Diving atPacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck) (Turkey)
Near Turkey's Bodrum Peninsula, Pacoz Bay presents a fascinating dive into history with the C-47 Dakota aircraft wreck. This site, adjacent to the SG115 Wreck off Black Island, offers divers two distinct underwater paths. From a shallow bay entry, explore the C-47's remains or navigate the vibrant Paçoz Wall. Both routes provide unique perspectives for a memorable boat dive experience.
Tonight's objective overview for Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck) shows an air temperature of 25°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.3 m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
The C-47 Dakota aircraft wreck offers a compelling narrative, originating in 1942 as a military cargo plane before its service with the Turkish Air Force until 1974. Intentionally sunk in 2007 by BOSAD to form an artificial reef, the plane established a dynamic underwater landscape near Bodrum's Black Island.
By 2010, the wreck had separated into two primary pieces, with the body and tail section settling into deeper water, adding to the site's complexity. Exploring the main site, divers will encounter the left engine and propeller detached from the main structure at around 17 meters. The cockpit itself rests on the seabed at 23 meters.
Continuing the descent, the fuselage extends further down, reaching approximately 34 m (112 ft) and positioned roughly 20 meters from the wings. Such a layout creates multiple entry points and distinct exploration zones for divers.
Adjacent to the wreck, the Paçoz Wall presents an alternative dive path, boasting a distinct diversity of marine life. Combining these elements allows for comprehensive exploration, moving from the historical wreck's structural intricacies to the vibrant, sponge-covered ecosystems along the wall.
Visibility at the site generally supports clear views of both structures, making navigation straightforward.
Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck)
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck) show 25° air, 24° sea temperature, 0.6 m waves, and 24 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Considering dive conditions, the period from May through October typically offers the best experience at Pacoz Bay. Air temperatures during these months range from a pleasant 21°C (70°F) in May to 30°C (86°F) in July, with very low rainfall. Dive scores consistently rate as 'Excellent,' indicating favorable sea states and optimal visibility. While the winter months still provide 'Good' dive opportunities, characterized by cooler air temperatures around 12-14°C (54-57°F) and slightly increased rainfall, the warmer season is preferred for maximum comfort and clearer waters. Expect minimal wave heights, generally below 0.5 meters (1.6 ft) during peak season, contributing to calmer dives.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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
Diving the C-47 Dakota wreck and Paçoz Wall provides a varied depth profile, commencing in a shallow bay around 3 meters. Divers gradually descend, encountering the wreck's engine and propeller around 17 meters. The cockpit settles deeper on the seabed at 23 meters. Further down, the fuselage stretches towards its maximum depth in the low 30s. Paçoz Wall, immediately adjacent, follows the right side of the bay, descending to a maximum depth of 36 m (118 ft). Conditions here are generally comfortable, noted for consistent clear visibility and minimal current, making the site suitable for a wide range of certified divers, from Open Water to Advanced. DPV usage is suggested for exploring both sites in a single extended dive. Water temperatures during peak season typically range from 22-27°C (72-81°F).
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
To safely explore the C-47 Dakota wreck and its deeper sections, divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification. For any potential wreck penetration or deeper exploration, a PADI Wreck Diver specialty is highly recommended. While the bay typically experiences minimal currents, always consult with local dive operators for the day's specific conditions. Prioritizing conservative dive planning, including appropriate no-decompression limits and gas management, is essential given the maximum depths involved. Always dive with a reliable buddy and follow the guidance of experienced local professionals.
Recommended Equipment
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck), Turkey. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Temperatures look set to gradually increase over the next several days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Divers who prefer a balanced level of warmth often select 3mm wetsuit in water temperatures like this. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Current dive conditions indicate that water temperatures around Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck) are sitting at roughly 24°C (75°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 25°C (77°F).
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, data hasn't been fetched for over 48 hours. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to PACOZ BAY (C-47 DACOTA PLANE WRECK).
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Closest Listed Hyperbaric Chambers
Showing listed hyperbaric chamber facilities within 200 km of this dive site.
Distances are approximate straight-line distances and may not reflect emergency travel time.
MYO
24/7 ListedKalymnos Island, Greece•Approx. 40 km straight-line
MYO
24/7 ListedFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
DzKK Aksaz Deniz Üssü, Military base chamber
24/7 ListedMugla, Turkey•Approx. 87 km straight-line
DzKK Aksaz Deniz Üssü, Military base chamber
24/7 ListedFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Bozyaka Eğitim Araştırma Hastanesi, Sualtı Hekimliği ve Hiperbarik Tıp Kliniği
24/7 ListedICU CapableIzmir, Turkey•Approx. 159 km straight-line
Bozyaka Eğitim Araştırma Hastanesi, Sualtı Hekimliği ve Hiperbarik Tıp Kliniği
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Marine Life at Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck)
An artificial reef, the C-47 Dakota wreck attracts a developing ecosystem. Large groupers and schools of breams are frequently observed swimming around the fuselage, providing excellent photographic opportunities. Along the Paçoz Wall, the marine environment truly thrives. Divers might encounter schools of vibrant dentex and swift leerfish. Exploring closer reveals moray eels tucked into crevices, alongside lionfish, various crabs, lobsters, tritons, and colorful nudibranchs. The seagrass beds, particularly patches of posidonia, serve as crucial habitats for many of these species, especially groupers.
Dive Sites Near Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck)
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Dive Centers Near Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck)
Working Hours
Today: 08:00 - 22:00
Turquoise Diving Center
The Aegean Pro Dive Centre
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Dive Center Silent Explorers Kos Greece Ssi
Sea World Scuba Diving Center Kos
Didim Milet Diving Center
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the C-47 Dakota wreck?
The C-47 Dakota is a historic military cargo plane manufactured in 1942. It was purposefully sunk in 2007 to create an artificial reef, now resting near Black Island off the Bodrum Peninsula.
How deep is the C-47 Dakota wreck?
The wreck spans various depths. Divers will find the engine around 17 meters and the cockpit at 23 meters, while the fuselage descends to approximately 34 m (112 ft).
What marine life can be seen around the wreck and wall?
Around the wreck, divers often spot large groupers and schools of breams. Along the adjacent Paçoz Wall, a variety of species including dentex, leerfish, moray eels, lionfish, crabs, lobsters, tritons, and nudibranchs can be found.
What dive certifications are recommended for this site?
An Advanced Open Water Diver certification is recommended due to the depths involved. For those interested in penetrating the wreck, a PADI Wreck Diver specialty is highly advisable.
Is this a shore or boat dive?
Pacoz Bay and the C-47 Dakota wreck are primarily accessed via a boat dive, typically a 30-minute ride from the Bodrum Peninsula.
What are the typical water conditions?
The site is generally known for its clear visibility, comfortable conditions, and minimal currents, making it accessible to a range of divers.
Can the C-47 wreck and Paçoz Wall be dived together?
Yes, for divers utilizing a DPV (Diver Propulsion Vehicle), it is possible to explore both the C-47 Dakota wreck and the vibrant Paçoz Wall during a single dive, offering a comprehensive experience.
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Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck)
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Pacoz BAY (C-47 Dacota Plane Wreck) show 25° air, 24° sea temperature, 0.6 m waves, and 24 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.