Aqaba: Red Sea Boat Dive & Snorkel with Lunch & Gear

Summary

Red Sea colors, coral gardens, and lunch on the boat in Aqaba

You’ll board a comfortable boat in Aqaba’s Ayla Marina for a day trip along the Red Sea—snorkeling or diving with friendly local guides who make even beginners feel at home. Enjoy a relaxed lunch on deck with views of coral gardens below and time to soak up sun or stories from your crew before heading back ashore.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous stepping onto the Coral Garden Diving Center’s big white boat at Ayla Marina — but there it was, that little flutter. Maybe it was the way the sun bounced off the water, or just knowing I’d be breathing underwater soon. Our guide, Samir, handed out wetsuits with a grin and told us not to worry if we’d never tried diving before. He said most people are surprised by how calm it feels once you’re down there. I believed him, sort of.

The first thing I noticed out on the water was how quiet everything got — just wind and the slap of waves against the hull. The Red Sea looked almost too blue to be real. Samir showed us how to use our snorkels and tanks (he made a joke about my mask hair — thanks for that). When I finally slipped under, it was like someone turned down all the noise except for my own bubbles. There were these flashes of orange and purple fish darting between corals — honestly, I forgot to be nervous after about thirty seconds.

Lunch came after our first dive (or snorkel — some folks just floated around above). It was simple but good: grilled chicken, rice, something with lemon that tasted better than I expected. We sat in wet swimsuits with towels around our shoulders, passing plates back and forth while someone’s kid giggled about “seaweed hair.” The crew poured sweet tea into little cups; it tasted almost smoky in the salty air. I still think about that view from the deck — sunlight flickering on the water, everyone kind of quiet for a minute.

On the ride back toward Aqaba’s coastline, Samir pointed out where Jordan meets Israel and Egypt across the water. He told us stories about growing up here — how his uncle taught him to swim near those same reefs. It made me realize how much life is tucked under those waves, and how lucky we were to see even a tiny piece of it. So yeah… if you’re thinking about a day trip for diving or snorkeling from Aqaba, don’t overthink it. Just go.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat trip with diving and snorkeling

• Depart at 10 am from Ayla Marina
• Enjoy Aqaba coastline views
• Relax on 22-meter luxury boat
• Scuba dive or snorkel in Red Sea
• Explore underwater marine life
• Return after minimum 4-hour trip

Top questions

Where does this diving & snorkeling tour start?

The tour starts at Ayla 5* Marina in Aqaba.

How long is the boat trip?

The trip lasts at least 4 hours.

Is lunch included during the tour?

Yes, lunch is served onboard during your trip.

Can beginners join this Red Sea diving tour?

Yes, both first-timers and experienced divers are welcome.

Are snorkeling & scuba equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary equipment for snorkeling and scuba diving is included.

Is pickup included?

The tour begins at Ayla Marina; check if your booking includes transfer options.

What time does the boat leave?

The journey usually starts at 10 am from Ayla Marina.

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or in a stroller/pram.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water, coffee or tea served onboard, use of both snorkeling and SCUBA equipment (no need to bring your own), plus a relaxed lunch after your swim or dive—all while cruising along Aqaba’s colorful coastline before returning to shore in the afternoon.