Rosalie Moller Wreck

A deep coal wreck with a remarkable shoal of fish

The Rosalie Moller wreck is a deep dive for experienced divers. Upright in the northern Red Sea near the Gubal islands, the former coal carrier rewards careful planning with a recognisable ship’s outline, deck machinery and clouds of small fish. Its atmosphere is quite different from a shallow reef wreck.

Depth is the first booking question. Do not treat a single cylinder or technical equipment as interchangeable ways of extending the same dive. The planned depth, gas, decompression obligations and any overhead access require the relevant training, equipment and support.

History and the connection with Thistlegorm

CDWS lists Rosalie Moller as a freighter built in 1910, about 108 metres long, carrying coal when German aircraft sank it in October 1941. The attack followed the loss of Thistlegorm roughly two days earlier. Their losses within the same week connect two otherwise distinct wreck dives.

Depth: distinguish the upper structure from the seabed

CDWS describes the seabed at approximately 45–50 metres and the decks around 39 metres. Some operator summaries describe shallower deck sections, so a single published number should not be used to decide that the whole wreck fits a particular certification. Ask which section the operator intends to visit and the maximum depth of that plan.

A mast or upper feature at a shallower depth does not make the main wreck a shallow dive. The deeper hull, propeller and seabed lie beyond ordinary recreational depth limits. Technical diving is a separate discipline, not an equipment upgrade to choose because you want a few extra minutes.

What to look for outside

Railings, accommodation blocks, winches and open cargo hatches help trace the ship’s working layout. Coal remains part of the wreck’s story, and the fallen funnel is a reminder that human interference has damaged the site. Older descriptions of standing masts are not a guarantee of their current condition; use the latest briefing.

The hard and soft coral covering parts of the hull creates photographic opportunities. Small schooling fish are a particular feature highlighted by Blue Planet, with the ship’s framework providing the setting. Larger fish may pass, but the dive should not depend on a shark or pelagic encounter.

An exterior view already offers plenty to see. Do not enter holds, bridge spaces or other overhead areas merely because an opening exists. Penetration requires a specific plan, appropriate wreck training and equipment; leave objects in place and avoid disturbing silt.

Conditions and trip choice

Blue Planet describes a broad 28–50 metre site range and considers it unsuitable for beginners. It reports that strong current at the wreck is uncommon, but that is not a promise for your visit. Reduced visibility, suspended sediment and depth can make orientation and group contact demanding even without strong current.

Confirm the operator’s recent-experience requirements, gas provision, maximum depth and emergency arrangements before booking. A dive computer does not replace the agreed gas and ascent plan, and a general advanced qualification alone does not establish suitability for every profile.

Emperor includes Rosalie Moller in its Famous Five and Get Wrecked itinerary descriptions. Actual visits remain dependent on conditions and the group. Avoid relying on a universal three-hour crossing from Hurghada or Sharm; verify the sailing, departure port and whether this particular wreck is included.

Non-diving companions

Ask whether a non-diver may join, the complete passenger fare and what activities are offered while the group dives. This deep wreck should not be sold as a shallow snorkelling stop.

Rosalie Moller location reference

CDWS lists “Rosalie muller wreck” at 27°39′03″ N, 33°46′16″ E (27.650833° N, 33.771111° E). The marker is a geographic reference, not a mooring, descent line or navigational instruction.

Rosalie Moller questions

Sources

Checked 24 October 2026: CDWS wreck history and depths; CDWS coordinate directory; Blue Planet site description; Emperor Famous Five itinerary; Emperor Get Wrecked itinerary.