Diving at The 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.
Current morning readings from The Tank indicate an air temperature of 24°C. Surface wave heights are averaging around 0.1 m at this time. These local measurements provide a baseline for your daily dive planning.
Dive Site Location & Key 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.
Conditions are Excellent
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near The Tank show 24° air, 26° sea temperature, 0.2 m waves, and 22 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
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.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
- Hard-soled Dive Boots
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for The Tank, Jordan. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Current diving conditions indicate water temperatures around 26°C (78°F) at The Tank. Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (76°F).
Forecasts suggest rising temperatures later this week. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
In water temperatures like these, 3mm wetsuit typically offers sufficient warmth for most recreational dives. Some divers naturally tolerate cooler water better than others.
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, live updates are temporarily delayed. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to The Tank.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
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.
Dive Sites Near The Tank
View all dive sites in JordanDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near The Tank
Today: 08:00 - 19:00
Things to Do Around The Tank
Boat Dive 2 Guided Dives with Lunch Included wreck dive&reef dive
Scuba Dive and Explore Aqaba's Red Sea with a Private Guide
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
Check available flights and routes on Expedia, using the nearby airports listed in this section.
Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently 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.
Planning to dive The Tank?
Tell us your dates and diving needs. We'll review your request and seek offers from relevant local dive centers.
Request Dive OffersConditions are Excellent
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near The Tank show 24° air, 26° sea temperature, 0.2 m waves, and 22 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.