Built and launched as the Fred Scamaroni in France in 1964, this passenger ferry was later sold to the Samatour line and renamed the Salem Express. On 14 December 1991 she struck the Hyndeman Reef, tearing a huge hole in her hull. The force of the impact caused the loading doors to open, water flooded in and the ship sank within 20 minutes. According to official reports there were 650 pilgrims returning from Mecca on board, but it is claimed that up to 1,600 people were actually aboard. Only 180 people survived the tragedy.
This is a maritime grave and must be treated as such. Dive her with respect. The wreck lies at a depth of between 12 m and 30 m. She is 115 metres long and rests on her starboard side.