The Underwater Military Museum in Aqaba, Jordan, is a unique attraction that consists of decommissioned military equipment, including tanks, armored vehicles, and helicopters, purposely submerged to create an artificial reef and an underwater military theme park for divers to explore.
The Underwater Military Museum was officially opened to the public in July 2019.
Visitors can see a variety of sunken military hardware arranged at different depths, creating a fascinating underwater landscape. The exhibits include tanks, a troop carrier, a combat helicopter, and various artillery pieces, all of which have been decontaminated and made safe for marine life and divers.
Tourists need to be certified divers to visit the Underwater Military Museum. Diving trips can be booked through dive centers located in Aqaba, which offer guided tours to the museum. Snorkeling may be possible, but the visibility and proximity to the exhibits depend on the depth of the water.
Yes, the Underwater Military Museum was designed with conservation in mind. The military equipment was carefully cleaned and demilitarized to ensure that it does not harm the marine environment. The site serves as an artificial reef to promote marine life growth and to take the pressure off natural coral reefs in the area by providing an alternative diving site.
There is no specific entry fee for the museum itself; however, divers will need to pay for the dive trip through a local dive center, which typically includes the cost of equipment rental, boat transportation, and the services of a dive guide.
Aqaba enjoys good diving conditions year-round, but the best time to visit the Underwater Military Museum for the warmest water and optimal visibility is from June to September. However, visitors can dive here any time of the year, as Aqaba's climate is generally mild in winter months.
Yes, underwater photography is allowed and encouraged at the Underwater Military Museum. Divers often take cameras to capture the unique scenes of military equipment surrounded by marine life. However, it's important to follow guidelines to prevent any potential damage to the environment or the exhibits.
While the main attraction is the underwater experience itself, dive guides usually provide some contextual information about the exhibits and the history behind them. Additionally, dive centers in Aqaba may offer educational resources or briefings before the dive.
The exhibits in the Underwater Military Museum are placed at different depths, ranging from 5 to 28 meters (about 15 to 92 feet), accommodating divers with varying levels of experience.