Diving atLighthouse, C-47 Airplane (Turkey)
Approaching Lighthouse, C-47 Airplane by boat, divers typically experience the protected east side of cape “İnce Burun,” even when outside conditions are choppy. This is a popular site, notably close to Kaş. The area combines ecological diversity with the intrigue of two distinct wrecks. Even inexperienced divers are able to explore elements of this accessible site.
Tonight's objective overview for Lighthouse, C-47 Airplane shows an air temperature of 16°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.26m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
36.1798, 29.6463
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
The C-47 Dakota Airplane wreck serves as a prominent artificial reef, purposely sunk in 2007 or 2010, depending on the specific C-47 wreck being referenced in Turkey. This particular C-47, a scrapped WWII DAKOTA aircraft with a 29 m (95 ft) wingspan and 20 m (66 ft) length, lies at an approximate depth of 22 m (72 ft).
Its historical journey included service as a military cargo and operational plane, even deploying paratroopers for the Turkish Air Force. Divers can encounter its fuselage around 34 m (112 ft) and the cockpit resting on the seabed at 23 m (75 ft), with a detached engine and propeller visible at about 17 m (56 ft). Beyond the C-47, the site also encompasses the remnants of an older Ottoman wreck.
You can search for this at 23 m (75 ft), where its eroded wooden keel and frame are still discernible, alongside an intact clay pot. The adjacent reef extends gradually to 30 m (100 ft), complementing the wrecks with natural underwater topography.
Best Time to Dive
Ideal diving conditions typically prevail between May and October when water temperatures are most comfortable, ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F). During these months, air temperatures are pleasantly warm, peaking around 30.6°C (87°F) in July, with very low rainfall. Minimal rain, often less than 1 mm, can be expected from June through October, ensuring clearer surface conditions. Even throughout the colder months, the site maintains a "Good" dive score, with winter water temperatures settling between 14-18°C (57-64°F). Surface conditions vary, but wave heights generally remain below 1 meter, offering consistent access for boat entry. The site remains accessible, though surface conditions can be choppier outside the protected bay.
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
Dives typically commence with a boat entry into the protected bay, often starting at a shallow 3 m (10 ft) depth. From this point, divers have multiple options. To approach the C-47 wreck, one common path involves following the left wall, descending gradually until the aircraft comes into view around 18 m (59 ft) after 10 to 12 minutes of swimming. Alternatively, exploring the Paçoz Wall involves following the right wall as it descends deeper, reaching a maximum depth of 36 m (118 ft). Visibility at this site is consistently reported between 10-20 m (33-66 ft), and currents are generally mild, with no significant surge noted. These favorable conditions, combined with varied topography, make the site suitable for divers across multiple certification levels, from Open Water to Advanced.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Divers planning to explore this multifaceted site should ideally hold PADI Open Water Diver certification for the shallower reef sections and the upper parts of the C-47 wreck. For those wishing to delve deeper into the C-47's fuselage or explore the deeper sections of the Paçoz Wall, Advanced Open Water Diver certification is recommended. Wreck Diver training is highly beneficial for safely navigating the interior of the C-47 or any other wreck components encountered. Currents are typically mild, but it's always prudent to monitor local conditions. Always dive within your training limits and plan your gas accordingly, especially when exploring deeper sections or considering DPV use.
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
According to recent observations, water temperatures near Lighthouse, C-47 Airplane are approximately 18°C (65°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 16°C (61°F).
Forecasts suggest rising temperatures later this week. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
In water temperatures like these, 5mm wetsuit typically offers sufficient warmth for most recreational dives. A thermal robe or jacket is recommended between dives. Some divers naturally tolerate cooler water better than others. Surface intervals may feel noticeably cooler once you exit the water.
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 Lighthouse, C-47 Airplane
Upon descending, divers often first notice the inquisitive green turtles navigating the wreck and surrounding reef. Shrimp gobies frequently inhabit the sandy patches near the C-47. The Paçoz Wall, in particular, hosts a rich variety of marine life, with schools of dentex and leerfish commonly observed gliding past. You might also spot groupers, moray eels, and even lionfish nestled within crevices. Exploring closer to the wall reveals crabs, lobsters, tritons, and vibrant nudibranchs. Barracuda and sting rays are also reported sightings in the area, adding to the site's ecological diversity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of wrecks can be explored at this site?
The site features two distinct wrecks: a C-47 Dakota airplane, purposely sunk to create an artificial reef, and an older Ottoman wreck with visible wooden frames and an intact clay pot. Each provides a distinct historical view beneath the surface.
What are the typical depths for diving here?
Depths vary depending on the chosen dive route. The C-47 airplane typically lies around 22 m (72 ft), while the adjacent Paçoz Wall can descend to a maximum of 36 m (118 ft).
Is this dive site suitable for inexperienced divers?
Yes, portions of the site, particularly the shallower parts of the C-47 wreck and the protected bay, are accessible for Open Water certified divers. Discover Scuba Diving participants can also explore under supervision.
What kind of visibility and currents can I expect?
Visibility is generally good, ranging from 10 to 20 m (33-66 ft). Currents are typically mild, making for comfortable diving conditions, and there's no significant surge reported.
What kind of marine life is commonly seen around the wrecks?
Divers frequently encounter green turtles and shrimp gobies around the C-47. Along the Paçoz Wall, look for schools of dentex and leerfish, groupers, moray eels, lionfish, crabs, and vibrant nudibranchs.
What dive certifications are recommended for exploring this site fully?
While Open Water Diver is sufficient for shallower areas, Advanced Open Water Diver is recommended for deeper wreck sections and the Paçoz Wall. Wreck Diver certification is highly beneficial for safely exploring the C-47's interior.
How is the site accessed for diving?
Access to Lighthouse, C-47 Airplane is typically via boat. Dive boats usually anchor on the protected east side of cape “İnce Burun” to ensure a calm entry, especially if outside conditions are choppy.
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