Jordan Coral Reef Maps
The calm weather, the mild currents and the even temperatures that characterize the Gulf of Aqaba make the Jordan coral reefs a paradise for corals and numerous other marine species. The reef area is about 15 miles long and it hosts more than 100 species of hard corals, another more than 100 species of soft corals and a staggering 1,000 fish species, making up a complex and intricate ecosystem of exquisite beauty.
The reefs are populated not only by corals and fish – sea-dwelling mammals and reptiles also choose the Aqaba area as their home:
- Power Station – a fringing reef area that slopes gradually to 20m, then further on to 200m, this site comes with pinnacles and large fan corals. Glass fish, Napoleon fish and yellow-mouthed moray eels populate the area;
- Cazar Reef – cabbage corals, table corals, black corals and numerous other colorful soft coral species co-habit the area with lunar tail groupers, barracuda, grey morays and lion fish. The sandy areas offer the opportunity to see flounders, Moses soles and dragonets;
- Eel Garden – the spot is named after its major attraction, garden eels. It is a sandy bed with numerous pinnacles and with depth up to 20m and perfect for those who enjoy underwater photography. The Garden is populated with colorful soft corals and some other, very special creatures such as Harlequin shrimps, various species of groupers, ghost pipe fish and lion fish;
- Gorgone One – table corals, fan corals and spectacular boulder corals live here and among them Bartlett’s anthias, devil scorpion fish and stone fish. There are two pinnacles in the area, each of them serving as shelter for different fish species.
These are only a few of the sites on the Jordan coral reefs – there are many others in the area and almost all of them can be explored as shore dives.
Exploring the Hidden Treasures: Dive Sites in Jordan
Jordan, a country renowned for its ancient monuments, cultural heritage, and natural wonders, has also emerged as a premier diving destination. The country’s access to the Red Sea’s Gulf of Aqaba, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, offers an underwater escapade for divers of all levels.
Meta Description: Dive into Jordan’s best-kept secrets with our guide to the most mesmerizing dive sites. From wrecks to reefs, experience the underwater magic of the Red Sea.
Introduction The underwater realm of Jordan remains one of the most underrated treasures in the world of scuba diving. With a coastline that spans only 26 kilometers along the Red Sea, it boasts an array of dive sites that are rich in biodiversity and offer a variety of underwater experiences. This article unveils the top dive sites in Jordan, each with its unique allure, ready to be explored by those who dare to delve beneath the surface.
Aqaba: The Gateway to Underwater Wonders Aqaba, Jordan’s window to the Red Sea, is not just a strategic port and a historical city, but it is also the starting point for an unforgettable diving journey.
Cedar Pride Wreck A purposely sunk Lebanese freighter in 1985, the Cedar Pride has become a haven for marine life. The ship lies on its side at depths ranging from 10 to 28 meters and is encrusted with soft corals and surrounded by schools of fish.
Japanese Gardens This vibrant coral reef teems with life and color, resembling a submerged botanical garden. It is shallow enough for snorkelers and has depths that satisfy advanced divers, presenting a serene landscape of gorgonians and clownfish.
Gorgonian I A dive site named for the large, fan-shaped corals that dominate the seascape. These “gorgonians” are home to a myriad of small creatures and provide a stunning backdrop for underwater photography.
Tank M42 Duster An American anti-aircraft vehicle sits at a 6-meter depth, offering an easy and intriguing dive. The tank is now completely covered with corals and is a popular site for novice divers and underwater photographers.
The Lighthouse A shore dive that is perfect for beginners, the Lighthouse offers a gentle slope with a thriving coral reef. It’s also a favorite night dive spot, where nocturnal creatures such as octopuses and moray eels can be observed.
Eel Garden Named for the colony of garden eels that inhabit the sandy bottom, this site is a spectacle to behold as the eels sway with the current, disappearing into the sand when approached.
The First Bay North and South Two sites that offer gentle drift dives along beautiful fringing reefs, with the South Bay particularly known for its intricate coral formations and the North Bay for its larger fish populations.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts Jordan’s dive sites not only offer beauty but also face challenges such as coral bleaching and environmental impact from tourism. Efforts are underway to ensure sustainable diving practices and protect this delicate ecosystem.
Conclusion Jordan’s underwater landscapes are as rich and varied as its terrestrial heritage. From historical wrecks to vibrant coral gardens, each dive site presents a unique story and an unforgettable experience. These hidden gems of the Red Sea await those who seek adventure and tranquility alike.
