Dive Site: The Barge

About The Barge

The Barge is a distinctive dive site located close to a fringing reef near Gubal Island in the Northern Red Sea, off the coast of Egypt. While sometimes referred to as a wreck dive, the actual metal structure consists of only a few spars and is largely deteriorated. Its history is uncertain, with some speculation that it might be a lifeboat from the Ulysses wreck that came to rest on the reef. The site's true significance lies not in its remnants, but in its role as a vibrant ecosystem. The main features of the dive are centered around these shallow metal remains, which rest between 10 to 16 meters deep, specifically noted to be around 14 meters. This relatively shallow, open area is frequently washed by predictable currents, which deliver nutrient-rich waters. Divers can easily explore the scattered sections of the barge and the surrounding reef, which is rich with both soft and hard corals. This constant influx of nutrients supports a prolific and diverse array of marine life, making it a popular spot for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts. Expect to encounter everything from tiny critters, various crustaceans, and nudibranchs, to large schools of sergeant majors and fusiliers. Numerous species of moray eels, including resident individuals named George and Georgina, are common, alongside dozens of well-camouflaged scorpionfish and stonefish. Regular sightings of turtles and dolphins are also reported, and larger species like barracuda and sharks can occasionally be seen. The site provides excellent shelter for marine creatures, leading to high densities of fish. Given its shallow depth and usually mild conditions, The Barge offers an easy diving experience, often dived multiple times. Liveaboards frequently moor directly over the site, allowing divers to perform giant stride entries and re-enter the boat directly. The option to use a RIB taxi service to drift back to the boat from further up the reef is also available, providing flexibility for exploration. The site can also be combined with Bluff Point.

Dive site facts: The Barge

Depth

10–16 m

Current

Moderate

Entry

Liveaboard only

Level

Beginner

Dive type

Wreck, Wreck, Muck diving

Region / port

Egypt

Coordinates

27.9744° N, 34.4611° E

Conditions & Currents

The Barge experiences a regular, relatively predictable current that can flow in either direction. While currents are generally mild once you are down at the barge, they play a crucial role in bringing nutrient-rich water to the site, which in turn supports its abundant marine life. Liveaboards typically moor directly above the wreck, allowing for easy giant stride entries and re-entry onto the boat, mitigating any surface current challenges. For those wishing to explore more widely, a RIB taxi service can drop divers further up the reef, allowing them to drift back to the main boat. Visibility is generally good, though specific ranges are not detailed. Due to its shallow depth, the site is considered an easy dive, suitable for a range of certification levels.

Liveaboards diving The Barge

These liveaboards may visit The Barge on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

DUNE Longara

Egypt

30 guests

$150/day

JP Marine

Egypt

28 guests

$109/day

Snefro Pearl

Egypt

12 guests

$150/day

Snefro Love

Egypt

20 guests

$154/day

Sindalahs

Egypt

26 guests38 m

$155/day

Hammerhead II

Egypt

20 guests

$172/day

Blue Liveaboard

Egypt

24 guests43 m

$172/day

Odyssey

Egypt

26 guests40 m

$185/day

Discovery I

Egypt

20 guests

$104/day

Star Jet

Egypt

28 guests35 m

$145/day

SS Serena Dreams

Egypt

18 guests33 m

$159/day

Amelie

Egypt

12 guests23 m

$115/day