SYRTIS sûr’ təs (Σύρτις, G5358, meaning uncertain). Name given to the shallow waters of the northern coast of Africa between Tunisia, Tripolitania and Cyrenaica.

Today the Gulf of Sidra forms the SE corner of this bay known as the Greater Syrtis; the Gulf of Gabes, known as the Lesser Syrtis, forms the SW corner. Always a difficult place for navigation, legend exaggerated the dangers, perhaps to protect Phoen. trade by frightening off other ships. The sailors who were carrying Paul to Rome did everything to avoid being driven into this dangerous shore (Acts 27:17).