Underwater Photographer

Ask anyone about Jordan, and they’ll likely rave about Petra, that enigmatic city carved into colossal red cliffs. But if you catch a scuba diver’s ear, tales of exceptional wreck diving might bubble up: picture tanks, helicopters, and a colossal aircraft deliberately submerged beneath the waves. I had the chance to dive these very wrecks in June 2023, when partaking in Aqaba 1st Aqaba Underwater Photography Competition. Situating itself in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is predominantly landlocked, except for 27 km of coastline around Aqaba, the diving epicenter. Nestled between Saudi Arabia, and Israel’s Eilat, Aqaba boasts direct flight accessibility or can be reached via a four-hour land transfer, after landing in Amman. Deep Blue Dive Center Of the myriad dive operators, my buddy and I chose Deep Blue Dive Center, because of their commitment to underwater photography, eco-conscious practices, and comfortable boats. Their Jordanian hospitality was palpable, treating us to 5-star service and camaraderie as we embarked on the diving escapades. Diving logistics were a breeze. As we stayed down-town, mornings began with a mini-bus ride to Tala Bay marina, home to Deep Blue Dive Center. Most days we were aboard Deep Blue 2, a 23.9-meter motor yacht which had the amenities and comfort of a full blown liveaboard, even though we were using it just for daytrips! The Story Behind the Wrecks Aqaba has blossomed into a premier wreck diving destination, owed in large part to the Jordanian Royal Family’s affinity for scuba diving. It all began in 1985 when… Read More »Aqaba’s Underwater Treasures: Wrecks and Wonders