Aqaba, the jewel of Jordan’s coastline, is an underwater paradise for divers seeking pristine coral reefs, intriguing wrecks, and abundant marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, Aqaba offers world-class dive sites with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine biodiversity. From sunken planes to vibrant coral gardens, exploring the best diving sites in Aqaba and the depths of the Red Sea here is an unforgettable experience.
How to Dive in Aqaba?
Diving in Aqaba is accessible to divers of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced professionals. The city is home to numerous PADI-certified dive centers offering guided dives, equipment rental, and professional instruction. Most dive sites are located within Aqaba Marine Park, ensuring well-preserved underwater environments and regulated diving activities. Many dive shops offer shore diving, as the reefs are close to the coastline, but boat diving is also available for deeper or more remote sites.
Where to Stay?
Aqaba offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels and dive lodges. For those seeking a high-end experience, resorts such as Kempinski Hotel Aqaba and InterContinental Aqaba Resort provide excellent amenities and beachfront access. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for Darna Divers Village or Bedouin Garden Village, both of which cater specifically to divers. Many accommodations offer diving packages, making it convenient to book dives alongside your stay.
Best Time to Dive in Aqaba
Diving in Aqaba is possible year-round, but the best conditions are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, water temperatures range between 24-28°C (75-82°F), ensuring comfortable dives with excellent visibility. Summer months (June to August) offer warm water but can be quite hot on land, while winter (December to February) sees cooler waters and fewer crowds.
Diving Courses
For those new to the sport or looking to advance their skills, Aqaba is an excellent place to take diving courses. Numerous dive centers offer PADI Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver certifications. Specialty courses like wreck diving, deep diving, and underwater photography are also popular due to Aqaba’s unique marine attractions. Most courses include theoretical lessons, confined-water training, and open-water dives at some of the best dive sites in the region.
Scuba Diving Conditions
Aqaba boasts some of the best scuba diving conditions in the Red Sea, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet) and minimal currents, making it ideal for divers of all levels. The absence of strong tides and cold upwellings ensures a pleasant experience year-round. Water temperatures remain mild, rarely dropping below 21°C (70°F) even in winter. Marine life is abundant, featuring colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, moray eels, sea turtles, and even the occasional reef shark.
Diving Safety
Safety is a top priority when diving in Aqaba, and most dive centers adhere to strict safety protocols. Divers are required to follow PADI and SSI guidelines, and first-aid kits, emergency oxygen, and trained dive professionals are always present on guided dives. Beginners should dive with a certified instructor, while experienced divers are encouraged to check their equipment and dive plans before heading out. It’s crucial to get diving insurance and adhere to safe ascent rates and no-decompression limits.
Diving in Aqaba Prices
Best Diving Sites in Aqaba are reasonably priced compared to other Red Sea destinations. Prices vary depending on the dive center and package chosen. A single dive typically costs between $50-$70, while two-dive packages range from $90-$120. Full PADI Open Water courses cost approximately $400-$500, and equipment rental fees are usually included in guided dive packages. Discounts are often available for multiple dives or group bookings.
Best Diving Sites in Aqaba
Aqaba is home to some of the best dive sites in the Red Sea, each offering a unique experience:
- Cedar Pride Wreck: A stunning sunken cargo ship covered in coral.
- Japanese Garden: Lush coral formations and vibrant marine life.
- Power Station: Deep drift dive with large pelagic species.
- Seven Sisters & Tank: A mix of soft corals and a sunken military tank.
- Airplane Wreck (Lockheed L-1011): An exciting dive through a sunken passenger jet.
Snorkeling in Aqaba
For non-divers, snorkeling in Aqaba is a fantastic alternative to explore the Red Sea’s beauty. Many dive sites, such as Japanese Garden, First Bay, and Coral Garden, are shallow enough for snorkelers to enjoy. Snorkeling tours are available with guided excursions to prime spots, and equipment rentals are widely available. The calm, clear waters ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Aqaba’s diving scene is one of the most captivating in the world, offering an exceptional mix of natural wonders, historical wrecks, and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time explorer, the Red Sea’s hidden treasures await beneath its surface, promising an adventure you’ll never forget.
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People also ask
Is Diving in Aqaba Worth It?
Absolutely! Aqaba offers an unparalleled diving experience with its rich marine biodiversity, easy access to dive sites, and stunning wrecks. The Aqaba Marine Park ensures well-preserved coral reefs, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable diving destination. Whether you’re interested in deep wrecks, vibrant coral gardens, or thrilling encounters with marine life, diving in Aqaba is a must for any underwater enthusiast.
Where to See Turtles in Aqaba?
Turtles are a common sight in Aqaba, especially at dive sites such as Japanese Garden, First Bay, and Seven Sisters. Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles can often be spotted gliding gracefully through the reefs or resting among the corals. These majestic creatures are a highlight for many divers and snorkelers alike, making Aqaba a great destination for marine wildlife lovers.
What is the Most Beautiful Place to Dive?
While beauty is subjective, Japanese Garden is often regarded as the most picturesque dive site in Aqaba. Known for its lush coral formations, swaying sea fans, and colorful fish, this site offers a dreamlike underwater experience. Other contenders include Cedar Pride Wreck, a stunning artificial reef, and Blue Coral, known for its mesmerizing soft corals.
What Plane Sunk in Aqaba?
One of Aqaba’s most famous wreck dives is the Lockheed L-1011 TriStar, an aircraft deliberately sunk in 2019 to create an artificial reef. This massive passenger jet, located at a depth of around 15-28 meters (50-92 feet), provides an eerie yet fascinating dive site. Divers can explore the cockpit, passenger cabin, and wings, making it one of the most unique underwater attractions in the world.
