Dive Site: Domuz Island

About Domuz Island

Domuz Island, also known as Pig Island, is a celebrated dive destination nestled within the Göcek archipelago, part of Fethiye Bay. This site is renowned for its abundant marine life and calm, clear conditions, making it an excellent spot for divers across all experience levels. The surrounding waters provide a peaceful environment to observe Mediterranean coral formations and a variety of fish species. The topography beneath the surface offers gentle slopes and shallow areas, contributing to its accessibility. The calm conditions, particularly in the mornings, enhance the visibility, which frequently exceeds 30 meters throughout the Fethiye Bay region. This clarity, combined with depths suitable for both beginners and more experienced divers, ensures a rewarding underwater experience. While specific seasonal variations for marine life at Domuz Island are not detailed, the region's overall biodiversity is well-established. Divers can anticipate encountering a range of species commonly found in the Mediterranean. Notably, the area is home to Caretta Caretta sea turtles, offering a chance for memorable sightings. Diving at Domuz Island typically involves a boat entry, leading to an exploration of its rich aquatic ecosystem. The site’s tranquil nature and protected setting within the bay make it a popular choice for day trips from Göcek, focusing on leisurely dives and enjoying the vibrant underwater scenery.

Dive site facts: Domuz Island

Depth

5–15 m

Current

Mild to calm

Visibility

30+ meters

Water temperature

16–30°C (seasonal)

Entry

Boat dive

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, biodiversity

Region / port

Göcek / Fethiye

Coordinates

36.5430° N, 29.0856° E

Conditions & Currents

Dive sites within Fethiye Bay, where Domuz Island is located, generally experience calm conditions, especially during morning hours before afternoon winds typically increase. This protected environment contributes to a relaxed diving experience. While specific current information for Domuz Island is not detailed, its reputation for calm waters suggests minimal to mild currents, making it accessible for all diver levels. Visibility in the Turkish Riviera is consistently exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, which enhances the underwater experience. Water temperatures range from winter lows of 16°C in February to summer highs reaching 28-30°C in August. Divers should plan their exposure protection accordingly, from 5-7mm wetsuits in cooler months to thinner suits in summer. The calm and clear conditions allow for extended bottom times and a safe, enjoyable dive.

Marine life & sighting chances

Mediterranean corals

common

Various fish species

common

Caretta Caretta sea turtles

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Domuz Island typically commences with a comfortable boat entry directly into the calm waters of the bay. From the surface, divers descend to begin exploring the rich biodiversity found around the island. The dive profile is generally relaxed, characterized by gradual descents and undulating contours, allowing for ample time to observe the colourful Mediterranean corals and diverse fish populations. The route often involves circumnavigating a section of the island or exploring specific reefs, with depths varying but remaining suitable for all levels. There is no specific turn point as the dive typically follows the natural features of the underwater landscape, allowing divers to enjoy the scenery at their own pace. Safety stops are conducted at the end of the dive, typically around 5 meters, before ascending back to the surface for boat exit.

Underwater photography

Domuz Island provides excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography, capturing the serene underwater landscapes and the vibrant marine life, especially the colourful Mediterranean corals. Given the generally clear visibility exceeding 30 meters, natural ambient light is often sufficient in shallower areas, but strobes can enhance colors and bring out details in the corals and fish. For documenting any potential encounters with Caretta Caretta sea turtles, a wide-angle lens would be beneficial. Patience is key when photographing marine life here, allowing subjects to approach naturally. Maintain impeccable buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the seabed or stress marine creatures, ensuring a respectful and rewarding photography session.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Afkule Cave

  Advanced dive with vertical walls and soft corals.

• Barracuda Reef

  Known for barracuda schools and noticeable currents.

• Three Tunnels

  Advanced site with natural tunnel passages from 19 to 30 meters.

• Dalyan Bay

  Calm, shallow site ideal for beginners, with nudibranchs and octopuses.

Getting there & logistics

Domuz Island is most commonly accessed via day boats departing from Göcek Marina, the primary departure point for yacht charters and dive trips in the region. Göcek is located in the Fethiye district, approximately 18-20 km from Dalaman Airport. Dive excursions to Domuz Island are typically part of a full-day boat tour focusing on the Göcek bays and nearby islands. These trips usually include lunch and swimming breaks. Permits or fees beyond the dive tour cost are generally handled by the operators. Trips from Göcek tend to visit numerous bays over shorter distances, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed day anchored in calm waters.

Safety & environment

For diving in the Fethiye Bay area, including Domuz Island, the nearest recompression chamber is typically located in major medical facilities in larger cities like Fethiye or Antalya, though specific locations should always be confirmed with local dive centers. Emergency evacuation from the island to the mainland would be by boat, followed by land transport to a medical facility. Divers are strongly advised to hold comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Site-specific hazards at Domuz Island are minimal due to its calm and protected nature, but standard dive safety practices, such as buddy diving, monitoring air consumption, and adhering to depth limits, are always essential. Respect for marine life and avoiding contact with corals or animals is crucial.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Domuz Island FAQ

Liveaboards diving Domuz Island

These liveaboards may visit Domuz Island on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$158/day