Diving in Iran
Including Chabahar, Kish Island, and Qeshm Island. On the map.
The vibe
Submerging in the Persian Gulf puts you among scattered shipwrecks and coral formations that feel completely untouched by mass dive tourism. The cooler months between November and April deliver the calmest surface conditions and the best underwater visibility. It is a niche, DIY venture where you connect directly with local operators rather than stepping into slick resort dive shops.
Local diving permit arranged through your operator
Chabahar
Sistan and Baluchestan
Nightryder84 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Chabahar provides access to the Indian Ocean, offering a different diving experience compared to the Persian Gulf. The area features rocky reefs and deep-water marine life, appealing to divers looking for less-explored underwater environments.
Access. Limited but active dive shops in the Chabahar port area provide equipment rental and boat charters for experienced divers.
Notes. Conditions can be rough due to open ocean swells; local knowledge is essential for site selection.
Kish Island
Hormozgan Province
Orijentolog / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Kish Island offers unique Persian Gulf diving centered around shallow artificial reefs and several accessible shipwrecks. Divers explore these structures to see diverse marine life that has colonized the wrecks in the warm, clear waters of the island's southern coast.
Access. Several PADI-affiliated dive centers operate directly on the island, offering boat trips to local wreck sites and reef patches. Certification is required for boat dives.
Notes. Best diving season is from late autumn to early spring; water temperatures are very high in summer.
Qeshm Island
Hormozgan Province
Ebrahim nikkhoo / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Located in the Strait of Hormuz, Qeshm offers adventurous diving on rocky reefs and coral formations. The area is known for its biodiversity, attracting divers interested in the unique marine ecology of the Persian Gulf.
Access. Dive operators based in Qeshm City organize boat excursions to nearby offshore reefs. Travelers should confirm seasonal availability with local clubs.
Notes. Strong tidal currents are common in the Strait of Hormuz; diving is highly dependent on tidal windows.