Hercules C-130 Wreck
A deliberately sunk C-130 Hercules aircraft transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, offering unique diving and snorkeling adventures in Aqaba.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximizes underwater visibility
Hercules C-130 Wreck
Best Time
Maximizes underwater visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A deliberately sunk C-130 Hercules aircraft transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, offering unique diving and snorkeling adventures in Aqaba.
"Discover the incredible C-130 wreck dive site, a must-visit for diving enthusiasts!"
Advanced Divers Recommended
AOW certified divers or higher will best appreciate this site. Snorkelers can see it, but it's deeper than nearby tanks.
Check Visibility Beforehand
Visibility can vary; a clear day makes a huge difference for both snorkelers and divers.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 22 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The C-130 Hercules Wreck
Aqaba, Jordan
A deliberately sunk military transport plane, now an artificial reef teeming with marine life. A unique wreck diving and snorkeling spot.
Scattered Fuselage
Aqaba, Jordan
Witness the impact of nature as the C-130's fuselage has broken into sections, creating a more dynamic dive experience.
Marine Life Encounters
Aqaba, Jordan
Explore the diverse array of marine life that has made this artificial reef their home, adding vibrancy to the wreck.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive or Snorkel? Know Your Depth
Wreck Integrity & Visibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Advanced Divers Recommended
AOW certified divers or higher will best appreciate this site. Snorkelers can see it, but it's deeper than nearby tanks.
Check Visibility Beforehand
Visibility can vary; a clear day makes a huge difference for both snorkelers and divers.
Wreck is Breaking Apart
Be aware the fuselage has recently broken into pieces due to storms. Still a cool dive!
Freediving Potential
Good spot for freediving around 15-20m with less current and boat safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
Advanced Divers Recommended
AOW certified divers or higher will best appreciate this site. Snorkelers can see it, but it's deeper than nearby tanks.
Check Visibility Beforehand
Visibility can vary; a clear day makes a huge difference for both snorkelers and divers.
Wreck is Breaking Apart
Be aware the fuselage has recently broken into pieces due to storms. Still a cool dive!
Freediving Potential
Good spot for freediving around 15-20m with less current and boat safety.
Artificial Reef Ecosystem
Enjoy the diverse marine life that has colonized the wreck, making it a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Hercules C-130 Wreck a cool and unique underwater attraction, especially for divers. While the recent scattering of the fuselage due to storms is noted, the marine life and the novelty of diving on an aircraft are consistently praised. Visibility is a key factor for enjoyment.
"The C130 plane is really cool to see while snorkeling but hope for a high visibility day! It would probably be better done while diving since it's quite a bit deeper than the tank nearby. Still cool to see from above!"
Michael Langille
"The good place to try and make a freedive is not deep around 15-20m and with less current and safety from the boat. I read about this location from the CertiDive platform and yes, it is right the best spot for freedive with the wreck."
Majdi Alqudah
"Discover the incredible C-130 wreck dive site, a must-visit for diving enthusiasts! With stunning visibility and an exceptionally well-preserved wreck, this location offers a fascinating underwater experience. You'll encounter a diverse array of marine life that makes each dive unique. If you're an Advanced Open Water (AOW) certified diver or higher, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure at this remarkable site!"
H Kh.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The wreck is located off the coast of Aqaba, Jordan. Access is typically via boat tour organized by local dive centers. Many resorts in Aqaba can arrange these trips for you. 
Most visitors access the C-130 wreck through organized scuba diving or snorkeling boat trips departing from Aqaba's marina.
No, the Hercules C-130 Wreck is an underwater site and requires boat access. It's not accessible from shore.
Several dive centers in Aqaba, such as Deep Blue Dive Center and Red Sea Dive Center, offer trips to the C-130 wreck.
Yes, snorkeling tours are available, though the wreck is quite deep. Visibility is crucial for a good snorkeling experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a direct entry ticket for the wreck itself. You'll pay for a boat trip or dive package organized by a dive center.
Costs vary depending on the dive center and package, but expect to pay for boat fees, dive equipment rental, and potentially park fees.
Access is determined by the dive center's schedule. Trips usually run in the morning and sometimes in the afternoon.
While snorkelers can view it, divers typically need to be Advanced Open Water (AOW) certified or higher due to the depth.
It's highly recommended to book your dive or snorkel trip in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
🎫 🐠 Underwater Experience
You can encounter a variety of Red Sea marine life, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates that have made the wreck their home.
The wreck sits at a depth that makes it ideal for divers, generally around 15-20 meters for freediving and deeper for scuba.
The C-130 fuselage recently broke into two main pieces due to a storm, so it's now scattered.
Visibility can be excellent, but it's best to check conditions on the day of your visit. High visibility is crucial for a good experience.
Due to its depth, it's generally recommended for certified divers (AOW or higher). Beginners might find it challenging, though snorkelers can see it from above.
📸 📸 Photography & Videography
Bring wide-angle lenses for the overall wreck and macro lenses for marine life. Good lighting is essential due to the depth.
Yes, underwater videography is very popular here. Many dive centers capture footage, and visitors often bring their own gear.
Shots of the entire aircraft structure, the cockpit, and the marine life interacting with the wreck are highly sought after.
Some dive centers may offer underwater photography or videography services, or have guides who are skilled in capturing great shots.
Drone usage over marine protected areas or near boats may have restrictions. Always check local regulations before flying.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit