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Aqaba Private Snorkel Safari: Japanese Garden & Rainbow Reef

Glide over luminous coral gardens alive with parrotfish, lionfish, and sea turtles in Aqaba's Marine Protected Area — one of the most pristine reef systems in the entire Red Sea, just minutes from port. No certification required; just bring wonder.

What to expect

Your private speedboat departs the marina and reaches the Japanese Garden snorkel site in under 15 minutes. The shallow coral terrace here is extraordinary — massive table corals, vivid sea fans, and a staggering variety of reef fish in crystal visibility. Your guide points out resident nudibranchs and moray eels most snorkellers miss. A second stop at Rainbow Reef adds deeper swim-throughs and the chance to spot a passing sea turtle. Fresh juice and towels are provided on the return.

Book it with
Aqaba Marine Park (Royal Marine Conservation Society of Jordan)
From USD 35 per person for guided snorkel trip with equipment; private boat charter from USD 120 per group
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Good to know

Best undertaken in the morning when visibility and conditions are optimal. All equipment provided; bring reef-safe sunscreen (standard sunscreen is prohibited in the Marine Park). Transfer from cruise terminal to marina is approximately 10 minutes by taxi.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Aqaba — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Oceania · Oceania Nautica
21 nights · calls at Aqaba
from $3,930
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Oceania · Oceania Vista
20 nights · calls at Aqaba
from $8,949
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Regent · Seven Seas Explorer
19 nights · calls at Aqaba
from $12,399
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Regent · Seven Seas Voyager
21 nights · calls at Aqaba
from $13,799
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See all cruises to Aqaba →
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