Gallipoli WWI Wreck Tour
Overview
The Gallipoli Peninsula is hallowed ground—both above and below the waterline. In 1915, during one of the bloodiest campaigns of World War I, the narrow strait of the Dardanelles became the final resting place for Allied and Ottoman vessels alike. Today, these wrecks lie scattered across depths ranging from recreational to extreme technical, each one a time capsule of sacrifice and maritime history. This expedition is designed for serious technical divers seeking to explore wrecks that few will ever see. From the imposing bulk of HMS Majestic—a pre-dreadnought battleship torpedoed by a German U-boat—to the deeper sites that demand trimix and extended decompression, every dive is a pilgrimage into the past. We've partnered with Turkey's premier technical diving operation to ensure every aspect of your diving is handled: twin sets, stages, bailout cylinders, trimix and helitrox fills, CCR sorbalime, DPVs for the deeper penetrations—if you need it, we've got it sorted. Whether you're an experienced OC tech diver or a rebreather specialist, this expedition will push your skills and reward you with encounters that redefine what wreck diving can be.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Orientation
Arrive in Çanakkale, transfer to boutique hotel overlooking the Dardanelles. Evening welcome dinner with the crew, followed by comprehensive briefing on the week's dive plan, equipment check, and a historical overview of the Gallipoli campaign by our resident historian.
Check Dives & Shallower Wrecks
Morning check dives to assess skills, trim, and buoyancy in local conditions. Afternoon dive on one of the shallower wrecks (15-25m range) to acclimate. Gas analysis and equipment fine-tuning with our technical support team.
HMS Majestic
The crown jewel of Gallipoli diving. This 16,000-ton pre-dreadnought battleship sits upright at 24m, her massive guns still pointing skyward. Multiple dives exploring the superstructure, deck guns, and surrounding debris field. An emotional and unforgettable experience.
The Lundy & Mid-Depth Wrecks
Two-dive day exploring wrecks in the 35-50m range. The Lundy, a British merchant vessel, offers excellent penetration opportunities. Afternoon dive on additional sites based on conditions. Evening video review and debrief.
Deep Wreck Exploration
The day serious tech divers wait for. Single dive on one of the deeper wrecks (60-90m range) for those with appropriate certification and experience. Extended bottom time with appropriate decompression. Non-participating divers can explore shallower alternatives.
HMS Triumph & French Submarine Joule
Explore HMS Triumph, another battleship lost in 1915, and the French submarine Joule. Depths vary from 40-55m. These sites see very few divers and the marine life encrustation is spectacular.
Flex Day / Repeat Dives
Weather and condition-dependent day. Return to favorite wrecks for repeat dives or explore sites we couldn't fit in earlier. Optional surface excursion to the Gallipoli battlefields and memorials for historical context.
Departure
Mandatory 24-hour surface interval completed. Leisurely breakfast, certificate presentation, and group photos. Transfers to Istanbul or Çanakkale airport. Until the next expedition.
What's Included
- 7 nights accommodation in boutique waterfront hotel
- All technical diving (up to 3 dives per day on dive days)
- Twin set, stages, and bailout cylinders provided
- All gas: Nitrox, Trimix, Helitrox fills included
- CCR sorbalime and oxygen provided for rebreather divers
- DPV rental for deep wreck exploration
- Daily breakfast & lunch at dive center
- Airport transfers from Istanbul or Çanakkale
- Expert dive guides with 20+ years local experience
- Historical briefings with underwater archaeologist
- Dive insurance for the duration
- Return flights from your home country
- All ground transportation
Not Included
- Personal dive equipment (regs, computers, wing/backplate, drysuit)
- CCR unit (bring your own)
- Dinners (group dinners arranged, pay as you go)
- Personal travel insurance (required)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
- Visa fees (if applicable)
Requirements
- Technical diving certification: Tec 50 / Advanced Trimix or equivalent for deeper dives
- Tec 40 / Intermediate certification minimum for shallower wrecks
- CCR divers: appropriate CCR certification to 60m+ recommended
- Minimum 100 logged dives, 30+ technical dives
- Trimix experience required for dives below 55m
- Recent dive experience within 6 months
- Valid dive insurance with technical diving coverage to planned depths
- Good physical fitness and medical clearance for diving
Your Crew
Mustafa Kaya
Lead Technical Dive Guide
20+ years guiding tech dives in the Dardanelles. Former Turkish Navy clearance diver. Knows every wreck intimately.
Dr. Ayşe Yılmaz
Maritime Historian
PhD in WWI naval history. Author of 'The Sunken Fleet of Gallipoli'. Provides historical context for every dive.
Final pricing and availability confirmed upon inquiry.
Why book with Lazuli?
- Vetted operators only
- On-the-ground support in Egypt & Turkey
- Small groups, big experiences
- Flexible payment plans available