Diving is one of the reasons Kaş has a loyal following among travellers who return year after year. The Mediterranean is deep and clear along this coast, visibility is often excellent, and the limestone geology means underwater cliffs, caves and arches that drop away into the blue. Most dive sites are fifteen to thirty minutes from the harbour by boat, which keeps trips efficient, and the water is warm enough for comfortable diving from late spring until late autumn. There is plenty to see for an experienced diver who has visited tropical reefs, including colourful fish, octopus, moray eels, sponges, and big schools of smaller fish in the caves. A guided trip for certified divers typically includes a briefing at the dive centre, a boat ride to two sites, tanks, weights and all equipment, and a dive leader who knows the topography and the marine life. Gear is usually rented as part of the package, so you do not need to bring your own, although many divers prefer to bring a mask and computer. Bring your certification card and logbook, and expect to be asked about your recent diving experience before the centre assigns a site that matches your skill.
Sites and what you may see
A well-known feature of the area is a series of walls and tunnels that start at shallow depth and drop to deeper ranges, with swim-throughs lit by blue shafts of light. Many sites are suitable for open water divers, with maximum depths in the region of eighteen to thirty metres, while a handful are more demanding and are reserved for advanced divers.
The dive leaders choose sites based on weather and group experience. There are also wrecks and artificial structures in the wider area, although they vary in condition, so ask the centre what is currently available.
Planning your dive days
If you are flying home, remember the usual rule against flying within twenty-four hours of your last dive. Eat a light breakfast, drink plenty of water and put on sun protection for the boat. Seasickness tablets are worth taking in windy weather. A typical morning outing leaves around nine and returns by early afternoon, leaving time for lunch and an evening out in Kaş.
Water temperature and exposure
In summer, surface temperatures are warm and a thin wetsuit is usually enough, while spring and autumn call for a thicker suit. Dive centres supply wetsuits, and some offer hoods and gloves in the cooler months. The season runs roughly from April to November, with the best conditions in the middle of the year, but some operators continue through winter for experienced divers.
Safety and standards
Check that the dive centre is registered, that its boats carry oxygen and emergency equipment, and that guides keep to sensible group sizes. Dive centres in Kaş are generally small and personal, and good ones will happily talk you through their approach. If you have not dived for some time, take a refresher with a guide before heading to deeper sites, and make sure you tell the leader about any health concerns before you go.
Choosing a dive centre
Look for one that briefs clearly, keeps groups small, carries oxygen on the boat and matches you to a site that suits your recent experience. A friendly, honest dive leader is worth more than a long list of sites. If you dive with your own computer or camera, say so in advance so the crew can plan the order of dives and the surface interval.
What to expect
The experience
A guided boat dive for certified divers with all equipment supplied, a briefing and two dives.
Best time
Late spring to autumn, with the best visibility and warmth in the middle of the year.
How long
A morning or half day, plus time to get to the boat.
Tips
Bring your certification card and logbook, avoid flying for 24 hours afterwards, and tell the leader about any health issues.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Certified divers who want caves, walls and clear water.
- Families
- Not for children unless they are certified and old enough, but non-divers can join a snorkel trip.
- Couples
- A shared experience for two certified divers, with relaxed evenings in town.
- Pair with
- A discovery dive for a non-diving partner or a Kekova boat day.
- Time needed
- A morning or half day.
Good questions
Do I need to bring my own equipment?+
Equipment is normally included. You may prefer to bring your own mask or dive computer.
Which certification do I need?+
An open water certification or equivalent. Bring your certification card and logbook.
When is the best time to dive?+
From late spring to early autumn the water is warm and clear. Some centres dive year-round.
Can I fly after diving?+
Wait at least 24 hours between your last dive and a flight, according to standard diving guidelines.
Are there sites for beginners?+
Yes, many sites are suitable for open water divers, with deeper sites reserved for advanced divers.