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The sparkling coves of Fethiye, a coastal town in Türkiye’s southwestern Mugla province, are welcoming divers from around the world eager to explore its crystal-clear waters and rich underwater scenery. From first-time participants to experienced divers, travelers are plunging into the Mediterranean to discover vibrant marine life, submerged relics, and the serene calm beneath the surface.
Visitors spending their holidays in the region are venturing beyond the town center to popular nearby destinations like Gocek and Oludeniz. Boat tours from these locations take diving enthusiasts to some of Fethiye’s most secluded and scenic bays.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants go through a preparatory training session before diving. Equipped with proper gear, they then follow their instructors into the water, where they apply the skills they’ve just learned. These dives offer a chance to closely observe marine life, examine underwater remains, and even feed schools of fish moving gracefully in unison.
Recently, Anadolu Agency captured striking underwater visuals of a group diving near Dalyan and Sariyarlar Bay.
Alperen Beyaz, a certified three-star diver with Fethiye Diving Center, explained that the town boasts close to 20 different diving locations. He noted that two shipwrecks in the area have become major draws for advanced divers. "Professional divers love exploring the wrecks. They often see amazing things down there," he said.
Beyaz also pointed out a notable rise in stingray sightings, adding that groups of amberjack fish—locally known as akya—create mesmerizing scenes underwater. Divers can also spot other sea creatures living around the wrecks.
He emphasized that diving is accessible to everyone, including those who cannot swim. According to Beyaz, diving is not only a beautiful sport but also one of the best activities a couple can enjoy together.
Beyaz said many who dive for the first time become captivated by the underwater world. “A lot of people want to propose underwater because of the incredible visuals. Some of our pilates instructors even practice underwater pilates,” he said. The team has even set up meeting-style arrangements and choreographed routines beneath the surface.
He described diving as a unique way to detach from the stress of daily life. “All sounds disappear, and you suddenly find yourself floating in silence. The sound of the water and the peace it brings are truly something else,” he said.
Fethiye’s diverse range of depths offers something for everyone, and diving teams do their best to guide visitors to the most suitable spots for their experience level.
In addition to fish and sea creatures, divers also come across ancient amphorae and underwater plant life. Beyaz stressed the importance of protecting these natural and historical elements. “We try to raise awareness among our guests. We explain that, just like trees on land, underwater plants provide us with oxygen,” he said.
Addressing common fears, Beyaz reassured newcomers that diving is safe. “Many worry about drowning underwater. But that never happens because instructors are right there, guiding each person one-on-one. Even those who don’t know how to swim can safely dive with us,” he added.
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