Diving atSG-115 Turkish Navy Shipwreck (Turkey)
A ~25-40 minute boat journey, typically from Bodrum, brings divers to the SG-115 Turkish Navy Shipwreck. A former coast guard vessel, it was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef and now rests near Black Island. Past rocky coastlines, the wreck materializes into view, providing a compelling structure for Aegean Sea exploration.
Tonight's objective overview for SG-115 Turkish Navy Shipwreck shows an air temperature of 14.4°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.18m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
36.9896, 27.4267
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
The SG-115, a retired Turkish Coast Guard vessel, transformed into an artificial reef following its intentional sinking by BOSAD in May 2007. This purposeful act created a substantial underwater structure now thriving as a habitat for diverse marine life.
The wreck's reported length varies, between approximately 29 to 37 meters, providing a considerable area for divers to navigate. Resting on a noticeable slope, its stern lies in shallower waters, around 17-18 meters / 56-59 feet. From there, the ship gradually descends towards its bow, touching significantly deeper, at 26-33 meters / 85-108 feet.
This depth profile ensures different light levels and associated ecosystems across the wreck. Divers can explore the external hull, observe soft corals and anemones, and peer into accessible interior spaces.
A particular highlight, the large wheelhouse, remains open for properly certified and experienced wreck divers, revealing insights into the ship's past life and its current role as a living monument. SG-115 offers a compelling experience, blending historical exploration with the observation of a flourishing artificial reef.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive to SG-115 often revolves around the prime season, which typically spans from May through October. These months generally align for optimal dive experiences, reflected in consistently high dive scores. Air temperatures are particularly inviting, commonly ranging from approximately 20.9°C / 69.6°F in May to 25.8°C / 78.4°F in September. Minimal rainfall characterizes this period, especially between June and September, contributing to improved underwater visibility. While specific water temperature data isn't consistently reported for the immediate site, regional patterns suggest comfortable diving, often requiring a 5mm wetsuit for prolonged thermal comfort. Surface conditions are generally calmer during summer, reducing potential challenges for boat travel and entry. Early and late season dives might offer fewer crowds, though water temperatures can be cooler, potentially warranting thicker exposure protection. Observing localized weather forecasts remains prudent for any seasonal planning.
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 towards SG-115 offers a clear view of its form gradually materializing from the seafloor. A dive profile naturally follows the ship's length, starting at the stern in shallower waters and progressively leading to the bow's deeper sections. Wreck visibility can vary but generally provides good sightlines to appreciate the vessel's scale. For those with appropriate certification, the substantial wheelhouse presents an accessible overhead environment, inviting careful exploration. Divers often spend time examining the ship's exterior, noting details of its structure and the marine life that has colonized it. On the ascent or return leg, navigating past nearby rock formations in the shallower range of 8 to 20 meters / 26 to 66 feet frequently reveals additional encounters, including reef fish and small invertebrates. Currents are generally mild, but conditions can change, so paying attention to the guide's briefing is always advisable. Interaction between the ship's structure and ambient light creates dynamic visuals as divers explore its various decks and compartments.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Safety protocols for diving SG-115 demand careful adherence, particularly given its nature as a wreck site. Divers contemplating penetration into areas like the wheelhouse must possess appropriate wreck-diving certification and adhere strictly to established procedures. Overhead environments inherently carry increased risks, necessitating excellent buoyancy control, gas management, and redundant light sources. Maintaining constant depth awareness throughout the dive is paramount due to the ship's sloping profile, with significant depth changes from stern to bow. Planning dives with a certified guide or dive center familiar with local conditions ensures optimal safety and a comprehensive understanding of site specifics. Always brief for potential entanglement hazards, ensure all equipment is streamlined, and stick to planned dive limits to prevent decompression illness. Respecting the wreck and its environment contributes to a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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
A warming trend is expected over the next few days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Factors such as dive duration, depth, and activity level can influence how warm a diver feels underwater. Surface intervals may feel noticeably cooler once you exit the water.
5mm wetsuit typically balances flexibility and thermal protection in these temperatures. A thermal robe or jacket is recommended between dives. The surrounding waters at SG-115 Turkish Navy Shipwreck are currently registering temperatures of roughly 18°C (65°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 14°C (58°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 SG-115 Turkish Navy Shipwreck
Marine life thriving around SG-115 transforms this artificial reef into a dynamic ecosystem. Within the wreck's steel framework, particularly in the wheelhouse and on the mast, divers routinely discover delicate nudibranchs displaying vibrant colors, alongside various tube worms and clusters of squid eggs signaling new life. Looking closer at the ship's hull often reveals small crustaceans and juvenile fish seeking shelter. Beyond the ship itself, nearby rock formations are crucial habitats, supporting a rich biodiversity. These areas frequently reveal robust groupers, elusive moray eels peering from their crevices, and the occasional octopus cleverly camouflaged against the rocks. An interplay between the wreck's structure and the natural reef creates varied micro-environments, ensuring a fascinating array of observations for attentive divers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of vessel is the SG-115 Wreck?
The SG-115 is a retired Turkish Coast Guard ship. It was previously used as a water tanker before being intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef.
What is the depth range of the SG-115 Wreck?
The wreck's stern rests at approximately 17-18 meters. Its bow extends deeper, reaching 26-33 meters. For imperial references, these depths are roughly 56-59 feet and 85-108 feet respectively.
Can divers penetrate the SG-115 Wreck?
Yes, experienced wreck divers can penetrate certain areas, such as the large wheelhouse. Proper wreck diving training and equipment are essential for safe entry into overhead environments.
When was the SG-115 sunk?
The SG-115, also known as Pınar 1, was intentionally sunk in May 2007 by BOSAD. Its purpose was to create an artificial reef and enhance diving opportunities in the area.
What marine life can be seen at the wreck?
Divers commonly spot nudibranchs, tube worms, and squid eggs on the wreck itself. The surrounding rock formations are home to groupers, moray eels, and octopus.
How do I access the SG-115 Wreck?
The SG-115 Turkish Navy Shipwreck is typically reached via boat trips. These excursions commonly depart from Bodrum, heading towards the area near Black Island.
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