Turkish Diving Restrictions

[Carl P]

I heard that there are a few restrictions on diving in Turkey:
1) There are areas that diving is not permitted.
2) A local licensed guide is required on all dives.

I am primarily interested in the area between Antalya and Kalkan.

Is what I have heard correct? Is it a legal or cultural issue?
Are there acceptable / legal ways round these restrictions?

Thanks.

 

[divingHeidi]

Hi Carl,

I am off to Kas (that's very close to Kalkan) in 2 days.
I will give you some good web-sites which shows what divesites are open.
http://www.turkey-diving.com/
http://www.divingturkey.com/
http://www.divesitedirectory.co.uk/turkey.html

By the way when are you planning to go? I can give you all my feedback when I am back on the 12th June if you are interested.

Sunny greetings from Dubai,
Heidi

 

[ortoman]

hi there.. there are some rescricted areas somewhere in Turkey, but they are so limited to ancient areas and some military wrecks.. Dive operators will guide you to some best dive sites.. kas and kalkan are the best places to dive, do dont hesitate to come here .. dive happy..

 

[Carl P]

What is the story on licensed guides? I heard that a guide was needed on all dives for non- Turkish nationals (to prevent removal of artifacts). Is this true? Is there any restriction or problem just going off the beach or your own / chartered boat without a guide?

 

[ortoman]

thats true. foreign divers must have a guide and all dives ( inc turkish citizens) must be declared to coast guard.

 

[String]

Thats quite an irritating restriction. Greece is similar.

Even though i work as a guide i personally HATE guided dives.

 

[ortoman]

thats right. but turkeys historical pieces (both underwater or underground) have been stolen several times in the past. there is even a temple ( yes, a temple that 500 people can sit in it) have been stolen and moved to germany during WW 1. thats why the restrictions are so solid.. sad but true

 

[Carl P]

So the next question is; How do you become a licensed guide? Can a foreigner get this status?

 

[ortoman]

turkish federation of underwater sports opens courses for u/w guides. I am not sure if a foreigner could attend the courses. you can contact them directly at :
http://www.tssf.gov.tr/.. good luck