The sea around Fethiye is clear, calm in the morning and rich in rock formations, which makes it a popular place to try diving for the first time or to add dives to a longer trip. This day trip departs from the Fethiye area with hotel pick-up, runs for around eight hours and includes two dives, full equipment, a guide and instructor, lunch and drinks. Beginners receive a briefing and a short practice in shallow water before going deeper with an instructor, while certified divers dive with the group and a guide. The underwater scenery on this coast is a mix of rocky walls, small caves and swim-throughs, scattered boulders and sea life, including colourful fish, and visibility is often good. The boat itself is part of the day, with sunbathing, snorkelling and a long lunch between dives. The group nature of the trip means it is social and easy-going, and the operator handles the logistics. It is a good choice for active travellers, couples who want a shared activity and anyone who has never tried diving but wants to see the water beyond the beach. Photos and video are usually available at an extra charge.
Fitness and safety
You need to be in reasonable health, and operators ask you to confirm that you have no heart problems or other serious medical conditions. Do not fly within the period recommended after diving, which is typically 18 to 24 hours, so plan the dive for early in your trip rather than the day before a flight.
If you are not a strong swimmer, tell the instructor before you start. Certified divers should bring their certification card and logbook. Dive sites depend on the operator and the weather, and some departures use boats that sail along neighbouring stretches of coast, so confirm the departure point and the length of the transfer when you book.
Season and conditions
Diving is best from late spring to autumn, when the water is warmest, with comfortable temperatures from about June to October. In cooler months the water is colder, the day is shorter, and some operators stop or reduce departures, so check availability. A thin wetsuit is provided, but you may want a rash vest in summer and extra layers for the boat ride back.
Pairing
Diving is a morning-and-afternoon commitment, so do not try to fit a second major activity into the same day. It combines well with a quieter day on land afterwards, such as the Fethiye market, a hamam or the Amyntas tomb. If you would prefer to stay at the surface, the 12 Islands cruise and the Butterfly Valley boat give snorkelling and swimming without the equipment or the certification questions.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day boat trip with two dives, full equipment, instruction for beginners, lunch, drinks and hotel transfers.
Best time
Late spring to autumn, with the warmest water from about June to October.
How long
About eight hours including transfers.
Tips
Do not fly within 18 to 24 hours of diving, bring your certification card if you are certified and confirm the departure point.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who want to try diving or add dives to a coastal trip.
- Families
- Suitable for older children and teens who meet the operator age and health rules; check the minimum age.
- Couples
- A shared adventure with a boat lunch in between.
- Pair with
- A quiet land day afterwards, such as the market or a hamam.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Do I need to be certified?+
No. First-timers are welcome and dive with an instructor after a briefing, while certified divers dive with a guide. Bring your card if you have one.
What is included?+
Two dives, full equipment, a guide and instructor, lunch, drinks and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Photos and video are usually extra.
When is the best time?+
Late spring to autumn, with the warmest water from about June to October. Check availability in winter.
Can I fly after diving?+
Wait the recommended time, typically 18 to 24 hours, before flying.
Are there health restrictions?+
Yes. Operators ask you to confirm that you have no heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
