KAPTAN YUSUF KALKAVAN - Eilat

Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan sits right near the Eilat Port entrance, which usually means a bit of boat traffic, but it also puts you on a wreck with some real history. This bulk carrier, nearly 160 meters long, ran aground back in '81, and now she’s a colossal artificial reef. We love exploring the sheer scale of the ship; it’s not often you get to dive something so big, so close to shore. The bow section, particularly the anchor chains and hawse pipes, is our favorite spot. You’ll often find schools of bigeye trevally circling there, their silver scales flashing in the sunlight filtering down. Further along the deck, the holds offer fantastic swim-throughs, dark and cavernous, where you might spot a large grouper lurking in the shadows. We’d suggest going early in the morning to beat the rush from the dive boats, as it can get busy. The visibility can vary depending on what’s stirred up from the port, but even on an average day, the sheer size of Kalkavan makes for an impressive dive. It’s a site that suits divers who appreciate a substantial wreck and don't mind a bit of current near the entrance.

Location
Eilat, Israel, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
29.858334, 32.508335
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Nearby Dive Sites in Eilat

Nearest Dive Centres to KAPTAN YUSUF KALKAVAN

Marine Life in Eilat

Home to 147 recorded species including 100 reef fish, 16 hard corals, 8 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 whales & dolphins, 4 clams & mussels, 3 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck?
The Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck is a very shallow dive, with its reported depth starting at 0 meters. This indicates that portions of the wreck are likely visible from the surface or just below, offering an accessible experience for divers exploring this historic vessel. As a "Wreck showing any portion of hull or superstructure," it provides an interesting site for exploration in Eilat.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can be found at the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan dive site?
The Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan is a significant historical artifact in itself, a bulk carrier vessel built in 1969 by Lithgows Ltd, Port Glasgow, and sunk on December 11, 1986. While specific marine life details are not provided, wreck sites often attract a variety of local species over time, which divers can explore. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of diving the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests that while it might not be ideal for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training can comfortably explore this fascinating site. It's recommended that divers have a foundational understanding of wreck diving or advanced open water skills to fully enjoy the experience in Israel.
When is the best time of year to dive the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck for good visibility and calm conditions?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and calm conditions at the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck is not provided in our current records. However, general information about diving seasons in Eilat can often be found on our when to dive section. We always recommend checking local dive conditions before planning your trip.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck?
Given the intermediate difficulty level of the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan shipwreck, it is generally recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While no specific certifications are explicitly listed as required, having experience with wreck diving or similar environments will enhance safety and enjoyment. Always consult with local dive operators in Eilat for their specific requirements and recommendations.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan dive site?
Our current data for the Kaptan Yusuf Kalkavan dive site does not include specific details on usual current conditions or visibility. These factors can vary significantly based on local weather and seasonal changes in Eilat. For the most up-to-date information, it is always best to check with local dive centers before planning your dive.