Floating in the Dead Sea is one of those travel experiences that sounds like a cliché until you try it: lie back and the water simply holds you up. From the cruise port in Aqaba you can do it as a day trip — a long drive north through the Jordan Valley, a few hours on the shore and back to your ship by evening. This guide explains how the Dead Sea tour from Aqaba port works, what it costs and how to enjoy the water safely.
Dead Sea Tour from Aqaba Port at a Glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 8 hours, port to port |
| Drive | About 2.5 hours each way by private air-conditioned vehicle |
| Start | Timed to your cruise schedule — pick-up at the cruise exit door |
| Included | Private round-trip transfer, Dead Sea entrance fees, lunch, fees and taxes |
| Not included | Tips and extras |
| Price | From $110 per person (group of 6) to $250 for a single traveller |
Book the Dead Sea Tour from Aqaba Port as a private trip for your own group.
Why the Dead Sea Is So Special
The shore of the Dead Sea lies more than 400 metres below sea level — the lowest point on land anywhere on earth. The water is around ten times saltier than the ocean, so dense that you float without effort and cannot really swim in the usual way. Nothing lives in it, hence the name.
The mineral-rich black mud along the shore has been prized for skin care since antiquity; legend links it to Cleopatra and the Queen of Sheba. Today visitors cover themselves in mud, let it dry in the sun and rinse it off in the sea.
How the Day Runs
- Pick-up at the port. Your tour manager meets you at the cruise exit door.
- Drive north. About 2.5 hours through the desert and down into the Jordan Valley.
- Time on the shore. Float in the salty water, try the mud and relax by the beach.
- Lunch before the drive back to Aqaba.
- Return to your ship in time for all-aboard.
How to Float Safely
- Walk in, then sit back as if into an armchair; your legs will rise on their own. Turn over carefully — rolling onto your front is harder than it looks.
- Keep the water out of your eyes and mouth. It stings badly; if it happens, rinse with fresh water straight away.
- Do not shave on the day and cover small cuts — the salt finds every one.
- Stay in for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, then rinse off under the shower and drink water.
- Wear water shoes or sandals; salt crystals on the bottom can be sharp.
Tip: Bring swimwear, a towel, sandals and an old swimsuit if you plan to use the mud — it can stain light fabric.
Important: The Dead Sea is not recommended for people with heart conditions or high blood pressure without medical advice, and the heat is intense in summer.
Dead Sea or Petra?
With one day in Aqaba most passengers choose between the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum and Petra. The Dead Sea is the most relaxing of the three but also the longest drive; Petra is the most impressive historically but involves several hours on foot. If you want to see the Dead Sea as part of a longer trip, our Egypt and Jordan tour packages include it with Petra and Jerusalem. For all options side by side, read the Aqaba port shore excursions guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the Dead Sea from Aqaba port?
About 2.5 hours by road each way. The full tour takes around 8 hours.
How much is the Dead Sea tour from Aqaba?
From $110 per person for six people, $180 per person for two and $250 for a single traveller, including entrance fees and lunch.
Can you swim in the Dead Sea?
Not really — the water is so salty that you float on the surface. Visitors lie back and drift rather than swim, and should avoid splashing.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sandals or water shoes, sunscreen and a bottle of fresh water to rinse your face.
