Dive Site: The Lara

About The Lara

The Lara is the remnant of a 137-meter cargo vessel that became stranded on the northern edge of Jackson Reef in 1982. Initially, the ship rested intact on the reef, but it was later salvaged in the mid-1990s, causing large sections to sink. Today, its ghostly remains lie against the reef, just west of the exposed parts, marking a site considered one of the Red Sea's most challenging and exclusive wreck dives. Diving the Lara typically begins by descending near the surface wreckage. Divers follow the reef contour to the left, reaching approximately 45 meters where the deeper sections of the wreck begin to emerge. The mast and what were likely workshop areas are visible at 48 meters. With bulkheads removed during salvage operations, some sections allow for penetration. The wreck lies on its starboard side, with the stern and a large, intact propeller found around 55 meters. Other parts of the superstructure are scattered at even greater depths. While specific marine life directly on the wreck isn't detailed, Jackson Reef itself, where the Lara rests, is known for its healthy hard and soft corals, including large gorgonian fans, sea whips, and vibrant red anemones. The nutrient-rich currents often attract pelagic species such as barracuda, oceanic whitetip, and grey reef sharks. During the summer months, from June to September, schooling scalloped hammerhead sharks are frequently observed in the northern area of Jackson Reef, and whale sharks have also been sighted. This dive is highly dependent on weather conditions due to its exposed location on Jackson Reef's northern side. It is considered an advanced, deep wreck dive, often requiring extended range or technical diving certifications. Many divers find completing this challenging dive to be a significant accomplishment, experiencing a site few others have witnessed.

Dive site facts: The Lara

Depth

45–55 m

Current

Strong

Entry

Liveaboard only

Level

Advanced

Dive type

Wreck, Wreck

Region / port

Egypt

Coordinates

27.9396° N, 34.3890° E

Conditions & Currents

The Lara wreck is situated on Jackson Reef, which experiences consistent currents, typically flowing from south to north towards the Gulf of Aqaba. The site is highly exposed to weather conditions, especially on its northern side, which can make diving challenging and weather-dependent. Divers often execute drift dives along the reef's steep walls, utilizing the current. Entry usually involves a live boat drop, with the expectation of strong currents, particularly near the easternmost point of the reef. Due to the depth of the wreck (starting around 45 meters with the stern at 55 meters and other sections deeper), and the potential for strong currents and exposed conditions, this dive is recommended for experienced and technical divers. Gas planning must account for deep depths and potential extended bottom times, and divers should be prepared for varying visibility, which is generally good but can fluctuate.

Liveaboards diving The Lara

These liveaboards may visit The Lara 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