Best Time to Dive in Jordan: Aqaba All Year Round

Hey diver! To truly savor the underwater gems of Jordan, timing is everything. The prime diving seasons are from April to June and September to November, offering warm waters and spectacular visibility.

Hey bubble buddy! Ready to plunge into the wonders of the Jordanian Red Sea? Jordan is a hidden gem for diving, and knowing when to go makes a huge difference. Here are my secrets to planning your perfect underwater adventure.

A Quick Look: Jordan's Diving Seasons

The Jordanian Red Sea, specifically around Aqaba, boasts excellent diving conditions for most of the year. But like any great destination, some times shine brighter.

• Spring (April-June): My absolute favorite! Water starts warming up, and marine life is at its peak. Maximum visibility and perfect temperatures.
• Summer (July-August): Hot on the surface, but the water is a delight. Good visibility, but pelagic life might be less frequent.
• Autumn (September-November): Another gem. Water stays warm, and marine life returns with vigor. Ideal for big animal sightings.
• Winter (December-March): Cooler, but still very diveable. Fewer crowds and good visibility. Bring your thicker wetsuit.

For a deeper dive into this destination, don't forget to check out our main Jordan diving guide.

Diving Month by Month: What to Expect Underwater

Each month has its charm. Here's a breakdown to help you choose your ideal time.

Spring (April - June): The Golden Era!

This is, without a doubt, the best time to dive in Jordan.

• Water temperature: 23-27°C (73-81°F). Perfect for a 3-5mm suit!
• Visibility: 20-40 meters (65-130 feet). Crystal clear!
• What to see: Vibrant corals, lionfish, clownfish, turtles, and with luck, some reef sharks. Macro life is thriving.

Centers like Aqaba Sharks Bay Divers offer fantastic experiences, such as the ADVANCED OPEN WATER Course from shore in Aqaba or 2 dives by boat trip in Aqaba.

Summer (July - August): Warm and Welcoming

If you don't mind the surface heat, summer offers super warm waters.

• Water temperature: 27-30°C (81-86°F). You can dive with a shorty or even just a rash guard!
• Visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet). Still very good.
• What to see: Reef fish, moray eels. Pelagic sightings might be less common.

Autumn (September - November): Second Best Season

Similar to spring, autumn is another fabulous time for marine life.

• Water temperature: 25-28°C (77-82°F). Ideal for a 3mm.
• Visibility: 20-35 meters (65-115 feet). Excellent.
• What to see: Large schools of fish, barracudas, rays, and the chance of seeing whale sharks in late autumn.

Winter (December - March): Tranquility and Clarity

Fewer divers and a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Water temperature: 20-23°C (68-73°F). You'll need a 5-7mm suit.
• Visibility: 25-40 meters (80-130 feet). Often the best visibility of the year!
• What to see: Reef fish, nudibranchs, and the opportunity to spot dolphins from the boat.

Weather Patterns and Monsoons: Do They Affect Diving?

Good news! Jordan doesn't experience monsoons like other parts of the world. The Red Sea is quite stable. Occasional strong winds might reduce visibility or cause small swells, but dives are rarely canceled completely.

• Winds: More common in winter and early spring. They can stir up the surface, but underwater it's usually calm.
• Rain: Scarce and short-lived. Doesn't typically impact diving.

The climate stability makes Jordan a reliable diving destination almost all year round.

Best Months for Specific Interests

• Macro Photography: Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-November). Small critters are at their peak.
• Pelagics: Autumn (October-November). Higher chances of seeing sharks, rays, and occasionally, whale sharks.
• Wrecks: All year round, visibility is usually excellent. The Cedar Pride and the Tank are stunning in any season. Why not try a Night Dive from shore in Aqaba for a different experience?
• Beginners: Spring and Autumn. Warm, calm waters, excellent visibility. It's the perfect time for an OPEN WATER Course with boat in Aqaba or an Introduction dive boat trip for non certified.

What to Pack and Prepare for Each Season

Your gear will vary slightly depending on the time of year.

• Spring/Autumn:
• Wetsuit: 3-5mm will be perfect.
• Sun protection: Essential for the surface.
• Camera: You won't want to miss anything!
• Summer:
• Wetsuit: Shorty or 3mm for comfort. Some dive in just a rash guard.
• Hydration: Plenty of water on the surface.
• Hat and sunglasses: Indispensable.
• Winter:
• Wetsuit: 5-7mm, perhaps with a hood and gloves if you get cold easily.
• Warm clothing: For before and after dives.
• Windbreaker: Useful on the boat.

Ready for your Jordan adventure? Get your gear ready, and I'll see you underwater!

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to dive in Jordan?

The best months are April, May, June, September, October, and November. They offer the best combination of pleasant water temperatures and excellent visibility.

Do I need a thick wetsuit in Jordan?

It depends on the season. In summer (July-August), a shorty or 3mm is sufficient. In spring/autumn (April-June, September-November), a 3-5mm is ideal. In winter (December-March), you'll be more comfortable with a 5-7mm.

Are there whale sharks in Jordan?

Yes, although not a guaranteed sighting, the best time for a chance to see whale sharks is in late autumn, especially October and November.

Is Jordan a good destination for beginner divers?

Absolutely! The calm waters, good visibility, and warm temperatures in spring and autumn make it ideal for beginners. You can take an Introduction dive boat trip for non certified.