
Due to German and Italian naval and air force activity in the Mediterranean, the Thistlegorm sailed as part of a convoy via Cape Town, South Africa. Because of a collision in the Suez Canal, the convoy moored at Safe Anchorage F where it was sunk by two German aircraft which were dispatched from Crete to find and destroy the troop carrier. This search failed but one of the bombers discovered the vessels. Targeting the largest ship, they dropped two 2.5 tonne high explosive bombs on the Thistlegorm.
It was discovered in early 50's by cpt. Jacques-Yves Cousteau and rediscovered in early 90's when it became a popular diving spot.
The wreck is really stunning. All the merch is still aboard, except the locomotives which are on either side of the wreck.
We had counted 10 other liveaboards which means around 250 divers. And indeed, it was really busy place. And we learnt how much the sea conditions can change within a few hours.
The first dive was amazing. No current, 30+ visibility lot of fun. And actually it was the only dive we could do some photo shooting.
Second dive we cancelled due to less then 2 m viz and ripping current.
Third dive next morning was not perfect but still better. Viz up to 10 m but no current. But it was still so busy that when we wanted to penetrate the wreck, we managed on third attempt.
One thing I know for sure - I must come back. There is so much to explore that one day is too little.
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