Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RESPONSIBLE DIVING & SNORKELLING
The Red Sea's natural wonders are just as magnificent as Jordan's historical and cultural splendours - and they need
just as much protection. To help preserve the ecology and beauty of the reefs for posterity, please heed the following
advice:
»
» Do not touch, remove or stand on coral and avoid dragging equipment across the reef.
»
» Minimise your disturbance of marine animals. In particular, do not ride on the backs of turtles or feed fish.
»
» Avoid large surges of water or kicking up sand with your fins; this may smother the delicate organisms of the
reef.
»
» Do not throw rubbish into the sea or leave it on the beach. Plastics in particular are a serious threat to marine
life. Turtles often mistake plastic for jellyfish, their favourite food.
»
» Ensure boats are anchored to buoys, not attached to precious coral, and are not grounded on coral.
»
» Practise and maintain proper buoyancy control. Major damage can be done by divers descending too fast and
colliding with the reef.
»
» Resist taking marine souvenirs which depletes the beauty of a site and is illegal in Jordan.
How to Go
Dive Centres
Trips are easily organised through specialist operators in Aqaba or along the Red Sea
coast and many hotels facilitate diving and snorkelling trips too. Dive centres with a long-
standing reputation for excellence include those listed below.
Aqaba Adventure Divers
Offline map
Google map
( 079-5843724;
www.aqaba-
diving.com
)
Operates dives in conjunction with Bedouin Garden Village.
Aqaba International Dive Centre
Offline map
Google map
( 079-7774211;
www.aqabadivingcenter.com
)
Popular, well-equipped and one of Aqaba's best.
Arab Divers
Offline map
Google map
( 03-2031808;
www.aqaba-divevillage.com
)
Highly recommended year after year by Lonely Planet readers.
Dive Aqaba
Offline map
Google map
( 03-2108883;
www.diveaqaba.com
)
A
highly professional training centre known for its high-quality teaching staff.
Red Sea Diving Centre
Offline map
Google map
( 03-2022323;
www.aqabascubadiving.com
)
One of the most established dive centres in Aqaba.
