Dive Site: PINAR-1 TURKISH NAVY SHIPWRECK

About PINAR-1 TURKISH NAVY SHIPWRECK

The Pınar-1 Turkish Navy Shipwreck is an artificial reef located near Bodrum, Turkey, specifically off the southeast side of Black Island. Originally a German-built water transport ship from 1938, measuring 37 meters long and 7 meters wide, it served the Turkish Navy before being decommissioned. In 2007, it was intentionally sunk by BOSAD to form an artificial reef, now resting in good condition on the Aegean seabed. The wreck's bottom lies at 40 meters, with the main deck at about 18 meters and the stern at approximately 23 meters. This multi-level structure provides distinct areas for exploration, with maximum depths in the surrounding open sea reaching 34 to 40 meters. The military profile of the vessel creates a dramatic silhouette, and marine colonization has advanced well, attracting various Mediterranean species. While the wreck is accessible to experienced Open Water divers for partial exploration, its depth often places it at or beyond standard recreational limits. Advanced or technical diving certification is recommended for full exploration, particularly for those interested in its inner chambers and navigating the deeper sections. The clear Aegean water generally provides good visibility, enhancing the diving experience.

Dive site facts: PINAR-1 TURKISH NAVY SHIPWRECK

Depth

18–40 m

Current

Moderate

Visibility

Frequently good

Water temperature

18–27°C (seasonal)

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced to Technical

Dive type

Wreck, Deep, Artificial Reef

Region / port

Bodrum / Aegean Sea

Coordinates

36.9814° N, 27.4429° E

Conditions & Currents

Information regarding specific current strength and direction at the Pınar-1 Wreck is not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. However, the site is generally considered suitable for experienced divers, suggesting that moderate conditions may be encountered or that divers should be prepared for varying current. As the wreck sits at significant depths, ranging from 18 to 40 meters, current conditions can impact gas planning and navigation. Visibility is frequently good, which aids navigation even if currents are present. Divers should consult local dive operators for real-time conditions, particularly concerning potential thermoclines or any surge that might affect entry and exit procedures from the boat.

Marine life & sighting chances

Moray eels

common

Octopi

common

Starfish

common

Groupers

common

Sea fans

common

Damselfish

common

Conger eels

common

Cuttlefish

common

Nudibranchs

common

Lobsters

common

Scorpionfish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives to the Pınar-1 Wreck typically begin with a boat entry from Bodrum, often involving a 35-minute ride to the southeast side of Black Island. Divers initiate their descent over a small wall that starts at approximately 5 meters and extends down to about 14 meters. From this point, a gentle swim across Posidonia seagrass meadows leads directly to the wreck. The main deck of the Pınar-1 is found at around 18 meters, while its stern rests at 23 meters. For those with appropriate training, multiple entry points allow exploration of the inner chambers. Maximum depths around the wreck can reach 34 to 40 meters. The dive usually progresses by circumnavigating the wreck and exploring its levels, with the safety stop conducted in the shallower water above the wreck or along the seagrass beds before ascending back to the boat.

Underwater photography

The Pınar-1 Wreck offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle shots of the entire 37-meter vessel to macro photography of the marine life inhabiting its structure. For capturing the scale of the wreck, a wide-angle lens is ideal, especially given the frequently good visibility. Focus on framing the ship's military profile and its dramatic silhouette against the blue water. Macro enthusiasts can find subjects such as nudibranchs, small fish, and invertebrates dwelling on the hull and within the wreck. Internal photography requires good buoyancy control and often a torch to illuminate the darker sections. Be mindful of depth and bottom time when using strobes to enhance color, especially when exploring the deeper parts of the wreck where ambient light diminishes.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Big Reef

  Vast underwater mountain with walls and abundant marine life.

• Small Reef

  Beginner-friendly reef with varied topography and tunnels.

• Smagglers Bay

  Sheltered bay with caverns, swim-throughs, and ancient artifacts.

• Airplane C-47 Dakota

  A C-47 Dakota plane wreck dive near Bodrum.

Getting there & logistics

Diving the Pınar-1 Wreck is primarily facilitated from Bodrum, a major diving hub in Turkey's Aegean region. Divers can reach Bodrum via nearby airports, typically Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV). Dive trips are arranged by local dive centers, often involving day boat excursions. The boat ride to the wreck site near Black Island takes approximately 35 minutes. No specific permits or fees beyond standard dive operator costs are mentioned. The Pınar-1 is frequently combined with other local dive sites in the Bodrum area, which include other wrecks and reef dives, suitable for varied skill levels, though Pınar-1 itself is considered advanced.

Safety & environment

Diving the Pınar-1 Wreck requires careful planning due to its depth, which can reach 40 meters. This necessitates advanced diving skills, thorough gas planning, and awareness of narcosis management. Decompression obligations must be strictly adhered to, and divers should be certified for deep or wreck diving, such as PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or Wreck Diver. While the nearest recompression chamber is not specified in the sources, Turkey has medical facilities in major cities like Bodrum. It is always advisable for divers to have comprehensive dive insurance covering potential medical emergencies and evacuation. Always dive with a reputable local operator who is familiar with the site and its current conditions.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

PINAR-1 TURKISH NAVY SHIPWRECK FAQ

Liveaboards diving PINAR-1 TURKISH NAVY SHIPWRECK

These liveaboards may visit PINAR-1 TURKISH NAVY SHIPWRECK on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$155/day