Explore Istanbul

Istanbul is the capital city of Turkey and is located in the north west of the country. From the many dive centres and dive resorts in this area, divers can visit many diving locations throughout Turkey, including in the Aegean Sea, The Mediterranean Sea, Marmara Sea and the Gulf of Saros. These areas provide different highlights for divers of all interests. The rocky topography of most of these areas provide some thrilling dive opportunities. There are many opportunities to spot a high abundance of marine species which live among the cracks and crevices, including some unique species such as the Pipefish and the Angular Rough Sharks. There are also opportunities to see some history under the water in the form of historical artefacts. Something for everyone.

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★☆ Burgazada Yelkenkaya

Located in the Prince Island Group, on the southern side of the Burgaz island. It is a diving spot that beginner and experienced divers will enjoy, with its colorful sea rabbits and abundant marine life.

★★★★☆ Nehandros

Neandros Island is a completely uninhabited island located south of Büyükada. Only a monastery was built on it during the medieval period and the monastic life ended about two centuries ago and the island regained its desolate appearance. But this desolate appearance is the real richness of this island.

★★★★☆ Büyükada Viranbağ

It is located on the southern side of Büyükada, in the Prince Islands region. The bottom structure contains interesting creatures. A deep hole with an entrance at 5 meters is interesting.

Mares, Predrag Vuckovic

★★★★☆ At Mezarlığı

It is located on the southern side of Büyükada, in the Prince Islands region. It has a very steep and long wall structure. It makes a sudden descent from 7 meters to 30 meters. Dive boats can only go to this area in windless weather.

Diving in Istanbul

The types of diving which can be done here are quite varied depending on the region visited. However, the main feature of this are the rocky formations which come in the form of large boulders, pinnacles, caves and caverns. There are also a number of rocky reefs which inhabit many marine flora and fauna to be admired. The dive sites are reached by boat and there are many opportunities for dive courses here as well due to the many dive centres and dive resorts. There are also options for some private liveaboards.

The best Months to Dive in Istanbul

Turkey really has four seasons which means a big change in temperature throughout the year. In the summer months, July and August, the temperature can reach up to 33°C, while in the winter, January and February, the temperatures drop down to 10°C which colder nights. The water temperature here also varies between 9°C in the winter and 24°C in the summer, so it’s important to check the temperature before travelling to know what suit to wear. The visibility varies depending on where divers are diving, the Maraman Sea has the lowest visibility and the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea have above average visibility of around 25 metres.