Overview
Initially launched as the Fred Scamaroni in France in 1964, this passenger ferry was subsequently purchased by the Samatour line and rechristened the Salem Express.
On December 15th, 1991, the vessel collided with the Hyndeman reef, which tore a massive hole in its hull. Official reports indicated 960 pilgrims, returning from Mecca, were aboard. However, claims suggest the true number of people on board may have been as high as 1,600. Merely 180 individuals survived the tragic event.
Dive plan
Lying eerily on her starboard side in 30 meters of water, the Salem Express offers a haunting dive experience. Begin your descent at the stern, the deepest section of the wreck, where you will discover the two intact, large propeller screws and the rudders. As you navigate along the bottom, you will pass lifeboats that remain suspended from their davits. Subsequently, the huge funnels come into view, prominently displaying their unsettling 'S' emblem.
What to see
Marine life largely leaves the Salem Express undisturbed. Although the wreck feels solitary, groupers, lionfish, crocodilefish, and surgeonfish are present. There is also a small, nascent growth of hard coral beginning to appear.
Dive sites nearby
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