Diving atC47 Airplane Wreck (Turkey)
This C-47 Dakota, a former military transport aircraft, now serves as a significant artificial reef off Turkey's Bodrum Peninsula. Found near Black Island, the wreck's components are distributed across a depth range of approximately 17 to 34 meters (56 to 112 ft). Its strategic placement makes it easily accessible via a short boat ride, establishing it as a key diving highlight in the region for various skill levels.
Tonight's objective overview for C47 Airplane Wreck shows an air temperature of 21.7°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.32m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
36.9863, 27.4323
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Originally a Douglas Aircraft Company design from World War II, the C-47 Dakota boasts a compelling history before its underwater deployment. Manufactured in 1942, the aircraft later served with the Turkish Air Force, notably deploying paratroopers over Cyprus in 1974.
Decommissioned after its military service, it found a new purpose when donated to Bodrum and scuttled to form an artificial reef. While some reports indicate its sinking in 2007 by BOSAD, other accounts cite 2010 for its placement to create a natural underwater reef area. This initiative aimed to enhance marine biodiversity and provide an engaging site for divers, transforming a historical relic into a thriving underwater habitat.
The wreck itself, with a wingspan of 29 meters (95 ft) and a length of 20 meters (66 ft), invites exploration, its various sections spread across the sandy seabed.
Best Time to Dive
For an optimal diving experience at the C-47 Wreck, planning your visit between May and October typically yields the most favorable conditions. During these months, average air temperatures range comfortably from 21-30°C (70-86°F), contributing to pleasant surface intervals and overall comfort. Rainfall is exceptionally low, often less than 1 mm, ensuring consistently clear skies and ample sunshine. Additionally, wave heights during this period are generally minimal, averaging around 0.4-0.5 meters (1.3-1.6 ft), which facilitates smooth boat access and calm dive conditions. Wind speeds also tend to be moderate, supporting good visibility and a comfortable dive environment throughout the season.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Descending into clear waters, divers encounter the imposing C-47 wreck spread across the sandy seabed. Dive Route 1 specifically guides you to the C-47 Dakota, starting in a shallow bay around 3 meters (10 ft) before a gradual descent. Consistently good visibility and minimal current allow for relaxed exploration throughout the site. Engine and propeller components, detached from the main wing, are often the first major elements spotted in the mid-depth range, typically around 17 meters. Further down, the cockpit rests at approximately 23 meters. The main fuselage reaches a maximum depth of about 34 meters, lying roughly 20 meters from the wings. Fragmented into two primary sections, the wreck features its body and tail deeper in the sand. While most of the wreck isn't penetrable, a limited entry point exists via the rear cabin door at a depth near 29 meters.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching the C-47 Wreck requires adherence to standard wreck diving protocols to ensure diver safety and site preservation. While described as an easy scuba dive accessible for Discovery Divers and Open Water certified individuals, specific exploration of deeper sections or internal viewing through the rear cabin door necessitates Advanced Open Water or Wreck Diver training. The wreck is largely intact but fragmented, with some sections not suitable for penetration. Always maintain appropriate buoyancy control to prevent disturbing the wreck or its surrounding marine life. Respecting the historical significance of the site and its role as an artificial reef ensures its continued enjoyment for future divers. Diving here benefits from a professional guide familiar with the specific layout and potential nuances of the site.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Divers planning deeper dives may feel cooler than those staying in shallower areas.
Many divers find that 5mm wetsuit offers a comfortable balance between warmth and mobility. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Surface intervals may feel cooler. Conditions in the coming days are expected to stay within a similar temperature range.
Current temperature readings suggest that the water at C47 Airplane Wreck is around 19°C (65°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 22°C (71°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Marine Life at C47 Airplane Wreck
The C-47 Wreck and its surrounding artificial reef ecosystem attract a diverse array of marine species. Groupers and moray eels are commonly seen utilizing the wreck's structure for shelter. Schools of various fish, including dentex and leerfish, may cruise the area. Looking closely, divers might spot smaller creatures such as crabs, lobsters, tritons, and vibrant nudibranchs. Moreover, the site is known for sightings of green turtles and shrimp gobies around the wreck. Other marine encounters can include barracuda, sting rays, scorpionfish, and sea bream, all contributing to a dynamic underwater environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wreck is the C-47 Dakota?
It's a former military transport aircraft, a Douglas C-47 Dakota, which was manufactured in 1942. After its service with the Turkish Air Force, it was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef for divers.
Where is the C-47 Wreck located?
The C-47 Wreck lies off Turkey's Bodrum Peninsula, close to Black Island. Access is typically via a 30-minute boat ride from local dive centers.
What is the maximum depth of the C-47 Wreck?
The wreck components are spread across various depths, reaching a maximum of about 34 meters for the fuselage. Shallower parts like the engine and propeller are found around 17 meters, while the cockpit is roughly 23 meters deep.
What diver certification is recommended for this site?
The C-47 Wreck is suitable for a range of divers, including Discovery Divers and Open Water certified individuals. For exploring deeper sections or considering the limited penetration point, Advanced Open Water or Wreck Diver certifications are beneficial.
Can divers enter the C-47 Wreck?
Most of the C-47 wreck isn't penetrable due to its structural condition. A limited entry point through the rear cabin door, found at 29 meters (95 ft), should only be attempted by appropriately trained and experienced wreck divers.
What marine life can be seen around the C-47 Wreck?
The wreck attracts a variety of marine life, including groupers, moray eels, and schools of fish like dentex and leerfish. Divers might also encounter green turtles, shrimp gobies, crabs, lobsters, barracuda, and sting rays.
Are there other dive sites nearby the C-47 Wreck?
Yes, the C-47 Wreck shares waters with the SG115 Wreck. The Paçoz Wall dive site, known for its wall diving experience and abundant marine life, is also nearby, offering varied dive options.
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