Dive Site: SAS Wreck (Kaş)

About SAS Wreck (Kaş)

The SAS Wreck, located in the crystal-clear waters off Kaş, Turkey, is a highly significant dive site, renowned for its historical artifact and diverse marine life. This site is home to the remains of an Italian Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 bomber, nicknamed "Sparviero," which was shot down during World War II while bombarding Meis Island. Resting at considerable depths, the wreck attracts technically advanced divers and history enthusiasts alike. Beyond its historical importance, the SAS Wreck offers a fascinating topographical landscape. The area includes a rocky reef, with its shallowest point at 4 meters, descending dramatically to depths where the bomber lies between 55 and 71 meters. The diverse depth profile caters to various skill levels, allowing for exploration of both the shallower reef and the deeper wreck. The marine environment at the SAS Wreck is vibrant, with a notable presence of large pelagic species such as dentex, groupers, barracudas, amberjacks, and bonitos, particularly along the southeast wall when currents are favorable. Pink anthias also add splashes of color to the reef. The site's clear waters, often offering visibility up to 40 meters, enhance the experience of observing both the wreck and its resident marine inhabitants. Diving the SAS Wreck presents a unique experience, combining the thrill of wreck exploration with the beauty of a healthy Mediterranean reef. Due to the significant depth of the wreck and potential strong currents, careful planning and appropriate certification are essential for a safe and rewarding dive. This site stands out as one of Turkey's premier dive destinations, offering a compelling narrative of history beneath the waves.

Dive site facts: SAS Wreck (Kaş)

Depth

4–71 m

Typical dive

30–40 m, 40–50 min (for advanced divers accessing parts of the wreck)

Current

Mild to strong, often from southeast

Visibility

9–40 m

Water temperature

16–28°C

Entry

Boat / Tender

Level

Advanced to Technical Diver (wreck), Open Water (reef top)

Dive type

Wreck, Reef, Deep

Night dive

Not commonly offered

Region / port

Kaş, Antalya, Turkey

Coordinates

36.188, 29.625

Conditions & Currents

Currents at the SAS Wreck can be significant and unpredictable, frequently coming from the southeast. These currents can range from mild to strong, occasionally becoming "dive-aborting" particularly near the deeper wreck site. Divers must be prepared for potential drift conditions and the need for streamlined movement. Entry and exit procedures often involve tender operations due to the boat's need to track divers. Surface intervals require careful monitoring for diver pickup, especially in strong currents. The presence of currents often attracts large pelagic fish, enhancing the dive experience for those capable of handling the conditions.

Marine life & sighting chances

Dentex

occasional

Grouper

occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Amberjack

occasional

Bonito

occasional

Pink Anthias

common

Loggerhead Turtle

rare

Eagle Ray

rare

Moray Eel

occasional

Octopus

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at the SAS Wreck typically begins with a boat entry directly over the site. For advanced divers targeting the bomber, a controlled descent follows the mooring line or an instructed path to the wreck, which rests between 55 and 71 meters. For those exploring the reef, the descent is shallower, focusing on the rocky reef structure that starts at 4 meters. The route often involves exploring the bomber's fuselage and wings for a limited bottom time, given the depth. Your turn point is dictated by gas consumption and no-decompression limits, necessitating careful monitoring. Ascent is gradual, with a safety stop at 5 meters for a minimum of 3 minutes. Due to potential currents, the boat will likely pick you up downstream of your ascent point.

Underwater photography

Capturing the historical Italian bomber at the SAS Wreck requires careful planning due to its depth (55-71m) and potential low light. Wide-angle lenses are essential for encompassing the entire wreck or significant sections. External strobes are highly recommended to bring out color and detail, as ambient light diminishes rapidly. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing silt and to maintain a safe distance from the fragile wreck. For macro enthusiasts, the shallower reef top offers opportunities for shots of smaller marine life like pink anthias, requiring macro lenses and often snoots for selective lighting. Respectful interaction with the wreck and marine environment is crucial, avoiding any contact or collection of artifacts.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• The Canyon

  A classic Kaş dive featuring two steep walls, a cave, and a passage to the Dimitri wreck.

• Dimitri (Cotton) Wreck

  An accessible coastal freighter wreck resting between 25-40 meters, often combined with The Canyon.

• Besmi Island

  A shoe-shaped reef known for potential turtle sightings and antique wreck artifacts in deeper sections.

• Oasis reef

  Features sandy areas, seagrass meadows, and a small wooden wreck with abundant small fauna.

• Kovanli Island

  Rich in underwater archaeological artifacts, including whole amphorae and large metal anchors.

• Italian WWII Plane Wreck (Kaş)

  Another significant historical aircraft wreck in the Kaş area, similar to the SAS Wreck in historical value.

Getting there & logistics

Kaş is the primary departure point for diving the SAS Wreck. The nearest major airports are Antalya (AYT) and Dalaman (DLM), both approximately 2.5 hours' drive away. Dive trips to the SAS Wreck are typically day trips from Kaş, often including two dives at different sites. Most dive centers in Kaş are PADI and CMAS certified, offering professional services. No special permits beyond standard dive center arrangements are typically required, but access to the deeper wreck requires appropriate advanced certifications. A 3-5 day diving holiday in Kaş is ideal for exploring a variety of its renowned sites, combining wreck dives with reef and historical site explorations.

Safety & environment

Diving the SAS Wreck, especially the deeper bomber, requires stringent safety adherence. Divers must possess appropriate advanced or technical certifications and considerable experience with deep dives and current. Insurance covering dive accidents, including recompression chamber treatment and emergency evacuation, is mandatory. The nearest recompression chamber is typically in Antalya, necessitating potentially lengthy evacuation procedures in a medical emergency. Site-specific hazards include strong and unpredictable currents, the significant depth of the wreck, and potential entanglement risks. Always dive with a reputable dive operator, adhere strictly to the dive guide's briefing, and maintain conservative dive profiles. Always carry a safety sausage and be proficient in its use.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

SAS Wreck (Kaş) FAQ

Liveaboards diving SAS Wreck (Kaş)

These liveaboards may visit SAS Wreck (Kaş) on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$157/day