Ultimate Guide to Diving and Snorkeling in Aqaba

Introduction to Aqaba's Underwater Paradise

Nestled at the northeastern tip of the Red Sea, Aqaba offers a spectacular underwater world that often surprises visitors to Jordan. While the country is famous for its desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and the Dead Sea, Aqaba's marine environment provides a stunning contrast—a vibrant ecosystem of coral reefs, colorful fish, and fascinating shipwrecks all within the compact 27-kilometer coastline of Jordan's only seaport.

What makes Aqaba particularly special for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts is the unique combination of accessibility, biodiversity, and year-round conditions. The Gulf of Aqaba features some of the northernmost coral reefs in the world, with over 20 dive sites concentrated in a relatively small area, many accessible directly from the shore. The clear, warm waters maintain visibility often exceeding 30 meters and temperatures ranging from 20°C in winter to 26°C in summer—perfect conditions for exploring the underwater realm.

Whether you're an experienced diver looking to add the Red Sea to your logbook, a beginner eager to try your first underwater adventure, or a snorkeler wanting to observe marine life without specialized training, Aqaba offers something for everyone. This comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect underwater experience in Jordan's aquatic gem.

Understanding Aqaba's Marine Environment

The Red Sea Ecosystem

The Red Sea is known for its exceptional marine biodiversity, hosting over 1,200 species of fish (with roughly 10% found nowhere else on Earth), 44 species of sharks, more than 400 coral species, and countless invertebrates. This remarkable diversity exists because of several factors:

• The Red Sea's isolation, which has allowed unique species to evolve
• Stable environmental conditions with minimal seasonal variations
• Clear waters with excellent light penetration supporting coral growth
• Limited freshwater inflow, maintaining consistent salinity

The Gulf of Aqaba, a narrow inlet of the Red Sea, benefits from these conditions while also featuring deep waters (reaching over 1,800 meters) close to shore, creating dramatic underwater topography with walls, canyons, and drop-offs just a short swim from the beach.

Conservation Efforts

Recognizing the ecological and economic importance of its marine resources, Jordan has established the Aqaba Marine Park, which protects approximately 7 kilometers of coastline and the adjacent waters. Within this protected area, fishing is restricted, mooring buoys prevent anchor damage to corals, and educational programs promote sustainable tourism practices.

These conservation efforts have helped Aqaba's reefs remain relatively healthy compared to many other reef systems worldwide, though they still face challenges from coastal development, climate change, and tourism pressure. As a visitor, your responsible behavior—following dive guides' instructions, maintaining proper buoyancy, and never touching marine life—contributes to preserving this fragile ecosystem.

Top Dive and Snorkel Sites in Aqaba

Aqaba offers a variety of underwater environments suitable for different experience levels and interests:

Cedar Pride Wreck

Perhaps Aqaba's most famous dive site, the Cedar Pride is a Lebanese freighter deliberately sunk in 1985 to create an artificial reef. Lying on its side at depths between 10 and 27 meters, this 74-meter-long wreck is now covered with soft corals and home to a variety of marine life.

Best for: Intermediate to advanced divers; snorkelers can see the upper portions from the surface on calm days
Highlights: Swim-throughs, impressive ship structure, abundant fish life including lionfish and glassfish
Depth: 10-27 meters

Japanese Garden

Named for its meticulously arranged appearance, this reef features beautiful table corals, brain corals, and colorful soft corals spread across a gently sloping reef. The site's moderate depth and minimal currents make it perfect for beginners and snorkelers.

Best for: All levels, including beginners and snorkelers
Highlights: Diverse coral formations, reef fish including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish
Depth: 5-15 meters

The Tank (M42 Duster)

This American anti-aircraft tank was placed on the seabed in 1999 as part of Aqaba's artificial reef program. Sitting upright at a depth of 6 meters, it's accessible to both divers and snorkelers and has become a popular photography spot.

Best for: All levels, including snorkelers
Highlights: Unique photo opportunity, easy access, often surrounded by sergeant major fish
Depth: 6-16 meters

Seven Sisters

This site features seven coral pinnacles rising from the sandy bottom, creating a series of "underwater islands" teeming with marine life. The varied topography provides habitats for different species and interesting swim-throughs.

Best for: Intermediate divers; advanced snorkelers
Highlights: Coral pinnacles, diverse fish life, occasional eagle rays
Depth: 7-20 meters

The Power Station

Located near Aqaba's industrial area, this surprisingly vibrant reef demonstrates nature's resilience. The site features a steep wall dropping to significant depths, with beautiful coral growth and the chance to spot larger pelagic species.

Best for: Intermediate to advanced divers
Highlights: Wall diving, healthy coral coverage, possibility of seeing turtles and rays
Depth: 5-40+ meters

King Abdullah Reef

This artificial reef project includes various deliberately sunk items, including military vehicles, aircraft, and sculptures, creating an underwater museum. The structures are being colonized by marine life, offering interesting diving and photography opportunities.

Best for: All levels
Highlights: Unique artificial structures, developing marine ecosystem
Depth: 5-28 meters

Rainbow Reef

Named for its colorful soft coral coverage, Rainbow Reef offers a gently sloping reef wall with excellent visibility. The site is known for its abundant fish life and is particularly beautiful in morning light.

Best for: All levels, good for snorkelers
Highlights: Colorful soft corals, diverse reef fish, easy navigation
Depth: 5-25 meters

Black Rock

This site features a dramatic underwater landscape with a steep wall dropping into the deep blue. Large table corals and sea fans adorn the wall, while the shallow reef top is perfect for snorkelers.

Best for: All levels; wall section for more experienced divers
Highlights: Dramatic topography, healthy coral growth, occasional pelagic visitors
Depth: 5-40+ meters

Diving in Aqaba: What You Need to Know

Best Time for Diving

Aqaba offers year-round diving with each season providing different advantages:

• Summer (June-September): Warmest water temperatures (up to 26°C), excellent visibility, but busier dive sites
• Spring/Fall (April-May, October-November): Pleasant water temperatures (20-24°C), fewer crowds, and good visibility
• Winter (December-March): Cooler water (around 20°C), requiring a 5mm wetsuit, but the clearest visibility and chance to see pelagic species

Dive Operators and Courses

Aqaba has numerous dive centers offering services in multiple languages. When choosing an operator, consider:

• Certification (PADI, SSI, or other recognized agencies)
• Group sizes (smaller is better for personalized attention)
• Equipment quality and maintenance
• Environmental practices
• Reviews from previous customers

For beginners, Aqaba is an excellent place to learn to dive. Most centers offer:

• Discover Scuba Diving experiences (one-day introductions)
• Open Water certification courses (typically 3-4 days)
• Advanced courses and specialties

Experienced divers can enjoy guided dives or, with proper certification and local orientation, arrange for more independent diving experiences.

Costs

Diving in Aqaba is relatively affordable compared to many other destinations:

• Single guided shore dive: 30-40 JOD ($42-56 USD)
• Two-tank boat dive: 60-80 JOD ($85-113 USD)
• Discover Scuba Diving: 70-90 JOD ($99-127 USD)
• Open Water certification: 280-350 JOD ($395-493 USD)
• Equipment rental (full set): 20-30 JOD ($28-42 USD) per day

Many dive centers offer package deals for multiple dives, and some hotels have partnerships with dive operators providing discounted rates for guests.

Snorkeling in Aqaba

Best Snorkeling Spots

You don't need to be a certified diver to enjoy Aqaba's underwater world. Several sites are perfect for snorkeling:

• South Beach: Easy shore access with shallow reefs starting just meters from the beach
• Japanese Garden: Shallow sections accessible to snorkelers with vibrant coral and fish life
• Public Beach: Convenient location with some coral formations visible from the surface
• Berenice Beach Club: Private beach with good snorkeling access (entrance fee applies)
• Tala Bay: Resort area with snorkeling opportunities and facilities

Snorkeling Tips

To make the most of your snorkeling experience:

• Use a rashguard or wetsuit for sun protection and warmth
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen to exposed skin
• Consider wearing water shoes for shore entries
• Snorkel with a buddy for safety
• Check weather conditions and avoid snorkeling if waves are high
• Never touch or stand on coral
• Consider a guided snorkeling tour for the best experience

Snorkeling Tours

Many operators offer half-day or full-day snorkeling trips by boat, providing:

• Access to multiple sites
• Equipment rental
• Guidance from experienced staff
• Refreshments or meals
• Transportation from hotels

These tours typically cost 25-40 JOD ($35-56 USD) per person and are an excellent option for those without diving certification who want to experience the best of Aqaba's underwater environment.

Photography and Marine Life

Underwater Photography

Aqaba's clear waters and diverse marine life make it an excellent destination for underwater photography. If you're interested in capturing your underwater experience:

• Many dive centers rent underwater cameras or housings
• Consider a simple waterproof action camera for beginners
• Use natural light when possible, especially when snorkeling
• Get close to your subject (without touching marine life)
• Take multiple shots of the same subject
• Consider an underwater photography course or guided photo dive

Marine Life Highlights

Keep an eye out for these notable species in Aqaba's waters:

• Fish: Lionfish, clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, groupers, snappers, and occasionally barracuda and tuna
• Invertebrates: Nudibranchs, octopus, cuttlefish, various crabs, and shrimp species
• Corals: Brain coral, table coral, soft corals, and sea fans
• Larger species: Sea turtles, rays, and occasionally reef sharks (especially during winter months)

A good marine life identification book or app can enhance your experience by helping you recognize and learn about the creatures you encounter.

Practical Information

Getting to Aqaba

Aqaba is accessible by:

• Air: King Hussein International Airport receives domestic and international flights
• Road: 4-hour drive from Amman via the Desert Highway
• Bus: Regular services from Amman and other major cities

Accommodation

Aqaba offers a range of accommodation options:

• Dive Resorts: Properties with on-site dive centers, including Tala Bay and Berenice Beach Club
• Luxury Hotels: International chains with excellent facilities, often with dive center partnerships
• Mid-range Hotels: Comfortable options in the city center, convenient for accessing dive operators
• Budget Options: Hostels and guesthouses for cost-conscious travelers

What to Pack

In addition to your regular travel items, consider bringing:

• Dive certification card and logbook (if applicable)
• Personal dive/snorkel mask (if you have one you're comfortable with)
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Rashguard or wetsuit (5mm for winter, 3mm or shorty for summer)
• Water shoes for shore entries
• Dry bag for electronics
• Underwater camera if you have one

Health and Safety

To ensure a safe diving or snorkeling experience:

• Stay well-hydrated, especially in summer months
• Wait 24 hours after diving before flying
• Consider dive insurance (DAN or similar)
• Inform dive operators of any medical conditions
• Follow all safety briefings and instructions
• Know the location of the nearest hyperbaric chamber (Prince Hashem Military Hospital in Aqaba)

Conclusion: Aqaba's Underwater Treasure

Aqaba offers a unique opportunity to combine Jordan's famous land-based attractions with a world-class underwater experience. Whether you're a certified diver looking to explore new sites, a beginner eager to learn, or a snorkeler wanting to observe marine life from the surface, Aqaba's clear waters and diverse ecosystems provide memorable encounters with the Red Sea's remarkable biodiversity.

By respecting the marine environment, following local regulations, and choosing responsible operators, you can help ensure that Aqaba's underwater treasures remain vibrant and healthy for future generations of visitors to enjoy.