It is only in recent years that the Turkish Riviera has become a popular destination for divers from Europe. In tune with the growth of tourism across the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, diving centres have mushroomed in most holidays resorts making this coastline increasingly accessible to scuba divers.

Diving centres concentrate primarily on training, and many holidaymakers have been seduced by the silent world after an impromptu dive during a vacation in Bodrum or Marmaris. The choice of diving available, however, is quite varied and will also appeal to experienced divers with differing interests.

Diving conditions are excellent throughout the diving season -April to November- and clear blue waters with visibility. of up to 30 metres is the norm. The underwater landscape is varied with reefs, walls, drop-offs and caverns.

Marine life may not be as profuse as that found in tropical seas but on most dives one will encounter a range of species of fish including groupers, morays, sting rays, and bream. The observant diver will spot different types of nudibranchs grazing on marine plants and a variety of other molluscs - some like the octopi not as tiny but master of camouflage.

The area is rich with underwater historical artifacts. Coming across a pile of broken amphora or ancient pottery underwater is always an exhilarating experience -a close encounter with the history of these shores.