Diving & Snorkeling★★★
Aqaba's Underwater World
The Red Sea off Aqaba is one of the best diving areas in the world — and the special thing: The coral reefs start right at the shore, without needing a boat. Over 500 species of fish and 150 species of coral live in the warm, crystal-clear waters. Visibility is often 20–40 meters.
The Best Dive Spots
- Cedar Pride (Wreck): Aqaba's most famous dive spot. The freighter, deliberately sunk in 1985 (74 m long), lies at a depth of 10–27 m, fully covered with corals and teeming with marine life — lionfish, moray eels, barracudas, butterflyfish. Suitable for beginners (upper deck at 10 m) and advanced divers.
- Japanese Garden: One of the most beautiful coral reefs in the entire Red Sea. Huge table and fan corals in vibrant colors, turtles, eagle rays, and nudibranchs. From 5 m depth, perfect for all levels.
- Tank (M42 Duster): An American anti-aircraft tank from the Cold War, sunk as an artificial reef in 2019. At only 6 m depth — ideal for snorkelers and beginners.
- Underwater Military Museum: Since 2019, Jordan's craziest underwater project: tanks, helicopters, ambulances, and military vehicles at 15–28 m depth, serving as artificial reefs.
- Seven Sisters: Seven coral heads at 5–15 m depth, rich in small fish and nudibranchs. Perfect for snorkeling.
- First Bay / South Beach: Snorkel right at the shore — colorful corals and fish from knee-deep water. Ideal for beginners and families.
Diving: Prices & Providers
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Introductory Dive (Discover Scuba) | 40–55 JOD |
| 1 Dive (certified divers) | 30–40 JOD |
| 2 Dives (boat) | 55–70 JOD |
| PADI Open Water Course (3–4 days) | 280–350 JOD |
| Snorkeling Equipment (full day) | 5–10 JOD |
Recommended dive schools: Aqaba Adventure Divers, Seastar Watersports, Ahlan Aqaba Scuba Diving. All PADI certified, English and some German-speaking guides.
💡 Tipp
Even without a diving certificate, Aqaba's underwater world is accessible: At South Beach (south of the city), you can snorkel directly from the shore and see colorful corals and fish in knee-deep water. Rent snorkeling equipment at any beach café for 5 JOD.
