Diving atThe Tank (Jordan)
Approaching The Tank, divers first notice the impressive silhouette of a decommissioned M42 Duster anti-aircraft tank resting purposefully on the sandy bottom. Its shallow depth of 5-7 m (16-23 ft) ensures its detailed features are clearly visible, drawing attention even before descent. The site's clear waters often reveal schools of colorful reef fish already circling the structure, signaling the vibrant life it now supports.
As evening covers The Tank, the local air temperature is measured at 23.6°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.14m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
29.4192, 34.9727
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
This site stands out for its unique blend of military history and thriving marine ecosystem. Sunk in 1999 by the Jordanian Royal Ecological Diving Society, the M42 Duster anti-aircraft tank now serves as an artificial reef within the Aqaba Marine Park.
Resting easily accessible on a sandy bottom, its structure has become a fascinating habitat. For divers, it’s a remarkably easy shore entry, making it suitable for a wide range of activities including snorkeling, freediving, and entry-level dive training.
Many experienced divers often visit The Tank during a safety stop, wrapping up dives from nearby sites like New Canyon or The Seven Sisters. Its relatively shallow maximum depth of 6 m (20 ft) ensures extended bottom times and excellent light penetration, illuminating the structure and the diverse life that has colonized it over the years.
Best Time to Dive
To ensure an optimal dive experience, planning a visit to The Tank is ideal year-round due to consistently favorable conditions. Air temperatures in Aqaba vary significantly, from a comfortable 18°C (64°F) in winter months to warmer highs around 34°C (93°F) during the summer. Rainfall is minimal, especially from May through October, often registering zero, which contributes to excellent surface conditions. With an 'Excellent' dive score reported every month, divers can anticipate calm waters and superb visibility. Water temperatures typically range from 21°C (70°F) in winter to 27°C (81°F) in summer, accommodating diverse thermal preferences.
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
Diving at The Tank offers a relaxed, visually rich experience due to its accessible shore entry and mild underwater conditions. Submerged in the Red Sea's clear waters, visibility is consistently exceptional, frequently extending between 20 to 30 meters (65-100 ft). This allows for unhindered views of the tank and its resident marine life. Currents here are generally mild, which is especially beneficial for freedivers and those undergoing training, providing a stable environment to focus on skill development or photography. The site's shallow depth means light surge might be present at times, but it rarely impacts the overall dive quality. Exploring the wreckage reveals numerous intact features and an evolving artificial reef.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Ensuring a safe dive at The Tank primarily involves adhering to standard recreational diving practices. Because it's a shallow wreck, divers sometimes underestimate the importance of fundamental safety protocols. Always dive with a buddy, regardless of the site's perceived ease. Familiarity with equalization techniques is beneficial, especially for freedivers. Divers must respect the marine environment; avoid touching corals or disturbing any marine animals inhabiting the tank. Maintaining awareness of personal limits for depth and bottom time remains crucial for all divers. This location is also popular for dive training, so be mindful of student groups and maintain appropriate distances.
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
In these water temperatures, 3-5mm wetsuit is a common choice for recreational diving. Longer dive profiles can make thermal protection more important than short exploratory dives.
At the moment, divers exploring The Tank will likely experience water temperatures near 22°C (72°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (74°F).
Temperatures look set to gradually increase over the next several 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
JOD
Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at The Tank
The Tank has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, bustling with marine activity. Swirling schools of colorful reef fish immediately catch the eye as they dart around the hull. Soft corals and sponges have begun to establish themselves, adding texture and shelter to the metallic structure. Closer inspection often reveals moray eels making homes within the wreckage's crevices. Lionfish can be seen prowling the structure, while smaller damsels bravely defend their territories. Keen-eyed divers will also discover numerous species of invertebrates, including starfish, shrimps, and crabs, along with colorful blennies, all contributing to the site's rich biodiversity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at The Tank dive site?
At The Tank dive site, the maximum depth is very shallow, typically ranging from 5 to 7 m (16-23 ft). It's an ideal location for novice divers, snorkelers, and freedivers.
Is The Tank suitable for beginner divers?
Absolutely, The Tank is highly suitable for beginner divers and for dive training. Its shallow depth, mild currents, and easy shore access provide a comfortable and safe environment for learning and practicing skills.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Divers can expect to see a rich array of marine life including colorful reef fish, moray eels, lionfish, and various invertebrates like starfish and crabs. Soft corals and sponges also adorn the tank's structure.
What is the visibility like at The Tank?
Visibility at The Tank is consistently excellent. Divers frequently report clear waters, often with visibility extending for impressive distances, sometimes reaching 20 to 30 meters, allowing for unobstructed views of the wreck and marine life.
Is shore access available for diving this site?
Yes, shore access to The Tank is straightforward and convenient. Divers can easily reach the site with a short swim from the beach, eliminating the need for boat transportation.
Can I combine this dive with other sites?
Many divers combine a visit to The Tank with nearby sites such as New Canyon and The Seven Sisters. It's often used as an excellent final stop or safety stop before returning to shore due to its shallow depth.
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