Dive Site: Barracuda Point (Fethiye)

About Barracuda Point (Fethiye)

Barracuda Point in Fethiye is a well-regarded dive site on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, celebrated for its clear waters and varied marine ecosystem. As part of the popular Fethiye diving region, it draws both new and experienced divers seeking vibrant underwater scenery. The site features a reef that gradually slopes, before transitioning into a steeper drop-off, providing habitat for a wide array of marine species. Fethiye's marine environment is characterized by exceptional visibility, frequently extending beyond 20 meters, and often reaching up to 30 meters. This clarity enhances the experience, allowing divers to fully appreciate the details of the reef and its inhabitants. The water temperature is comfortable for much of the year, peaking at around 28-30°C in August, which supports the rich biodiversity found here. Divers at Barracuda Point can anticipate encounters with various fish species and other Mediterranean marine life. The site's topography, combined with its favorable conditions, creates an engaging dive experience. It is typically accessed via boat trips from Fethiye, often combined with other local sites like Aquarium Reef, offering a full day of underwater exploration. The relaxed pace of Turkish dive trips allows for ample surface interval time to enjoy the scenic coastline. While Barracuda Point is generally suitable for all skill levels, the nature of its sloping reef and potential for drift offers an engaging dive. It represents a classic Fethiye dive, focusing on the natural reef environment and its aquatic residents, rather than historical wrecks or dramatic geological features like caverns, which are also found in the wider Fethiye area.

Dive site facts: Barracuda Point (Fethiye)

Depth

5–30 m

Current

Limited

Visibility

20–30 m

Water temperature

16–30°C

Entry

Boat / back-roll

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, drift, marine life

Region / port

Fethiye

Coordinates

36.535, 29.055

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Barracuda Point are typically limited, making it accessible for a range of divers, though occasional mild drift conditions can be present. Divers often experience drift along the reef, which can enhance the viewing of the coral fields as they pass by. Visibility in Fethiye's waters is consistently good, usually exceeding 20 meters and frequently reaching 30 meters, largely due to minimal river inflow and a quickly dropping seabed. While the site is generally calm, a surface buoy is mandatory in Curaçao, indicating the possibility of varying surface conditions or boat traffic, which is a good practice for all boat dives. Entry is typically a back-roll from a boat, and exit involves surfacing near the boat for pickup.

Marine life & sighting chances

Barracuda

occasional

Moray eel

Year-round · common

Octopus

Year-round · common

Grouper

Year-round · common

Loggerhead turtle

Summer · occasional

Eagle ray

rare

Schools of fish

common

Nudibranch

occasional

Colourful fish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Barracuda Point typically begin with a back-roll entry from the boat. You descend along the natural reef, which initially slopes gently from shallower depths. The dive then follows the reef as it gradually descends, before transitioning into a steeper drop-off, exploring the varied coral formations and rockwork. You will navigate the contours of the reef, observing marine life that inhabits the different depth zones. The turn point is determined by air consumption and no-decompression limits, allowing for a gradual ascent back towards the shallower parts of the reef. The safety stop is conducted at 5 meters, usually in calm, clear waters before resurfacing near the dive boat for pickup.

Underwater photography

Barracuda Point's clear waters and diverse reef make it suitable for both wide-angle and macro photography. For wide-angle shots, capitalize on the excellent visibility, often exceeding 20-30 meters, to capture the expansive coral fields and the overall reef structure. A fisheye or wide-angle rectilinear lens will serve well here. If you encounter schools of fish or larger pelagics, these lenses will allow you to frame them within the vibrant blue backdrop. For macro subjects like nudibranchs, moray eels, or octopuses tucked into crevices, a dedicated macro lens will be essential. Pay attention to buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the delicate reef, especially when focusing on smaller creatures. External strobes are recommended to bring out the true colors of the corals and marine life, which can otherwise appear muted at depth. Given the potential for gentle drift, being comfortable with your camera rig in subtle current will be an advantage.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Dalyan Reef (Fethiye)

  Dalyan Reef, also known as Big Reef, is one of the most significant and expansive dive sites within Turkey's Fethiye region.

• Oludeniz Blue Cave

  The Ölüdeniz Blue Cave, nestled near Fethiye on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, is a renowned dive site celebrated for its stunning…

• Afkule Monastery Reef

  Afkule Monastery Reef, prominently known as Afkule Wall, stands as a distinguished dive destination along Turkey's southwestern coast…

Getting there & logistics

To dive Barracuda Point, you will typically fly into Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is the nearest international airport to Fethiye. From Dalaman, it's a relatively short transfer to Fethiye, the primary departure port for this region. Dive trips are usually full-day boat excursions from Fethiye marina, often including two dives at different sites and lunch onboard. No specific permits beyond standard diving certification are generally required for Barracuda Point. Fethiye diving experiences are commonly integrated into longer holidays along the Turkish Riviera, allowing for a blend of diving with cultural exploration and relaxation. Multi-day dive packages are available, enabling divers to explore Barracuda Point alongside other local sites such as Aquarium Reef or Aladdin's Cavern.

Safety & environment

While diving in Fethiye is generally safe and well-regulated, it is crucial to carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Antalya, approximately two hours drive from Fethiye. In the event of a dive emergency, evacuation would typically involve surface transport to this facility. Divers should always follow the instructions of their certified dive guides and adhere to local dive center safety protocols. A surface marker buoy is a mandatory safety item for boat dives in the region. Always ensure your equipment is well-maintained and that you dive within your certification limits. Avoid touching marine life or coral formations to protect the delicate ecosystem and prevent potential injury.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Barracuda Point (Fethiye) FAQ

Liveaboards diving Barracuda Point (Fethiye)

These liveaboards may visit Barracuda Point (Fethiye) on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$158/day