The Kaptan June Sea Turtle Conservation Foundation, also known as DEKAMER (Deniz Kaplumbağaları Araştırma Kurtarma ve Rehabilitasyon Merkezi), is a crucial research, rescue, and rehabilitation center for sea turtles, primarily loggerheads (Caretta caretta) and green turtles (Chelonia mydas), native to Turkey. It was inspired by the tireless efforts of Kaptan June Haimoff, who championed the protection of Iztuzu Beach as a nesting ground. The center plays a vital role in marine conservation, treating turtles injured by boat propellers, fishing nets, and plastic pollution, with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into the wild.
Visitors consistently highlight the dedication of the volunteers and staff, many of whom are students or international helpers, who provide detailed explanations about each turtle's story and the conservation work. The opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close, often with visible injuries, is described as both moving and educational. Many reviewers express admiration for the foundation's mission and the tangible impact it has on endangered species. While some visitors find the sight of injured animals sad, they appreciate the efforts made to heal them. The center is not a zoo, but a hospital, and managing expectations in this regard is important.
A visit typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, making it an ideal stop to combine with a trip to Iztuzu Beach. Reviewers recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially if walking from the beach. Bringing a reusable water bottle is advisable. While entry is free, visitors are strongly encouraged to leave a donation or purchase items from the small gift shop, as the center relies heavily on these contributions for its operations. The souvenirs are often described as good value and support a worthy cause.
The center is located at the Dolmuş end of Iztuzu Beach, behind the beach car park. Many visitors reach it by taking a yellow taxi from Dalyan, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Some reviewers mention arranging a round trip with a taxi driver via WhatsApp. Alternatively, public buses run from Dalyan town to Iztuzu Beach, and the center is a short walk from the bus drop-off point. For those arriving by boat to Iztuzu Beach, it's a longer walk (around 4 km) along the beach, so taking the bus or taxi after returning to Dalyan is often preferred. The location right on the beach makes it easily accessible for beachgoers.
A common sentiment among visitors is the sadness of seeing turtles with severe, often human-induced, injuries. While this can be upsetting, the center aims to educate about the threats facing sea turtles, such as plastic pollution and boat traffic. Visitors can mitigate potential disappointment by understanding that this is a rehabilitation facility, not an entertainment venue. The tanks, while functional for recovery, are not designed for aesthetic display, and some turtles may be permanent residents due to the severity of their injuries. Focusing on the educational aspect and the positive impact of the conservation work helps frame the experience.
