Dive Site: Tank Wreck

About Tank Wreck

The Güvercin Ada / Tank Wreck dive site, located near Kaş, Turkey, combines a calm reef with a unique blend of sunken elements, including a sculpture and various wreck components. This location is recognized for its sheltered conditions, making it an excellent choice when southerly winds disrupt more exposed dive spots. It serves as a gentle introduction to wreck diving, particularly appealing to new divers and those seeking a relaxed underwater experience. The topography features a reef environment with structures that contribute to an artificial reef, supporting diverse marine life. While specific depth details for the Tank Wreck itself are not extensively detailed, general Kaş diving conditions suggest a range suitable for various certification levels, often combining shallower reef areas with deeper wreck sections. Marine inhabitants typically include species common to the Mediterranean, such as moray eels and octopuses, often found congregating around the wreck structures. The calm, clear waters enhance visibility, allowing for good observation of the artificial reef and its residents. Diving here offers a tranquil experience due to the sheltered nature of the bay. Divers can expect to explore the various parts of the wreck and reef structures, observing marine life in a relatively current-free environment. This site is frequently visited as part of local dive itineraries, particularly from Kaş.

Dive site facts: Tank Wreck

Depth

5-20 m (estimated from nearby sites)

Current

No current

Visibility

25 m

Entry

Boat access

Level

Beginner

Dive type

Wreck, Reef, Artificial Reef

Region / port

Kaş, Turkey

Coordinates

36.1842° N, 29.6105° E

Conditions & Currents

The Güvercin Ada / Tank Wreck is characterized by flat calm conditions with no reported current. This makes it a highly accessible and relaxed dive site, particularly favorable for less experienced divers or those honing their skills. Its sheltered position also means it remains calm even when southerly winds create rougher conditions at other sites, providing a reliable alternative for dive operators. Divers can anticipate minimal water movement, allowing for unhurried exploration of the wreck and reef structures. Entry and exit procedures are typically straightforward due to the lack of surge, contributing to an overall comfortable experience and reducing the physical demands on divers.

Marine life & sighting chances

Grouper

common

Basslets

common

Moray Eel

occasional

Octopus

occasional

Stingrays

occasional

Zebra Shark

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically access the Tank Wreck via boat, as it is a boat-accessible site. Given its calm nature, a straightforward entry allows for an unhurried descent. The dive then proceeds along the wreck and associated reef structures, which are described as a beginner-friendly area with a sculpture and other wreck components. Depths at the site are generally suitable for newer divers, likely ranging from a shallow top to a moderate maximum, in line with other beginner sites in the region. The absence of current allows for flexible route planning around the wreck, observing marine life that congregates in and around the structures. The safety stop is typically conducted in the shallower parts of the reef or during a controlled ascent with the boat waiting nearby, facilitating a comfortable and easy exit.

Underwater photography

The Tank Wreck, with its clear, calm waters and moderate depths, offers excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography. For capturing the wreck's structure and the artificial reef, a wide-angle lens is ideal, especially given the visibility often reaching 25 meters. The gentle ambient light penetration in these depths can create appealing conditions. For marine life, which includes octopuses, moray eels, and various reef fish, a macro lens will be beneficial to capture intricate details. Ensure good buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the seabed or wreck, maintaining clear shots. External strobes are recommended to bring out true colors and minimize backscatter, enhancing both wide-angle scenes and macro subjects.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Frenk Bay

  Sheltered wall site with amphora fragments.

• Kaş Neptün

  Exposed reef and wreck site with amphorae and a shallow start.

• Hidayet Koyu

  Sheltered bay for easy snorkel and shore diving.

• Stonehedge

  Archaeological wreck dive with easy boat access.

Getting there & logistics

Diving the Tank Wreck is typically arranged through dive operators in Kaş, which is considered Turkey's premier diving destination. Travelers usually fly into nearby airports such as Dalaman (DLM) or Antalya (AYT), then transfer to Kaş. Day trips from Kaş are common, combining this site with other local attractions. While specific permit fees for this individual site are not usually mentioned, standard dive operator packages include boat access. The duration of trips to this site is generally a single dive, often part of a two-dive excursion.

Safety & environment

Diving at the Tank Wreck benefits from its sheltered and calm conditions, which inherently reduce certain risks. However, standard safety protocols remain paramount. Divers should maintain excellent buoyancy control, particularly near the wreck and any delicate structures, to prevent accidental contact. Always adhere to dive computer limits, especially when exploring deeper sections of the wreck. The nearest recompression chamber would likely be found in larger medical centers in cities like Antalya, indicating that evacuation for severe cases could be lengthy. It is strongly advised that all divers possess comprehensive dive insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation. Always follow the dive brief instructions and maintain buddy contact throughout the dive.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Tank Wreck FAQ

Liveaboards diving Tank Wreck

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

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$157/day