Dive Site: Three Islands (Antalya)

About Three Islands (Antalya)

Three Islands, also known as Üç Adalar, is an exceptional dive site located near Kemer Marina, approximately 45 minutes by boat from Antalya. Despite its name, this protected marine area comprises four small islands, collectively offering nine distinct reef systems and two underwater caves. The remote location and conservation efforts contribute to pristine conditions and remarkable marine biodiversity, making it a standout destination on Turkey's Mediterranean coast. The underwater topography is characterized by dramatic rocky reefs that descend steeply to sandy bottoms, creating ideal habitats for both large pelagic species and smaller reef inhabitants. Divers can explore extensive gorgonian sea fan gardens on deeper walls, vibrant sponge and tunicate populations, and a wide array of fish. The channels between the islands are known for funnelling currents, creating exciting drift diving opportunities and concentrating marine life. Depths at Three Islands range from 3 meters to a considerable 61 meters, accommodating divers from beginner to advanced levels. However, the site is particularly renowned for its deeper sections, often reaching 40 meters, where more spectacular features and pelagic encounters occur. Excellent visibility, often exceeding 20 meters, is a consistent feature, enhancing the overall dive experience and facilitating underwater photography. Comfortable diving conditions prevail from May through November, with peak summer months offering the warmest water temperatures and most stable weather. The site's dynamic environment, with its varied topography and potential for current, requires thoughtful planning, especially for deeper or drift dives, but promises an unforgettable exploration of the Mediterranean's rich underwater landscapes.

Dive site facts: Three Islands (Antalya)

Depth

3–61 m

Typical dive

12–40 m, 45–60 min

Current

Mild to strong, variable

Visibility

15–30 m

Water temperature

16–29°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Beginner to Advanced

Dive type

Reef, wall, cave, drift, deep

Region / port

Antalya

Coordinates

36.82, 30.58

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Three Islands can be complex and variable, particularly in the channels between the islands where flow is often accelerated. Divers can expect dynamic conditions including eddies and upwellings, which necessitate careful planning and expert guidance. While these currents create exhilarating drift diving experiences and attract abundant marine life, they also demand advanced skills and conservative gas management, especially when exploring deeper sections. Entry and exit strategies are typically boat-based, with guides timing descents to optimize current conditions for safety and enjoyment. Visibility is consistently excellent due to the offshore location and current-driven water clarity, though thermoclines may be present at deeper levels during certain times of the year.

Marine life & sighting chances

Stingrays

occasional

Tuna

occasional

Moray eels

common

Barracuda

common

Mediterranean monk seals

rare

Groupers

common

Octopus

common

Gorgonian sea fans

common

Damselfish

common

Conger eels

occasional

Cuttlefish

occasional

Nudibranchs

occasional

Lobsters

occasional

Scorpionfish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Three Islands typically begin with a boat entry, often leveraging the complex current patterns for exhilarating drift dives through channels or along the outer walls. A common profile involves descending along a rocky reef or wall, gradually exploring depths between 10 to 40 meters, where gorgonian gardens and larger marine life are frequently encountered. Depending on the dive plan and current, you might navigate between islands, exploring crevices and smaller caves along the way. The turn point is often dictated by air consumption and no-decompression limits, with a slow ascent back along the reef. Safety stops are performed in shallower, sheltered areas, often around 5 meters, allowing time to observe smaller reef fish before a boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Three Islands offers exceptional opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography due to its diverse topography and rich marine life. For capturing the dramatic walls, reef systems, and schooling barracuda, a wide-angle lens is ideal. Be prepared for varying light conditions as you descend, and consider an external strobe to bring out the vibrant colors of sponges and gorgonians at depth. For macro subjects like nudibranchs, small eels, and reef fish, a dedicated macro lens will yield stunning detail. Buoyancy control is paramount, especially when navigating currents or exploring delicate cave systems, to avoid disturbing marine life or kicking up sediment. Maintain respectful distances from all creatures, particularly if you are lucky enough to encounter an endangered Mediterranean monk seal.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Airplane C-47 Dakota

  The Airplane C-47 Dakota is a significant wreck dive located off Turkey's coast, presenting a deliberately sunk Douglas C-47 military…

• Pyramide Reef
• Air cave

  Air Cave is a distinctive natural formation located along Turkey's Mediterranean Riviera, near Kemer.

• Deep cave

  Air Cave is a distinctive natural formation located off the Kemer coastline in Turkey, renowned for its submerged passage that opens into a…

• Saint Didier

  Turkey’s largest diveable wreck, a French cargo ship.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Three Islands is primarily from Antalya, with boat trips departing from Kemer Marina, approximately 45 minutes away. Antalya International Airport (AYT) serves as the main gateway, offering connections to numerous European hubs. Dive trips to Three Islands are typically organized as half-day or full-day excursions by local dive centers, often including two dives. It's common for dive operators in Antalya to combine this site with other local attractions like the Saint Didier wreck or various caves. No specific permits beyond standard dive certifications are usually required, but it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Safety & environment

Diving at Three Islands, especially its deeper and more current-swept sections, requires diligent attention to safety protocols. Given the potential for strong and variable currents, excellent buoyancy control and conservative gas planning are crucial. Divers should maintain situational awareness and stay close to their guides. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Antalya, approximately an hour's drive from Kemer, so emergency evacuation plans should always be considered. Comprehensive dive insurance, covering medical emergencies and evacuation, is highly recommended. Always adhere to your dive plan and communicate any discomfort or concerns promptly to your dive guide.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Three Islands (Antalya) FAQ

Liveaboards diving Three Islands (Antalya)

These liveaboards may visit Three Islands (Antalya) on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$157/day