Scuba Diving in Fethiye

If you choose to take your holiday in Fethiye, you’ll find a town that exudes a peaceful and easy-going charm. Unlike many other Mediterranean resorts, this is an established and historical community that can’t fail to make an impression upon you as you wander through its narrow streets and alleys, perhaps stumbling upon the central market or sampling the cuisine at one of the local restaurants. But whether by day or by night a natural highlight of a holiday in Fethiye is to be found beneath the waves. For the novice and seasoned diver alike, here is a guide to some of the sites you’ll want to visit as soon as you’ve squeezed into your wetsuit...

1. Red Island (max. depth: 25m)

Starting at a depth of 6m and following the natural slope of the seabed, you’ll reach a beautiful marine amphitheatre that curves round at a depth of 15-20m. To really appreciate the vibrant colours of the sea sponges and groupers that inhabit this area you should bring along an underwater light.

2. Sariyarlar bay (max. depth 30m)

In this bay is found a selection of stunning catacombs of tunnels and caverns, all naturally lit from above through the plethora of gaps and cracks in the rock. There are 8 tunnels in total and, to take full advantage of the sights we’d recommend bringing along an underwater light. You’re likely to discover some of the strangest finds of your holiday in Fethiye here as Brittle stars, anemones, sea cucumbers, damselfish and shrimp are to be seen in abundance.

3. Coral Cavern and Turkish Bath (max. depth 40m)

If you’re after great photos and curious creatures then this is the best dive in Fethiye. The regular inhabitants of this site include: Trumpet anemones, gem anemones, daisy strawberry, soft coral, anemones, lettuce coral, sea aubergine and many forms of lace corals. If you only have time for one dive on your holiday in Turkey, make it this one.

5. Shrimp's Hole (max. depth 28m)

Lying at 26m depth, ‘Shrimp’s Hole’ is large enough to let 5 - 6 divers enter at one time. Though it’s important to be careful where you put your fins, so as not to disturb the silty bottom, this is a particularly exciting dive with a wealth of creatures to observe. A tall archway which makes a good exit point can also provide some fantastic ascent photos.

6. Mexican Hat (max. depth 30m)

Named ‘Mexican Hat’ as it resembles the shape of a sombrero, this underwater rift lies at 20m and is large enough to accommodate 6-8 drivers at any given time. Some of the sights to be seen include mullet, shrimp, soft coral displays and groupers. The ‘Mexican Hat’ is also home to Moray Eels, which can be seen swaying in the current from their rocky retreats. As with ‘Shrimp’s Hole’, there is a beautiful archway which makes for great photos in the right light.