Dive Site: Ilyosta Island

About Ilyosta Island

Ilyosta Island, situated west of Ayvalık in Turkey, is renowned for its vibrant and diverse underwater environment, making it a favorite for both divers and photographers. This site features a rich array of marine life and striking underwater scenery, attracting enthusiasts of all skill levels. The topography includes Gavur Limanı, a popular diving spot on Ilyosta Island with depths ranging from 3 to 35 meters. Divers can navigate various underwater structures, including natural caverns and extensive reef systems, alongside a unique artificial reef. The island's diverse features cater to a wide range of diving experiences, from shallow exploratory dives to deeper excursions. While marine life is generally less abundant than in tropical regions, observant divers frequently encounter moray eels, various beetles, and sea hares. The site is also notable for its red corals and gorgonians, which add to the colorful underwater landscape. Conditions are typically favorable, with good visibility and comfortable water temperatures for much of the year. Diving at Ilyosta Island offers a multifaceted adventure, combining the exploration of natural reefs and caverns with the intrigue of an artificial reef. Its accessibility for all skill levels and proximity to Ayvalık make it a convenient and rewarding choice for experiencing Turkey's underwater world.

Dive site facts: Ilyosta Island

Depth

3–35 m

Current

Mild

Visibility

Up to 30 m

Water temperature

18–26 °C (May-Nov)

Entry

Boat

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, Cavern, Wreck

Region / port

Ayvalık, Aegean Sea

Coordinates

36.5380° N, 29.0979° E

Conditions & Currents

Information specifically detailing current strength and direction for Ilyosta Island is not provided, however, diving conditions in the Aegean region where Ayvalık is located are generally described as having excellent visibility and varying water temperatures. The presence of abundant underwater currents in the broader Saros Gulf region suggests that some currents may be encountered, particularly around islands. Divers should expect typical Mediterranean conditions, where currents can vary with location and local topography, especially around islands and reefs. Good buoyancy control and awareness are always important, particularly when exploring structures like caverns and reefs. It is advisable to consult local dive centers for real-time conditions and any specific current advisories before diving.

Marine life & sighting chances

Moray eel

occasional

Beetle

occasional

Sea hare

occasional

Red coral

common

Gorgonian

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Ilyosta Island often start at Gavur Limanı, a popular spot with depths beginning at 3 meters and extending to 35 meters. The dive can progress to explore the island's diverse range of dive sites, which include natural caverns and vibrant reef systems. A notable feature is a sunken airplane, forming an artificial reef that adds an intriguing element to the dive profile. Divers of all levels can enjoy navigating through the varied underwater scenery, with shallower areas offering extensive reef exploration and deeper sections revealing unique geological formations and the wreck. The route typically involves exploring the reefs and caverns, with a turn point determined by air consumption and bottom time, allowing for a safety stop in the shallower, protected areas of the site.

Underwater photography

Ilyosta Island is highly inspiring for photographers, offering excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro shots. For capturing the scale of the underwater caverns, reef structures, and the sunken airplane, a wide-angle lens is ideal. The interplay of light filtering into the caverns can create dramatic visual effects. Macro enthusiasts will find subjects among the red corals, gorgonians, and smaller marine life such as moray eels, beetles, and sea hares. Careful buoyancy control is essential, especially within caverns or near delicate coral formations, to avoid stirring up sediment and to protect the environment. Using external strobes or video lights will enhance colors, particularly in deeper areas or inside the artificial reef and caverns.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Deli Mehmet

  Another popular dive spot near Ayvalık, consisting of two islands with varying depths for intermediate to professional divers.

Getting there & logistics

Diving at Ilyosta Island is typically arranged through local dive centers based in Ayvalık. Ayvalık is accessible from major Turkish airports, such as Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (EDO) or Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), with onward ground transportation. Dive trips are usually day excursions by boat, departing from Ayvalık harbor. While specific trip durations and park fees are not detailed, Turkey generally offers diverse resort-based and liveaboard options. Ilyosta Island can be part of a broader diving itinerary exploring the Aegean coast, known for its unique islands, reefs, and historical sites.

Safety & environment

Safety at Ilyosta Island, as with all Turkish dive sites, adheres to strict government regulations for registered dive centers and boats. Divers should ensure they have adequate dive insurance covering potential emergencies. While specific recompression chamber locations for Ayvalık are not listed, Turkey has medical facilities in major cities. Site-specific hazards are minimal for experienced divers, but good buoyancy is crucial, especially when exploring caverns or the artificial reef, to prevent contact with the environment. Divers of all levels are welcome, but those new to cavern or wreck environments should dive with experienced guides. Always follow your dive guide's instructions and conduct thorough pre-dive checks.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Ilyosta Island FAQ

Liveaboards diving Ilyosta Island

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

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$157/day