Dive sites in Vis Island

Blue Grotto

Description: Nestled on the island’s southern coast, the Blue Grotto is a mesmerizing underwater cavern suffused with azure light. The entrance is a narrow passage, leading into a large chamber where sunlight penetrates from above, creating an ethereal blue glow.

Marine Species: Expect to see a rich tapestry of marine life, including colorful damselfish, swarms of sardines, and occasional groupers. The rocky crevices are home to moray eels, and sometimes you’ll spot the elegant octopus.

Unique Encounters: Witness the interplay of light and water which creates a surreal underworld landscape, reminiscent of ancient tales. Unique limestone formations and small stalactites give the cavern an otherworldly feel.

Photography: The Blue Grotto offers superb underwater photography opportunities due to the stunning light effects. Capture the enchanting blue hues and the vivid marine life that thrives in this serene habitat.

Suitability: This site is suitable for advanced divers who are comfortable maneuvering through narrow passages and caverns.

Green Cave

Description: Located near the islet of Ravnik, the Green Cave offers an easy yet incredibly picturesque dive. Entrance to the cave is straightforward, making it accessible for those less experienced.

Marine Species: The cave’s waters host a plethora of marine species, from the small and curious sea bream to the larger scorpionfish. Schools of silver-sided fish often dart past, and you may catch sight of the occasional cuttlefish.

Unique Encounters: A magical green light bathes the interior of the cave due to sunlight filtering through an underwater opening, providing a unique visual treat. The green ambiance is quite distinctive and memorable.

Photography: The ambient light within the cave creates excellent conditions for photography. Divers can capture stunning images of the illuminated green waters and the marine life that inhabits the cave.

Suitability: Suitable for both beginners and advanced divers, thanks to its accessible entrance and relatively shallow depth.

Te Vega

Description: A captivating dive site off the coast of Vis, Te Vega is known for its underwater ridges and drop-offs. The site combines both shallow and deep diving experiences, ideal for explorers with an interest in diverse underwater topography.

Marine Species: Rich in marine biodiversity, Te Vega has an abundance of marine life including colorful sponges, gorgonians, and nudibranchs. You are also likely to encounter shoals of barracuda, jacks, and various types of wrasse.

Unique Encounters: The highlight of Te Vega is its extensive ridges and drop-offs where divers can observe the dramatic underwater landscape. This site is particularly famous for sightings of larger pelagic species and, on rare occasions, dolphins and sunfish.

Photography: The varied seascape offers multiple photographic opportunities, from the towering ridges to the teeming fish life. Use of a wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the full breadth of the underwater scenery.

Suitability: Best suited for advanced divers and those comfortable with deeper dives and stronger currents.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: The Adriatic Sea around Vis Island offers warm water temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) during the summer months, making it a comfortable and enjoyable experience for divers. In the early spring and late autumn, temperatures can drop to around 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F), so wearing a thicker wetsuit might be advisable during these periods.

Visibility: Visibility around Vis Island is generally excellent, ranging from 20 meters (65 feet) to 40 meters (131 feet) on average. This clear visibility allows for fantastic underwater photography and the ability to fully appreciate the diverse marine life and underwater topography.

Currents and Tides: The currents around the dive sites on Vis Island are usually mild, making it a friendly environment for divers of various experience levels. However, some sites may have moderate currents, particularly around undersea structures or during specific tidal changes. It’s always a good idea to check with local dive operators for up-to-date information on current conditions.

Safety Tips:

• Check local weather conditions: Prioritize safety by checking weather forecasts and local underwater conditions before heading out.
• Stay within your limits: Ensure you’re comfortable with the depth and potential challenges of each dive site, particularly if involving wreck exploration or cave diving.
• Monitor air supply: Keep an eye on your air levels, especially on longer or deeper dives to prevent running low unexpectedly.
• Dive with a buddy: Always dive with a partner for greater safety and share the underwater experience together.
• Respect marine life: Observe marine life from a distance to protect the ecosystem and avoid any potentially dangerous encounters.

Regulations: Divers must adhere to local diving regulations and guidelines. These may include:

• Permits: Obtaining necessary permits for certain protected areas or wreck dives.
• Training Requirements: Some dive sites, especially deeper wrecks or cave systems, may require proof of advanced training or certification.
• Conservation Efforts: Participate in conservation programs and follow all recommendations for sustainable diving practices to help protect the marine environment.
• Equipment Regulations: Ensure your diving gear meets any local standards or requirements, particularly regarding safety equipment like dive computers or surface markers.