The three-dimensional spatial characteristics of velocity and turbulence of tidal flow around an offshore wind turbine model have been measured using the technique of Particle Image Velocimetry, (PIV). This approach allows for the instantaneous velocity measurement in large volumes of water. This paper presents analysis of velocity and turbulence parameters in the wake flow behind a cylinder for different tidal stages. The wake flow behind a cylinder is highly complex making it difficult to characterise using point measurement techniques in the laboratory, and model numerically. The PIV measurements enabled the derivation of detailed velocity vector maps, turbulence intensities, kinetic energy and Reynolds stresses across the water column. Results showed a clear flow separation zone between reversed and stream-wise flow in the wake, the structure of which depends on flow velocity and water depth.