Nestled beneath the warm waters of Jordan’s Red Sea coast lies a dive site unlike any other—the Cedar Pride. More than just a sunken ship, this iconic wreck tells a story of history, marine rebirth, and adventure. For divers visiting Aqaba, exploring the Cedar Pride is an experience that belongs at the very top of the list.
A Ship with a Story
The Cedar Pride was a Lebanese freighter built in the 1960s. After years of service, it suffered fire damage in Aqaba’s port and was eventually scuttled in 1985 by order of King Abdullah II (then Crown Prince) to create an artificial reef. Since then, the ship has become a thriving underwater ecosystem and one of the Red Sea’s most celebrated wreck dives.
The Dive Profile
The Cedar Pride rests on her port side, stretching an impressive 74 meters in length. She lies across two coral reefs at depths ranging from 20 to 40 meters, making the site accessible to both intermediate and advanced divers. With clear visibility (often 20+ meters) and calm conditions, it’s a wreck that invites exploration from bow to stern.
What You’ll See Underwater
– Marine Life: Soft corals drape the ship’s structure, creating shelter for angelfish, lionfish, and schools of snapper. Moray eels often peek from the shadows, while sea turtles sometimes glide past.
– The Ship’s Features: Swim through the cargo holds, explore the deck, and admire the masts encrusted with coral. The way sunlight filters through the wreck creates a dreamlike atmosphere perfect for photography.
– Macro Treasures: Look closely, and you’ll spot nudibranchs, cleaner shrimp, and other small critters that add layers of detail to the dive.
Why It’s Special
Unlike many wreck dives that feel staged or inaccessible, the Cedar Pride offers the perfect balance: a ship large enough to impress, shallow enough for recreational divers, and vibrant enough to rival natural reefs. It embodies the spirit of Aqaba diving—where history meets marine life in crystal-clear waters.
Safety & Skills
– Certification Level: Recommended for Advanced Open Water Divers, though confident Open Water Divers can explore the shallower sections.
– Dive Conditions: Generally calm, but always check currents and visibility with your dive guide.
– Penetration: Limited wreck penetration is possible but should only be done with proper training.
Dive with the Experts
To get the most out of a Cedar Pride dive, it’s best to go with a certified local operator. For example, Deep Blue Dive Center, a PADI 5 Star facility in Aqaba, offers guided trips to the wreck along with full-day boat excursions that include other nearby sites. Their experienced team ensures both safety and unforgettable underwater memories.
Final Thoughts
The Cedar Pride isn’t just a shipwreck—it’s an underwater monument to resilience and renewal. Over four decades, it has transformed from a damaged vessel into a flourishing reef, attracting divers from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, diving the Cedar Pride is more than an activity—it’s a rite of passage.
Pro Tip: Bring your camera. Between the coral-covered masts, playful fish, and shafts of light cutting through the wreck, the Cedar Pride promises some of the most photogenic moments you’ll ever capture underwater.
