Dive Site: Cable Reef

About Cable Reef

Cable Reef, also known as Rainbow Reef, stands out as one of Aqaba's most colorful and accessible dive locations, nestled within the Visitors’ Bay section of the Aqaba Marine Park. This site is renowned for its vibrant, healthy coral formations that thrive in clear, warm Red Sea waters. Divers can expect to encounter an abundance of reef fish and, on occasion, sea turtles gliding through the serene underwater landscape. The reef's topography is characterized by a gradual slope, allowing for easy exploration across various depth bands. Starting from shallow areas, the site descends to a maximum depth of 18 meters, making it suitable for both beginner divers and those looking for a relaxed, extended dive. The consistent water temperatures, typically ranging from 21-28°C, ensure comfortable diving conditions year-round, though specific months offer peak visibility and marine activity. Marine life at Cable Reef includes a rich diversity of coral species, supporting numerous invertebrates and fish. The site's reputation as a photographer's favorite is well-deserved, with ample opportunities to capture detailed macro shots of the reef's inhabitants or wide-angle views of the bustling coral gardens. Its proximity to shore and calm conditions make it an excellent choice for multiple dives, allowing for thorough exploration of its hidden gems. Diving Cable Reef offers a tranquil experience, often accessible directly from shore, providing an uncrowded atmosphere even during peak seasons. The gentle currents typically found here contribute to its appeal for less experienced divers or those seeking a leisurely underwater experience.

Dive site facts: Cable Reef

Depth

3–18 m

Current

Mild to zero

Visibility

25–35 m

Water temperature

21–28°C

Entry

Shore / Boat

Level

Beginner to Advanced

Dive type

Reef, photography, night

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Aqaba, Jordan

Coordinates

21.48, 39.02

Conditions & Currents

Cable Reef generally experiences mild to zero currents, making it an excellent site for all diver levels and particularly suited for training or relaxed dives. The minimal water movement ensures consistent visibility, often exceeding 25-35 meters, allowing for clear views of the vibrant reef. Divers can typically anticipate calm conditions at the surface, facilitating easy entry and exit, whether from shore or a boat. Thermoclines are generally not a significant factor at this site, as water temperatures remain stable through the dive profile. This predictable environment means less planning is required for current mitigation and offers a comfortable experience without strong directional flows, allowing divers to explore at their own pace.

Marine life & sighting chances

Reef fish (various species)

common

Green turtle

occasional

Stingray

occasional

Nudibranch

occasional

Octopus

occasional

Seahorse

rare

Soft coral

common

Hard coral

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving Cable Reef typically begins with an easy entry from either shore or a tender boat, given its calm conditions. Divers descend into shallow coral gardens, often as little as 3 meters, which serve as an excellent starting point for exploration. The dive then follows a gradual slope, allowing you to steadily explore the reef as it deepens to its maximum of 18 meters. You can navigate along the reef, observing the vibrant marine life and coral formations. The turn point is often dictated by air consumption or personal preference, allowing ample bottom time due to the shallow depths. Ascending slowly along the reef provides more opportunity for observation, with the safety stop commonly performed in the abundant shallower sections, around 5 meters, surrounded by reef fish.

Underwater photography

Cable Reef is a prime location for underwater photography, particularly excelling with wide-angle lenses to capture its expansive and colorful coral gardens. The excellent visibility, often exceeding 25 meters, paired with the shallow average depth of 3-18 meters, allows for abundant natural light penetration, making it easier to achieve vibrant colors without excessive artificial lighting. However, using external strobes is recommended to enhance contrast and bring out the true hues of the diverse soft and hard corals, as well as the numerous reef fish. For macro enthusiasts, a macro lens will reveal the intricate details of nudibranchs, seahorses, and smaller invertebrates nestled within the reef. Practicing good buoyancy control is crucial here to avoid disturbing the healthy corals, ensuring both pristine shots and the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. Patience with marine life, especially for occasional turtle sightings, will yield the best results.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Seven Sisters (Jeddah)

  Seven Sisters, located approximately 18 miles offshore from Yanbu, stands as a collection of vibrant reef islands and is considered Saudi…

• Boiler Wreck

  The Boiler Wreck, located on Abu Madafi Reef near Jeddah, offers a diverse diving experience suitable for both novice and experienced…

• Ann Ann Wreck (Jeddah)

  The Ann Ann Wreck, located about a two-hour drive from Jeddah on the 26-Mile-Reef, presents itself as one of Jeddah's largest and most…

• Jeddah Wreck Valley

  Jeddah Wreck Valley, located off the coast of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, is a captivating dive destination renowned for its collection of…

• King Abdullah Reef

  King Abdullah Reef, named in honor of His Majesty King Abdullah II, is one of Aqaba's most cherished and healthy house reefs, nestled along…

• Cedar Pride

  The Cedar Pride is a celebrated wreck dive located in the Gulf of Aqaba, Jordan, part of the Red Sea.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Cable Reef is conveniently facilitated through dive centers based in Aqaba, Jordan. Divers typically fly into King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba. Most dive operators offer day trips, often combining Cable Reef with other nearby sites due to its accessible nature. Shore diving is a common option for this site, with transport dropping divers directly to the water's edge, enhancing ease of access. Alternatively, boat trips from Aqaba's ports are also available, often integrated into half-day or full-day itineraries. There are no specific park fees mentioned for Cable Reef itself, but diving with reputable centers ensures adherence to local regulations. Trips are generally flexible, catering to single dives or multi-dive packages, making it easy to incorporate into various holiday plans.

Safety & environment

Diving at Cable Reef is generally considered safe due to its shallow depths, mild currents, and good visibility. However, standard Red Sea dive safety precautions apply. Divers should carry valid dive insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation and hyperbaric treatment, as the nearest recompression chamber is located in Aqaba. Always dive with a reputable dive center and follow your guide’s instructions, especially regarding buddy procedures and dive limits. Specific hazards are minimal but include potential encounters with common reef creatures that, while generally harmless, should not be touched. Maintaining excellent buoyancy is essential to protect the delicate coral formations and prevent accidental injury. Staying well-hydrated and aware of sun exposure on the surface are also important considerations in the Red Sea's warm climate.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Cable Reef FAQ