Croatia's
Adriatic Sea draws many lovers of the underwater world.
Undoubtedly the most attractive diving locations in the
Adriatic are underwater cliff faces and reefs, caves and
the wrecks of ships and aeroplanes. The clarity of its turquoise
waters, the beauty of its depths, the variety of marine
life, underwater cliff faces, reefs and caves, archaeological
localities and the fascinating ship and aeroplane wrecks
hidden at the bottom of the sea, are all part of its appeal.
Today, the number of registered and licensed diving centres
exceeds 100, with the largest number being located in Istria
and Kvarner, and in the area of Central Dalmatia. They cater
for the inexperienced diver as much as for the experienced
and offer courses which are both accessible and affordable.
They also hire equipment and offer excursions that are within
easy reach.
Sea temperature fluctuations throughout the year: in winter
months temperature ranges from 7 to 10 °C, in summer months
average surface temperature is from 21 to 26 °C, while the
temperature at a depth of from 20 to 30 m (average diving
depth) remains constant throughout the year, ranging from
16 to 17 °C.
The difference between high and low tide varies from 40
cm (Southern Adriatic and Dalmatia) to 1m at Istria. The
Adriatic is a relatively calm sea, with no high waves or
strong currents. Wave height ranges from 40 to 150 cm, to
4 to 5 m at the most in extremely adverse weather conditions
on the open sea. Speed of sea currents is about 0.5 knots,
although in certain places and in special weather conditions
it can reach up to 4 knots.
Divers are required to purchase a HRS Divers Card from the
Croatian Diving Federation, available through registered
diving centres. The cost is 100 Kuna and is valid for one
year. Individual diving is only permitted with the purchase
of an individualpermit costing 2,400 Kuna per person.
There are zones where diving is prohibited even with individual
permission. These are those zones under special protection
by the Ministry of Culture, and diving in those areas may
be allowed but only when accompanied by a diving guide from
an authorized diving centre.
Areas where diving is prohibited: harbors, anchorages
and areas of high traffic near military areas and boats
underwater reserves, nature parks and other protected coastal
and underwater areas, the Brijuni National Park and the
Krka National Park, the islands of Palagruza and Jabuka
Areas where special licenses are needed: the Kornati
National Park, the Mljet National Park.
Pro
Diving - Croatia tourist diving association
Diving.hr
Diving
in Croatia

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