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Have you ever dreamed of exploring a whole new world beneath the ocean’s surface If so, scuba diving in Turkey should be on your bucket list!
Turkey is a paradise for scuba divers, boasting crystal clear waters, abundant marine life, and fascinating historical shipwrecks. Its unique location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia means that you’ll find a diverse range of underwater attractions waiting to be discovered.
Why Choose Turkey for Scuba Diving
Rich Marine Life
Turkey’s seas are teeming with a diverse array of marine life, from colorful reef fish to majestic sea turtles and playful dolphins. The Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines offer a fantastic habitat for these creatures, with a combination of warm water, healthy coral reefs, and underwater caves that provide the perfect environment for a thriving underwater ecosystem.
Historical Shipwrecks
Turkey’s rich history and strategic location mean that its waters are home to numerous shipwrecks, ranging from ancient trading vessels to World War II-era submarines. These underwater time capsules offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and are a must-see for history buffs and scuba divers alike.
Affordable Prices
Compared to other popular scuba diving destinations, Turkey offers excellent value for money. The cost of diving courses, equipment rental, and dive trips are generally more affordable in Turkey, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Top Scuba Diving Locations in Turkey
Kaş
Kaş is a picturesque coastal town on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey and a favorite among scuba divers. This charming town is known for its clear waters, stunning underwater scenery, and vibrant marine life.
- Kekova Sunken City: This ancient Lycian city was partially submerged due to earthquakes, creating a unique underwater archaeological site. Divers can explore the remains of buildings, staircases, and ancient streets.
- Assos Island: A popular dive site near Kaş, Assos Island features a series of underwater caves and tunnels that are home to various marine species, including groupers, moray eels, and octopuses.
Antalya
Antalya, a bustling city on Turkey’s southern coast, is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for its fantastic scuba diving opportunities.
- Three Islands: This dive site is made up of three small islands and boasts a variety of underwater landscapes, including caves, tunnels, and vibrant coral reefs. Keep an eye out for barracudas, stingrays, and even the occasional Mediterranean monk seal!
- Sıçan Island: Located near Antalya, Sıçan Island is a haven for underwater photographers. The crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life make it a perfect spot for capturing stunning underwater shots.
Bodrum
Bodrum is a popular holiday destination on the Aegean coast, known for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and of course, incredible scuba diving.
- Big Reef: This large reef system is a favorite among divers for its abundant marine life, including groupers, barracudas, and moray eels. The reef also features a unique underwater canyon, perfect for adventurous divers.
- Yassi Island: This small island near Bodrum offers a variety of dive sites, from shallow coral gardens to deeper wall dives. Keep an eye out for octopuses, sea turtles, and even dolphins while exploring the waters around Yassi Island.
Fethiye
Fethiye, situated on Turkey’s southwestern Turquoise Coast, is another top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
- Afkule Wall: This dramatic underwater wall dive offers a breathtaking experience for divers, with a steep drop-off and colorful marine life, including nudibranchs, sea fans, and sponges.
- Siren Rocks: According to legend, these rocky outcrops were once home to mythical sirens who lured sailors to their doom. Today, the rocks provide a challenging dive site with strong currents, fascinating underwater formations, and a variety of marine life.
Best Time to Go Scuba Diving in Turkey
The scuba diving season in Turkey typically runs from April to November, with the warmest water temperatures and best visibility occurring between June and September. However, diving is possible year-round, and the off-season can offer quieter dive sites and better deals on accommodation and diving packages.
Scuba Diving In Turkey prices
Turkey is a great destination for scuba diving enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of dive sites and marine life in the Mediterranean Sea. The cost of scuba diving depends on the location, season and dive center, but generally ranges from $37 to $56 for a full day’s diving (two or three dives plus lunch on board), based on the exchange rate of 1 GBP = 1.2413 USD.
A night dive costs around $31. Some of the dive centers near you are Dolphin Dive Center and Scuba Side, which provide diving courses, daily diving trips and equipment rental.
Scuba Diving Safety Tips
Safety is crucial when scuba diving, especially in unfamiliar waters. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive in Turkey:
- Always dive with a reputable dive center and follow their guidance and instructions.
- Check your equipment carefully before each dive.
- Monitor your air supply and depth regularly.
- Stay within your training and experience limits.
- Never dive alone – always have a buddy.
Conclusion
Scuba diving in Turkey offers a unique underwater adventure, combining a rich marine ecosystem, fascinating historical shipwrecks, and stunning underwater landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting, Turkey has something for everyone. So, pack your gear, and get ready to discover a whole new world beneath the waves!
FAQs
- Do I need a scuba diving certification to dive in Turkey While some dive centers may offer introductory dives for beginners, it is recommended to obtain a certification from a recognized scuba diving organization to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Is it safe to dive in Turkey Yes, scuba diving in Turkey is generally safe, provided you follow safety guidelines, dive within your limits, and choose a reputable dive center.
- What is the water temperature in Turkey for scuba diving Water temperatures in Turkey range from 16°C (61°F) in the winter months to 27°C (81°F) in the summer months.
- What type of marine life can I expect to see while scuba diving in Turkey The waters off the Turkish coast are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, dolphins, moray eels, octopuses, and barracudas, among others. Coral reefs, underwater caves, and shipwrecks provide shelter and feeding grounds for many of these species.
- Can beginners scuba dive in Turkey Absolutely! Turkey has many dive sites suitable for beginners, and numerous dive centers offer courses and guided dives for divers of all experience levels. Just make sure to choose a reputable dive center and follow their guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
