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Dive Site

Jackson Reef

  • Current: S in the morning, S at midday, N in the afternoon
  • Visibility: J, F, M, A: 40 m; M, J, J, A: 30 m; S, O, N, D: 35 m
  • Temperatures: J, F, M: 24°C; A, M, J: 26°C; J, A, S: 28°C; O, N, D: 27°C
  • Depth: 0 m to 50 m
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Dive Site

Overview

Whether it was Michael or maybe Samuel L., we don't know who gave the Jackson Reef its name. We can say with certainty, however, that 'Jackson' is the northernmost reef of the four reefs of Tiran and that it became famous when a Cypriot cargo ship ran aground at full speed on 4 December 1981. The Jackson Reef is very popular among divers, but above all for the great likelihood of catching sight of hammerhead sharks during the summer months. However, this dive can be quite challenging when there is a current. Mooring is available.

Description

The Jackson Reef resembles a triangle whose apex points north. It is exactly here where the famous shipwreck 'Lara' ran aground and sunk in 1981. Close to the 'Lara', hammerhead sharks can frequently be spotted swimming around the waters – and at pleasant depths of 10 to 30 metres.

The highly frequented diving site is not only a treat for divers, but for snorkelers can also get their money's worth at the 'Jackson Reef' since there are two shallower plateaus: the perfect choice for an underwater excursion with the whole family. In addition to the 'Lara', the remains of an old lighthouse also count among the reef's highlights.

With a little luck, reef sharks and hammerhead sharks can't only be seen, but also magnificent coral gardens, red sea anemones, clownfish, horsehead lookdowns, eagle rays, Napoleon wrasse, groupers or swarms of tuna. Watch, marvel and enjoy!

Hotspots

  • Plateau in the west: The plateau in the west is home to marvellous coral gardens which couldn't be anymore colourful. It's here where we will find bright-red sea anemones – and at a depth of only 28 metres.
  • Plateau in the east: In the eastern plateau, the remains of an old lighthouse can be visited and hundreds of species of fish in a variety of shapes and colours can be enjoyed.
  • Shipwreck and sharks: Upon visiting the 'Lara', repeatedly scanning the open sea is recommended to experience the pleasure of beholding hammerhead sharks.

map Dive Plans

Drift form the northern tip

We start at the wreck of the "Lara" and, depending on the current, drift with the reef to our right or left shoulder. Especially when reaching the southern side you have to watch out for the current.<br/>The wreckage of the "Lara" is up to 30 meters deep, here we can linger in the blue water - the probability that sharks are on the way is very high here. Then look south and the west and east walls. "Jackson" s wall reef has strong south currents.

South

From the boat in the middle of the southern area it goes down along the large sandy channel to about 30 meters. Here we see the first groupers and also small sharks. Further down, at a depth of 45 meters, there is a colony of sand eels, which we can also see at 40 meters.<br/>With the reef on the right shoulder, we continue to the home of the clownfish, the red anemone. We can dive up to the corner of the west side, always watch out for the current.

From the anchorage to the east

From the boat, with the reef to the left shoulder, we dive up to 20 meters deep over a sandy plateau in order to visit the long-nosed mongoose before dropping off in the gorgonians. Fire corals pave their way here to a depth of 38 meters.<br/>The remains of the old lighthouse and beautiful hard coral blocks can be found in the eastern plateau between 8 and 15 meters. Here, too, it is important to pay attention to the current.