In Pursuit of the Blue Depths: Antalya’s Most Impressive Diving Spots and Underwater Routes

The pristine blue serenity of the Mediterranean leaves behind a rich history and a mosaic of life as you step into its waters. Ancient ports that have hosted trade ships for centuries, aircraft and shipwrecks, vast underwater wrecks, and the vibrant Mediterranean marine life…

Antalya is one of the richest diving paradises in the Mediterranean, catering to both beginners eager to explore the underwater world and experienced technical divers. Prepare your diving gear and immerse yourself in the unique silence of the underwater world at these most current and exciting diving spots in Antalya:

Route 01

Kaş – Flying Fish and B24 Aircraft Wreck: A Diving Classic on the World Scale

One of the most iconic points in Kaş, the diving capital of Turkey, is Flying Fish, which hosts the wreck of a three-engine Italian bomber aircraft (SM.79 Sparviero) from World War II.

This deep dive spot, reaching depths of 50-60 meters, is a true display of power for experienced divers. Thanks to its clear visibility, it offers a magnificent stage for underwater photographers. Encountering groupers, snappers, and giant barracudas is a matter of time.

Kaş Flying Fish and B24 Aircraft Wreck
Route 02

Kemer – Paris II Wreck: A Living Testimony Beneath the Water of History

Sunken by Captain Mustafa Ertuğrul in 1917 during World War I, the French battleship Paris II lies between 21 to 33 meters deep in the Kemer waters.

This shipwreck, highlighted by divers around the world in the “Top 100 Diving Spots,” has transformed into an artificial reef filled with marine life and sponges.

Kemer Paris II Wreck
Route 03

Side Underwater Museum: Turkey’s First and Europe’s Largest Underwater Museum

This special area located in the waters of Side has been established as a sustainable marine tourism and artificial reef project.

Over 110 statues representing Anatolian civilizations such as the War of Liberation, Whirling Dervishes, Poseidon, and Apollo are exhibited underwater. It offers both a cultural experience and creates a safe breeding area for marine life in the Mediterranean.

Thanks to the sculptures located at different depths, it is suitable for divers of all levels and snorkelers.

Side Underwater Museum
Route 04

Three Islands (Tekirova): The Summit of Cave and Wall Diving

Three Islands, consisting of four small islands rising off the coast of Tekirova, are famous for their deep walls, canyons, and underwater caves.

Points like Adventure Canyon and Deep Cave are favorites among experienced divers with their fast currents and deep waters. Seasonal sightings of sea turtles, squids, and tube worms are common in the region.

Three Islands Tekirova Diving Point

Meeting Local Artisans After Diving in the Village Harbors

After completing your underwater adventure, touching the local culture of the region makes your trip meaningful:

Local Experiences

  • Local Diving Schools and Guides: Taking your dives from local diving centers that know the area and marine ecosystem very well directly contributes to the local businesses and economy.
  • Post-Diving Mediterranean Gastronomy: You can relieve the exhaustion of the day in small family-run businesses at the ports of Kaş, Kemer, or Side by indulging in local olive oil appetizers, fresh seafood, and regional cold drinks.

Important Tips to Know Before Diving

  1. “Take Only Photos, Leave Only Bubbles”: Never touch the underwater wrecks, sculptures, and marine creatures. Especially show respect for the habitats of sensitive grouper and snapper species.
  2. Coral and Sea-Friendly Sunscreen: Make sure that the sunscreens you use on the boat before and after diving are chemical-free and do not harm the marine ecosystem.
  3. Bring Your Own Water Bottle on the Boat: To prevent the use of single-use plastic cups/bottles on diving boats, take your own reusable water bottle with you.
  4. Müze Kart / Museum Pass: Keep your card ready in your bag to visit the ancient cities along the coast (Phaselis, Side, Simena) without waiting in line on the day of diving or on the days you postponed.
Papillon Recommendation

In these depths where you will be captivated by the silence and blueness, explore the hidden world of the Mediterranean without leaving any trace behind!

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