PADI Scuba Diving in the Kvarner Region of Croatia
Situated at the foothills of the Alps and Dinarids mountain chains, Kvarner is one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful gulfs.
Because Kvarner is positioned in the northern part of Croatia, it is the warm water diving destination closest to both the western and eastern Europe. This is the most-visited part of the Adriatic Sea and you can dive here all year.
Kvarner's underwater world is known for amazing wall dives and beautiful gorgonian coral reefs. The craggy coastline and relatively shallow water with a muddy bottom can result in poor visibility, but the underwater world's variety of plants and animal makes this garden extremely rich.
The Kvarner region consists of the following areas:
- Opatija
- Crikvenica
- Novi Vinodolski
- Island Rab
- Island Losinj
- Island Krk
- Island Cres
- Gorski Kotar
PADI Dive Shops and Resorts
Dive Summary
Depth: 3-46 metres/10-151 feet
Visibility: 10-15 metres/33-49 feet
Currents: None
Water temperature: April 17° C/63° F - July 25° C/77° F - September 19° C/66° F
Dive season: Year-round
Weather: 17-35° C/63-95° F (April – August) and 5-15° C/41-59° F in the winter
Access: Shore diving and boat diving
Skill level: Beginner to advanced
Recommended
Courses: Digital Underwater Photographer, Dry Suit Diver, Enriched Air Diver, Wreck Diver, Night Diver
Scuba Gear: Underwater photography equipment, dry suits or semi-dry suits
Length of Stay: 7-10 days
Featured Creatures
Seahorses, Zeus Faber (John Dory), congerfish, Tuna, scorpionfish, octopus, lobster, sole and much more.
Most Famous Dive Site
Name: Plic Tenki (Reef)
Depth: 3-40 metres/10-130 feet
Description: coordinates: 45° 04'15'' N, 14° 43' 36'' E
.jpg "Croatia Underwater Animal")
Accessible by boat and with options for all levels of divers, Plic Tenki is very well known by its access tunnel large enough to be reached by two buddies together, which is actually at the beginning of a Tenki dive at 4-9 m. Inside the swim through, the ceiling is covered by sponges and corals, creating a range of different colorful effects.
The shallower part of a wall drop to 22 metres/72 feet but one the most interesting sections is a rock located at about 15 metres/49 feet. Pockmarked with holes, the rock is covered with a special underwater plant species and fish like breams, two banded breams and scorpionfish. It is a paradise for beginners, but advanced divers can also enjoy the deeper part of the reef at 25-40 metres/82-130 feet, which is covered with red Gorgonian corals.
.jpg "Croatia Reef")
Getting to the Site
This site is a 40 minute boat ride from Selce to Tenki.
Topside Treasures
Island Krk – This island has a very popular wine production region, traditional fairs, watersports and cultural events all year.
Novi Vinodolski – The town of Vinodol Low has existed since 1288 and the summer carnival - Rose of the Vinodol – is a special fair and event.
Plitvice Lakes National Park – The 16 unique lakes are a must see for Croatian toursists. With a grand collection of waterfalls, gallery of lakes, forests and a diversity of animal life, you won't be disappointed by choosing one of the several available sightseeing programs at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Fast Facts
Language: Croatian
Currency: Croatian Kuna
Exchange: Change your money directly in the bank or exchange office.
Transportation: Car is best
Related Resources
www.kvarner.info
www.np-plitvicka-jezera.hr
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Links to weather
www.meteo.hr
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