---
title: El Minya
type: Wreck dive site
location: Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt
coordinates: 27.2258, 33.8472
max_depth_m: 30
published: 2023-11-25T21:59:56.557Z
updated: 2026-08-08T12:57:43.959Z
tags: El Minya, Wreck, Red Sea, Dive site, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/diving/dive-sites/el-minya-harbour-wreck
---

# El Minya

## Quick facts

- **Type:** Wreck
- **Location:** Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt
- **Coordinates:** 27.2258, 33.8472
- **Max depth:** 30 m
- **Depth notes:** 17-32m
- **Level:** Advanced
- **Rating:** 4.5 / 5

## Good to know

- Best for advanced divers
- Drift dive
- Great for macro photography

## Overview

The Egyptian minesweeper was lost in 1970, having been brought down by Israeli fighter aircraft. Currently, the vessel's remains rest on its port side just outside the harbor, at depths varying from 25 meters at the bow to 32 meters at the stern.

## Location

This dive site is approximately ten minutes away from Hurghada's city center.

## Conditions

Owing to its position just beyond the harbour entrance, this dive site can present strong currents and challenging visibility at times. A degree of diving experience is advisable, especially given the depths involved and the characteristics of the wreck.

## Dive plan

The dive offers a richer experience if you delve into the wreck's compelling historical account beforehand. Given the potential for extremely strong currents, frequent air gauge checks are crucial throughout the dive.

The shallowest point of the wreck rests at 17 meters, situated near the distinctive blast hole where the bomb struck, leading to its demise. While the interior can be tempting to explore, extreme caution is advised due to sharp metal fragments and jagged edges. On the starboard side, the anchor remains secured in position, with the surrounding hull revealing numerous bullet holes from fighter aircraft machine guns. Towards the stern, both the rudder and propeller are clearly visible.

## What to see

Large schools of glassfish seek shelter in the numerous access points throughout the wreck, where lionfish vie with jackfish as they attempt to capture their prey.

The bow section of the sunken vessel offers superb chances for underwater photography, with captivating red sponges and vibrant pyjama slugs providing excellent subjects.

---

*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/diving/dive-sites/el-minya-harbour-wreck)*
*Updated: August 8, 2026*