Background

Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck: A Submerged Testament to Beirut's Resilience

Explore the haunting beauty of the Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck, a submerged landmark in Beirut, bearing witness to the city's maritime heritage.

4.8

The Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck is a haunting reminder of the devastating 2020 Beirut explosion. Once a vibrant cruise liner, it now rests partially submerged near the Beirut port, offering a unique, if somber, diving and sightseeing experience.

A brief summary to Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck

  • WG39+9P, Beirut, LB

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light conditions for photography.
  • Bring snorkeling gear if you want to explore the waters without diving.
  • Check the weather conditions before planning your visit for a safe experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Mar Mikhael, head south on Armenia Street towards the intersection with Pasteur Street. Continue walking straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the Corniche, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea. Once you are at the Corniche, turn left and walk along the waterfront. Continue walking for approximately 15 minutes until you reach the area near the Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck, which is located at coordinates WG39+9P, Beirut. Look for the shipwreck along the shore; it is a prominent sight.

  • Public Transport

    From Mar Mikhael, head to the nearest bus stop at the intersection of Armenia Street and Pasteur Street. Look for buses heading towards the Corniche or Mina. The fare is around 1,500 LBP (Lebanese Pounds). After a short ride of about 5-10 minutes, get off at the Corniche. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Beirut. A taxi from Mar Mikhael to the Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck should take about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The ride may cost around 10,000 to 15,000 LBP. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Corniche near the shipwreck location at WG39+9P.

Unlock the Best of Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck

The Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck is a poignant historical landmark in Beirut, Lebanon. What was once the Orient Queen cruise ship, launched in 1989, met a tragic end on August 4, 2020, when a massive ammonium nitrate explosion in the Beirut port caused it to capsize and partially sink. The ship, operated by Abou Merhi Cruises, had just returned to its homeport. The explosion, caused by unsafely stored ammonium nitrate, devastated the port and surrounding areas, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The Orient Queen, berthed nearby, took the full brunt of the blast. Two crew members were killed, and others were injured. The ship has remained in its submerged state since the disaster. Today, the wreck serves as a grim reminder of the tragedy and a testament to the city's resilience. While offering a unique, if somber, experience for divers and sightseers. Divers can explore the remnants of the ship and witness marine life that has made the wreck their home. For those who prefer to stay on land, the wreck can be viewed from the Corniche, Beirut's waterfront promenade. The breaking up of the ship was still ongoing as of May 2024.

Popular Experiences near Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck

Popular Hotels near Orient Queen Cruise Ship Wreck

Select Currency