Diving atFirst BAY South (Jordan)
Navigating First Bay South requires careful awareness, particularly near its infamous "Death Valley" where strong, constant downward currents can swiftly pull divers beyond 100 m / 330 ft. While much of the site is beginner-friendly, this area demands technical diving expertise. It’s a compelling site for those seeking deep coral exploration, yet vigilance against these specific hazards is paramount.
Tonight's objective overview for First BAY South shows an air temperature of 23.6°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.14m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
29.4487, 34.9692
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
First Bay South presents a compelling duality, functioning as both a highly utilized training ground and a destination for advanced technical divers. A permanent navigation line simplifies orientation from shore, guiding exploration through a dynamic underwater landscape.
Below the surface, the site unfolds into diverse, intricate reefs, showcasing gorgeous soft corals and sponges interspersed with expansive hard coral formations. These structures provide habitat for vibrant schools of reef fish, including damsels, parrots, butterflies, and fusiliers.
Further out, pelagic species often patrol the deeper, outer zones looking for meals. This site is notable for a seamount draped in black corals and a distinctive cabbage coral garden, drawing in larger feeding fish.
While offering easy access suitable for PADI Open Water training, its varying conditions also cater to more experienced divers, especially within its deeper sections that descend beyond 30 m / 100 ft. You'll find a wide expanse of coral bushes leading to a sandy gully, adding variety to the topography.
The combination of easy entry and a broad spectrum of underwater experiences makes this a consistently frequented location in Aqaba for many skill levels.
Best Time to Dive
Year-round, First Bay South consistently offers excellent dive conditions, maintaining a high dive score across all months. Air temperatures are pleasantly warm throughout the year, ranging from approximately 18°C / 64°F in winter to over 34°C / 93°F during peak summer. Rainfall is minimal, with many months experiencing negligible precipitation. Wave heights remain consistently low, typically less than 0.3 meters (around 1 foot), ensuring calm surface conditions ideal for shore entries. While specific water temperature data isn't consistently reported, the Red Sea's general warmth ensures comfortable diving. This allows for year-round diving, with particular popularity during the shoulder seasons when air temperatures are moderate.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Descending into First Bay South, divers are immediately drawn by excellent visibility, often exceeding 20 meters (over 65 feet), which allows the vibrant reef to emerge clearly. A sturdy navigation rope simplifies orientation, particularly useful for training dives. As you follow the contours, you'll pass over a wide expanse of coral bushes, a tapestry of life. The currents here are generally mild around the main reef, fostering a relaxed exploration, yet a palpable shift in flow occurs near the sandy valleys, where powerful downcurrents give way to the "Death Valley" section. This contrast in conditions creates distinct experiences within a single site. Throughout the shallower sections, the calm environment enhances interaction with the abundant reef fish.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Understanding the site's unique characteristics is crucial for safe diving at First Bay South. Beginners will find the main reef accessible and suitable for training, especially with the permanent navigation line. However, the presence of strong, constant downward currents near the sandy valleys, often referred to as "Death Valley," requires significant caution. These currents can rapidly pull divers to extreme depths, far beyond typical recreational limits. Technical divers operating in these deeper zones must maintain strict dive plans and deco schedules. Awareness of fire corals, though more prominently mentioned for First Bay North, is a general precaution for Red Sea dives in this region. Always consult local dive professionals for current conditions before entering the water.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Divers who spend more time observing marine life often prefer slightly warmer gear.
Divers exploring First BAY South today will likely encounter water temperatures close to 22°C (72°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (74°F). Water temperatures in this range are often well suited to diving with 3-5mm wetsuit.
A warming trend is expected over the next few days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at First BAY South
Upon entering, the active schools of cornet fish often immediately capture attention, frequently seen changing colors as they hunt smaller glass-fish. Look for vibrant parrotfish among the coral bushes. The site boasts extensive cabbage-like corals and unique black coral trees that serve as anchors for diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for hermit crabs, cuttlefish, and the occasional stonefish camouflaged on the seabed. Eight-lined wrasse are also common sightings. At night, the seamount becomes a focal point, with octopi and other invertebrates emerging, and larger predators, including occasional sharks, cruising nearby.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What depth range does First Bay South offer?
The site offers a diverse depth range, from shallow coral gardens near the surface to deeper sections. Recreational diving typically occurs down to around 30 meters. For technical divers, specific areas like 'Death Valley' descend significantly further, potentially beyond 100 meters.
Is First Bay South suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, First Bay South is widely used for beginner and intermediate training due to its easy shore access and generally calm main reef areas. Divers are guided by a permanent navigation line for simplicity.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
You'll encounter colorful parrotfish, active schools of cornet fish, and various reef fish like damsels and fusiliers. Look for hermit crabs, cuttlefish, and sometimes stonefish. The site also features extensive cabbage and black coral formations.
Are there any specific hazards to be aware of?
The primary hazard is the "Death Valley" area, known for strong, constant downward currents that can pull divers to extreme depths. Divers should stay clear of these sandy valleys unless specifically trained and equipped for technical diving.
Can I snorkel at First Bay South?
Yes, snorkeling is available and suitable at First Bay South. The shallower reef sections offer good visibility and a variety of marine life close to the surface.
What makes this site popular for training?
Its popularity for training stems from easy shore access, good visibility, and a permanent navigation line that assists new divers with orientation. The varied topography also allows for progression from basic to more advanced skills.
Is night diving possible here?
Night diving is indeed possible and highly recommended at First Bay South. The seamount, in particular, becomes active with octopi and other invertebrates feeding, offering a different perspective on the reef's inhabitants.
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