Wreck Diving in Jordan: A Hidden Gem for Recreational and Tec Divers

Wreck Diving in Jordan: A Hidden Gem for Recreational and Tec Divers
Explore the Red Sea’s Sunken Secrets

When divers think of the Red Sea, Egypt often takes center stage. However, tucked away along the northern edge of the Red Sea lies Aqaba, Jordan, an underrated treasure trove for both recreational and technical divers. With warm waters, remarkable visibility, and an array of artificial wrecks and natural reefs, wreck diving in Jordan is gaining popularity—especially among tec divers seeking unique underwater adventures.

Why Jordan Is Ideal for Wreck Diving

1. Accessible and Diverse Wrecks
Jordan’s coastline may be short—just over 25 kilometers—but it's packed with dive sites suitable for all levels. Over the past two decades, Jordan has intentionally scuttled several vessels, aircraft, and even military equipment to form artificial reefs and promote marine biodiversity.

From shallow wrecks accessible to open water divers to deep wrecks perfect for CCR and trimix-certified divers, Jordan offers an incredible blend of depth ranges, topography, and technical challenges.

2. Minimal Currents, Maximum Visibility
The calm conditions in Aqaba make it ideal for planning decompression stops, technical skill drills, and longer bottom times. The water is typically clear with visibility ranging from 20 to 40 meters, enhancing safety and enjoyment during both recreational and technical wreck penetrations.

3. Warm Water Year-Round
The Red Sea’s southern stretch boasts water temperatures between 22°C to 29°C, allowing for year-round diving. Whether you're wearing a 3mm wetsuit or donning a Waterproof drysuit for deeper technical dives, you’ll find comfort and convenience in these optimal conditions.

Top Wreck Dive Sites in Aqaba, Jordan

1. The Cedar Pride (Recreational & Tec)
Jordan’s most famous wreck, the Cedar Pride, is a Lebanese freighter intentionally sunk in 1985. It now lies on its side at depths of 7m to 27m, draped in soft corals and home to numerous marine species. It’s ideal for advanced open water divers but also offers extended penetration options for technical diving.

2. The Tank (Beginner-Friendly)
Yes, a real tank! A Royal Jordanian Army M42 Duster was submerged just offshore as an artificial reef. Sitting in just 6 meters of water, it’s a popular underwater photo op and a great warm-up dive or training site.

3. The Tristar Airplane Wreck (Advanced)
In 2019, Jordan added an unusual site by sinking a retired Lockheed L-1011 Tristar jet at a depth of 15–28 meters. The fuselage offers ample room for training penetration techniques and exploration, making it ideal for divers preparing for more challenging wreck penetrations.

4. The C-130 Hercules Aircraft (Recreational & Tec)
Scuttled in 2017, this US military aircraft wreck lies at a depth of 12–17 meters, offering a dramatic and surreal experience. Its open structure is safe for beginner wreck divers, yet also a great site for advanced navigation and photography practice.

5. The Underwater Military Museum (All Levels)
This unique underwater site features 19 pieces of military hardware including tanks, anti-aircraft guns, and troop carriers arranged to simulate a battlefield. Depths range from 15 to 28 meters, giving both recreational and tec divers plenty to explore.

Best Gear for Wreck Diving in Jordan

To make the most of your dives in Jordan, we recommend the following:

  • Dive Rite O2ptima CM CCR: For deep dives and prolonged bottom time, especially during penetrations or decompression dives.

  • Shearwater Perdix 2 or Petrel 3: For real-time gas tracking, dive planning, and advanced decompression algorithms.

  • Waterproof Drysuits: Keep warm and comfortable on long dives, especially when performing extended deco stops.

  • Primary and Backup Lights: Essential for overhead environments and penetration.

  • Reels and Guidelines: For navigating and exiting wreck interiors safely.

Tips for Wreck and Tec Divers in Jordan

  • Plan your gas needs precisely, especially if using trimix or conducting decompression dives.

  • Practice proper buoyancy control and use non-silting fin kicks to protect the wreck and maintain visibility.

  • Use redundant equipment and always dive within your training limits.

  • Hire a local guide or instructor to gain insights into wreck history and optimal dive paths.

Dive Jordan with Confidence

Whether you're seeking your first wreck dive or planning a complex CCR exploration, Jordan offers a rare blend of accessibility, depth, and intrigue. It’s perfect for divers looking to combine history, marine life, and technical challenges into one unforgettable experience.

Ready to Dive Deep in Jordan?

At Extreme Water Sports, we can help you plan your next wreck diving adventure—whether in Jordan, Egypt, or right here in Fujairah. We offer PADI and TDI technical diving courses, guided wreck dives, and support for CCR divers using the Dive Rite O2ptima CM.

📩 Contact us today to learn more about our wreck diving trips and tec diving training programs. Let’s dive into history—one wreck at a time.

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