CMAS / TSSF
CMAS (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques), founded in 1959 in Monaco by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and the founding members, is the world's first international diving federation. In Türkiye CMAS certifications are issued jointly through TSSF (Turkish Underwater Sports Federation).
Dive Academy Bodrum delivers the full CMAS / TSSF ladder through TSSF-licensed instructors — from 1 Star Diver up to 3 Star Instructor. The star system (★, ★★, ★★★, ★★★★) progressively widens the diver's experience, depth and responsibility. CMAS courses combine theory, confined-water sessions and open-water dives. It is Türkiye's most widely recognized diving certification and is officially registered through the Ministry of Sport / TSSF.
Highlights
- 1 Star Diver (Open Water equivalent)
- 2 Star Diver — deep and guided dives
- 3 Star Diver — divemaster track
- 4 Star Diver — advanced level
- CMAS apnea and specialty programs
- Official TSSF registration
What is CMAS?
CMAS — World Underwater Federation — was founded in 1959 in Monaco. Its first president was Jacques-Yves Cousteau. Today it is represented in more than 100 countries through national federations, and standardizes both recreational and competitive underwater sports (apnea, underwater hockey, finswimming and more).
TSSF and CMAS in Türkiye
The Turkish Underwater Sports Federation (TSSF) is Türkiye's official CMAS representative. CMAS certifications issued in Türkiye therefore carry both the CMAS and TSSF logos. A TSSF card is officially recognized inside Türkiye and, thanks to the CMAS standard, also internationally valid.
The Star System
CMAS's star system grows the diver step by step: 1★ Diver (shallow recreational dives), 2★ Diver (deeper / guided dives), 3★ Diver (group leadership, divemaster), 4★ Diver (advanced). The instructor side runs 1★, 2★ and 3★ Instructor grades. Every level is built progressively through theory, confined-water and open-water dives.
CMAS Specialties and Apnea
Within the CMAS system Dive Academy Bodrum also delivers apnea (breath-hold diving), night diving, deep diving, navigation, search-and-recovery support and dry-suit specialties. Our TSSF-licensed instructors offer individual progression from recreational level all the way to federation competition prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CMAS / TSSF certification internationally valid?
Yes. CMAS is recognized in 100+ countries worldwide. The TSSF logo additionally secures official recognition inside Türkiye.
How long does the 1 Star Diver course take?
Typically 4–5 days: theory, pool / confined-water sessions and 5 open-water dives. Weekend-spread formats are also available.
I already hold a PADI or SSI card — can I cross over to CMAS?
Yes. Crossover programs let us convert your existing certification into the equivalent CMAS / TSSF grade; only the missing modules are completed.
Is the TSSF card enough for Turkish legal procedures?
Yes — the TSSF card is the officially recognized diver document for sport in Türkiye and is accepted in boat registration, dive permits and similar applications.
Ready to dive?
Contact us to start your first course or book a dive session in Bodrum.
