intermediate
    (114)

    Andromeda Rock - Israel Diving

    20m Max
    8-25m Vis
    shore

    Site Overview

    Andromeda Rock is one of the most distinctive dive sites along the Israeli Mediterranean coast offering mythical rock islet where Perseus rescued Andromeda surrounded by an underwater boulder field sheltering groupers and barracuda. The site attracts divers seeking an authentic Mediterranean diving experience with healthy marine ecosystems and clear water conditions throughout the main diving season from May through October. Water temperatures range from comfortable 18 degrees in spring to warm 28 degrees in late summer with visibility regularly exceeding fifteen metres on calm days. The underwater landscape features a rich variety of marine habitats supporting diverse fish populations and colourful invertebrate communities that encrust every available surface. Andromeda Rock is one of the most iconic dive sites in Israel combining Greek mythology with excellent Mediterranean reef diving. The massive boulder field surrounding the islet creates a complex underwater landscape with numerous swim-throughs, crevices, and overhangs that shelter large groupers and hunting barracuda. The rock itself rises dramatically from the sea providing a visible navigation point from the surface. Marine life encounters commonly include groupers patrolling the deeper sections, moray eels hiding in crevices, and schooling fish aggregating in the mid-water column. The site is well-served by professional dive centers offering guided boat and shore diving with full equipment rental and certification courses available. Seasonal variations bring different species and conditions providing rewarding repeat visits throughout the diving calendar. The combination of accessible depth ranges, varied topography, and productive marine habitats makes this site suitable for divers of all experience levels from beginners completing their training to advanced divers seeking deeper exploration. Photography opportunities abound with excellent wide-angle reef landscapes and intimate macro subjects among the rocky substrate. Surface intervals between dives allow time to appreciate the stunning Mediterranean coastal scenery above water.

    Dive Briefing

    "Andromeda Rock dive begins with a controlled entry from the boat or shore depending on conditions and the chosen access point. Divers descend along the main feature where you explore mythical rock islet where Perseus rescued Andromeda surrounded by an underwater boulder field sheltering groupers and barracuda. Navigate along the main features maintaining good buoyancy and observing the diverse marine life that inhabits this unique Mediterranean environment. The dive profile typically starts at the shallowest section allowing divers to acclimatise before progressing to the deeper areas. Throughout the dive, maintain good buoyancy control to protect the Mediterranean marine environment and avoid contact with fire coral and sea urchins on the substrate. Marine life is most active during the first half of the dive when fish are feeding and moving between reef structures. Keep an eye on your depth gauge and air supply particularly when exploring the deeper sections and overhangs. Navigation is straightforward with the main feature providing a clear reference point for the return swim. Safety stop at five metres for three minutes is mandatory before ascending to the surface. Surface marker buoy deployment is recommended before the final ascent due to boat traffic operating in the area. After the dive, log your maximum depth and bottom time and allow adequate surface interval before a second dive at a nearby site."

    Signature Marine Life

    Dusky grouper

    common

    Epinephelus marginatus

    Best: April, May, June

    Barracuda

    frequent

    Sphyraena viridensis

    Best: May, June, July

    Mediterranean moray

    common

    Muraena helena

    Best: April, May, June

    Salema porgy

    common

    Sarpa salpa

    Best: April, May, June

    Parrotfish

    common

    Sparisoma cretense

    Best: May, June, July

    Safety & Hazards

    • Variable Mediterranean winter seas creating surge and reduced visibility after storm events
    • Boat traffic from commercial fishing and recreational vessels operating near dive sites
    • Fishing line and net entanglement risk on rocky reef structures and submerged objects
    • Sea urchin spines on rocky substrate requiring careful fin placement and buoyancy control
    • Seasonal jellyfish blooms particularly during late summer months in Mediterranean waters
    Nearest Chamber
    Beilinson Hospital Hyperbaric Unit, Petah Tikva
    15km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Andromeda Rock is ideal for mythology enthusiasts and adventurous divers seeking boulder field exploration seeking a memorable Mediterranean diving experience along the Israeli coast. The site offers conditions suitable for both recreational divers looking for relaxed exploration and more experienced divers wanting to push their depth limits. Underwater photographers will find excellent subjects among the diverse marine life and dramatic underwater formations. Marine ecology enthusiasts appreciate the rich biodiversity of subtropical Mediterranean reef communities and the intricate food web dynamics. The accessible depth range and professional dive center support make this site perfect for families with diving teenagers, couples celebrating underwater adventures, and solo travellers joining group dive trips.

    reef
    mediterranean
    israel

    Quick Stats

    Difficultyintermediate
    CertificationAdvanced Open Water
    Currentlight
    Water Temp16-29°C
    Best TimeMay - October

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • Tel Aviv Dive Center
    • Dolphin Divers Israel
    • Sea Rider Dive Club
    • Manta Divers Israel
    • Israeli Diving Association
    Pricing Guide
    $80 - $130
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    16-35mm
    60mm macro

    Best for: wide_angle

    Nearby Stay

    The Setai Tel Aviv

    Jaffa, Tel Aviv5km away

    Check Availability

    Dan Tel Aviv Hotel

    Tel Aviv Beachfront3km away

    Check Availability