Diving

Off the northern cape of Istria lies the wreck of the freight steamship Gilda, split in two after striking an underwater mine during World War II. This historic vessel, once a lifeline for cargo transport, now rests at the bottom of the sea, serving as a poignant reminder of the past. Anchored ropes guide divers to this open-water marvel, ensuring a safe and directed descent into the depths. The wreck’s haunting beauty, with marine life weaving through its rusted structure, makes for an unforgettable adventure.

The Coriolanus, a Shakespeare-class minesweeper from the British Royal Navy, rests west of Novigrad at depths between 11-25 metres. Sunk by a mine in 1945during the tumultuous times of World War II, this 554-ton ship was originally armed with anti-aircraft cannons and depth charges, making it a formidable vessel in its prime. Today, the Coriolanus serves as a fascinating glimpse into naval history, preserved beneath the waves. It has become a popular site for mid-level divers, who are eager to explore its haunting remains and imagine the stories of the brave sailors who once served aboard.

The Numidia, a colossal World War II wreck, stretches an impressive 120 metres across the Adriatic seabed at depths ranging from 33 to 40 metres. This challenging dive site demands experienced divers due to its depth and the varying visibility dictated by water currents. The wreck is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colourful corals and schools of fish, making it a vibrant underwater ecosystem. Those fortunate enough to explore the Numidia are treated to one of the largest and most fascinating wrecks in the region, a haunting reminder of history lying silently beneath the waves.

In November 1912, poor weather sealed the fate of the Romagna, a freight ship transporting wheat. Battling the relentless storm, the ship ultimately succumbed to the turbulent seas. Now resting at 40 metres beneath the surface near Rovinj, its ghostly 60-metre frame, draped in fishing nets, offers an eerie yet captivating experience for divers. The vessel’s remains are a haunting testament to the power of nature, with an intricate web of nets adding to the spookiness of the site. Ideal for seasoned divers, this underwater spectacle requires impeccable visibility to fully appreciate the details of the sunken ship and its surrounding marine life.

Gobo Shoals, with depths ranging from 8 to 14 metres, is a haven for beginners looking to explore the underwater world. This site is particularly fascinating due to the World War II underwater mines and torpedoes that lie scattered amid its rocky seabed, ensuring excellent visibility and a glimpse into history. The clear waters and intriguing underwater landscape make it a prime location for novice divers. PADI instructors often favour Gobo Shoals for practising boat and open-water dives, as the conditions are ideal for learning and gaining confidence.

At the Lim Bay entrance, the Lim Shoals feature vibrant underwater walls plunging to 25 metres. These walls are adorned with colourful corals and sponges, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. Craggy seabeds and hollow rocks provide ideal habitats for a variety of marine life, including crustaceans, fish and crabs. This rich underwater ecosystem offers divers an incredible opportunity to explore and enjoy the diverse marine biodiversity and the serene beauty of the underwater landscape.

The Salina Coast, with its hollow rock-covered seabed, is a diver’s paradise. Home to lobsters, eels and an abundance of vibrant fish species, it offers a diverse underwater ecosystem that captivates both novice and experienced divers. The coast remains a favourite destination due to its excellent protection from storms, ensuring calm and clear waters for exploration. This site promises an enchanting experience for marine life enthusiasts, with its hidden caves and intricate coral formations adding to the allure.